Before we get started with the benchmarks, here are some important basics about the eGPU:
What connections are there for an eGPU?
The most common is the Thunderbolt connector from Intel. There are several iterations here. There are also possibilities for hobbyists to connect an eGPU to a free M2 slot. Proprietary connectors such as those from ASUS also exist.
- TB1 10 Gbit/
s TB1 no longer plays a role in the market. - TB2 20 Gbit/
s TB2 is no longer recommended, the bandwidth is too low, here you should install a GPU of the RX 580/ GTX 1060 class at most. - TB3 40 Gbit/s of which 32 Gbit/s for the g
raphics card TB3 is the current standard, I also use this. There are two versions, you should make sure that the TB3 is really connected with the full 40 Gbit/s and not with 20 Gbit/s. There are also different controllers, these differ minimally in performance, but the controller plays a rather subordinate role. - TB4 40 Gbit/s including 32 Gbit/s for the graphics
card TB4 is the latest iteration and offers the same bandwidth as TB3. The advantage of TB4 is mainly the lower latencies, because the controller is built directly into the CPU. - M2 4×3.0 = 32 Gbits/
s The mods with M2 works very well, because here the latencies are much better than over TB you can run a GPU with it already with very good performance. Only what good does it do you when you travel? - Proprietary: Maximum 8x 3.0 = 80 Gbit
s/s Proprietary ports like the one from Asus are basically a neat solution, but the eGPU is completely worthless at some point and can only be used with selected devices, which leads the principle of a mobile and exchangeable GPU ad absurdum again.
How well does this work in practice?
Actually, it’s all quite simple, just install the graphics card, plug it in and you’re done. Except for minor bugs, everything usually works without problems. The catch is the bandwidth limitation imposed by the connection. In addition, there is the issue of latencies, but also drivers, the system and other aspects such as the graphics card used or the cable play a role. An important topic is also the display, do you use the internal panel of the laptop or rather an external monitor/TV. The resolution of the integrated panel also plays a role. More about this in the benchmarks and once in advance with AIDA64:
For whom is an eGPU suitable?
For all those who want to use a light, mobile device stationary with more steam and comfort (docking station). If you ask yourself the question “I want to use my eGPU for gaming, does that make sense or should I rather get a gaming laptop?”, then it depends on what you intend. Generally speaking, the higher the resolution you’re aiming for, the more likely it is that an eGPU will pay off over an integrated one.
And can the eGPU be used for productive work? Yes, that is definitely worthwhile and for productive applications such as image editing, CAD, etc. an eGPU is certainly often the first choice. Here, the bandwidth and the issue of latencies as well as the display play a rather subordinate role. Thus, almost the full performance of a desktop system can be achieved here. In addition, you can then also install cards with decent VRAM, such as a 6800XT or RTX 3090.
Thunderbolt port/eGPU tips:
1. Driver:
Pay attention to the latest drivers for your TB controller, the PCI root drivers, graphics drivers of the integrated graphics unit (Intel UHD) and depending on the device also of the Intel management system to get the maximum performance out of your connection. All of the above components play a role in the concert. Radeon owners should definitely use drivers from 21.3 onwards, as these bring a significant increase in performance. Unfortunately, it is not always so easy to get the best drivers for his own device with the sometimes poor support of laptop manufacturers, here only manual search and “try and error” helps. The latest drivers may not always be the best for your device.
2. Cable:
Yes the 50 cm cable that usually comes with it sucks, but it is the best and fastest way to connect an eGPU. All cables that are longer are active cables that carry an additional signal amplifier in the connectors (the connector is also minimally longer). This marginally reduces the performance. If you buy a longer cable, don’t skimp. A good cable will cost you around €40+. In return, the connection is reliable and the performance loss is marginal. I would not recommend cables over 1-1.5 m.
3. The eGPU case:
The cases differ in many aspects, practical are cases that also serve as a docking station and integrate a network connection as well as additional USB ports. Keep in mind, however, that each additional device on the case also minimally reduces your performance! The rest is a matter of taste, how big/small should it be, should it have an integrated holder for the notebook, do you want lighting, power supply performance, etc. If necessary, you can bend things yourself with a small mod. A notebook holder like the new Cooler Master case, for example, I would also find very smart.
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