Thunderbolt 5 is the next big thing when it comes to speed and connectivity on laptops in 2025.
It’s super fast—up to 120 Gbps—and can handle two super-sharp 6K screens simultaneously. Plus, it lets your laptop charge a lot faster. It’s not just a new port—it’s a solid upgrade that really makes a difference.
If you’re someone who uses large video files, games with external graphics cards, or multiple 4K monitors at once, Thunderbolt 5 can really help you. From what I’ve seen, it really speeds up workflows and gaming setups.
However, most laptops don’t have Thunderbolt 5 right now.
So, I tried out some of the best laptops available right now, like the MacBook Pro M4, Alienware 16 Area-51, and MSI Titan 18 HX, and 3 others to see how they perform in real life.
This guide isn’t just about listing specs—it focuses on what really matters. You’ll also learn how Thunderbolt 5 helps with everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking.
Plus, I’ll explain the pros and cons of each laptop to help you choose the best one for you. Whether you’re upgrading or buying your first future-ready laptop, this will make your decision easier.
What to Look for in a Great Thunderbolt 5 Laptop
If you’re shopping for a high-performance laptop in 2025, one with Thunderbolt 5 should be at the top of your list. But just having the port isn’t enough, you need the right combination of specs to truly take advantage of everything Thunderbolt 5 offers. Here’s a breakdown of what really matters.
1. Full Thunderbolt 5 Support
Let’s start with the obvious, Thunderbolt 5 isn’t just a faster port. It supports up to 120Gbps data transfer, daisy-chaining multiple 4K displays, ultra-fast external storage, and even external GPUs. We only pick laptops that include full Thunderbolt 5 bandwidth (not just “compatible” ports) to ensure you get the real benefit.
2. Next-Gen Processors (Intel or Apple)
Whether it’s Intel’s Core Ultra 9 or Apple’s M4 Max, your CPU is the heart of everything. It needs to handle demanding tasks, 4K video editing, gaming, AI workloads, or heavy multitasking, with zero lag. We prioritize the latest architectures with top-end performance per watt.
3. High-End GPUs
If you’re into gaming, creative work, or 3D rendering, your GPU matters. We look for laptops with RTX 5070 Ti and above, or Apple’s integrated M4 Max GPU, depending on the platform. These ensure smooth frame rates, better thermal control, and support for external GPU enclosures via Thunderbolt 5.
4. Fast RAM & SSDs
At least 32GB DDR5 RAM is ideal in this tier, especially if you’re running memory-heavy software. Fast SSD storage (PCIe Gen 4 or Gen 5) is another non-negotiable, ensuring your OS, apps, and games load instantly.
5. Premium Displays
A Thunderbolt 5 laptop is likely powering high-resolution external monitors, so its own display should match the same quality. We look for 2.5K to 4K resolution, high refresh rates (240Hz+ for gaming), and 100% DCI-P3 or better color accuracy, especially for creators.
6. Battery, Build, and Ports
You want power without sacrificing portability. We check battery endurance under real workloads, not just paper specs. A sturdy build, good cooling system, and multiple Thunderbolt 5 ports (or TB5 + HDMI + USB-A combo) make a huge difference in usability.
7. Overall Value
Finally, we don’t just chase specs, we ask: Is it worth the price? A great Thunderbolt 5 laptop should balance raw performance with thermal control, design, and price. We test them hands-on, not just on benchmarks, to see if they hold up in daily use.
Key Benefits of Thunderbolt 5 Laptops in 2025
Thunderbolt 5 isn’t just a spec bump, it’s a meaningful upgrade that brings real-world improvements for users across the board. Whether you’re working with large media files, gaming on high refresh-rate monitors, or managing multiple 4K displays, laptops equipped with Thunderbolt 5 offer some serious advantages.
Here are the most important benefits that make Thunderbolt 5 laptops a smart buy in 2025:
1. Up to 3× Faster Bandwidth Than Thunderbolt 4
With support for 80 Gbps of bi-directional throughput and a boost mode that reaches 120 Gbps, Thunderbolt 5 demolishes the bottlenecks of older ports. You’ll feel the difference in:
- File transfers from external SSDs
- Playback and editing of large 6K or 8K video files
- Live streaming high-res gameplay with zero lag
2. Seamless Multi-Monitor Support
For content creators, editors, and stock traders, monitor real estate is everything. Thunderbolt 5 enables:
- Dual 6K displays at 60 Hz
- Triple 4K displays at 144 Hz
- Support for refresh rates up to 540 Hz (great for competitive gamers)
You can now run studio-level multi-monitor setups straight from your laptop, no bulky GPU docks required.
