20Gb/s Capable USB 3.2 Finally Arriving to Desktops in 2019




/ 5 years ago

20Gb/s Capable USB 3.2 Finally Arriving to Desktops in 2019

Thunderbolt 2 Alternative

USB speeds are about to double once again with the arrival of USB 3.2 this year.  The first USB 1.0 port started out with a meager 12Mb/s, but saw a significant leap with the 480Mb/s USB 2.0. After that, the name-scheme got confusing with the subsequent release of the USB 3.1 Gen1 (formerly 3.0) and USB 3.1 Gen 2. Although what is clear is that USB 3.1 Gen 2 doubles USB 3.1 Gen1’s 5Gb/s to 10Gb/s.

Now USB-IF is keeping the confusing naming standard alive with USB 3.2. However, the good news is that we can expect the speed to double up to 20Gb/s. All while keeping the USB Type-C connector.

In comparison, Intel‘s proprietary Thunderbolt 2 also offers 20Gb/s and uses a mini-DisplayPort connector. Intel’s solution is also much more expensive, but USB 3.2 will be much more affordable in comparison. Retaining USB Type-C is also good news for most users since it is backwards compatible.

20Gb/s Capable USB 3.2 Finally Arriving to Desktops in 2019

Existing USB 3.1 branding schemes will be absorbed by the new standard as well. So we will see 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps SuperSpeed), 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps SuperSpeed+), and 3.2 Gen2x2 (2x10Gbps SuperSpeed+). Which can be further confusing for most users, just like USB 3.1 Gen1 and USB 3.1 Gen2.

20Gb/s Capable USB 3.2 Finally Arriving to Desktops in 2019

When Will USB 3.2 Devices Arrive?

The USB 3.2 standard itself was released back in September 2017, but according to USB-IF, 3.2 controllers will be available this year. Following manufacturing and compatibility testing of course, the safe bet is for 2020 until we see multiple devices in stores.


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