When purchasing a new laptop, it is essential to check its input and output ports to ensure compatibility with your desired devices. Among the various ports available, Thunderbolt 3 stands out as a high-speed and versatile option.
In this regard, we have compiled a list of the best laptops with Thunderbolt 3, which offer the following features:
Processor: The laptop’s processing power is crucial for optimal performance. Opting for a powerful processor, such as an Intel Core i7, will generally outperform a Core i5. Additionally, H series processors are more powerful than U series or G series ones, while newer generations offer improved performance over older ones.
RAM: Having sufficient RAM is essential for a smooth user experience. While 8 GB is adequate for basic tasks on Windows 10, heavy-duty usage demands at least 16 GB or more.
Storage: Ample storage is necessary for storing programs and files. Laptops with a 1 TB SSD are more practical than those with a 256 GB SSD.
Besides these critical factors, we have included all other details and specifications of the laptops with Thunderbolt 3 in the list below. When combined with the comprehensive “Buying Guide,” you will be able to find the best Thunderbolt 3 laptop at the end of this article.
Best Laptops with Thunderbolt 3
1. ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo with Thunderbolt 3
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo takes the top spot on this list due to its exceptional performance and premium features. With an Intel Core i9 10th Gen 10980HK CPU, Nvidia RTX 2080 Super GPU, 32 GB DDR4 RAM, and a 2 TB RAID 0 SSD, it delivers impressive performance for various tasks.
Specifications
- Equipped with 32 GB DDR4 RAM
- Powered by Intel Core i9 10th Gen 10980HK
- 2 TB SSD storage
- 1-year warranty
- Provides Thunderbolt 3, USB type A, HDMI, RJ45, and audio ports
- Features Nvidia RTX 2080 Super 8 GB
- Comes with a 15.6-inch 4K display
This laptop boasts dual 4K UHD displays, ensuring top-notch image quality. Besides Thunderbolt 3, it provides a range of other connectivity options like WiFi 6, HDMI, USB ports, ethernet, and more.
Pros:
- Exceptional high-performance laptop
- RTX 3080 Super GPU
- Boasts a high-resolution 4K display
Cons:
- Relatively expensive laptop
2. ASUS VivoBook S14 S433
ASUS is a good option for those on a tight budget because it also has a variety of inexpensive laptops available under its VivoBook lineup.
Specifications
- Powered by Intel Core i5 11th Gen 1135G7
- Equipped with 8 GB DDR4 RAM
- Offers 512 GB SSD storage
- Features Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- 14-inch FHD display
- Provides Thunderbolt 3 micro SD card reader, audio ports, USB type A, HDMI,
- 1-year warranty
The ASUS VivoBook S14 secures the 3rd position in this list, presenting a cost-effective option for those on a tight budget. It comes equipped with an Intel Core i5 11th Gen 1135G7, 8 GB DDR4 RAM, and 512 GB SSD, providing decent performance within its budget constraints.
While it may not be the most powerful laptop, it does offer convenient connectivity options, including WiFi 6 and Thunderbolt 3. The laptop boasts a compact 14-inch FHD screen with high-quality visuals.
Pros:
- Affordable laptop
- Compact 14-inch screen
- Decent performance
Cons:
- Limited to 8 GB of RAM
3. Apple MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020)
The MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020) is another remarkable addition to Apple’s lineup of Thunderbolt laptops.
SPECIFICATIONS:
- CPU: 8th-generation Intel Core i5 – 10th-generation Intel Core i7
- Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics 645
- RAM: up to 32GB
- Screen: 13-inch Retina display with True Tone
- Storage: 256GB – 4TB SSD
The MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020) impresses with its latest Intel processors and faster RAM, ensuring a smooth and powerful performance within its slim 13-inch frame. Apple’s inclusion of the new Magic Keyboard from the 16-inch model further enhances the typing experience with its tactile feedback and comfort.
While not the lightest or thinnest 13-inch laptop available, its design remains sleek and weighs slightly more than the previous 2019 model. The 10th-generation Intel Core configurations offer ample storage capacity without raising the price, making it an attractive option. Additionally, the Thunderbolt 3 ports provide excellent connectivity options for various peripherals.
Pros:
- Enhanced specs in some models for better performance
- Larger SSD capacity in the base model
- Introduction of the improved Magic Keyboard from the 16-inch model
Cons:
- Entry-level model retains 8th gen Intel CPU
- Exclusive use of Thunderbolt 3 ports
4. LG Gram 15Z90N Laptop
In addition to its well-known household appliances, LG also sells a few slim and light laptops under the LG Gram lineup, making it a great portable option.
Specifications
- Powered by Intel Core i7 10th Gen 1065G7
- Equipped with 16 GB DDR4 RAM
- Offers 1 TB SSD storage
- Features Intel Iris Plus Graphics
- Includes a 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen display
- Provides Thunderbolt 3, USB type A, HDMI, micro SD card reader, and audio ports
- 3-year warranty
The LG Gram 15 impresses with its portability. Despite its slim design, it delivers decent performance with an Intel Core i7 10th Gen 1065G7 CPU, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, a 1 TB SSD, and an exceptional 17-hour battery life.
