USB 2.0 vs. 3.0 – what is the difference?

One difference between USB 2.0 vs. 3.x0 is that the former use the half-duplex method. This means that the data can only be transmitted in one direction at a time.
However, the USB 3.x standard knows the transfer of data in both directions. 3.x also offers a significant advantage in terms of speed. Those who take a closer look at USB 2.0 vs. 3.x,
will notice that the transfer speed of the technically more modern USB 3.x is ten times higher than that of USB 2.0.

USB 2.0:

Devices with 2.0 can be connected to a USB 3.x port and increase the transfer speed at least slightly.

The USB 2.0 specification was introduced in 2000 and is now the most widely used in modern computer systems.
The transfer rate is in the range of 3~10 MB/s for write speed and 10~25 MB/s for read speed.

USB 3.x:

Devices with USB 3.x also work on a USB 2.0 port, but the advantages of USB 3.x cannot be used here.

If the USB port inside is blue, it is a USB 3.x port. there are two wires for the signal and the power line as well as two further signal wire pairs and one
Additional ground connection. Cable length max. 3 meters.
There is often a small mark next to the connectors. The designation “SS” (Superspeed) or “3.x” indicates a USB 3.x port.
Open the Device Manager, you will find all USB ports under the category “USB controllers”. If you see the term “USB 3.x” here, such a port is definitely present.

The transfer rate is in the range of 10~45 MB/s for write speed and 60~150 MB/s for read speed.

USB 2.0:
Sequential write speed in the range of 3~10 MB/s
Sequential read speed in the range of 10~25 MB/s

USB 3.x:
Sequential write speed in the range of 10~45 MB/s
Sequential read speed in the range of 60~150 MB/s

These read and write speeds are a guideline.