We know better than anyone that acquiring a decent PC setup can be quite expensive. Not all gamers have the means, or the desire, to spend that much money on a PC simply to play video games.

Moreover, gamers aren't the only ones affected. People who need to work with video editing software also require a powerful configuration , since this software often needs a graphics card to function properly.

Manufacturers have clearly understood this and are trying to find solutions to the problems. While we constantly hear about external hard drives, external graphics cards have remained much less visible to the general public. However, in recent years, they have proven to be a very useful tool for boosting the capabilities of laptops.

Today, in this new buyer's guide, we're introducing you to the external graphics card, also known as an eGPU. We'll answer all the questions you might have about this next-generation component: the external graphics card.

Comparison of the best eGPU enclosures

Boosting your laptop's performance at minimal cost is now possible. Thanks to technological advancements, eGPU enclosures offer unparalleled graphics power for your laptop or desktop PC. Let's take a closer look at the most compelling external graphics enclosures on the market.

Razer Core X Chroma Thunderbolt 3

ASUS Computer ROG-XG Station Pro

The Razer Core X Thunderbolt 3 external graphics card enclosure

Sonnet Egfx Breakaway Box

Buyer's guide!

What is a graphics card (GPU)?

Before we get into the explanations and purchasing criteria, we wanted to go back to the basics so that you have all the information you need when it comes time to make your choice.

Simply put, a graphics card is a component that enables graphics to be displayed on your PC . The better the graphics card, the smoother and more enjoyable the display will be. The GPU, or Graphics Processing Unit , also plays a crucial role in the smoothness of video games.

Indeed, gaming PCs very often require high-end graphics cards to run video games, which are extremely demanding in this regard. Therefore, the more powerful the card, the the games will run on your gaming PC. Without a graphics card, the game will struggle to display properly, and let's face it, you won't be able to hope to win a match.

For optimal performance, gamers are often advised to invest in an Nvidia or AMD graphics card . Some gamers agree that Nvidia cards are the best, while others lean towards AMD…

Moreover, if your heart leans towards AMD, we invite you to look at our latest comparison of AMD RADEON graphics cards .

In short, it's a war that will never end. We'll come back to this issue later in our buyer's guide.

What is an external graphics card (eGPU)?

An external graphics card performs the exact same function as a standard graphics card. Also known as an eGPU ( External Graphics Processing Unit ), an external device containing one or more graphics cards significantly enhances the capabilities of a laptop. The external device is roughly the size of an external hard drive.

To summarize, an eGPU is a GPU that is not integrated into your computer . It works on the same principle as hard drives. Some computers have more or less storage capacity, and some require an external hard drive to store more data.

As you've probably guessed, the graphics card is located inside the enclosure. To use your eGPU, simply connect it to your laptop via a USB Type-C connector that supports Thunderbolt 3 .

Thunderbolt was introduced to the market in 2011. Thunderbolt allows data to be transferred twice as fast, but that's not all: it also allows videos to be directed to displays.

The primary goal of this external graphics card remains to reconcile ultraportable PCs with the world of gaming , particularly thanks to the emergence of Razer Core.

Why buy an external graphics card?

Of course, an external graphics card won't be suitable for everyone. As mentioned earlier, an eGPU will primarily be useful for gamers who can't afford a PC setup capable of playing video games , such as those who own a standard laptop.

This can be explained by the fact that the player does not have the means to buy a gaming PC or simply because their consumption of video games would not make the purchase of a gaming PC profitable at all.

Also, it should also be noted that thinner or entry-level laptops do not have PCI Express ports , which prevents the laptop from having an internal graphics card.

The eGPU will also be useful for users specializing in video editing . Indeed, it is well known that graphics effects applications are extremely demanding, and a standard PC might struggle to run them properly.

Therefore, a laptop paired with an external graphics card can run the best video games and software, provided your PC's processor is powerful enough . Indeed, the graphics card will boost your PC, but as the saying goes , you can't make a racehorse out of a donkey.

Note that we are only discussing laptops, as it doesn't seem logical to opt for an eGPU if you own a desktop computer . In that case, it would likely be recommended to choose a standard gaming graphics card , which you can integrate directly into your system.

Is buying an eGPU enclosure worthwhile for me?

Investing in an external graphics card won't be suitable for all gamers. As we explained earlier, this external enclosure is designed for laptops that are too thin to accommodate high-end components and/or too outdated to run certain data-intensive applications.

Purchasing an external graphics card will therefore be useful if you can't afford a new PC with a configuration powerful enough to run video games and/or video editing software. This allows you to avoid upgrading all your PC's components, which is a real saving in terms of budget and time .

For example, if you frequently need to transport your PC but enjoy playing video games, an eGPU might be the ideal solution. It allows you to maintain a lightweight and portable PC that, thanks to its external graphics card, can run Fortnite, Red Dead Redemption 2, God of War , and much more .

What are the important criteria when choosing an eGPU enclosure?

Purchasing an external graphics card, like any computer component, shouldn't be taken lightly. Our buyer's guide will answer all your questions. We'll outline all the important criteria to consider before buying this external enclosure.

Your original PC

The first criterion to consider is your original PC. Before making a purchase, you must first verify that your laptop is compatible. You will also need to check that your PC has a Thunderbolt 3 port (or another compatible port) in order to connect the enclosure to your computer.

It's also important to know that some external enclosures aren't compatible with all computer brands. For example, if your PC is an Apple product, you'll need to invest in a compatible enclosure. It would be a shame to buy an external graphics card only to find it doesn't work, obviously. 

