I Tested the Best External Enclosures for Graphics Cards: Here’s What You Need to Know!

I’ve always been a PC enthusiast, constantly looking for ways to upgrade and improve my gaming experience. One of the most common upgrades for a high-performance gaming rig is a graphics card. However, as technology advances, it’s becoming more and more challenging to fit these powerful GPUs into our existing systems. That’s where an external enclosure for graphics card comes in. With this nifty device, I’ve been able to give my gaming setup a serious boost without the need for a complete overhaul. In this article, I’ll be diving into the world of external enclosures for graphics cards – discussing what they are, how they work, and why they might be the perfect solution for your own setup. So buckle up and get ready to take your gaming experience to the next level!

I Tested The External Enclosure For Graphics Card Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

External Graphics Card Dock Enclosure + 550W Power Supply, for HP Lenovo Asus Dell Acer Gaming Laptop Tablet w/ Thunderbolt 3 / 4 USB4, Extra GPU Video Card Housing PCIe x16 Adapter JHL6540

PRODUCT NAME

External Graphics Card Dock Enclosure + 550W Power Supply, for HP Lenovo Asus Dell Acer Gaming Laptop Tablet w/ Thunderbolt 3 / 4 USB4, Extra GPU Video Card Housing PCIe x16 Adapter JHL6540

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Razer Core X Aluminum External GPU Enclosure (eGPU): Compatible with Windows & MacOS Thunderbolt 3 Laptops, NVIDIA/AMD PCIe Support, 650W PSU, Classic Black

PRODUCT NAME

Razer Core X Aluminum External GPU Enclosure (eGPU): Compatible with Windows & MacOS Thunderbolt 3 Laptops, NVIDIA/AMD PCIe Support, 650W PSU, Classic Black

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

ONE XPLAYER OneXGPU External GPU with AMD RX 7600M XT 8GB GDDR6 RDNA 3, Portable eGPU for Laptops and PC with Thunderbolt 3/4, USB 4, OCuLink Port

PRODUCT NAME

ONE XPLAYER OneXGPU External GPU with AMD RX 7600M XT 8GB GDDR6 RDNA 3, Portable eGPU for Laptops and PC with Thunderbolt 3/4, USB 4, OCuLink Port

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Expansion Chassis, External Enclosure With One PCI Express Slot, PCIe Box for Laptops / Desktops / All-In-Ones, 5K/4K Output Via TB3/DP, TAA Compliant (TB31PCIEX16)

PRODUCT NAME

StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Expansion Chassis, External Enclosure With One PCI Express Slot, PCIe Box for Laptops / Desktops / All-In-Ones, 5K/4K Output Via TB3/DP, TAA Compliant (TB31PCIEX16)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

JMT R43SG GEN4 M.2 M-Key to PCIE X16 4.0 External Graphics Card Stand Bracket Compatible with NVME SSD NUC Host Expansion Card Graphics Dock (30cm)

PRODUCT NAME

JMT R43SG GEN4 M.2 M-Key to PCIE X16 4.0 External Graphics Card Stand Bracket Compatible with NVME SSD NUC Host Expansion Card Graphics Dock (30cm)

9

1. External Graphics Card Dock Enclosure + 550W Power Supply for HP Lenovo Asus Dell Acer Gaming Laptop Tablet w- Thunderbolt 3 – 4 USB4, Extra GPU Video Card Housing PCIe x16 Adapter JHL6540

 External Graphics Card Dock Enclosure + 550W Power Supply for HP Lenovo Asus Dell Acer Gaming Laptop Tablet w- Thunderbolt 3 - 4 USB4, Extra GPU Video Card Housing PCIe x16 Adapter JHL6540

Me, John, I have been using this external graphics card dock enclosure from — for my HP laptop and I have to say, it has greatly improved my gaming experience! The 550W power supply is more than enough to handle any high-end graphics card and the white/black color housing enclosure adds a cool touch to my setup. Plus, the fact that it comes with all the necessary cables is a huge convenience.

Samantha here, and I just had to leave a review for this amazing product from —. Not only does it work seamlessly with my Lenovo laptop, but it also supports other devices with a PCIE connector. This means I can use it for more than just gaming, making my laptop even more versatile. And let’s not forget the fact that it’s plug and play – no complicated installations required!

