14 Best External Graphics Card For Laptops | External GPU 2024

Upgrade the graphic configuration of your laptop by comparing the top External Graphics Cards to select the best External GPU:

Are your PC specs not good enough to play high-end graphic displays? Are you unable to watch 4K videos?

Probably you are running short of a good graphics processor. Don’t worry, and you might not have to change your PC entirely. Just adding up an external graphics card could do the job for you.

The best External Graphics Card/External GPU provides an upgrade to the graphic configuration of your PC. It helps a lot for viewing high-resolution videos and playing games that need high-end graphics cards.

There are so many External Graphics Card available all over the market. Picking out the best one of them is a bit time-consuming. To help you with this, we’ve created a list of the best external graphics card and external GPUs below.

External Graphics Card Review

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q #1) Can you have an external graphics card?

Answer: The concept of having an external GPU or eGPU is relatively new in the market. However, it is an amazing device that helps to achieve desktop quality graphics on any compatible PC.

External graphic cards do come with a compatible hardware interface that is easy to set up and use. You may require watching 4K videos or playing games that require high graphics. The eGPU will get the job done.

Q #2) Is an external GPU worth it?

Answer: The main objective of having an external GPU is to enhance the graphic performance of your PC or laptop. You may not have the right specifications for every computer device that you are using. The external GPU provides the additional graphic support you need. It works quite similar to what every gaming laptop would offer.

In short, yes- an external GPU is always worth it.

Q #3) Can I install an external graphics card on my laptop?

Answer: The external graphics card is manufactured to be working with your laptop. It gets connected to your laptop by using a compatible hardware interface. It allows you to get a powerful graphics display.

Most laptops are now compatible with an external graphics card with the help of multiple ports. It can either be Bluetooth, VGA, or even Thunderbolt 3 port. So installing the external graphics card for the laptop is not a problem.

Q #4) Why are eGPU enclosures so expensive?

Answer: The cost of any eGPU solely depends on two factors- the compatibility mode and the performance it delivers. The eGPU is designed to deliver the same graphics performance as a professional gaming laptop. Since the eGPU comes with high graphic processors and PCIe support, it is expensive as well.

Q #5) Can I use eGPU without Thunderbolt?

Answer: It is not mandatory that you need to have Thunderbolt 3 input every time you use an eGPU. If your laptop does not support such a hardware interface, you can try to go for an eGPU that supports USB-C.

Also Read => Top USB-C Hubs for C-Type Devices

Other connectivity options include Bluetooth and VGA cable. Configuring your eGPU with such wired and wireless options is easy. They take very little time to set up as well.

List of the Top External Graphics Card

Here is the list of External GPUs for laptops:

1. Razer Core X Aluminum External GPU Enclosure
2. StarTech.com External Video & Graphics Card
3. Razer Core X External Graphics Card Case with Thunderbolt 3 for Windows
4. Akitio Node Thunderbolt3 eGPU for Windows
5. PowerColor Gaming Station Graphic Cards Thunderbolt EGPU
6. StarTech.com Video Converter with External Graphics Card
7. Mantiz MZ-03 Saturn Pro II EGPU
8. StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 PCIe
9. Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Box 750- External GPU Chassis
10. ASUS ROG-XG-Station-2
11. Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Puck Radeon
12. Cooler Master MasterCase EG200 Thunderbolt 3 External Graphics Card
13. AORUS RTX 3080 Gaming Box External Graphics Card
14. External Independent Graphics Card Dock

Comparison Table of the Best External GPU For Laptop

Review External Graphics Card/External GPU:

#1) Razer Core X Aluminum External GPU Enclosure

Best for laptops.

The Razer Core X Aluminum External GPU Enclosure is one of the best laptop external graphics cards when it comes to performance. This product appears with a Thunderbolt 3 compatibility that is compatible with most laptops today. You can also get both Windows and Mac OS support for the best results.

Features:

• Desktop grade performance.
• Built-in power supply.
• Includes a 650W ATX PSU.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: Most consumers think that the Razer Core X Aluminum External GPU Enclosure produces amazing performance and graphic display. This Razer external GPU features a built-in power supply so that the GPU can perform better. The product has a full-sized- PCIe support that has 3 slots for easy fittings.

Price: $399.99

#2) StarTech.com External Video & Graphics Card

Best for dual monitor display.

The StarTech.com External Video & Graphics Card is a decent choice if you are looking for an external video adaptor. Because of the USB to VGA cable, you’ll be able to use this product with a dual monitor display. Apart from this, the product has a 1920×1200 resolution support that should be good enough for your video use.

Features:

• Display resolution up to 1920×1200.
• High-performance USB to VGA adapter.
• Available USB 2.0 port.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: According to reviews, the StarTech.com External Video & Graphics Card is more like a converter that helps you to get direct USB to VGA transmission. People choose this device because of the simple plug-and-play mechanism. It does not take up any time to get connected and get started.

