5 best usb c external gpu

A USB-C external GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) is a hardware device that allows you to enhance the graphics performance of a computer or laptop, typically used in gaming, 3D rendering, or other graphics-intensive tasks. Here's what you need to know about USB-C external GPUs in relation to External Hard Drives, Data Storage, Computer Accessories, and Electronics:

  1. USB-C Connection: USB-C is a versatile and fast interface commonly found on modern computers and laptops.A USB-C external GPU connects to a computer via a USB-C port, providing a convenient and high-speed connection for graphics processing.

  2. Enhanced Graphics Performance: The primary purpose of a USB-C external GPU is to boost the graphics capabilities of a computer. It does this by offloading the graphics processing from the computer's integrated GPU (usually found on the motherboard) to the more powerful external GPU. This can significantly improve graphics performance for tasks like gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering.

  3. Compatibility: USB-C external GPUs are often compatible with both Windows and macOS systems. However, compatibility may vary depending on the specific GPU enclosure and your computer's hardware and software.

  4. GPU Enclosure: The USB-C external GPU is typically housed in an enclosure that includes the graphics card itself and a power supply unit. The enclosure may also have additional cooling fans to prevent overheating.

  5. Plug-and-Play: Many USB-C external GPUs are designed to be plug-and-play devices. Once connected to your computer, they are recognized automatically, and you may need to install GPU drivers to ensure optimal performance.

  6. Gaming: One of the most common uses for USB-C external GPUs is gaming. They allow users to play graphically demanding games on laptops or computers that may not have dedicated gaming GPUs.

  7. Video Editing and 3D Rendering: Professionals in creative fields, such as video editing and 3D rendering, can benefit from the enhanced graphics power provided by USB-C external GPUs, as it speeds up rendering and editing tasks.

  8. Multiple Monitors: USB-C external GPUs can also support multiple monitors, expanding your workspace or providing a more immersive gaming experience.

  9. Portability: USB-C external GPUs are relatively portable compared to traditional desktop gaming PCs. You can disconnect the enclosure and take it with you, making it suitable for both home and on-the-go use.

  10. Price: USB-C external GPUs can vary in price depending on the GPU model, enclosure quality, and other factors. They can be a cost-effective way to improve graphics performance compared to purchasing a high-end gaming laptop or desktop.

It's important to note that while USB-C external GPUs can provide a significant graphics performance boost, their effectiveness may still be limited by the capabilities of the specific GPU card you choose. Additionally, ensure that your computer has a compatible USB-C port and meets the power requirements of the GPU enclosure for optimal performance.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best usb c external gpu 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.

USB4 Cable Compatible for Thunderbolt 3 6.6Ft/40Gbps/5K/100W, Maxonar USB4 Cable 20V/5A Supports Single 5K 60hz or 2X 4K 60hz Monitor, External SSD, eGpu (External Gpu), USB-C Docking Station (2M)

Maxonar

Based on 697 reviews Check latest price
  • ⚡ 100W Power Delivery: Maxonar 2M USB4 cable up to 20V/5A 100W Charging compatibility. It lets you keep your Thunderbolt 3 devices powered without needing an additional power supply.
  • ⚡Up to 40Gbps Transfers Speed: Maxonar USB4 cable data transfer speed is up to 40Gbps.It can copy 14 hours of HD video or 25,000 photos within one minute at speeds up to 40 Gbps. NOTE: that the data transfer speed will still depend on what port you are using with.The data transmission device needs to support 40Gbps, the data can reach 40Gbps, otherwise only the USB 3.2 transmission speed . If used in audio and video transmission, both devices must support audio and video functions.
  • ⚡Single 5K or Dual 4K: Enjoying ultra HD video resolution.Support Crystal Clear HD Dual Monitors at Single 5K (5120 x 2880) @ 60Hz or 4Kx2K(4096x2160) @ 60HZ video resolution.Single cable docking solution to connect a Thunderbolt 3 Dock then drive 2 displays. Daisy chain up to 6 Thunderbolt devices including docking stations, external graphics cards, and displays. Bring you extraordinary visual effects.
  • ⚡More Compatibility: All USB-C devices as well as backward compatible for USB4 & 3.1 & 3.2 gadgets such as Macbook Pro, iMac, Alienware M15/R4, Samsung Galaxy S8, Galaxy S8+, Google Pixel, ChromeBook, Asus Zenbook 14 U400J, Nintendo Switch, LG Ultrasharp 40, Google Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X. ZTE Axon 7, Lumia 950, Dell XPS, Acer, HP, Lenovo, etc, as well as Docking Stations, Hard Drives, Peripheral Devices and e GPUs. NOTE: May be unsuitable for Apollo X4 and arrow device.
  • ⚡Reliable 18-Month Warranty & Friendly Service: We have faith in our Maxonar USB4 cable and Service Support - you could email with any issue or your concern about this product to us, and our Support team will response to you in 24-hour and give you a proper solution. Welcome to explore with us for more possibility of Maxonar USB4 cable.

