USB Type-C and Thunderbolt 3 are two different technologies that share some similarities, but also have some key differences.
USB Type-C is a type of connector that is used for transferring data and power between devices. It is a smaller, reversible connector that can be used for a variety of applications, including charging, data transfer, and video output. It is backward-compatible with USB 2.0 and 3.0 devices, but requires a compatible port or adapter for full functionality.
Thunderbolt 3 is a hardware interface that uses the USB Type-C connector to provide high-speed data transfer, power delivery, and video output. It is backward-compatible with USB Type-C, but provides faster data transfer rates (up to 40 Gbps) and supports a wider range of peripherals, including external hard drives, displays, and docking stations.
In summary, while both USB Type-C and Thunderbolt 3 use the same physical connector, Thunderbolt 3 offers faster data transfer rates and more advanced features than USB Type-C. However, not all devices support Thunderbolt 3, and it can be more expensive than USB Type-C. It is important to check the specifications of your devices to ensure compatibility and determine which technology best fits your needs.