How does the Thunderbolt and HDMI support differ between the M4 and Intel Core i9 models

Thunderbolt Support

- M4 MacBook Pro Models: These models feature Thunderbolt 5 ports, which offer significantly faster data transfer speeds, reaching up to 120 Gb/s. This is a substantial improvement over previous generations and provides enhanced support for high-speed external storage, expansion chassis, and docking solutions[1][4]. Thunderbolt 5 is particularly beneficial for creative professionals who need to handle large files and require fast data transfer.

- Intel Core i9 Models: Intel Core i9 processors, such as the i9-13900H and i9-12900H, typically support Thunderbolt 4, which offers a bandwidth of up to 40 Gbps. This is less than the Thunderbolt 5 speeds found in M4 models but still provides robust connectivity for data transfer, display output, and power delivery[2][8]. Thunderbolt 4 is widely available on Intel-based systems and supports multiple displays and external devices.

HDMI Support

- M4 MacBook Pro Models: The HDMI port on M4 MacBook Pro models supports up to 8K resolution at 60 Hz or 4K resolution at 240 Hz, making it suitable for high-refresh-rate displays[1]. This is particularly useful for professionals who require high-resolution video output for presentations or content creation.

- Intel Core i9 Models: Intel Core i9 processors typically support HDMI 2.1, which allows for resolutions up to 4096 x 2304 at 60 Hz. While this is sufficient for many applications, it does not match the higher refresh rates supported by the M4 models[2][8]. However, HDMI 2.1 is still capable of handling high-definition video output and is widely supported across various devices.

In summary, the M4 MacBook Pro models offer superior Thunderbolt speeds and more advanced HDMI capabilities compared to Intel Core i9 models, making them more suitable for demanding tasks that require high-speed data transfer and high-resolution display output.