Teardown of Apple's new & long Thunderbolt 4 Pro Cable highlights why it's so expensive

Image Credit: ChargerLAB

When Apple introduced the Mac Studio and Studio Display in March, they quietly launched a new Thunderbolt 4 Pro Cable. The new cable, priced at $129 for the 1.8-meter length, is capable of up to 40Gb/s data transfer and allows for charging up to 100W.

A new teardown video by ChargerLAB highlights the premium materials and construction that went into making the cable.

The cable is a coaxial cable that features 19 wires. Six of the wires are tinned copper wires that supply power. In addition, two wires enable USB 2.0 transmission, making the cable backward compatible with Thunderbolt 3, USB 3, and USB2. Many of the wires are plated with silver as well as copper.

The connectors themselves also feature premium parts contained in a durable brass housing. Each connector also features 24 gold-plated pins.

Inside the connector is an Intel chip used for signal reconstruction and reducing signal jitter. The outside of the cable is encased in a waterproof and dustproof braided exterior, increasing the cable's durability.

ChargerLAB notes that the cable performs very well but is likely not useful for standard customers who would fare just as well with a cheaper alternative. Functional 1.8M Thunderbolt 4 cables can be found for as low as $40, albeit minus some of Apple's design and material touches.

However, for creatives working with large amounts of data, ChargerLAB states it may be the best option currently available.

Currently, Apple sells the 1.8-meter Thunderbolt 4 Pro Cable for $129. A 3-meter version will be released at a later date with a price tag of $159.