In a previous post, we detailed the different USB versions (USB 2.0, 3.0, etc.) and form factors (Type A and Type C) commonly found in desktops and laptops. However, newer systems may see yet another USB type known as USB 3.2. But what is USB 3.2? And what if USB 3.0 vs 3.1 vs 3.2? What the hell is USB 3.2 Gen 2×2?!
What is USB?
universal serial bus, or USB, is a connection protocol designed to become a standard way for PC components and peripherals to communicate. Founded by a non-profit organization called USB-IF and now regulated, USB was originally designed to replace the many proprietary connection types that were popular in the early PC world. Ironically, with the wide variety of USB types and form factors available, USB is no longer “universal.” Yet USB remains the standard basic connection for nearly every PC-related device, no matter how muddy the water.
What is USB 3.2?
Simply put, USB 3.2 is a rebranding of all USB 3 connections and devices. What was originally called USB 3.0 is now 3.2 Gen 1, USB 3.1 is now 3.2 Gen 2 and the latest kid on the block is 3.2 Gen 2×2. Messed up? Of course it is. Here’s a quick grid to help you solve your problem.
| new name | maiden name | original name |
| 3.2 generation 2×2 | none | USB3.2 |
| 3.2 Generation 2 | USB 3.1 Generation 2 | USB3.1 |
| 3.2 First generation | USB 3.1 Generation 1 | USB3.0 |
Older boards and devices may use the old nomenclature, while newer devices use the new brand, but are all the same except for the name.
USB 3.0 vs 3.1 vs 3.2 vs Thunderbolt
Now that we’ve established that USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2 are just another name for USB 3.0 and 3.1, we can move on to comparing these speeds to the only one. actual New USB version: 3.2 Gen 2×2.
| max speed | |
| 3.2 generation 2×2 | 20Gbps |
| 3.2 Generation 2 | 10Gbps |
| 3.2 First generation | 5Gbps |
| thunderbolt 3/4 | 40Gbps |
As you can see, 3.2 Gen 2×2 doubles the maximum speed of the previous generation, but falls short of Thunderbolt 3/4’s 40GBps. Even if it lacks total bandwidth, it’s still fast enough to prevent bottlenecks on nearly any device. I have it.
Configure your next gaming or workstation PC with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 here.
Josh has been with Velocity Micro since 2007, holding various marketing, PR, and sales-related roles. As Director of Sales & Marketing, he is responsible for all direct and retail sales as well as marketing activities. He enjoys reruns of Seinfeld, Atlanta He Braves, John, Paul, or Beatles songs written by George. I’m sorry, apple.
