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Table of the capabilities required by WHCP for mobile Windows systems
Although the USB-IF alliance claims that the current USB4 2.0 specification is capable of delivering the same functionality as Thunderbolt 5, the key distinction lies in implementation: the former allows manufacturers to selectively adopt features at their discretion, whereas the latter mandates the inclusion of all capabilities, along with Intel’s product certification.
In response to the inconsistency caused by USB-IF’s flexible guidelines—resulting in a fragmented landscape of USB specifications—Microsoft intends to enforce a new standard through its Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP). This initiative aims to ensure that all USB-C ports on Windows PCs support display output, power delivery, and a minimum data transfer bandwidth of 5Gbps.
Microsoft contends that although USB-IF’s standards offer generous design latitude, they have inadvertently led to a proliferation of USB ports and cables with divergent specifications. Consequently, despite the ubiquity of USB-C interfaces, there remains a wide variance in supported charging wattage, connectivity features, and data transmission speeds.
To alleviate this user experience inconsistency, Microsoft announced that, under its WHCP guidelines, every USB-C port on a Windows PC must support charging, video output, and data transfer rates of at least 5Gbps.
Clearly, Microsoft hopes to leverage the market dominance of Windows PCs to impose a more unified and predictable USB-C experience across the industry, minimizing discrepancies that degrade usability.
According to Microsoft’s plan, all USB-C ports must support a minimum power output of 4.5 watts for charging, the ability to connect at least one external display, and a baseline data transfer capability of 5Gbps. However, the guidelines stop short of mandating support for higher-tier speeds such as 10Gbps, 20Gbps, 40Gbps, or 80Gbps, or for USB-PD high-wattage charging standards. Likewise, OEMs are not required to enable external PCI Express device connectivity—such as external GPU enclosures—via USB-C.
This effectively sets the minimum standard for USB-C ports on Windows PCs to be equivalent to, or exceed, the specifications of Intel’s Thunderbolt 3.
In tandem, the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program will offer automated testing tools to help OEMs verify that their Windows PC devices fully comply with Windows OS requirements and function seamlessly with Microsoft’s built-in USB drivers.
Microsoft has also confirmed its ongoing collaboration with Intel to support Thunderbolt 4 and Thunderbolt 5 standards, with Intel continuing to provide the necessary certifications.
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