3 best external graphics card thunderbolt 3

External graphics cards that utilize Thunderbolt 3 connections are a popular solution for enhancing the graphical performance of laptops and desktop computers. Thunderbolt 3 is a versatile connectivity standard that allows for high-speed data transfer and power delivery over a single cable, making it an ideal choice for connecting external peripherals, including graphics cards.

Here are some key points about external graphics card Thunderbolt 3 setups:

Performance Enhancement: External graphics card enclosures (eGPU enclosures) are designed to house a standard desktop graphics card (GPU) and connect it to a computer via a Thunderbolt 3 port. This enables laptops and computers with integrated or lower-end GPUs to achieve significantly improved graphical performance for tasks like gaming, video editing, 3D rendering, and more.
Plug and Play: Thunderbolt 3 eGPU setups are generally plug-and-play, making them relatively easy to set up. Once the GPU is installed in the enclosure and connected to the computer, it is often recognized automatically, and drivers are installed.
Compatibility: Thunderbolt 3 eGPUs are compatible with a wide range of laptops and desktop computers, as long as they have a Thunderbolt 3 port and support external GPUs. However, it's essential to check the compatibility of your specific computer model and ensure that the eGPU enclosure you choose is compatible with your GPU.
Portability: External graphics card setups are portable, allowing users to enhance their computer's graphical capabilities when needed and disconnect the eGPU for on-the-go use.This flexibility can be especially beneficial for users who switch between productivity and gaming tasks.
Power Delivery: Thunderbolt 3 not only transfers data but also provides power to the connected devices. This feature can help charge laptops while using the eGPU, reducing the need for extra power adapters.
Multiple Monitors: External graphics cards can support multiple monitors, enabling users to set up extended or mirrored displays for various applications.
Gaming: Gamers often opt for Thunderbolt 3 eGPU setups to transform their ultrabooks or laptops into capable gaming machines. This allows them to play demanding games with higher graphics settings and frame rates.
GPU Upgradability: One of the advantages of external graphics cards is that you can upgrade the GPU inside the enclosure as new models become available, extending the life of your setup without replacing the entire system.
Cost: While external graphics cards can be a cost-effective way to improve a computer's graphics performance, it's essential to consider the price of both the enclosure and the GPU itself.
Noise and Size: Depending on the enclosure and GPU, external graphics card setups can be relatively large and noisy compared to internal GPUs. This is something to keep in mind, especially if you're concerned about portability and noise levels.

In conclusion, external graphics card setups using Thunderbolt 3 connections are a popular and versatile solution for users looking to boost their computer's graphical performance. They offer flexibility, compatibility with various devices, and the ability to upgrade GPUs as needed, making them a valuable accessory for many users.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best external graphics card thunderbolt 3 on the market

Razer Core X Aluminum External GPU Enclosure (eGPU): Compatible with Windows & MacOS Thunderbolt 3 Laptops, NVIDIA /AMD PCIe Support, 650W PSU, Classic Black

Razer

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Razer Core x Thunderbolt 3 external desktop graphics enclosure enables full transformation of your compatible laptop into a desktop-class gaming or workstation setup. The Thunderbolt 3 design provides dedicated lanes for both graphics and I/O ensuring fluid gameplay. Connect to the future with the most advanced and versatile eGPU solution available.

Desktop Grade Performance: Boosts Thunderbolt 3 laptop performance with support for up to 3 slot wide PCIe full sized desktop graphics cards (graphics card NOT included)
Built-In Power Supply: Includes a 650W ATX PSU with 100W laptop charging via Thunderbolt 3
Compatibility (Windows): Requires Thunderbolt 3 external graphics (eGPU) support with RS45 or later and compatible NVIDIA or AMD graphics cards
Compatibility (macOS): Requires Thunderbolt 3 and High Sierra 10.13.4 or later and compatible AMD graphics cards only (NVIDIA cards not supported)

User questions & answers

Question:	South korea working on at 220v. this product support 220v
Answer:	A little bigger than a regular mouse pad
Question:	Does the razer core x come with a thunderbolt 3 cable
Answer:	There is no texture. Nice flat surface for you to operate your mouse on.
Question:	Does it come with a graphics card
Answer:	I just measured it, it is 26.75 inches wide. I really like the pad, it's not real thick, but that is fine.
Question:	So this is basically a portable graphics card enclosure? I struggle to understand what this actually does
Answer:	Hi, It doesn't come with a mouse. You can plug it in your PS4

Product features

Ultraboost Your Ultrabook

The Razer Core X Thunderbolt 3 external desktop graphics enclosure turns your compatible Windows 10 or Mac laptop into a desktop-class gaming machine by adding external NVIDIA GeForce, NVIDIA Quadro, or AMD Radeon graphics. The massive 650W power supply fuels the graphics card and provides 100W power delivery to compatible laptops via USB-C. Beauty meets beast with the ultimate external graphics solution.

