The latest Thunderbolt 4 protocol and USB 4 protocols bring the standards closer together. They are both based on the exact same protocols and will therefore work interchangeably. Your device will work with the one that supports it. Although each Thunderbolt 4 can transfer data at 40Gbps, Thunderbolt 4 theoretically will reach this speed while USB 4 operates between 20 and 40Gbps. Thunderbolt 3 also can deliver 40Gbps data transfer, however it misses certain features that are part of the new standard for Windows laptops. However, Thunderbolt cables can have a significant impact on performance depending on their length or type. The majority of passive cables are shorter and more affordable, so they can't maintain top speeds above 40Gbps over greater distances. For example, a Thunderbolt 3 cable 0.5m in length will get you 40Gbps, while a cable 1m has only 20Gbps. While active cables are capable of maintaining this speed for longer distances, they can also cost more.