Regarding portability, despite its 15.6-inch touchscreen display, it remains one of the lightest laptops available. However, it may exhibit slight keyboard deck flex, which is a point to consider.
Pros:
- Highly portable thin and lightweight laptop
- Decent performance considering its weight
- Remarkably long battery life
Cons:
- Keyboard deck flexing slightly
4. ASUS ZenBook 14 Laptop
In contrast to their higher-end ROG laptops and budget-friendly VivoBook series, Asus also offers premium, slim, and lightweight laptops under the ZenBook lineup.
Specifications
- Powered by Intel Core i7 10th Gen 1065G7
- Equipped with 8 GB DDR4 RAM
- Offers 512 GB SSD storage
- Features Intel Iris Plus Graphics
- 14-inch FHD display
- Provides Thunderbolt 3, USB type A, HDMI, micro SD card reader, and audio ports
- 1-year warranty
If you seek a premium and portable laptop with high performance, the ASUS ZenBook 14 could be a suitable choice. Despite its slim and lightweight design, it features the Intel Core i7 10th Gen 1065G7 CPU paired with a 512 GB SSD, although it only comes with 8 GB of DDR4 RAM.
As a premium laptop offering, the ASUS ZenBook 14 provides a high-quality 14-inch FHD display with narrow bezels. Additionally, it incorporates a unique Numpad integrated into its touchpad, which is beneficial for productivity-oriented users.
Pros:
- Decent performance numbers
- Premium build quality
- High-quality display with narrow bezels
Cons:
- Memory space constraints
4. Lenovo ThinkPad T470 Laptop
Lenovo’s ThinkPad also offers used laptops that are quite affordable, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers willing to opt for a used unit.
Specifications
- Powered by Intel Core i5 6th Gen 6200U
- Equipped with 8 GB DDR4 RAM
- Offers 256 GB SSD storage
- Features Intel UHD 520 Graphics
- Includes a 14-inch HD display
- Provides Thunderbolt 3, USB type A, HDMI, RJ45, SD card reader, SC reader, and audio ports
- 1-year warranty
The Lenovo ThinkPad T470 stands out as one of the most budget-friendly options due to its used status. As a fairly old model, it incorporates the Intel Core i5 6th Gen 6200U, 8 GB DDR4 RAM, and 256 GB SSD, offering decent performance for its price range.
As a result of its age, the ThinkPad T470 features a 14-inch HD display, ensuring a fairly compact laptop. In terms of other features, you’ll find a fingerprint reader, Thunderbolt 3, SD card reader, HDMI, Ethernet, and even an SC reader, providing excellent versatility.
Pros:
- a small and portable laptop
- many ports for connectivity
- Affordable for customers on a tighter budget
5. ASUS ROG Zephyrus S17 Laptop
Returning to Asus’ high-end gaming laptops, the ROG Zephyrus lineup offers an excellent option for gamers or users seeking a powerful laptop for heavy-duty tasks.
Specifications
- Powered by Intel Core i7 10th Gen 10750H
- Equipped with 16 GB DDR4 RAM
- Offers 1 TB SSD storage
- Features Nvidia RTX 2070 Super 8 GB
- Includes a 17.3-inch FHD 300 Hz display
- Provides Thunderbolt 3, USB type A, HDMI, and audio ports
- 1-year warranty
Designed for gaming, this ROG laptop boasts impressive power. Key components include the Intel Core i7 10th Gen 10750H processor, a powerful Nvidia RTX 2070 Super GPU, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, and a 1 TB SSD, making it a top-notch performer.
With gaming in mind, the laptop features an outstanding FHD 300 Hz display, offering a large 17.3-inch screen size. Besides the Thunderbolt 3 port, users also benefit from an RGB keyboard and liquid metal thermal compound, optimizing it for gaming.
Pros:
- Utilizes the RTX 2070 Super
- Large 17.3-inch 300 Hz display
- Slim and lightweight gaming laptop
Cons:
- No choice for customers on a tight budget
6. Dell Latitude 7480 FHD Laptop
Despite being a refurbished model, this Dell Latitude laptop remains a compelling option for those seeking an affordable laptop with decent features.
Specifications
- Powered by Intel Core i7 7th Gen 7600U
- 1-year warranty
- Equipped with 16 GB DDR4 RAM
- Offers 512 GB SSD storage
- Features Intel UHD 620 Graphics
- Provides Thunderbolt 3, USB type A, HDMI, RJ45, U-SD, U-SIM, SC, and audio ports
- 14-inch FHD display
Dell’s Latitude 7480 caters to budget-conscious buyers, thanks to its reasonable price tag, even as an older laptop model. While its performance may reflect its age, it still offers an Intel Core i7 7th Gen 7600U, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, and 512 GB SSD—expected specifications for an older model.
Despite its age, you still get a 14-inch FHD display, ensuring a compact form factor. Alongside Thunderbolt 3, you’ll find other useful ports like Ethernet, U-SD, U-SIM, USB type C, HDMI, and even an SC port, adding versatility.
