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External graphics card for laptop

(1102 products available)

About external graphics card for laptop

Types of external graphics card for laptop

  • Gaming external GPUs:

    Some laptops fall short in the graphics department, which can be a problem if a person is trying to play a game that has really good graphics. An ideal solution for this could be an external GPU box. It connects to a laptop with a Thunderbolt or USB cord to give it better graphics, which makes gameplay smoother and faster, even when a person is playing games that have really good graphics. It also helps a person to take control of the in-game action better.

  • eGPU boxes without dedicated GPU:

    Not having a graphics card in an eGPU box can make it less expensive than those with one included, because the cost of an GPU is paid for separately. Exclusively buying a GPU means a person will only pay for the exact GPU type or model that is preferred. It allows users a choice of existing GPU if they already own one, which can reduce overall costs if the GPU is already owned. If users only use their laptop and need to work on it, then having a dedicated GPU in an eGPU box is not necessary. Also, an external GPU can be swapped out if it becomes outdated or needs an upgrade.

  • eGPU boxes with integrated GPU:

    Having an integrated GPU already in an eGPU box means it is ready to be used right away by a user without needing to purchase a separate GPU. It makes installation simple, as no extra components need to be added to the computer. Also, an integrated GPU is compatible with any computer, as it has been built-in, ensuring a smooth and easy connection. Another good thing is that an integrated GPU can be used as a secondary graphics processor. Tasks can be offloaded from the laptop's internal GPU to the integrated GPU so the internal computer stays fast, responsive, and does not overwork itself.

  • DIY eGPU boxes:

    Building a custom eGPU enclosure through a DIY method gives absolute control over the eGPU setup. Users can choose the specific GPU model perfectly suited to their needs and budget. Customizing the enclosure this way ensures the GPU has the desired features. Another benefit of a DIY process is the quality of the parts and materials used to build it, allowing users to select top-notch components to optimize performance and reliability. A DIY eGPU also offers flexibility, as it can be upgraded piece by piece whenever necessary to keep the setup current instead of having to replace the entire unit. The design of the eGPU enclosure can also be personalized, allowing it to match other devices or preferences.

Functions & Features

An external graphics card (eGPU) is an external enclosure that houses a dedicated GPU and connects to a laptop or desktop computer to improve graphics performance. Here are some of the main functions and features of eGFX:

  • Graphics Performance Boost: The primary purpose of eGFX is to upgrade a computer's graphics performance for gaming, 3D rendering, video editing, and other graphics-intensive tasks.
  • External Connection: eGFX units connect to laptops or small form factor PCs via high-speed ports like Thunderbolt 3, USB-C, or USB-IF, ensuring fast data transfer speeds.
  • Enclosure Housing: Besides the GPU, eGFX enclosures usually have a housing that contains all the necessary components and may include slots for extra cooling fans.
  • Power Supply Unit (PSU): Most eGFX boxes come with a PSU to power the GPU and any other components in the enclosure, such as additional cooling fans.
  • Cooling System: eGFX units have built-in cooling systems - usually consisting of fans or liquid cooling - to keep the GPU at optimal operating temperatures during demanding tasks.
  • Compatibility: eGFX boxes are compatible with external graphics drivers that provide the necessary software support for using an external graphics card.
  • Ports and Expansion Slots: Many eGFX enclosures have additional ports (USB, Ethernet) and expansion slots to connect peripheral devices or upgrade connectivity features.

Scenarios

An external graphics card for a laptop specializes in game graphics. An internal graphics card may run a game, but the performance may be poor for demanding games. Customers with older laptops but newer game demands may need an external graphics card. Also, portability issues may lead a customer to prefer an external over an internal graphics card, which requires more space, and a desktop tower weighs more than a laptop. Different game graphics cards may be fast if the game has comparable minimum or recommended system specifications. A game may run on an internal graphics card, but if the minimum specs are lower than the game suggests, it may not perform well, or it may run but with poor performance. An external laptop graphics card may be better for a demanding game. The laptop must have compatible ports to connect the external graphics card enclosure, which houses the graphics card.

Other instances when an external graphics card is needed, or it may be preferred are when the laptop is older, along with its internal graphics card, but it has compatible ports for an external graphics card. A specific requirement for an external graphics card notebook versus a desktop PC is that the notebook version must be plug-and-play. However, if comfortable with knowledgeable support and there are no support issues, the desktop version may be preferred. The desktop version requires installing the operating system onto a fresh hard drive. The laptop also cannot be used while the operating system is being installed onto the fresh hard drive. The laptop must also have compatible ports to connect the external graphics card.

A specific requirement for an external graphics card notebook versus a desktop PC is that the notebook version must be plug-and-play. However, if comfortable with knowledgeable support and there are no support issues, the desktop version may be preferred. The desktop version requires installing the operating system onto a fresh hard drive. The laptop also cannot be used while the operating system is being installed onto the fresh hard drive. The laptop must also have compatible ports to connect the external graphics card.

How to Choose an External Graphics Card for Laptop

Several factors must be considered when choosing an external graphics card for a laptop, also known as an eGPU. One crucial factor is ensuring that the laptop is compatible with the intended external graphics card brand, as different laptops may support different brands. To verify compatibility, research and check the specifications and features of the laptop, particularly those related to external graphics card support and connectivity options.

Another critical factor to consider when selecting an eGPU is connectivity. Make sure the external graphics card connects appropriately to the laptop via available ports, such as Thunderbolt or USB-C. It is necessary to ensure the chosen eGPU supports the same connectivity standard and type as the laptop's ports.

Additionally, keep in mind the portability and size of the external graphics card for a laptop case. Ensure it is convenient to carry and fits within the space available if portability is a priority. Otherwise, consider selecting a larger and less portable external graphics card for a laptop, provided that suitable portability is arranged for other components.

When choosing an eGPU, another crucial factor to consider is the required performance level. Be aware of the performance level, features, and workload capacity of external graphics cards for laptops. Select one that can handle the workloads and graphics tasks effectively.

Q & A

Q1. Can an external GPU be used on any laptop?

A1. The laptop must have a compatible port, like Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C, support it. Not all laptops can use an eGPU.

Q2. Is it possible to upgrade the eGPU's graphics card in the future?

A2. Yes, many eGPU enclosures allow users to replace the graphics card if they want to upgrade to a newer or different model later.

Q3. Do external GPUs come with setup instructions for getting them running on a laptop?

A3. Most eGPU boxes include manuals to guide users through installing drivers and configuring settings on their laptop for proper setup.

Q4. Can an external GPU be connected to the laptop and left there permanently?

A4. While possible, it's best to unplug it when not in use to save battery power and avoid extra heat on the laptop. Connecting continuously is okay, though as long as the laptop stays ventilated.