USB 2.0 vs USB 3.0 - the differences

When buying a new PC or notebook, you now often have the choice between USB 2.0 or USB 3.0. We uncover the differences and explain the advantages of USB 3.0 in this practical tip.

USB 2.0 vs. USB 3.0 - the differences in detail

USB 3.0 is the latest USB standard and was released in November 2008. In the following comparison points, you can find out which differences and advantages it has compared to its predecessor USB 2.0 from 2000.

• Speed: USB 2.0 reaches up to 480 Mbit / s, while USB 3.0 transfers up to 10 times faster with a maximum of 4.8 Gbit / s.
• USB 2.0 is half duplex, while USB 3.0 is full duplex. This means that with USB 2.0 data can only be transferred in one direction at a time. With USB 3.0, data can be transferred in both directions simultaneously.
• The maximum current was increased from USB 500 to 900 mA with USB 3.0. This eliminates the external power supply for 2.5 inch hard drives.
• Price: While a 16 GB stick with USB 2.0 costs around 6 euros, a comparable USB 3.0 stick with around 8 euros only costs 2 euros more.
• Color: USB 3.0 can be recognized by the blue connector. USB 2.0 was still completely black.
• Maximum cable length: USB 3.0 limits the cable length to a maximum of 3 meters. USB 2.0 cables can be up to 5 meters long.
• USB 3.0 is completely backwards compatible with USB 2.0. This means that a USB 2.0 stick can also be connected to a USB 3.0 port and a USB 3.0 stick also works on a USB 2.0 port. At a 2.0 port, the data is not transferred faster even with a USB 3.0 stick. A USB 2.0 stick on a USB 3.0 port benefits from slightly faster transfer rates.