Compared with desktops, it is no secret that even the latest game consoles are inadequate in terms of graphics processing capabilities. External GPU for laptop An external graphics processing unit or eGPU is a great way to enhance gaming laptops by allowing you to provide excellent graphics from more powerful sources. Better frame rates, higher resolutions, etc., buying a suitable external GPU means that you are finally shocked by the visual effects. For the longest time, laptop users had to accept the fact that they sacrificed mobile functionality. Although desktop gamers have different options to enhance their specifications,
Compared with desktops, it is no secret that even the latest game consoles are inadequate in terms of graphics processing capabilities. An external graphics processing unit or eGPU is a great way to enhance gaming laptops by allowing you to provide excellent graphics from more powerful sources. Better frame rates, higher resolutions, etc., buying a suitable external GPU means that you are finally shocked by the visual effects.
Table of Contents
Why buy an external GPU?
For the longest time, laptop users had to accept the fact that they sacrificed mobile functionality. Although desktop gamers have different options to enhance their specifications, those who use laptops to play games or use demanding software have no choice but to buy a new machine. It is challenging to take laptop gamers seriously because their machines cannot play the latest games immediately and effectively.
Nowadays, an external GPU provides an alternative power source, so you can continue to play games on your laptop for many years. Thanks to the rise of Thunderbolt 3.0, a simple USB-C port makes it easier than ever to connect to an eGPU and play at higher speeds, pixels, and power.
What exactly is an external GPU? How does it work?
The external GPU is a case that contains a video card for connecting to a PC or laptop. Using the power of the graphics card connected via the eGPU, gaming desktops or laptops can now use more power, resulting in better visual effects and speed. Although a dedicated power supply can be guaranteed in ordinary GPUs, some also include other features, such as their cooling system or PCI Express slot for connecting video cards.
Can a laptop or desktop computer use any external GPU?
Do not. Doing your research is very important because not every eGPU is only compatible with any computer or graphics card. Once you see a product that appeals to you from our list, you can research it through other online resources because each external GPU has its specific compatibility requirements.
Two things to pay attention to when choosing an external GPU are the allowed card size and connections/ports. For example, it is stated that Akitio nodes can support full-length, full-height, and full-width cards. On the other hand, OWC Mercury Helios 3 only accepts 7.75-inch cards.
Also, check if the external GPU you are interested in has a Thunderbolt or USB port or if a dedicated interface is required. Some eGPUs, such as HP Accelerator Omen, allow you to plug in solid-state drives and hard drives through the SATA port. Most importantly, some groups are only available for specific devices. For example, Razer Core is only available for Thunderbolt 3 computers.
Through online research, you may even find that even though the official product lists compatible products, in fact, some eGPUs still need some adjustments before they can be used with your gaming device.
Even if your gaming laptop has already hit a hard punch, it still needs a little step to meet the needs of the latest games. Please check our recommended best external GPU below:
Top 6 Best External GPU for Gaming
1. Akitio Point – Thunderbolt 3 eGPU for Windows
Have you always dreamed of playing games at 4K resolution on a gaming laptop? What about demanding VR games? If it sounds like you, then Akitio Node – Thunderbolt3 eGPU is a good choice, especially if you are looking for a way to make the most of an external graphics card without destroying your funds.
The additional GPU capabilities provided by Thunderbolt 3 mean that your laptop. Or micro PC can now perform previously impossible tasks. You will be able to play technically demanding games. Without worrying about frame rates or other visual issues that may affect your experience. In addition to games. You can now run programs such as video editors. And 3D software without waiting forever to render the material.
The Thunderbolt 3 eGFX box can provide you with a fast transfer speed of up to 40 Gps, a PCIe (x16, maximum power of 75W) slot, supports full-length, full-height, double-width cards, and has a spacious chassis, so standard and Large graphics cards can be accommodated. Other features include a 4-lane PCI Express 3.0-compliant interface, a handle for seamless transportation, a removable back panel for 2x-width cards, and an integrated 400W SFX power supply to provide more power to the GPU.
2. Alienware Graphics Amplifier (9R7XN)
If you can rely on one brand to improve the performance of game consoles, it is Alienware. They have been leaders in the video game industry for some time, and a good reason. As far as eGPU is concerned, this Alienware graphics amplifier (9R7XN) can be said to be one of its best products. Before proceeding, please keep in mind that this is only compatible with desktop graphics cards up to 10.5 inches in length.
It is also worth mentioning that the Alienware graphics amplifier is compatible with Alienware 13, 15, and 17 R2, laptop LCDs, and any external monitors. Just plug in a device with a single proprietary cable, and you are ready for a supercharged gaming experience. It supports full-length double-width graphics cards and has a built-in 4-port USB 3.0 hub. Like most Alienware products, you can also set triggers to deform the lights between different colors and make the system glow in sync with the game to make the system look more relaxed than before.
