Can all USB-C cables be used for video?

1, Diversity and Compatibility of USB-C Interfaces
Since its inception, the USB-C interface has quickly become the new favorite of many electronic devices due to its convenient forward and backward plugging and powerful expansion capabilities. However, it is worth noting that the USB-C interface itself is only a physical standard and does not directly determine the functionality and performance of the interface. The key to whether USB-C cables can transmit videos depends on whether they support relevant video transmission protocols and technologies, such as DisplayPort standby mode (DP Alt Mode) or Thunderbolt protocol.
2, Key Technologies for Video Transmission
Display Port Backup Mode (DP Alt Mode):
DP Alt Mode is a technology that enables the transmission of DisplayPort video signals over USB-C interfaces. When the USB-C interface integrates DP Alt Mode, the interface can transmit video signals to displays that support DisplayPort through a USB-C cable. This technology is widely used in devices such as laptops and tablets, providing users with convenient video expansion solutions.
Thunderbolt protocol:
The Thunderbolt Protocol is an interface technology that integrates high-speed data transmission, video transmission, and power transmission. The Thunderbolt interface also adopts the physical form of USB-C, but it is more powerful in terms of functionality. The Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 interfaces not only support high-speed data and video transmission, but also provide high-power power supply for devices. Therefore, when USB-C cables support the Thunderbolt protocol, they can also be used for video transmission.
3, Not all USB-C cables support video transmission
Despite the powerful expandability and compatibility of the USB-C interface, not all USB-C cables support video transmission. This mainly depends on whether the cable integrates relevant technologies such as DP Alt Mode or Thunderbolt Protocol internally. Some USB-C cables that are only used for data and power transmission do not have the ability for video transmission.
4, How to determine if a USB-C cable supports video transmission
Check cable identification:
Some USB-C cables that support video transmission will be labeled with words such as "DP" or "Thunderbolt" near the interface to indicate the video transmission technology they support.
Query device specifications:
For devices such as laptops and tablets, users can check the official specifications of the device to see if the USB-C interface supports DP Alt Mode or Thunderbolt protocol.
Attempt to connect for testing:
If conditions permit, users can try using USB-C cables to connect video output devices such as monitors or televisions to verify if the cable supports video transmission.