The naming conventions of USB interface standards are complex and involve multiple name changes, which can easily confuse users. This time we will conduct a detailed comparison between USB 3.1 Gen 2 and USB 3.2 Gen 1
1, Technical Background and Naming Rules
Firstly, we need to understand a key piece of information - how did these two come about.
1,) USB 3.1 Gen 2
Originally named USB 3.1, it is an upgraded version launched by USB-IF (USB Implementers Forum) in 2013. Due to the adjustment of USB naming rules, USB 3.1 Gen 2 was renamed as USB 3.2 Gen 2 (the second generation version of USB 3.2). In fact, USB 3.1 Gen 2 = USB 3.2 Gen 2.
2,) USB 3.2 Gen 1
Originally named USB 3.0, it is the USB 3.0 standard launched in 2008. After the renaming of USB-IF in 2017, USB 3.0 was renamed as USB 3.2 Gen 1. In fact, USB 3.2 Gen 1 = USB 3.0.
2, Key parameters comparison.
| Feature | USB 3.1 Gen 2 (= USB 3.2 Gen 2) | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (= USB 3.0) |
|---|---|---|
| Theoretical Transfer Rate | 10 Gbps (1.25 GB/s) | 5 Gbps (625 MB/s) |
| Effective Bandwidth | ~7.2 Gbps (actual ~900 MB/s) | ~4.8 Gbps (actual ~600 MB/s) |
| Interface Types | Supports Type-A/B/C, with Type-C as mainstream | Supports Type-A/B/C, with Type-C as mainstream |
| Compatibility | Backward compatible with USB 2.0/USB 3.0/USB 3.1 Gen 1 | Backward compatible with USB 2.0 |
| Power Delivery Capability | Up to 100 W (requires Type-C cable and protocol support) | Up to 4.5 W (standard USB 3.0) |
| Application Scenarios | High-speed data transfer (e.g., 4K video, large file backup) | Daily peripheral connection (e.g., USB drives, external hard drives) |
3, How to distinguish?
1,) View product identification
USB 3.1 Gen 2: labeled as "SuperSpeed+" or "10 Gbps".
USB 3.2 Gen 1: Label as "SuperSpeed" or "5 Gbps".
2,) Interface color (some manufacturers)
Type-C interface:
Blue blue=USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps)
Red=USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20 Gbps)
Type-A/B interface:
Blue=USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps)
3,) Equipment performance testing
Use tools such as CrystalDiskMark to test the actual read and write speed. If it approaches 900 MB/s, it is USB 3.1 Gen 2; If it approaches 600 MB/s, it is USB 3.2 Gen 1.