Note: Graphics card sold separately.

For Desktop-Class Performance

The Razer Core X features support for the latest PCIe desktop graphics cards including NVIDIA GeForce and AMD XConnect enabled Radeon cards. Highly mobile developers can now harness the power of compatible NVIDIA Quadro cards for professional graphics performance.

Windows 10 or Mac eGFX Systems

The Razer Core X is incredibly versatile and compatible with Thunderbolt 3 systems running Windows 10 RS1 or later and Macs running macOS High Sierra 10.13.4 or later. Laptops require a Thunderbolt 3 port with external graphics (eGFX) support.

To Secure Future Proof Performance

Stay at the top of your game by keeping your performance maxed. Razer Core X lets you easily upgrade your graphics card, so you can instantly give your laptop a boost and get access to the 650W ATX power supply anytime.

ASUS XG-Station-PRO Thunderbolt 3 USB 3.1 External Graphics Card Dock Space Grey

ASUS

Based on 38 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Access portability and supreme graphics power as your laptop turn in a professional workstation with the ASUS XG Station Pro external graphics card dock via Thunderbolt 3. The ASUS XG Station Pro has superior cooling with 120mm exhaust fans and reduces noise output to 0dB during light loads.

Compatible with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 900 series, GTX 10 series, RTX 2070, RTX 2080, and AMD Radeon RX580, RX570, and Radeon Pro WX7100 and is mac OS certified with AMD Radeon RX580/RX570 and Radeon Pro WX7100 high sierra 10.13.4 and later
All-new Aluminum Chassis for beauty and function designed by ASUS and In Win
AURA Sync ready with the ASUS XG Station Pro's plasma tube
330W internal power supply delivers support for your graphics card and laptop/tablet
Superior Cooling with dual 120mm exhaust fans with features 0db fan technology for silent performance at low temperatures
Save desk space and reduce heat with a design that uses an external adapter
All-new aluminum chassis holds full-length 2.7-slot graphics cards

User questions & answers

Question:	Is the powersupply 110v only or 110/220V? How heavy is it
Answer:	As it is a 330w external PSU, it is big and it is bulky and a bit on the heavy side - ~4 lbs. The sticker on the PSU states - Input: 100v - 240v.
Question:	Ready to install and use
Answer:	If by that, you mean: ready to open it up, install your own graphics card, close it, hook it up to power, and connect it with the included Thunderbolt 3 cable to your computer, then yes.
Question:	Does this come with the graphics card already inside
Answer:	No.
Question:	does this support the gtx 2080 or the 2080ti
Answer:	I've been wondering the same question. I know that the power supply is detached from the enclosure and is actually allowing the majority of it's power to be consumed by the GPU. Looking at ASUS's website they have added the 2080 as a supported graphics card, but it doesn't specify if that includes the 2080TI. I just looked at some benchmarks of the founder's edition versions of both GPUs and at 100% usage the 2080 is at 203 watts and the 2080TI supposedly hit 266 watts in the testing. For comparison the 1080 TI on the tests was hitting 279 watts and it is supported by the enclosure for sure (in fact it's one of the higher end OC edition 1080 TIs). Now I wouldn't take my word for it if I was you and I'd advise you contact ASUS to confirm that the 2080TI is supported. If you do find it's supported, it would definitely be appreciated if you let us know!

Product features

ASUS XG-Station-PRO Thunderbolt 3 USB 3.1 External Graphics Card Dock Space Grey

ASUS XG Station Pro is the sleek, stylish dock that connects your Ultrabook or other Thunderbolt 3-equipped notebook computer to a desktop graphics card. With XG Station Pro and a high-performance GPU you can render videos, run scientific models or build deep-learning applications ― it has all the performance you need. Co-designed with In Win, XG Station Pro looks great on any desk and, unlike other docks, has a powerful cooling system that drastically improves thermal performance.

