Best external GPU enclosures (eGPU)

Best External GPU Enclosures (eGPU)

Best External GPU Enclosures (eGPU)

Before introducing eGPU gaming on laptops, it was impossible for those who wanted a powerful experience because gamers could not access the best graphics for such machines. With the introduction of eGPUs, gamers can now get better graphics without having to deal with the upgrade of the entire gaming setup.

The enclosures come in different types, with some of them having the ability to fit HDDs and SSDs, thus giving you more gaming storage options. Some of the best external graphics card enclosures you can find in the current market include the following below:

Check Our eGPU Explained Guide

Table of Contents

Quick Compare Table

Razer Core X Chroma Aluminum External GPU Enclosure (eGPU): Compatible with Windows & MacOS Thunderbolt 3 Laptops,...
Alienware Graphics Amplifier (9R7XN), Stealth black
Name
Razer Core X Chroma Aluminum External GPU Enclosure (eGPU): Compatible with Windows & MacOS Thunderbolt 3 Laptops,...
Alienware Graphics Amplifier (9R7XN), Stealth black
Ports
Chroma Version has 4 USB and Gigabit ethernet. Also has chroma lighting and thunderbolt 3 for connection to laptop.
4 High speed usb 3 ports. Alienware's proprietary connector for connection to only alienware laptops.
Compatible With
Most GeForce, Quadro and Radeon Cards
Most GeForce and Radeon Cards
Connects Via
Thunderbolt 3. Connects to most laptops with thunderbolt 3
Alienware's proprietary connector. (only works on alienware laptops)
Power Supply
ATX 700W (chroma), 650W for non chroma
460 W Power Supply
Rating
-
-
Price
Price not available
$319.99
Prime
-
-
Razer Core X Chroma Aluminum External GPU Enclosure (eGPU): Compatible with Windows & MacOS Thunderbolt 3 Laptops,...
Name
Razer Core X Chroma Aluminum External GPU Enclosure (eGPU): Compatible with Windows & MacOS Thunderbolt 3 Laptops,...
Ports
Chroma Version has 4 USB and Gigabit ethernet. Also has chroma lighting and thunderbolt 3 for connection to laptop.
Compatible With
Most GeForce, Quadro and Radeon Cards
Connects Via
Thunderbolt 3. Connects to most laptops with thunderbolt 3
Power Supply
ATX 700W (chroma), 650W for non chroma
Rating
-
Price
Price not available
Prime
-
Alienware Graphics Amplifier (9R7XN), Stealth black
Name
Alienware Graphics Amplifier (9R7XN), Stealth black
Ports
4 High speed usb 3 ports. Alienware's proprietary connector for connection to only alienware laptops.
Compatible With
Most GeForce and Radeon Cards
Connects Via
Alienware's proprietary connector. (only works on alienware laptops)
Power Supply
460 W Power Supply
Rating
-
Price
$319.99
Prime
-

Razer Core X (Chroma)

Razer Core X

Razer Core external graphics card enclosures have always been known for their external aesthetics and performance levels, and the razer core X isn’t different.

Other than performance, this eGPU also gives you high efficiency and compatibility, but it comes at a higher price. The enclosure size allows the use of triple-width, and different brands and models of laptops can use it.

You can use Quardo, Radeon and GeForce graphics cards but you should be ready to give up connectivity if you buy the default one as it has limited ports (the chroma has more ports). If you like Razor Core, but X version isn’t for you, then you can consider getting V2, which has similar features and performance abilities. It also supports full-length, double-width, and full-height graphics cards and comes with thunderbolt 3, 4 3.0 USB ports, and an ethernet port.

Positives Negatives
The enclosure is visually pleasing It comes in a large size and isn't very lightweight which makes it less portable
This is the only eGPU that holds triple-width graphics cards There aren't a lot of ports that interfere with various displays.
It can be used with several eGPUs and laptops because of its compatibility mode.

Akitio Node

Akitio Node

If you prefer an external graphics card with an old school design but modern functionality, this is the perfect eGPU for you.

The design makes it one of the least attractive enclosures, and its large size also reduces the visual appeal, but it is capable of delivering on the best gaming performance. On the positive, its large size means that you can use various graphic cards, but it makes it harder to move on the negative.