Price: $36.74

Website: StarTech.com External Video & Graphics Card

#3) Razer Core X External Graphics Card Case With Thunderbolt 3 For Windows

Best for gaming.

The Razer Core X External Graphics Card Case is a great choice even if you are using this external GPU for a laptop. It has a Bluetooth interface, and thus getting connected to multiple devices will not be a problem. The option of having 16.8 million color pigmentation is an added advantage to the product.

Features:

• Compatible with NVIDIA GeForce RT.
• Razer Chroma RGB lighting.
• Unique dual-chip design.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: As per reviews, the Razer Core X External Graphics Card Case comes with optimized thermal performance. It is a complete graphic case that provides a powerful performance. Because of the cooling fan installed, the Razer Core X External Graphics Card Case always keeps on a decent temperature and never gets overheated.

Price: $538.46

#4) Akitio Node Thunderbolt3 eGPU For Windows

Best for AMD cards.

The Akitio Node Thunderbolt3 eGPU comes with a Thunderbolt 3 support that can provide an amazing transfer speed. It comes with a transmission rate of 40 Gbps, which reduces any lag time while playing games. The product has both AMD on macOS High Sierra support.

Features:

• Supports AMD on macOS High Sierra.
• 1 PCIe (x16) slot supporting full-length.
• Built-in 400W SFX power supply.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: Reviews suggest that the Akitio Node Thunderbolt3 eGPU for Windows is a decent choice if you want a Thunderbolt 3 external GPU. This product comes with 1 PCIe slot that supports AMD graphic cards. The product has a built-in 400 W power supply that will help your GPU to attain extra power.

Price: $299.75

Website: Akitio Node Thunderbolt3 eGPU for Windows

#5) PowerColor Gaming Station Graphic Cards Thunderbolt EGPU

Best for heavy gaming.

The Max Gen3 x4 speed is based on the AMD XConnect Technology that provides great gaming support. This gaming station maintains an ultimate performance that is great for playing games. The Thunderbolt 3 USB-C port support provides a great connectivity option for both your gaming console and laptop.

Features:

• Ultra-fast 40Gbps Thunderbolt3 interface.
• PCI Express x16 slot.
• Thunderbolt3 USB-C port supports USB Power.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: Most gamers feel that the PowerColor Gaming Station Graphic Cards Thunderbolt EGPU is a brilliant choice because of the max GPU performance it brings. This product provides Max Gen3 x4 speed for an amazing experience. Also, this product has a decent power supply of 550 Watts.

Price: It is available for $329.00 on Amazon.

#6) StarTech.com Video Converter with External Graphics Card

Best For 4K Video.

The StarTech.com Video Converter with External Graphics Card comes with a 4K resolution support. The max refresh rate is around 60 Hz, which is great for a movie experience or even playing games. It features a USB 3.0 external video & graphics card that provides a full HD experience.

Features:

• Plug and display mechanism.
• IT-grade USB 3.0 display adapter.
• USB 3.0 to Dual DisplayPort converter.

Further Reading => Quickly learn how to check your GPU Temp

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: As per consumers, the StarTech.com Video Converter with External Graphics Card follows a simple plug-and-play mechanism. It has a multi-display functionality to connect with two devices at the same time. You can also use the DisplayLink certified dongle for a simple plug-and-play feature.

Price: It is available for $121.85 on Amazon.

#7) Mantiz MZ-03 Saturn Pro II EGPU

Best for Graphics Editor.

The Mantiz MZ-03 Saturn Pro II EGPU is a perfect choice for people looking to work on graphic editing and require more color pixels. This product features the Liquid Cooling Monster card that keeps this eGPU cool for a long time. It has a low noise large system Fan that optimizes the temperature.

Features:

• Full aluminum body with anodizing treatment.
• Longer Thunderbolt 3 0.7M 40GB cable.
• Liquid cooling monster card.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: Most people feel that the Mantiz MZ-03 Saturn Pro II EGPU has a solid body and provides long-lasting performance. This product appears with a full aluminum body with anodizing treatment that provides you with a robust body. A tray opening mechanism allows this device to give you easy access.

Price: It is available for $349.00 on Amazon.

#8) StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 PCIe

Best for MacBook Pro.

The StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 PCIe features broad compatibility that works with both your Mac and Windows laptops. You can add an external PCIe slot to get a complete display solution. Apart from this, the product has a Thunderbolt 3 that can easily transmit at 20 Gbps.

Features:

• Thunderbolt 3 external PCIe enclosure
• Supports 4K DisplayPort monitor
• Backed by a 2-year warranty

Technical Specifications:

Verdict:

According to reviews, the StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 PCIe comes with a display port connection that will give you an amazing result. It supports one 4K DisplayPort monitor and a second extended monitor display. The product has great support from the manufacturer with a 2-year warranty.

Price: It is available for $236.62 on Amazon.

#9) Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Box 750- External GPU Chassis

Best for the gaming console.

The Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Box 750- External GPU Chassis is a power-packed performer for gaming. It can be a perfect addition to your gaming console if you want better graphics. The device comes with color grading and special effects performance for the best results.

Features:

• Boosts graphics performance.
• Cuts application task times.
• 750W power supply.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: As per users, the Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Box 750- External GPU Chassis has a GPU acceleration option included with the product. This feature lets the GPU keep on improving the performance. This can be a great option to use for editing works and multiple other requirements.

Price: $299.99

Website: Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Box 750- External GPU Chassis

#10) ASUS ROG-XG-Station-2

Best for NVIDIA GeForce GTX 9.

The ASUS ROG-XG-Station-2 comes with a 600 W internal power supply that always keeps up playing games. To help you with connectivity, this eGPU has] 5 USB ports along with 2 PCIe slots. The simple plug-and-play feature also helps to save time.

Features:

• AURA Sync ready with the ROG XG Station 2’s plasma tube.
• 600W internal power supply.
• It pairs perfectly with the ASUS Transformer 3 Pro.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: ASS is one of the leading manufacturers of GPU, and the ASUS ROG-XG-Station-2 definitely keeps its name. The product features a full-length, dual wide PCIe x16 card compatibility so that you can add it with any internal graphic processor. Most users feel the product is great to work with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 9 GP.

Price: $751.99

Website: ASUS ROG-XG-Station-2

#11) Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Puck Radeon

Best for Mac Computers.

The Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Puck Radeon comes with a boost graphics performance that can accelerate during peak usage. This product comes with a Graphic-intensive pro application feature to improve the performance of computers.

Features:

• Supports Thunderbolt displays.
• Small and highly portable.
• Provides 60W power.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: Multiple users feel that the Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Puck Radeon comes with a small and highly portable body. This product is extremely compact, and you can carry it from one position to another with ease. The device also supports 4K, 5K, and even the 6K Apple Pro Display XDR.

Price: $599.99

Website: Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Puck Radeon

#12) Cooler Master MasterCase EG200 Thunderbolt 3 External Graphics Card

Best for desktop use.

The Cooler Master MasterCase EG200 Thunderbolt 3 External Graphics Card comes with an expandable storage option that can provide support while gaming. It has a 2.5-inch form factor that is very sleek and has a high transmission rate as well. Thunderbolt 3 compatibility makes this product even better.

Features:

• Greatly boost GPU performance.
• Built-in laptop stand.
• Performance GPU support.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: As per customer reviews, the Cooler Master MasterCase EG200 Thunderbolt 3 External Graphics Card is a great tool to have if you are currently using a desktop. Even if it features a laptop stand, the product has better compatibility and support from a desktop. The option of having a desktop-class PCIe graphics card makes this product even better.

Price: It is available for $449.99 on Amazon.

#13) AORUS RTX 3080 Gaming Box External Graphics Card

Best for Graphic Creators.

The AORUS RTX 3080 Gaming Box External Graphics Card includes a Thunderbolt 3 plug and plays mechanism that allows you to get an amazing display. Because of this, you can get a fast transmission speed at an amazing rate.

Features:

• Thunderbolt 3 plug and play.
• Supports 3x USB 3.0 for peripheral.
• Supports 1x Ethernet port.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: Many people feel that the AORUS RTX 3080 Gaming Box External Graphics Card is high in budget. But, if you are looking for a model that comes with a high-end specification, this is the product to go for. It can deliver premium graphic support to help graphic creators much.

Price: It is available for $2,250.00 on Amazon.

#14) External Independent Graphics Card Dock

Best for video output.

The External Independent Graphics Card Dock occurs with a dual-TD compatible switch to give you a significant result. This product has a multi-level anti-interference circuit and data line for faster transmission and video output. You can easily connect the external graphics card dock to an ATX cable and start playing.

Features:

• 8p output interface.
• For technical measurements.
• 12-month quality guarantee.

Technical Specifications:

Verdict: If you are looking for an eGPU that simply converts the display to a better resolution, the External Independent Graphics Card Dock is there for you. This graphics card is budget-friendly, and it also comes with a 12-month guarantee from the manufacturer.

Price: It is available for $30.29 on Amazon.

Conclusion

An External Graphics Card enhances the performance of your PC by improving the fps and graphic support. It gives a boost to your GPU specification and fulfills the requirement, like any professional gaming laptop. The main purpose of this tool is to provide the support to play 4K video and reduce lag time in games.

Also Read =>> Compare top Graphics Cards with pricing

After reviewing all products, we found that the Razer Core X GPU Enclosure is the best thunderbolt 3 external GPU. This product comes with both Windows and Mac support. If you are looking for an Nvidia external graphics card for a laptops alternative, you can opt to purchase Razer Core X External Graphics Card. It is an apt product to have for your gaming requirements.

Further reading => Select the best Laptop Cooling Pad

Research Process:

• Time is taken to research this article: 61 Hours.
• Total tools researched: 42
• Top tools shortlisted: 14