External GPUs (eGPUs) have been available for years but remain a niche solution. Is now the right time to buy one in 2021, or should you hold off?
Let's examine the current landscape of eGPUs and determine if they're a smart investment based on real-world performance and use cases.
An eGPU, or External Graphics Processing Unit, is essentially a graphics card housed outside your PC or laptop. GPUs power everything from gaming visuals to video rendering. While desktops can easily accommodate internal GPUs, laptops often lack the space or compatibility, making eGPUs a practical alternative via Thunderbolt or similar ports.
Today's eGPUs are typically sold as enclosures—compact boxes with PCIe slots, connection cables (like Thunderbolt 3), and built-in power supplies, ready for your own GPU installation.
Pre-configured bundles with high-end cards, such as the Gigabyte RTX 2080 Ti, command premium prices often reaching four figures.
eGPUs excel in specific scenarios, like boosting graphics performance on Thunderbolt-equipped laptops for gaming or content creation. However, their niche is narrower than it seems—upgrading to a new laptop or desktop often delivers better results at similar or lower cost.
Key use cases include repurposing an old GPU from a friend into a laptop setup, or using an eGPU dock for stationary power gaming while keeping your laptop portable and secure during travel. This protects your investment if the device is lost or stolen.
Ultimately, eGPUs perform well in their role, but evaluate alternatives first. They're ideal only if no cheaper, more effective option fits your needs.
With flexible compatibility for various GPUs, eGPUs offer customization. That said, weigh the high cost against buying a new system outright. If you have an internal GPU already, consider AIO liquid cooling for performance gains instead.