Some of the graphics card models the enclosure can be used with include Radeon and Nvidia cards, which gives you a wide range of options to choose from. It also comes with a 400W power supply, which is great for optimal performance, but its single thunderbolt port limits connectivity.

Positives Negatives
Supports large sized graphics cards Its weight and size make it difficult to move around even though it has a used handle.
It can accommodate a wide range of GPUs even the ones with large sizes There are no USB ports which limits the connection
Includes a 400W PSU

Gigabyte AORUS RTX 2080 Ti GAMING BOX

As one of the reputable companies in the gaming industry, Gigabyte has continuously produced highly functional graphics cards, and their Aorus RTX 2080 Ti eGPU doesn’t disappoint.

The advancements that this enclosure has are impressive and they are improvements from the previous versions of eGPU enclosures. Its ability to transfer up to 40Gbps makes it one of the most powerful external graphics card enclosures, and it comes with multiple connectivity options that also enhance the gaming experience. You can set up multiple monitors, and you can run VR gaming in addition to 4k, 1440p and 1080p gaming.

This enclosure has a non replaceable RTX 2080 Ti inside of it. This card provides great gaming performance but you are limited to the card inside.

Positives Negatives
The enclosure supports quick charge through its 3.0 port which increases convenience Despite its great performance, the eGPU doesn't allow the use of graphic cards other than the installed one.
There are multiple display ports which can be used for multiple monitors Setting up the external graphics card in a Mac laptop is a little challenging.
High-performance level graphics card form Nvidia

Alienware Graphics Amplifier

Alienware Graphics Amplifier

Alienware has been in the gaming industry for over 10 years. And it has maintained its quality over the years, even after they were acquired by dell.

Although the Alienware eGPU enclosure comes with a propriety port for Alienware laptops only, it is great for such users.

It makes up its limited ports by its attractive design and high-performance delivery. It also doesn’t come with a built-in graphics card, but you can insert full-sized graphics cards. Its 460W power supply helps with the use of other graphic cards, especially those with PSU requirements of 460W and below. 4 USB ports can be used.

Positives Negatives
The enclosure supports various GPUs It is heavy and therefore less portable
It is one of the affordable eGPU options Less compatible (only works with alienware laptops)
It can be upgraded
Comes with additional USB ports with high-speed performance

Asus RoG XG station 2 - One of the Best External GPU Enclosures

The Best External GPU Enclosure (eGPU) ASUS ROG-XG-Station-2

Asus is also known for its high-end gaming accessories, including the RoG XG Station 2. This external graphics card enclosure comes with a great aesthetic design that grabs your attention the moment you see it.

The casing comes with textured stripe patterns and a sleek black color together with RGB lighting makes it very attractive. However, it doesn’t have an in-built GPU, which is the main disappointing factor.

Its compatibility is great, and its size allows the use of full-size graphic cards, both modern and old. Most Quadro, radeon and GeForce 900 series and above are compatible.

Another major feature of this eGPU is the inbuilt fans who are inbuilt to cool off the cards when they are being used. Apart from the thunderbolt 3.0 port, the enclosure also comes with 4x USB 3.0 ports and USB Type B. Its 600W power supply enhances the functionality, and its compatibility creates room for RGB customization and use of the AURA software.

Positives Negatives
Exceptional exterior design Doesn't have a built-in graphics card
There's room for the use of a full-size card Is a little expensive
Very compatible
Is portable despite its size

Conclusion

If you want an external graphics card enclosure suitable for both long term and short-term use with the great exterior design, then the Asus ROG XG station is the best choice. The enclosure may be expensive, but it provides great value, especially for long term users.

Only those who prefer an eGPU for Alienware laptops can the Alienware Graphics Amplifier be the ideal option.

Razor Core X is great for those who want a more compatible enclosure, whereas Akitio node is great for easier video editing and more compatibility. 

The Gigabyte Aorus RTX 2080 Ti Gaming Box offers more connection options and high-speed transfers. All these external graphics card enclosures come at different prices that you should also consider when buying one.

Asus RoG XG Station 2

The Best External GPU Enclosure (eGPU) ASUS ROG-XG-Station-2

The Best External GPU Enclosure (eGPU)

We chose the Asus RoG XG Station 2 due to its great compatibility and design. It has lots of ports and although it is a little expensive it allows enthusiasts to choose their graphics card to have a great experience.

Last update on 2024-12-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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