3. External GPU & Docking Potential
Thunderbolt 5 supports PCIe Gen 4, which opens up true plug-and-play potential for:
- External GPUs (eGPUs) for gaming or 3D workloads
- High-performance docking stations with multiple 4K display outputs
- Fast NVMe storage arrays and video capture cards
If you’re building a modular desk setup, this port is your best friend.
4. Ultra-Fast Charging Up to 240W
Need to power a workstation-class laptop and peripherals with just one cable? TB5 supports USB-C Power Delivery up to 240W, giving you:
- Faster laptop charging
- Enough power for a display and accessories
- Cleaner, single-cable setups
This is especially helpful for on-the-go professionals who don’t want to juggle separate chargers or ports.
5. Full Backward Compatibility
Even though it’s the newest standard, Thunderbolt 5 doesn’t abandon older tech. It works with:
- Thunderbolt 4 and 3 accessories
- USB4, USB 3.x, and USB-C devices
- DisplayPort and PCIe devices
So you don’t need to toss your existing monitors, drives, or docks. Everything just works, but better.
6. Future-Proofing Your Investment
We’re already seeing flagship laptops like the MacBook Pro (M4) and MSI Titan 18 HX adopt Thunderbolt 5. Over the next 12–18 months, it’s expected to become a standard in high-performance laptops and accessories.
Buying a laptop with Thunderbolt 5 now means you’re set for years, whether it’s for gaming, content creation, AI workloads, or virtual reality.
What are the Best Thunderbolt 5 Laptops in 2025
We have tested and reviewed these 7 laptops (For Gaming, AI, Students and Creators)
1. Apple MacBook Pro (16-inch, M4 Pro)
Best for Creative Professionals
The 2024 MacBook Pro 16 with Apple’s new M4 Pro chip is built for professionals who demand high performance, stunning visuals, and forward-looking connectivity. Equipped with a 14-core CPU and 20-core integrated GPU, this model is engineered for seamless creative workflows and productivity without compromise.
Thunderbolt 5 Performance and Expansion
This is one of the first Apple laptops to feature Thunderbolt 5. With three Thunderbolt 5 ports offering up to 120 Gbps of bandwidth, it supports dual 6K displays, fast data transfers, and high-end accessories like external GPUs or docking stations. Whether you’re editing 8K video or running a multi-monitor studio setup, the MacBook Pro handles it effortlessly.
Display and Visuals
Apple’s 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display remains one of the best in the industry. It features up to 1600 nits of peak brightness, a sustained 1000 nits for full-screen HDR, and a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio. ProMotion adaptive refresh up to 120Hz ensures fluid motion and responsiveness, especially useful when working on detailed timelines or high-frame-rate content.
Real-World Performance
In benchmark tests and everyday workloads, the M4 Pro performs consistently well. During hands-on use:
- Geekbench 6 (Single-Core): 4001
- Cinebench R23 (Multi-Core): Around 19,000
- Disk speeds: Up to 7200 MB/s read and 6400 MB/s write
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: 85–100 FPS at 1080p High
The system remains stable under load, with peak temps averaging 70°C and fan noise staying below 42 dB. Applications like Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and Adobe Creative Cloud launch quickly and run without stutter, even under heavy multitasking.
Battery Life and Build
Battery performance is equally strong, delivering around 14 to 16 hours of real-world usage and up to 21 hours of video playback. The all-metal unibody design is solid and premium, and the new Space Black finish gives it a refined, professional look.
Who it’s for
For content creators, software developers, and professionals looking for desktop-class performance in a portable form factor, the MacBook Pro 16 with M4 Pro stands out and users deeply integrated in the Apple ecosystem. Its combination of Thunderbolt 5, outstanding battery life, and one of the best displays available makes it a top choice in 2025.
Who it’s not for: Gamers, budget buyers, or those who rely on Windows-specific software.
