If you’re building a modern dual-monitor workstation, chances are you’ve encountered the USB-C vs. Thunderbolt 4 dilemma. While they share the same port shape, their performance, compatibility, and capabilities are anything but identical.
TESmart offers two cutting-edge KVM switches that reflect these differences:
- HDC202-P23 – Dual-monitor USB-C KVM Switch
- HDC202-X24 – Professional-grade Thunderbolt 4 KVM Switch
So which one should you choose? Let’s explore the key differences—and how they impact your setup.
Table of Contents
- Thunderbolt 4 vs. USB-C: What’s the Real Difference?
- Why Thunderbolt 4 Makes a Difference for KVM Switches
- HDC202-P23: Smart USB-C KVM for Everyday Pro Use
- HDC202-X24: Thunderbolt 4 KVM Switch for Creators and Power Users
- Real-World Use Scenarios
- Important Mac Compatibility Note
- Quick Model Selection Guide
- Conclusion: Same Port, Different Performance
1. Thunderbolt 4 vs. USB-C: What’s the Real Difference?
Both USB-C and Thunderbolt 4 use the same reversible connector, but the technology behind them differs dramatically.
| Feature | HDC202-P23 (USB-C) | HDC202-X24 (Thunderbolt 4) |
|---|---|---|
| Connector Type | USB-C (DP Alt Mode) | Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C interface) |
| Max Video Bandwidth | 21.6Gbps (DisplayPort 1.2 via Alt Mode) | 40Gbps (DisplayPort 1.4 over Thunderbolt 4) |
| Dual-Monitor Support | 2× 4K@60Hz (host must support DP Alt Mode) | 2× 4K@60Hz (certified under TB4 spec) |
| USB Peripheral Speed | USB 3.2 Gen 1 – up to 5Gbps | USB 3.2 Gen 2 – up to 10Gbps per port |
| Expansion Port | None | Thunderbolt 4 expansion port |
| Compatibility | Compatible with USB-C and Thunderbolt devices | Broad compatibility with Thunderbolt 4/3, USB4, and USB-C devices |
| Recommended For | General dual-monitor setups | High-performance, multi-host workflows |
Both models support dual 4K@60Hz HDMI monitor output, but Thunderbolt 4 ensures higher stability and guaranteed performance, especially in professional multi-host environments.
2. Why Thunderbolt 4 Makes a Difference for KVM Switches
A Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch like TESmart's HDC202-X24 is more than just a premium option—it’s a future-proofed solution for creators, developers, and hybrid workers.
Key benefits of Thunderbolt 4 in KVM switching:
- Full 40Gbps bandwidth for uncompressed video and fast peripheral access
- Reliable dual-display support across platforms (macOS, Windows)
- Supports multi-display output via Thunderbolt technology, enabling MST-like functionality—even on macOS devices that do not natively support MST
- Thunderbolt expansion port to connect SSDs, cameras, and capture cards
- Simplified cable management with one cable for video, data, and control
If you're running multiple high-performance devices, a Thunderbolt 4 dual-monitor KVM switch is essential for smooth, lag-free workflows.
3. HDC202-P23: Smart USB-C KVM for Everyday Pro Use
If you’re using laptops or PCs with standard USB-C ports that support DisplayPort Alt Mode, the HDC202-P23 gives you all the basics for a clean, efficient dual-monitor setup.
- Dual HDMI 4K@60Hz video output
- Inputs: USB-C + HDMI + DisplayPort + USB-B
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Hotkey switching and EDID emulation
- Quiet, fanless design for office desks
Best for:
- Office professionals and hybrid workers
- Developers with USB-C Windows laptops
- Basic USB-C KVM dual-monitor setups
4. HDC202-X24: Thunderbolt 4 KVM Switch for Creators and Power Users
Designed with the needs of high-end Mac and PC users in mind, the HDC202-X24 combines Thunderbolt 4 bandwidth with versatile input options and expansion capabilities.
- Thunderbolt 4 input and Thunderbolt 4 expansion port
- Dual 4K@60Hz HDMI output
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (10Gbps per port) for peripherals
- Smooth switching between two host devices
- Compatible with Thunderbolt 4/3, USB4, and USB-C hosts
- Future-proof KVM switch for high-speed workflows
Best for:
- M1 Pro / M2 Pro / M3 Pro MacBooks and higher
- Software engineers, video editors, and data analysts
- Multi-host setups with SSDs, capture cards, or high-speed USB gear
5. Real-World Use Scenarios
Scenario 1: Hybrid Workstation with USB-C Laptops
Device types: Windows laptop and MacBook Air
KVM: HDC202-P23
- Dual monitor setup via HDMI and USB-C DP Alt Mode
- Quiet operation, easy switching
- Suitable for standard business workflows
Scenario 2: Creator Setup with Thunderbolt 4
Device types: M4 MacBook Pro and Thunderbolt-enabled PC
KVM: HDC202-X24
- Two 4K@60Hz displays powered by one Thunderbolt cable
- Connect high-speed SSD via Thunderbolt expansion port
- Lag-free USB peripherals and clean desktop layout
6. Important Mac Compatibility Note
Some Apple Silicon Macs (such as M1/M2 MacBook Air, M2 13” MacBook Pro) only support one external display due to hardware limitations.
Even when connected to a Thunderbolt 4 KVM switch, dual extended display output cannot be achieved.
For multi-monitor setups, we recommend:
- MacBook Pro with M1 Pro / M2 Pro / M3 Pro or higher
- Mac Studio or Mac mini (Pro models)
7. Quick Model Selection Guide
| Needs | Recommended Model |
|---|---|
| Budget-friendly USB-C dual-monitor KVM | HDC202-P23 |
| Multiple input formats (HDMI + DP + USB-C) | HDC202-P23 |
| Thunderbolt bandwidth and expansion | HDC202-X24 |
| High USB speed and stability | HDC202-X24 |
| Clean desktop with single-cable connection | HDC202-X24 |
8. Conclusion: Same Port, Different Performance
While USB-C and Thunderbolt 4 share the same connector, their capabilities differ significantly. USB-C is sufficient for daily office work, while Thunderbolt 4 unlocks the full potential of high-efficiency multi-monitor desktops.
If you’re looking for a dual-monitor KVM solution for MacBook Pro or multi-system desktops, TESmart’s USB-C and Thunderbolt 4 series have you covered at every performance level.