Last but not least, Alienware will provide one year of non-accidental damage repair return and 1-4 years of accidental damage repair service.
3. Sonnet eGFX separation box, Thunderbolt 3-to eGPU PCIe card expansion system
If you want an easy-to-install external GPU and improve the lives of laptop gamers, Sonnet eGFX Breakaway Box can solve this problem. The original intention of this Thunderbolt 3 to PCIe card expansion solution is to consider bandwidth-intensive graphics and video cards. Still, it is also compatible with any PCIe card that supports Thunderbolt.
Although this is currently one of the cheapest external GPUs on the market, don’t be fooled: Thunderbolt 3 can provide an impressive 2750 MB/s bandwidth and 40Gbps power. Supported graphics cards include AMD Radeon R9, AMD Radeon RX, and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 7, 9, and 10 series. The x16 PCI Express 3.0 slot can handle almost any size card-from full length and full height to single or double width.
If you want a quiet eGFX box that can also be kept cool. Then the Sonnet EGFX separation box is also a good choice. This is thanks to its variable speed. Temperature-controlled fan. Which ensures that the installed card keeps the environment noise-free while maintaining good heat dissipation.
4. HP Omen accelerator
This powerful external GPU was just released in September 2017, which means it is one of the latest products in the industry. HP has invested a lot of time and energy to make its choices more attractive, thereby making it competitive. If you want to choose features that are demanding and affordable, HP Omen Accelerator is undoubtedly a wise move.
This impressive eGPU can bring significant performance improvements to laptops, making your portable gaming experience better than ever. Since HP Omen. Accelerator can hold almost any latest graphics card and storage device. It can make your laptop play games as expected by developers. Similarly, a Thunderbolt 3 certified USB-C connection can also charge a USB-C laptop, which does not harm.
Another significant advantage that HP has wisely added is that it leaves enough space for hard drives or solid-state drives. The average size of today’s best games is about 50Gb. And every laptop game player will eventually Need a separate storage solution to save all games. If you want to move your gaming laptop everywhere. You can store HDD or SDD in HP Omen Accelerator. A very valuable convenience.
The easy-to-operate door also gives you easy access to the graphics card slot, replaceable power supply, and 2.5-inch drive bay. Suppose your Windows PC has a Thunderbolt 3 port. HP Omen Accelerator is one of the best external GPUs you can buy. HP also offers a wide range of products. Including gaming mice, keyboards, headsets, and cursed monitors. Which are very suitable for enhanced omen laptops.
5. Mantiz Venus MZ-02 eGPU
It is highly recommended to use this external GPU enclosure because. It has an impressive range of compatible products and an extended port range. Not to mention its low profile design. If your laptop comes with a USB-C port for Thunderbolt 3. Then you have everything you need to grab this excellent Mantiz product. And change your gaming life forever.
Venus MZ-02 allows speeds up to 40Gbps, which means a total PCIe bandwidth of 2,750 MB/s. With this feature, you can run modern video games with the highest frame rate. Also worth noting are up to six expansion inputs, including two front USB 3.0 ports, three rear USB 3.0 ports, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. You can hardly find another external GPU that provides this versatility.
As if not enough, the all-aluminum body of Mantiz Venus is anodized. It also provides you with a way to expand the storage capacity through the internal SATA III connector. There is enough space to place a 2.5-inch hard disk or solid-state drive. Another reason why an external GPU is so attractive to laptop gamers is that it can still run on systems that do not support it.
6. Razer Core
Razer is another trustworthy name in the world of computer games and is known for making beautiful products. Razers Core offers an eye-catching design, powerful features, and easy setup, and of course, it is no exception. Although it is not currently the cheapest external GPU. It is certainly worth it if you have a compatible device to use it.
With a stylish metal design, snake-shaped logo. And customizable lighting settings. This is arguably one of the best external GPUs in terms of appearance. Chroma backlight compatibility also means that you can use Razer. Synapse to create up to 16.7 million colors of lighting effects. As far as setup is concerned. Plugging the GPU into the Razer Core is very simple. Just grab the quick release handle. Pull it apart to open the inner case. And then remove the fixing screw to insert the graphics card. When finished, replace the screws, slide the case back into the box, and connect the required plugs.
Speaking of comparability. It was apparent from the beginning that the Core was designed for the Razer Blade. Stealth ultra-portable gaming computer. Other laptops can also get fantastic performance improvements. Such as Alienware 13, MacBook Pro 13, and Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Carbon. Remember that not all gaming laptops with Thunderbolt ports can be used with Razer Core, such as HP Spectre x360 or Dell XPS 13.
For compatible desktop graphics cards, Razer Core can generally work in a wide range. It also comes with its power supply, can plug into most Nvidia or AMD desktop graphics chips, and provides a set of additional Gigabit LAN and 4 USB 3.0 ports.
Conclusion
So, guys, I hope you liked this guide about the external GPU for laptops. If you have any question or queries, you can ask them in the comment section below.