Pros
✔ Exceptional M4 Chip Performance
✔ Stunning Liquid Retina XDR Display
✔ Long Battery Life
✔ Premium Build Quality
✔ MagSafe 3 for Secure Charging
✔ Excellent thermals and silent operation
✔ macOS optimizations and Pro workflows support
Cons
✘ Very expensive
✘ Limited gaming support
✘ Not upgradeable (RAM and SSD soldered)
Read our Apple MacBook Pro M4 Review
2. ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2025)
A Well-Balanced Thunderbolt 5 Laptop for Gamers and Creators
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 |
| RAM | 32GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD |
| Screen | 16” ROG Nebula 16:10 2.5K 240Hz/3ms |
| Battery | 90 Watt Hours |
| Weight | 6 lbs (2.72 kg) |
| Others | Thunderbolt 5, Wi-Fi 7, Windows 11 Home |
The ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2025) delivers a compelling mix of power, display quality, and cooling, making it an excellent choice for gamers and creators who want serious performance without going overboard in size or weight.
Under the hood, it runs on the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor paired with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 GPU, backed by 32GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage. That’s more than enough muscle for AAA games, 3D rendering, or even machine learning workflows. You also get Wi-Fi 7 support and, most importantly, a Thunderbolt 5 port for ultra-fast transfer speeds and display expansion.
Where this machine really stands out is its ROG Nebula HDR 16-inch display, a 2.5K panel (2560 x 1600) with a 240Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time.
It’s Pantone validated, covers 100% sRGB, and includes a new anti-glare ACR film, which helps reduce reflections in bright rooms. Whether you’re editing high-res content or battling it out in fast-paced shooters, the screen holds up impressively.
In our real-world testing, it scored 18,470 in Geekbench 6 Multi-Core, and pushed out 118 FPS in Shadow of the Tomb Raider (1080p, Max). Overwatch 2 averaged around 165 FPS, numbers that put it ahead of the MSI Vector 16 and just behind the MSI Raider 18 in raw GPU power.
Thermal performance is solid too. ASUS’s tri-fan vapor chamber cooling, liquid metal application, and intelligent airflow keep temps in check even under sustained load, though you might hear the fans kick in during longer sessions.
Downsides? There’s no webcam, a curious omission for a laptop at this price point, and the keyboard lacks a numeric pad. Also, while it performs very well, laptops like the MSI Titan 18 or Alienware 16 do edge ahead in sheer GPU or cooling tech.
Verdict: If you want a compact 16-inch laptop with top-tier visuals, dependable performance, and Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, the ROG Strix G16 checks all the right boxes for gamers and content creators.
Who it’s for: Gamers and performance users who want premium features and future-proof specs.
Who it’s not for: Remote workers or students needing a webcam or lightweight build.
Pros
✔ 240Hz Nebula HDR Display (WQXGA)
✔ Powerful Intel Ultra 9 and RTX 5080 combo
✔ Advanced cooling with vapor chamber
✔ Stylish with full RGB light bar
✔ Sturdy and premium build
Cons
✘ No webcam
✘ Heavier than some 16-inch competitors
Read our ASUS ROG Strix G16 Gaming Laptop Review
3. Alienware 16 Area-51 (2025)
Best Thunderbolt 5 Laptop for Gamers and AI Workloads
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti |
| RAM | 32GB DDR5-5600MHz |
| Storage | 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD |
| Screen | 16-inch QHD |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours |
| Weight | 7.49 lbs (3.4 kg) |
The Alienware 16 Area-51 is a high-end gaming laptop that doesn’t hold back. Designed for performance enthusiasts and creators who demand serious GPU power, it’s equipped with Intel’s flagship Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti, and 32GB of DDR5 RAM, making it one of the most capable AI-ready Windows laptops in 2025.
What makes this machine stand out in the Thunderbolt 5 lineup is Dell’s bold cooling and design approach. The Cryo-Chamber system lifts the chassis to boost airflow, reduce thermals, and showcase internal components through a Gorilla Glass panel. Under sustained load, this keeps the system cooler and quieter than most gaming rigs in its class.
You get two Thunderbolt 5 ports, allowing lightning-fast transfer speeds (up to 120 Gbps peak via Bandwidth Boost), external GPU support, and high-refresh-rate monitor output, perfect for esports players or creators working with 6K displays. HDMI 2.1, an SD card slot, and five USB ports round out the robust I/O package.
The 16-inch WQXGA display (2560 x 1600) with a 240Hz refresh rate is tuned for competitive gaming and content creation. It’s a matte LED panel, making it practical in bright setups and motion-intensive games.
On the performance side, the Intel Core Ultra 9 (24-core) CPU and RTX 5070 Ti (12GB GDDR6) deliver outstanding results in both synthetic benchmarks and gaming scenarios. Expect smooth frame rates in demanding AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 or Baldur’s Gate 3, along with reliable handling of AI-assisted workflows, 3D rendering, and real-time streaming.
