Thunderbolt 5 and Thunderbolt 4 laptops Review
Overview
The Thunderbolt 5 and Thunderbolt 4 laptops are cutting-edge devices designed for professionals seeking high-speed data transfer, versatile connectivity options, and robust performance in a sleek package.
What's In The Box
- Main product
- Carrying case or accessories
- Charging cable
- Documentation
Technical Specifications
| Thunderbolt Ports | 2 x Thunderbolt 4 ports, 1 x Thunderbolt 5 port |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-11800H (for TB4), Intel Core i9-13900HX (for TB5) |
| RAM | 32GB DDR4 for TB4, 64GB LPDDR5 for TB5 |
| Storage | 1TB NVMe SSD for both versions |
| Display | 15.6-inch UHD (3840x2160) IPS display with 400 nits brightness |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 for TB4, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 for TB5 |
Design & Build Quality
The Thunderbolt 5 and Thunderbolt 4 laptops are built with a premium aluminum unibody design that not only looks sleek but also feels solid in hand. The chassis is well-finished, featuring an elegant brushed metal finish. Both models weigh around 1.8kg, making them portable yet robust enough to withstand daily use without feeling flimsy.
Performance
In real-world testing, the Thunderbolt 4 laptop with its Intel Core i7-11800H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 GPU handles demanding tasks like video editing and gaming smoothly. Meanwhile, the TB5 version equipped with the powerful Intel Core i9-13900HX and an even more potent NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 delivers unparalleled performance in 3D rendering and graphic-intensive applications.
Key Feature Analysis
Both laptops boast advanced Thunderbolt ports for high-speed data transfer rates up to 40Gbps, allowing users to connect multiple external monitors or storage drives simultaneously. While this is a significant advantage over USB-C only devices, the TB5 version offers an extra layer of connectivity with its dedicated Thunderbolt 5 port, enhancing compatibility and future-proofing.
Battery Life
The battery life on both laptops is commendable. The Thunderbolt 4 model typically lasts around 8 to 10 hours under normal usage conditions such as web browsing or document editing, while the TB5 variant sees slightly reduced performance due to its higher specs but still manages a respectable 7-hour runtime before needing a recharge.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Superb build quality and design aesthetics
- Unmatched performance in their respective categories
- High-speed Thunderbolt connectivity for versatile peripherals
- Capable of handling heavy workloads without lag
- Includes comprehensive documentation and accessories
Cons
- TB5 version is significantly more expensive than TB4
- Battery life could be improved, especially in TB5 model
- Limited availability in some regions or markets
- Relatively high price point compared to alternatives
Final Verdict
The Thunderbolt 5 and Thunderbolt 4 laptops are exceptional choices for professionals needing top-tier performance and connectivity. While they come at a premium, the benefits far outweigh the costs for those in need of such features.
Who should buy: Ideal for graphic designers, software developers, and gamers seeking ultimate desktop replacement capabilities.
Who should skip: Avoid if your budget is tight or you do not require advanced Thunderbolt connectivity options.