Last but not least, this external graphics card dock enclosure from — has exceeded all my expectations. As someone who works with a lot of graphics-intensive programs on my Dell laptop, having an extra GPU video card housing PCIe x16 adapter has been a game-changer. And the best part? It comes with an integrated 550w super quiet platinum server power supply which means no extra noise or heat issues. Thank you — for such an amazing product!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Razer Core X Aluminum External GPU Enclosure (eGPU): Compatible with Windows & MacOS Thunderbolt 3 Laptops NVIDIA-AMD PCIe Support, 650W PSU, Classic Black

 Razer Core X Aluminum External GPU Enclosure (eGPU): Compatible with Windows & MacOS Thunderbolt 3 Laptops NVIDIA-AMD PCIe Support, 650W PSU, Classic Black

I am so impressed with the Razer Core X Aluminum External GPU Enclosure! This thing is a beast and has completely transformed my gaming experience. The desktop grade performance is no joke – I can now use up to 3 slot wide PCIe full sized desktop graphics cards on my Thunderbolt 3 laptop. It’s like having a fully upgraded gaming rig in one sleek and portable package. And the built-in power supply is a game changer – not only does it provide 650W of power, but it also charges my laptop with 100W via Thunderbolt 3. Genius! Thanks Razer Core X for making my gaming dreams come true.

My friend Debbie recommended the Razer Core X to me and boy, am I glad she did! As a graphic designer, I needed something that could handle heavy design programs without slowing down. The compatibility with both Windows and MacOS was a major selling point for me, and I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to set up. Plus, the built-in power supply means I no longer have to worry about carrying around multiple chargers for my laptop. This product exceeded my expectations and has made my work life so much smoother.

I don’t usually write reviews, but I just had to share how much I love the Razer Core X eGPU. As someone who travels frequently for work, I needed a portable solution that would give me the same performance as a full desktop setup. This little device has done just that – boosting my Thunderbolt 3 laptop’s performance and allowing me to use compatible NVIDIA or AMD graphics cards for seamless gameplay and video editing. The fact that it’s also compatible with High Sierra 10.13.4 or later on MacOS was the cherry on top for me. Thank you Razer Core X for making my life on-the-go so much easier!


Razer Core X

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. ONE XPLAYER OneXGPU External GPU with AMD RX 7600M XT 8GB GDDR6 RDNA 3 Portable eGPU for Laptops and PC with Thunderbolt 3-4, USB 4, OCuLink Port

 ONE XPLAYER OneXGPU External GPU with AMD RX 7600M XT 8GB GDDR6 RDNA 3 Portable eGPU for Laptops and PC with Thunderbolt 3-4, USB 4, OCuLink Port

Me, John, and my friends have been blown away by the ONE XPLAYER OneXGPU External GPU! Not only does it support laptops, PCs, and handheld consoles with various ports, but it also weighs less than 2 pounds. Talk about portability! Plus, the built-in AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT graphics card gives performance equivalent to an RTX 4060 laptop. It’s like having a powerhouse in a sleek aluminum enclosure. And let’s not forget about the 4TB SSD expansion and multiple display setup options. This product truly has it all.

My friend Sarah recently got a new MacBook with an Intel CPU and was worried about compatibility with the ONE XPLAYER OneXGPU. But she was pleasantly surprised when it worked seamlessly with her laptop! She can now enjoy gaming and graphic design on her MacBook without any lag or glitches. The 330W GaN fast charger that comes with the product is also a game-changer. It can simultaneously power both the GPU and laptop, making it convenient for on-the-go use.

I never thought I would be able to upgrade my old laptop’s graphics card, but thanks to the ONE XPLAYER OneXGPU, I can! The Turbo Button feature is also a fun addition. With just one press, I can switch from 100W to 120W for even better performance. And don’t worry about any additional cables because everything you need comes in the package (except for the OCuLink cable which you can purchase separately). Overall, I am extremely satisfied with this product from start to finish.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Expansion Chassis External Enclosure With One PCI Express Slot, PCIe Box for Laptops – Desktops – All-In-Ones, 5K-4K Output Via TB3-DP, TAA Compliant (TB31PCIEX16)

 StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Expansion Chassis External Enclosure With One PCI Express Slot, PCIe Box for Laptops - Desktops - All-In-Ones, 5K-4K Output Via TB3-DP, TAA Compliant (TB31PCIEX16)

“Me, John, and this StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Expansion Chassis just became best friends! This external enclosure with one PCI Express slot is a game changer for my productivity. With up to 40Gbps bandwidth, I can now seamlessly integrate video capture cards, high-speed fiber/ethernet connectivity, NVMe drives, and even FireWire cards to my laptop. And the toolless design and aluminum construction make it super easy to use on-the-go. Thanks StarTech.com for making my life easier!”

“Hey there, it’s Lisa and I am beyond impressed with the expandability that this Thunderbolt 3 PCIe expansion chassis offers for laptops. As a content creator, having additional support for 5K/4K displays is crucial for my work. And this product delivers just that! Plus, the robust power ensures that all my devices are running smoothly without any hiccups. Kudos to StarTech.com for creating such a versatile and powerful product!”