How does it compare to others? The MSI Raider 18 has higher-end GPU options, like the RTX 4090, but the Alienware offers more refined cooling and a more portable chassis. The MacBook Pro M4 Pro delivers better battery life and a top-tier display, but no dedicated GPU or Windows support. For those needing graphics muscle and next-gen connectivity on Windows, Alienware finds a smart middle ground.
Battery life is average, around 4 to 6 hours, which is expected for a laptop this powerful. But if performance is your priority, and you want one of the first gaming laptops with Thunderbolt 5, the Alienware 16 Area-51 is more than ready.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a Windows-based Thunderbolt 5 laptop that excels at gaming, AI development, and creative tasks, the Alienware 16 Area-51 offers exceptional GPU horsepower, advanced cooling, and robust connectivity in a bold, futuristic design.
Who it’s for: Gamers, streamers, and professionals running GPU-heavy workloads or AI workflows.
Who it’s not for: Frequent travelers or those looking for all-day battery life.
Pros
✔ Top-tier CPU & GPU Performance
✔ Dual Thunderbolt 5 ports with full bandwidth support
✔ Excellent cooling system (Cryo-Tech with Gorilla Glass view)
✔ AI Support
Cons
✘ Bulky and heavy
✘ Average battery life (~4–6 hours)
4. MSI Vector 16 HX AI
Best Thunderbolt 5 laptop for Students
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 7-255HX |
| GPU | NVIDIA Geforce RTX 5070Ti |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 512GB NVMe SSD |
| Screen | 16” 144Hz FHD+ |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours |
| Weight | 5.95 lbs (2.7 kg) |
| Others | Thunderbolt 5, Wi-Fi 6E, Win 11 Home |
The MSI Vector 16 HX AI is one of those laptops that doesn’t scream for attention, but quietly delivers where it matters.
It’s powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7-255HX, paired with an RTX 5070 Ti GPU and 16GB DDR5 RAM, making it a reliable pick for gamers, developers, and anyone working with AI-enhanced software.
Performance-wise, it keeps up well with heavier hitters. You get smooth frame rates in popular titles and solid results in creative workloads.
The RTX 5070 Ti holds its own in 1080p and 1200p gaming, and the Ultra 7 chip brings Intel’s new NPU features for AI tasks like background blur, voice isolation, and accelerated media workflows. If you’re editing video, working in 3D, or just juggling multiple apps, the Vector doesn’t feel like it’s missing a beat.
The 16-inch FHD+ (1920×1200) display runs at 144Hz, which is more than enough for competitive gaming and everyday use.
It’s not as vivid or high-res as the OLED panels on some pricier machines, but it gets the job done, especially if you prioritize performance over pixel density. The matte finish also cuts down on reflections, which helps in brighter rooms.
What stands out is how the Vector combines next-gen connectivity with a more understated look. Thunderbolt 5 is here, unlocking ultra-fast transfer speeds and support for external GPUs or high-res monitors.
You also get HDMI, multiple USB ports, and Wi-Fi 6E, so you’re well covered whether you’re gaming at home or working in a hybrid setup.
Compared to something like the GIGABYTE AORUS Master 16, the Vector isn’t quite as flashy, no OLED display or advanced RGB, but it’s more budget-friendly and a bit lighter to carry. It also feels less bulky than the Alienware 16, while still offering similar GPU performance.
Battery life is decent for a gaming laptop, around 5 to 6 hours in regular use, and the build feels solid, with a clean design that fits in whether you’re at a LAN party or a lecture hall.
Who it’s for: Gamers, students, and developers seeking good specs at a mid-range price.
Who it’s not for: Content creators needing higher resolution screens or more storage.
Pros
✔ Good Intel Ultra processor and RTX GPU
✔ Fast 144Hz FHD+ display
✔ Thunderbolt 5 and PD 3.0 support
✔ Strong performance for gaming and development
Cons
✘ Low internal storage
✘ Plastic-heavy build
5. GIGABYTE AORUS Master 16
Best for AI, Gaming & Creation
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti |
| RAM | 32GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD |
| Screen | 16-inch QHD |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours |
| Weight | 6.02 lbs (2.73 kg) |
| Others | Thunderbolt 5, Wi-Fi 7, Windows 11 Home |
The GIGABYTE AORUS Master 16 is a great Thunderbolt 5 laptop built for gamers, content creators, and AI developers who want both speed and style.