Pros:
- a variety of ports
- a good deal portable and mobile
- budget-friendly used laptop
Cons:
- An old laptop model
7. Razer Blade Stealth 13 Ultrabook Laptop
Razer’s Blade lineup also comprises a selection of slim and lightweight laptops, offering portability without compromising on performance.
Specifications
- Powered by Intel Core i7 8th Gen 8565U
- Equipped with 16 GB DDR4 RAM
- Offers 256 GB SSD storage
- Provides Thunderbolt 3, USB type A, and audio ports
- Features Intel UHD 620 Graphics
- Includes a 13.3-inch FHD display
- 1-year warranty
The Razer Blade Stealth secures a spot as one of the smallest laptops with Thunderbolt 3 in this list. Despite its compact form factor, it delivers decent performance, courtesy of the Intel Core i7 8th Gen 8565U CPU, 16 GB RAM, and 256 GB SSD.
To maintain a small and compact design, Razer equips this laptop with a 13.3-inch FHD display. Unlike other slim laptops, this one incorporates the Nvidia MX150 GPU, a notable improvement over most integrated graphics cards.
Pros:
- optimal CPU and GPU performance
- Outstanding build quality
- Compact and Small form
Cons:
- SSD performance may have been improved.
A Guide to Buying the Best Laptops with Thunderbolt 3
Ensuring that your laptop has high-performance ports is essential for versatile usage, even though the ports may not directly impact its performance. To help you choose the right laptop with Thunderbolt 3, we have compiled a list of some of the best options that allow you to easily connect an external GPU.
1. Processor
The processor is a crucial component that significantly affects your laptop’s performance. Opt for a powerful CPU to ensure a smooth and snappy computing experience.
Most Thunderbolt 3 laptops feature either Intel Core i5 or Intel Core i7 processors, with the latter offering higher performance. Additionally, consider the generation of the processor, as newer 11th-gen chips generally outperform older 8th-gen ones. Moreover, check the wattage rating, with H-series processors being ideal for heavy-duty usage.
2. GPU
If you intend to play games, use rendering applications, or engage in graphical tasks, a dedicated graphics card is essential. Gaming laptops with graphics cards like the RTX 2070 Super or the more powerful RTX 2080 are ideal for such purposes.
3. RAM
The laptop’s memory or RAM is another critical factor to consider. A sufficient amount of RAM allows for smooth multitasking. While an 8 GB RAM laptop will suffice for regular use, opting for at least 16 GB RAM is recommended for heavy-duty usage.
4. Display
Although the display does not directly impact performance, it significantly influences your overall computing experience. Opt for a high-quality screen with your Thunderbolt 3 laptop.
Entry-level displays usually have FHD 60 Hz resolution, while gaming laptops may offer up to a 300 Hz FHD screen. High-end laptops may come with a UHD 4K display for superior image quality.
5. Storage
Storage space is essential for installing programs, storing files, and other tasks. Most Thunderbolt 3 laptops come with high-speed SSD drives. While some laptops feature 256 GB SSDs, higher-end models offer 1 TB SSDs, which are more practical.
6. Ports
Besides the Thunderbolt 3 port, consider other input and output ports. Look for USB Type-A ports, HDMI, ethernet, SD card readers, audio ports, and other relevant options. Laptops with multiple ports allow easy connection of various devices without external adapters.
7. Warranty
Check the warranty coverage before purchasing a laptop. Most laptops come with at least a 1-year warranty, while some options offer up to 3 years of coverage for added peace of mind.
8. Battery
If you prefer thin and light Thunderbolt 3 laptops for on-the-go use, prioritize models with long battery life and a large battery capacity. Battery life is usually measured in hours, with ratings like 7 hours, 9 hours, or even 11 hours. Additionally, battery size is rated in Watt-hours (Wh), with higher ratings indicating better battery capacity.
9. Operating System
Most Thunderbolt 3 laptops come with Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro pre-installed. While both versions are similar, Windows 10 Pro offers additional features and options.
Top 3 Laptops with Thunderbolt 3
We have listed some of the best laptops with Thunderbolt 3, along with their specifications and features, in this article. Based on this information, here are our top recommendations:
- ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo: This laptop is the most powerful among the listed options, featuring high-end components like Intel Core i9 10th Gen 10980HK, RTX 2080 Super GPU, 32 GB DDR4 RAM, and 2 TB RAID 0 SSD drives. It offers WiFi 6, HDMI, ethernet, audio ports, and Thunderbolt 3 connectivity.
- LG Gram 15Z90N Laptop : This laptop stands out for its portability, despite featuring a 15-inch display. It offers decent performance with its Intel Core i7 10th Gen 1065G7 CPU, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, and an impressive battery life of up to 17 hours.
- ASUS VivoBook S14 S433 Laptop: For budget-conscious buyers, this laptop is an excellent choice as it offers the latest Intel Core i5 11th Gen 1135G7 CPU, 8 GB DDR4 RAM, 512 GB SSD, and Thunderbolt 3 support, which is uncommon in most budget laptops.
Thunderbolt 3 is a versatile port that allows connection of various USB type C devices, eGPUs, high-speed networking cards, and more, while enabling laptop charging.
