In Apple’s current line-up of computers there is a new port called the thunderbolt. It comes on the Macbook Air, Macbook Pro, iMac and Mac mini models. What this ‘sweet’ little plug-in means for consumers is getting mixed reviews though.
Likes:
Multiple capabilities: The little port combines PCI Express technologies and Display port technologies, which means it can perform data transfer and display information on external screens (input and output).
Fast Performance: Prior to the thunderbolt many people were using USB 2.0/3.0 or FireWire for transferring data. Whether capturing video or simply backing up to an external device. The thunderbolt actually moves the data quicker from one device to another. Apple’s website says the port can support up to 10Gbps.
HD video support: Adapting to HDMI, VGA, DVI, and displayport are all supported. Meaning if you want to use a really good monitor with your mac you can!
Dislikes:
Adapters galore: If you’re entirely based in apple devices syncing and making everything work together is usually pretty easy. Right now there aren’t a lot of devices that come “thunderbolt ready.” In most cases you’ll need to buy an adapter. This ends up being an additional purchase every time you decide you’d like to try something new.
High costs: If you’re really looking for top speeds and performances from your thunderbolt port adapting down to USB 2.0 or FireWire just isn’t an option. The newest device on the market for thunderbolt data transfer is a Lacie Little Big Disk which has a starting price over $400. Most other devices that really allow the thunderbolt’s speed to shine will probably not be a simple $20 purchase either.
Yours doesn’t have one: If you’re like me, your Mac doesn’t have a thunderbolt port. I bought my Mac for just below $2,000 at the end of last 2010, now heading into 2012 it is considered “old.” For my editing software(s) and backing up purposes my USB 2.0 and FireWire ports work fine, and performance really isn’t a huge issue. Still though, it is frustration to no end when the new version of a not-so-old Mac cost less money and performs WAY faster.
If only I was made of money : /