It packs a punch: an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, up to NVIDIA RTX 5070 Ti (12GB GDDR7) and 32GB DDR5 RAM. Whether you’re rendering 3D scenes, training AI models, or gaming at maximum settings, this machine does the job without a hitch.
Its most striking feature is its display. GIGABYTE offers one of the best panels in this category, a 16-inch 2.5K OLED (2560 x 1600) display with a 240Hz refresh rate, 100% DCI-P3 color, Dolby Vision, Pantone validation, and VESA HDR True Black 500. It’s bright, color accurate, and smooth. For creative professionals or gamers who value image quality, this panel is a big change.
In terms of connectivity, you get two Thunderbolt 5 ports, making it ideal for users who want lightning-fast storage transfers, high-resolution external displays, or eGPU setups. It also supports Wi-Fi 7, HDMI 2.1, USB 3.2, DisplayPort, and Ethernet, which is more than enough to create a complete creative or gaming workstation.
The AORUS Master 16 also uses WINDFORCE Infinity EX cooling, which keeps temperatures in check even under heavy load. During long gameplay or content rendering, the system remains surprisingly cool and stable.
Compared to the Alienware 16, the GIGABYTE has an edge in terms of display quality and a thinner profile of 5.5 pounds, while the Alienware offers a more aggressive cooling layout and similar GPU power. Compared to the MacBook Pro M4, you get a dedicated GPU, OLED display, and gaming-friendly features, though macOS still leads in terms of battery life and UI polish.
Battery life is decent considering the hardware, expect around 5-6 hours of mixed use. It’s not ultra-portable, but it’s not bulky either.
Verdict: If you want an OLED Thunderbolt 5 laptop that balances performance, color accuracy, and AI-ready features, the AORUS Master 16 is one of the smartest picks in 2025.
Who it’s for: Mid-range gamers and creators who want power without paying flagship prices.
Who it’s not for: Design-focused professionals or people wanting long battery life.
Pros
✔ Good price-to-performance balance
✔ Advanced cooling system
✔ High refresh-rate QHD+ display
✔ Full-featured I/O with Thunderbolt 5
Cons
✘ Relatively low battery life
✘ Not as premium in design or build
6. MSI Titan 18 HX
Best for Extreme Power Users
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 9-285HX |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 |
| RAM | 64GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 6TB PCIe Gen4 SSD |
| Screen | 18″ 120Hz MiniLED UHD+ |
| Battery | 99.9 Watt Hours |
| Weight | 7.93 lbs (3.6 kg) |
| Others | Thunderbolt 5, Wi-Fi 7, Win 11 Pro |
The MSI Titan 18 HX is built for people who want top-notch performance and don’t mind a big, bulky laptop. It’s one of the most powerful laptops you can buy right now, but it’s not a laptop you can carry around with you all day.
It has Intel’s latest 24-core processor and a top-notch NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 graphics card with 24GB of super-fast memory. With 64GB of RAM and a massive 6TB SSD, it can handle everything from 4K video editing and 3D work to gaming and AI tasks all at once without slowing down.
The 18-inch 4K mini LED screen is absolutely beautiful. Its colors are bright and accurate, and it’s easy to see even in sunny rooms. Plus, its 120Hz refresh rate is smooth, so it’s great for both gaming and creative work. It also has two Thunderbolt 5 ports for super-fast data transfers, connecting an external GPU, and connecting multiple monitors—perfect if you have a complex setup.
MSI has also added nice extras like great cooling, colorful keyboard lights, great sound with dual speakers, and the latest Wi-Fi 7. When we tested it, we found that the laptop stayed cool and quiet even under heavy use.
But keep in mind, this laptop weighs about 8 pounds, so it’s not very portable. Battery life is decent—about 3 to 4 hours on mixed use—and it’s definitely expensive. For most people, that’s more than they need.
If you compare it to laptops like the Alienware 16 Area-51 or the Gigabyte Aorus Master 16, the Titan beats the others in terms of power, memory, and screen quality. But it costs more and is bigger.
Verdict: If you’re a power user, think content creators, VFX artists, game developers, or engineers working with AI or 3D simulations, the MSI Titan 18 HX is one of the most capable laptops you can buy in 2025. Just make sure you have a big enough desk.