The dimensions

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, the enclosure is the size of a large external hard drive. However, it's important to know that some enclosures are larger than others . Therefore, it's crucial to consider the enclosure's dimensions.

This is equally important because you also need to ensure that the graphics card fits perfectly in the case if you decide to buy the two components separately. Graphics cards, depending on the brand and model, don't always have the same length and/or width , hence the importance of this criterion.

Case only or ready to use?

Thus, it is quite possible to buy the case empty or directly with the graphics card inside.

Each of the two solutions has its advantages and disadvantages. Buying a case alone offers greater versatility since you can choose the card of your choice; however, it must be said that this first solution is much less practical .

Purchasing a ready-made case is certainly suitable for those who may not have the expertise to work with a graphics card. However, if you opt for an integrated eGPU, be aware that it cannot be upgraded since the card is soldered to the case. Therefore, it will not be possible to remove it when you want to change components.

It will therefore be necessary to make the right choice at the time of purchase, but above all to remember that in a few years, the graphics card may be obsolete.

Technical support

This is a point that one doesn't necessarily think about before making a purchase. However, it can prove useful should you encounter a technical problem , whether during installation or use.

Choosing a brand that offers free technical support, available in French but above all responsive will guarantee you minimal stress, especially if you don't necessarily have the required computer skills.

You can find out more about technical support by visiting the manufacturer's official website directly or simply by consulting a comparison site.

Available ports

Most external enclosures have numerous ports . However, we recommend that you carefully check this feature before purchasing any particular enclosure.

Indeed, some cases have additional ports , which can be a real advantage for some people. These ports allow you to connect a second monitor, an Ethernet cable, or other peripherals.

The case design

This criterion may seem completely irrelevant to some users, but we thought it worth mentioning. Cases come in various colors with more or less original shapes and designs; while this criterion remains entirely subjective , it can also play a role in your choice.

Beyond the aesthetic criterion, it should be remembered that the eGPU enclosure is often moved from one room to another, from place A to place B, etc.

Therefore, it is essential that you choose a robust case . This will allow you to transport it safely. In this regard, some external cases are even equipped with handles for even easier transport.

The power supply

The power supply of a case is a crucial factor when choosing one. Power is measured in watts and indicates the capacity of this component. As a user, this information can help you determine how many devices can be connected simultaneously or which graphics cards are compatible, especially if you opt for an empty case.

Also note that not all enclosures come with a power supply ; some allow you to use the external enclosure while charging your laptop. Therefore, be sure to read the product description carefully to ensure it meets your needs.

Cooling

The eGPU's cooling system is also a crucial factor. If the case lacks fans and ventilation , you'll end up with an extremely noisy case that will constantly overheat. In the long run, this can even damage the graphics card.

Therefore, by choosing a case with adequate ventilation for your graphics card , you maximize its lifespan. Furthermore, noise can be a source of annoyance for some gamers. Selecting a quieter case can help you avoid some frustration!

The budget

Like all computer components, external graphics cards are available at all price points. Generally, the higher your budget , the better the quality of external graphics card you can afford.

We want to reassure you: these days, external enclosures are increasingly affordable, and it's possible to get a high-quality external enclosure for a very good price . Depending on the model, the price can vary considerably.

Furthermore, buying the most expensive eGPU enclosure doesn't necessarily mean it will be the one that best meets your needs. That's why price should only be one criterion among many. It's important to remember that every feature should be considered when making this investment .

Based on all the criteria mentioned, you can make a list of those that seem essential to you. This will help you get a price range. Furthermore, don't hesitate to consult comparison websites that will give you the advantages and disadvantages of each external enclosure.

FAQ!

To conclude our comprehensive guide, it is necessary to answer some frequently asked questions.

Our conclusion: what to think about external graphics cards?

Sometimes described as the future of standard graphics cards, you'll have understood from this buyer's guide that external graphics cards won't suit everyone's needs . This is the first point to keep in mind.

While available on the market for a few years now, eGPUs have improved significantly, particularly thanks to Thunderbolt 3 connectivity , which allows for speeds of up to 40 Gbps. Previously, external enclosures connected via Thunderbolt 2, severely limiting speeds to only 20 Gbps. It must be said that, nowadays, external graphics cards can rival internal graphics cards in terms of performance.

If you own a Mac or an ultra-thin PC, an external graphics card is undoubtedly the right solution. Yes, eGPUs are no longer just for Windowsusers. In short, an external graphics card will boost the performance of a PC that doesn't have the space or ports to connect an internal graphics card.

We hope this buying guide has helped you gain a clearer understanding, as we know it's not always easy to choose, given the wide variety of models available online . A user without extensive computer knowledge could easily become overwhelmed. We've covered all the criteria for choosing an external eGPU enclosure. Now all you have to do is make your selection based on the criteria outlined in our buying guide .

Choosing a graphics card?

If you need to replace your graphics card, there are several points to consider. Here's what you should look at before buying a graphics card:

• Size : Graphics cards vary considerably in size. Therefore, you need to be particularly careful if you have a micro ATX card. Check the height and width of the card.
• Intended use : your choice will differ depending on whether you use it for office work, watch videos, or are a gamer. For example, for video games, you need a high-end graphics card with 3D playback capabilities.
• Energy consumption : you need to look at the wattage rating. Keep in mind that energy consumption is directly related to power. The more power you need, the more energy it will consume.
• Processing speed : this time, you need to look at megahertz (MHz). If you need the image to be processed quickly, you need high MHz.
• RAM : this is measured in gigabytes. For full HD, you need a minimum of 6 GB.