Product features

6.6Ft USB4 Cable Support 40Gbps/5K/Dual 4K/100W/Backward compatible

Establish a superfast connection to hard drives, Ultra HD displays, docking stations, and other USB-C-enabled devices with the Maxonar USB-C to USB-C Cable. Boasting data transfer speeds of up to 40 Gbps, this versatile cable delivers the performance needed to support a variety of data-intensive applications--from high-volume file transfers to HD video. The cable comes equipped with a USB-C connector on either end and supplies up to 100W of power delivery for rapid charging.

StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Expansion Chassis w/DisplayPort PCIe x16 External PCIe Slot for Thunderbolt 3 Devices (TB31PCIEX16)

StarTech

Based on 37 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Thunderbolt 3 PCIe expansion chassis lets you add an external PCIe x16 slot to your laptop or desktop computer, through an external Thunderbolt 3 connection. Expand the Capabilities of Your Thunderbolt 3 Computer This Thunderbolt 3 PCIe enclosure makes it easy to expand your system with the capabilities you need to work at peak productivity. You can add many types of PCIe cards or video capture cards. And, with the speed and bandwidth support of Thunderbolt 3 and PCIe 3.0, you can enjoy many of the same port additions you would from the PCIe expansion slots of a desktop system. Extend Your Workstation This external PCIe expansion box features a dedicated DisplayPort output that lets you add an additional display to your laptop or desktop computer. The PCIe enclosure features a second Thunderbolt 3 port, that you can use to connect a secondary display. With multiple extended displays, you can work more efficiently by multitasking faster, and avoid the hassle of continually repositioning several open programs. Increase Productivity At up to 40Gbps this Thunderbolt 3 expansion chassis gives you the throughput to add displays to your laptop, access files quickly, and work without disruptions. It’s easy to access and edit large uncompressed files such as videos and images on the fly, making it ideal for dynamic on-site production. This external Thunderbolt 3 PCIe expansion chassis is backed by a StarTech.com 2-year warranty and free lifetime technical support. OS compatibility: Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10; macOS 10.12 - 10.15, Cable Length: 19.7 in [500 mm], Material: Aluminum and Steel.

  • This Thunderbolt 3 PCIe expansion chassis lets you add an external PCIe x16 slot to your laptop or desktop computer, through an external Thunderbolt 3 connection. Expand the Capabilities of Your Thunderbolt 3 Computer This Thunderbolt 3 PCIe enclosure makes it easy to expand your system with the capabilities you need to work at peak productivity. You can add many types of PCIe cards or video capture cards. And, with the speed and bandwidth support of Thunderbolt 3 and PCIe 3.0, you can enjoy many of the same port additions you would from the PCIe expansion slots of a desktop system. Extend Your Workstation This external PCIe expansion box features a dedicated DisplayPort output that lets you add an additional display to your laptop or desktop computer. The PCIe enclosure features a second Thunderbolt 3 port, that you can use to connect a secondary display. With multiple extended displays, you can work more efficiently by multitasking faster, and avoid the hassle of continually repositioning several open programs. Increase Productivity At up to 40Gbps this Thunderbolt 3 expansion chassis gives you the throughput to add displays to your laptop, access files quickly, and work without disruptions. It’s easy to access and edit large uncompressed files such as videos and images on the fly, making it ideal for dynamic on-site production. This external Thunderbolt 3 PCIe expansion chassis is backed by a StarTech.com 2-year warranty and free lifetime technical support. OS compatibility: Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10; macOS 10.12 - 10.15, Cable Length: 19.7 in [500 mm], Material: Aluminum and Steel.
  • Expand your connectivity: Add an external PCIe (PCI Express 3.0) x16 slot and a DisplayPort connection to your Thunderbolt 3 equipped MacBook or laptop with this Thunderbolt 3 PCIe expansion chassis.
  • High speeds: Experience increased productivity with Thunderbolt 3 and up to 40Gbps bandwidth which is twice the speed of Thunderbolt 2 (20Gbps) and eight times faster than USB 3.0 (5Gbps).
  • Broad compatibility: For ultimate convenience, this Thunderbolt 3 external PCIe enclosure works with both your Mac and Windows computers so you’re not limited to what systems you can use with the expansion box.
  • Displayport connection: This Thunderbolt 3 PCIe expansion slot supports one 4K DisplayPort monitor, and a second extended monitor display through the Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port.
  • Reliable support: Backed by a StarTech.com 2-year warranty, this Thunderbolt 3 PCIe expansion chassis has free lifetime technical support.