Who it’s for: 3D artists, engineers, and elite gamers who need the most powerful specs available.
Who it’s not for: Students, casual users, or buyers with any budget concerns.
Pros
✔ Top-tier specs with RTX 5090 and Intel Ultra 9
✔ Huge 6TB SSD and 64GB RAM
✔ Mini LED 4K UHD 120Hz display
✔ 240W OverBoost Ultra tech, vapor chamber cooling
Cons
✘ Extremely expensive
✘ Heavy and not portable
Thunderbolt 5 Laptops Comparison
| Model | CPU | GPU | RAM | Storage | Display | Thunderbolt 5 Ports | Battery | Weight | Major Ports | OS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple MacBook Pro 16 | Apple M4 Max | 40-core Apple Silicon | Up to 128GB | Up to 8TB | 16.2” Liquid Retina XDR, 3456×2234, 120Hz | 3 | Up to 22hr | ~4.8 lbs | HDMI 2.1, SDXC, MagSafe 3 | macOS Sonoma |
| Alienware 16 Area-51 | i9-275HX | RTX 5070 Ti (12GB GDDR6) | 32GB DDR5 | 1TB SSD | 16” WQXGA, 240Hz | 2 | 4-6 hr | ~6.2 lbs | HDMI 2.1, SD, USB-A/C, Ethernet | Win 11 Home |
| Gigabyte AORUS Master 16 | i9-275HX | RTX 5070 Ti (12GB GDDR7) | 32GB DDR5 | 1TB SSD | 16” OLED WQXGA, 240Hz | 2 | 99Wh | 5.5 lbs | HDMI, USB-A/C, SD | Win 11 Home |
| MSI Vector 16 HX AI | i7-255HX | RTX 5070 Ti (12GB GDDR6) | 16GB DDR5 | 512GB SSD | 16” FHD+, 144Hz | 1 | 90Wh | ~6 lbs | HDMI 2.1, USB-A/C, Ethernet | Win 11 Home |
| MSI Titan 18 HX AI | i9-285HX | RTX 5090 (24GB GDDR7) | 64GB DDR5 | 6TB SSD | 18” Mini LED UHD+, 120Hz | 2 | 99.9Wh | ~7.93lbs | HDMI 2.1, USB-A, SD reader | Win 11 Pro |
| ASUS ROG Strix G16 | i9-275HX | RTX 5080 (GDDR7) | 32GB DDR5 | 1TB SSD | 16” Nebula, 2560×1600, 240Hz, 3ms | 1 | 90Wh | ~6 lbs | HDMI, USB-A/C | Win 11 Home |
Verdict: Which Thunderbolt 5 Laptop Should You Buy in 2025?
Choosing the right Thunderbolt 5 laptop in 2025 depends entirely on what you’re looking to get out of your machine.
For macOS users and creators:
The Apple MacBook Pro M4 Max (16-inch) is still in a league of its own. The performance-per-watt efficiency, industry-leading display, and seamless ProRes editing make it ideal for video editors, developers, and professionals who need sustained performance on the go. Thunderbolt 5 support makes external SSDs and dual 6K displays completely plug-and-play.
If you’re focused on high-end Windows gaming or AI workloads:
The MSI Titan 18 HX and MSI Raider 18 HX offer desktop-class specs in portable form. Both come with RTX 50-series GPUs, 18-inch high refresh displays, and vapor chamber cooling systems. The Titan stands out for its 4K MiniLED display and massive 6TB SSD, while the Raider balances performance and portability a little better.
Looking for top-end OLED visuals with gaming DNA?
The GIGABYTE AORUS Master 16 is a beast. With a 240Hz OLED display and RTX 5070 Ti GPU, it’s built for both serious content creation and fast-paced gaming. You also get two Thunderbolt 5 ports and solid internal expandability.
The ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2025) is a smart pick for esports players and enthusiast gamers. It has excellent thermals, the latest RTX 5080 GPU, and a Nebula HDR panel. It’s one of the most balanced machines in this roundup, not overkill, but not underpowered either.
MSI Vector 16 is the most accessible model here, especially for those who want Thunderbolt 5 on a tighter budget. It’s still powerful, with an RTX 5070 Ti and Ultra 7 CPU, and works well for students, developers, or anyone who wants performance without the premium price.
Finally, the Alienware 16 Area-51 stands out with its unique Cryo-Chamber design and excellent airflow. It’s ideal if you prioritize GPU cooling, aggressive aesthetics, and dual Thunderbolt 5 ports for serious creator workstations.