XG Station Pro features a totally redesigned aluminum chassis. Dressed in elegant Space Grey and carefully accented with pinhole ventilation and subtle logos, it's the perfect complement to modern premium notebooks.

StarTech.com USB 3.0 to Dual DisplayPort Adapter 4K 60Hz, DisplayLink Certified, Video Converter with External Graphics Card - Mac & PC (USB32DP24K60),Black

StarTech

Based on 198 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This USB to dual DisplayPort adapter lets you add two 4K 60Hz DisplayPort monitors to your Windows® or Mac computer.

Create a dual-4K 60Hz workstation

The adapter lets you use a single USB 3.0 port on your laptop to output dual 4K resolution at 60Hz to two independent displays. Simply plug the adapter into a USB 3.0 (5Gbps) port on your Windows or Mac system and connect your DisplayPort monitors to the adapter.

The adapter lets you enjoy the picture quality of Ultra HD video across multiple screens, even if your system doesn't natively support 4K video output.

Maximize your screen real estate

With two UHD 4K displays, you can work more efficiently and accomplish more in the same amount of time. With each display delivering 4K performance, you can have four times the screen space compared to 1080p.

With multiple displays, you can output different content on each display at resolutions of up to 4096 x 2160p (60Hz). The dual DisplayPort adapter is ideal for business applications such as spreadsheets, word processors and web browsers. You can multitask and preview different data points across each display. For instance, you can calculate data on one display, write a report on the second display, and browse the internet on your laptops display.

The USB32DP24K60 is backed by a StarTech.com 2-year warranty and free lifetime technical support.

THE STARTECH ADVANTAGE: StarTech offers a 3-year warranty and free lifetime technical support on this USB adapter and has been the choice of IT professionals and businesses for over 30 years
CREATE A DUAL MONITOR WORKSTATION: Use this USB 3.0 to Dual DisplayPort converter to connect your Windows or Mac laptop / desktop to two monitors, TVs or projectors using an available USB 3.0 port
PLUG & DISPLAY: This DisplayLink certified dongle, provides automatic driver installation updates to your Windows (7 / 8 / 10) enabled computers. It's also USB-powered, requiring no external power
4K RESOLUTIONS: With support for resolutions up to 4K 60Hz and widescreen capabilities this USB 3.0 external video & graphics card delivers a full UHD experience, ensuring astonishing picture quality
MULTI USE FUNCTIONALITY: Use this IT-grade USB 3.0 display adapter (backward compatible with USB 2.0) to either extend or mirror your main laptop or desktop display onto 2 additional displays

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this support a monitor at 1080p@240hz
Answer:	Have you gotten 4g LTE on Sim2?
Question:	I have a macbook air 2017 and trying to use two monitors simultaneously, is this compatible, even with big sur update
Answer:	Are you in the US? If so, u have to be active on Cricket USA before they can give u an unlock code. Alternatively, the phone has to be unlocked physically.
Question:	Can i connect the display ports to hdmi adpators so as to run two 4k tvs
Answer:	Yes. I have a cricket monthly plan and it works perfect. I love my Windows phone. Also, I am in college and can use Microsoft Word, Spreadsheet, PowerPoint, etc. for my homework. It's accessible all from my phone. It's awesome!!
Question:	Will this work with the new m1 macbook air to do extended display
Answer:	Yes during setup only.

Product features

Create a dual-4K 60Hz workstation

The adapter lets you use a single USB 3.0 port on your laptop to output dual 4K resolution at 60Hz to two independent displays.

Simply plug the adapter into a USB 3.0 (5Gbps) port on your Windows or Mac system and connect your DisplayPort monitors to the adapter.

The adapter lets you enjoy the picture quality of Ultra HD video across multiple screens, even if your system doesn't natively support 4K video output.

Maximize your screen real estate

With multiple displays, you can output different content on each display at resolutions of up to 4096 x 2160p (60Hz).

Ideal for business applications

The dual DisplayPort adapter is ideal for business applications such as spreadsheets, word processors and web browsers.

You can multitask and preview different data points across each display. For instance, you can calculate data on one display, write a report on the second display, and browse the internet on your laptops display.