USB4 vs USB-C explained: Speeds, cable lengths and the one spec that nobody reads

USB-C and USB4 get confused constantly, but they describe different things. USB-C is the reversible connector introduced in 2014. USB4 is the 2019 standard that decides what runs through it, guaranteeing 40Gbps, DisplayPort support and Power Delivery. Every USB4 cable uses USB-C, yet most USB-C cables are not USB4. Here is what the speeds, cable lengths and confusing USB-IF naming actually mean before you spend money on your next cable.