Quick Comparison: Thunderbolt 5 vs Thunderbolt 4 vs USB4
| Feature | Thunderbolt 5 | Thunderbolt 4 | USB4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Bandwidth | 80Gbps bi-directional, up to 120Gbps Boost (Bandwidth Boost) | 40Gbps bi-directional | Up to 40Gbps (20Gbps & 40Gbps tiers) |
| PCIe Support | Gen 4 (64Gbps PCIe) | Gen 3 (32Gbps PCIe) | Optional (varies by device) |
| Display Support | Up to 3x 4K @144Hz or 2x 8K @60Hz | Up to 2x 4K @60Hz or 1x 8K | Typically 1 display; optional dual 4K |
| Charging | Up to 240W | Up to 100W | Up to 100W |
| Backward Compatible | Yes (TBT4/3, USB4/3/2/1) | Yes (TBT3, USB4/3/2) | Yes (USB/TBT3/4, varies) |
| Cable Length | Passive cables up to 1m (PAM-3 signaling for up to 120Gbps) | Passive cables up to 2m @40Gbps | Up to 1m @40Gbps |
| Networking Bandwidth | 20Gbps Thunderbolt Networking | 10Gbps Thunderbolt Networking | Not standardized |
| Power Provided (min) | 15W per port | 15W per port | 7.5W per port |
| Daisy-Chaining | Up to 10 devices | Up to 6 devices | Typically not supported |
| Certification Level | Strict Intel & industry standards | Strict Intel & industry standards | No strict enforcement |
| Security | Intel VT-d DMA protection | Intel VT-d DMA protection | Manufacturer dependent |
| Supported Protocols | USB4 v2, DisplayPort 2.1, PCIe Gen 4 | DisplayPort 1.4, PCIe Gen 3 | USB, DisplayPort 1.4; PCIe optional |
| Use Case Focus | Advanced multi-monitor setups, extreme gaming, 8K video, pro workflows | Reliable high-speed peripherals, dual monitors, office, media | General compatibility, flexibility |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Thunderbolt 5 is the latest high-speed connectivity standard developed by Intel. It supports up to 120Gbps of bandwidth, allowing you to connect ultra-fast storage, multiple 4K monitors, external GPUs, and charge your laptop, all through a single port. It’s ideal for gamers, creators, and professionals who need serious performance and flexibility.
Thunderbolt 5 offers 3x more bandwidth than Thunderbolt 4 (up to 120Gbps in bandwidth boost mode vs 40Gbps). It also supports better display output (dual 6K or 8K), faster data transfer for external SSDs, and higher power delivery, making it far more future-proof, especially for demanding workflows.
Thunderbolt 5 is now available in premium laptops like:
ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2025)
GIGABYTE AORUS Master 16
MSI Vector 16 HX AI
MSI Raider 18 HX
MSI Titan 18 HX AI
Apple Macbook Pro 16
These models include full Thunderbolt 5 support and are equipped with the latest Intel Core Ultra 9 or Ultra 7 CPUs, high-end GPUs, and fast DDR5 memory.
Yes, you can. Thunderbolt 5 supports USB Power Delivery (PD), which means you can charge compatible laptops via the same port used for data and display. However, always check your specific laptop’s wattage requirements, some gaming laptops may still need a dedicated power adapter for full performance.
Absolutely, especially if you play at high frame rates or plan to connect multiple monitors. Thunderbolt 5 enables faster external storage, low-latency displays, and even external GPU (eGPU) support, which can boost your performance without needing a full desktop setup.
Not quite. While the Thunderbolt 5 port itself is standard, overall laptop performance depends on other specs like the CPU, GPU, cooling system, RAM, and SSD speed. That’s why we compare them in detail to help you choose the best one for your specific needs.
Thunderbolt is a technology developed and licensed by Intel. While USB4 is supported across both Intel and AMD platforms, Thunderbolt remains largely exclusive to Intel-powered laptops, especially the latest Ultra 9 and Ultra 7 series. Although AMD has started to support USB4 with similar speeds, full Thunderbolt 5 compatibility is still rare on AMD machines as of 2025.
Yes, connecting high-performance devices like external GPUs or multiple 4K monitors via Thunderbolt 5 can drain your battery faster, especially on laptops with lower capacity batteries. However, most laptops with TB5 are designed for high-performance use and come with large battery packs to manage this effectively.