User questions & answers

Question: On macos, will the ssd be recognized as a trim-enabled drive? (this assumes you've issued the "sudo trimforce enable" command from the terminal
Answer: Not sure , Windows HATES this thing, esspcially with a GPU
Question: What is maximum throughput on 4 lanes of data? i assume this is pcie 2.0 (4 lanes) connected to tb3. i want to know if it can do 40gbe
Answer: The TB31PCIEX16 has a bandwidth of 3.94 GB/s (x4 PCIe 3.0 ). Atha, StarTech.com Support
Question: I'm trying to use a pci-e x1 scsi card in this enclosure and am encountering errors. the same card works in a pc. is this not supported
Answer: This is not a known incompatibility with the TB31PCIEX16. We'd be happy to look into this further with you. Please contact us at 1-800-265-1844 where our Technical Advisors are available 24 hours a day, 5 days a week to provide support. Matt, StarTech.com Support
Question: Can this be used on an older thunderbolt 2 system with a thunderbolt 2 / 3 adapter like the apple thunderbolt 3 (usb-c) to thunderbolt 2 adapter
Answer: yes it will run using adapter thuderbolt 2 to 3

Product features

Expand the capabilities of your Thunderbolt 3 computer

The Thunderbolt 3 PCIe chassis makes it easy to expand your system with the capabilities you need to work at peak productivity. You can add many types of PCI Express cards, such as a PCIe USB 3.1/3.0/2.0 and USB-C, SSD, network, eSATA, FireWire or video capture cards.

With the speed and bandwidth support of Thunderbolt 3 and PCIe 3.0, you can enjoy many of the same port additions you would from the PCI Express expansion slots of a desktop system.

Extend your workstation

The external PCIe enclosure features a dedicated DisplayPort output that lets you add an additional display to your laptop or desktop computer. The enclosure features a second Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port, that you can use to connect a secondary display (a USB-C video adapter may be required).

You can also use the second Thunderbolt 3 port to connect additional Thunderbolt, USB and DisplayPort devices to your system.

You can daisy chain up to six Thunderbolt 3 devices and expand your workstation to suit your specific requirements.

Increase productivity with faster speeds

Thunderbolt 3 is the fastest connection available, which means you don’t have to deal with the performance bottlenecks of a slower connection, and can accomplish more in the same amount of time.

At up to 40Gbps this Thunderbolt 3 expansion chassis gives you the throughput to add displays to your laptop, access files quickly, and work without disruptions.

It’s easy to access and edit large uncompressed files such as videos and images on the fly, making it ideal for dynamic on-site production.

Oyen Digital Mobius Pro 5C 5-Bay USB-C External Drive Enclosure (3N5-C-M)

Oyen Digital

Based on 66 reviews Check latest price
  • USB-C (Compatible with all USB & Thunderbolt 3). Not compatible with Thunderbolt 2.
  • Supports up to five 3.5-inch SATA hard drives
  • Includes USB-C hub for daisy-chaining or additional USB devices
  • Simple, tray-less drive insertion
  • Non-RAID system, five independent drives

User questions & answers

Question: Has anyone used this with the apple thunderbolt 2 to usb-c adapter
Answer: Hi, it is not compatible with the Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 adapter. Our apologies for the inconvenience. Oyen Digital Support
Question: What temperatures are your drives running at? I just picked this up and my sata drives are 67 to 71 degrees celsius while idle
Answer: Hi, temperatures will vary based on the drive model. There are two fans in the unit which will generally keep the drives below 50C. Please contact us directly and we can assist. 1-866-768-0659 , [email protected], or Live Chat via our website. Thanks! Oyen Digital
Question: Sorry any kind of raid is possible
Answer: This is not a "hardware RAID" enclosure. So RAID capability is provided entirely by the computer it is attached to. On Mac or Windows, the operating system can provide some basic RAID capability. On a Mac, the SoftRAID 3rd party application provides a variety of RAID options including RAID0, RAID1, RAID10, RAID4 and RAID5.
Question: Can an individual drive be removed/replaced while the others remain mounted and accessible
Answer: Hi, yes it supports hot-swapping. Individual drives can be removed without affecting the mount status of the others. Oyen Digital Support

Product features

Product Features
Product Specifications

  • Main Port: USB-C (USB 3.1 10Gbps). Compatible with USB & Thunderbolt 3. Not compatible with Thunderbolt 2 or earlier.
  • Hub Port: USB-C (USB 3.1 5Gbps). Compatible with USB-only. Not compatible with Thunderbolt 3, 2, 1.
  • Dimensions: 10.5 x 5.1 x 7.4 inches (L x W x H)
  • Chipsets: ASMedia ASM1351 & Via VL820
  • Fans: 60x25mm, 13.8 dB(A) x 2
  • Power: Auto-switching 100~240VAC; Output: 150W
  • Requirements: Compatible with Mac, Windows, Linux

Daisy-chain capability

Included is a secondary hub port for daisy-chaining up to six Mobius Pro 5C as well as other USB devices. The hub port provides 15W (5V/3A) for bus-powered portable drives.

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