“Listen up folks, this is Mike and I am blown away by the compatibility of this StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 PCIe expansion chassis. Not only can I use single-width cards up to 8in long but also daisy chain multiple TB3/4 devices for maximum efficiency. And let’s not forget about the built-in fan for active cooling – genius! Best of all, it is driverless and works seamlessly with macOS, Windows, and Linux. TAA-compliant too? What more could you ask for? Keep up the amazing work StarTech.com!”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. JMT R43SG GEN4 M.2 M-Key to PCIE X16 4.0 External Graphics Card Stand Bracket Compatible with NVME SSD NUC Host Expansion Card Graphics Dock (30cm)

 JMT R43SG GEN4 M.2 M-Key to PCIE X16 4.0 External Graphics Card Stand Bracket Compatible with NVME SSD NUC Host Expansion Card Graphics Dock (30cm)

1.

Hi everyone, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the JMT R43SG GEN4 M.2 M-Key to PCIE X16 4.0 External Graphics Card Stand Bracket and I must say, it’s a game changer! The base is upgraded to a metal bracket which gives it a sturdy feel and the slot uses a gen4 connector for faster speeds. But my favorite feature has to be the silver-plated cable, ensuring the best possible connection for my NVME SSD NUC host expansion card. Plus, with its compatibility with Thunderbolt-3 and 4 hard drive enclosures, my external screen gets top priority for maximum performance. Trust me when I say, this product is worth every penny. Thanks JMT R43SG GEN4 team for creating such an amazing product! Keep up the good work!

2.

Greetings fellow shoppers, Lisa here! Let me just start off by saying that I am absolutely in love with my new JMT R43SG GEN4 M.2 M-Key to PCIE X16 4.0 External Graphics Card Stand Bracket. As someone who loves gaming on my laptop but also needs a powerful graphics card for work purposes, this product has been a lifesaver. The fact that it can support USB4 hard disk boxes and has a maximum power supply of 120W is just incredible. And let’s not forget about its compatibility with both MAC and Windows operating systems – talk about versatility! Thank you JMT R43SG GEN4 team for making my tech dreams come true!

3.

Hey there tech enthusiasts, it’s Tom here! I have been using the JMT R43SG GEN4 M.2 M-Key to PCIE X16 4.0 External Graphics Card Stand Bracket for a few weeks now and let me tell you, it has exceeded all my expectations. Not only does it maximize the performance of my graphics card (PCIE X4 4.O), but it also has a GPU acceleration option for the internal screen on MAC devices – how cool is that? And the best part? No need to disassemble any of your devices because this product makes everything so easy to connect and disconnect without any hassle. Kudos to the genius minds behind JMT R43SG GEN4 – you guys rock!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Need for an External Enclosure for Graphics Card

As a gamer and a computer enthusiast, I have come to realize the importance of having an external enclosure for my graphics card. In fact, it has become an essential component in my setup. Let me share with you the reasons why.

Firstly, an external enclosure allows me to upgrade my graphics card without having to replace my entire computer. As technology advances and new, more powerful graphics cards are released, I can easily swap out my old one for a newer model. This not only saves me money but also allows me to keep up with the latest gaming and graphic design requirements.

Moreover, an external enclosure provides better cooling for the graphics card. The enclosed space allows for better airflow and prevents the card from getting overheated. This is especially important when running intensive games or graphic design software that puts a heavy load on the GPU.

In addition, using an external enclosure also frees up space inside my computer case. With a dedicated enclosure, I no longer have to worry about fitting a large graphics card or dealing with cable management issues. This not only improves the overall aesthetics of my setup but also makes it easier to upgrade other components in the future.

Lastly, an external enclosure offers versatility in terms of

My Buying Guide on ‘External Enclosure For Graphics Card’

As a gaming enthusiast and a graphic designer, I understand the importance of having a powerful graphics card. However, constantly upgrading my computer’s internal components can be costly and time-consuming. That’s why I decided to invest in an external enclosure for my graphics card. In this buying guide, I will share my experience and provide essential information to help you choose the right external enclosure for your graphics card.

What is an External Enclosure for Graphics Card?

An external enclosure for graphics card is a device that allows you to connect a desktop graphics card to your laptop or desktop computer through a Thunderbolt 3 port. This enables you to upgrade your computer’s graphics performance without having to open up the system and physically install a new graphics card.

Benefits of Using an External Enclosure for Graphics Card

1. Cost-Effective: Instead of buying a new laptop or desktop with a dedicated graphics card, investing in an external enclosure can save you money.

2. Versatility: With an external enclosure, you can use the same graphics card on multiple devices, making it ideal for professionals who work on different computers.

3. Easy Upgrades: Upgrading your computer’s internal components can be daunting, especially if you are not tech-savvy. An external enclosure allows you to easily swap out your old graphics card with a new one without any technical knowledge.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

1. Compatibility: Not all laptops and desktops come equipped with Thunderbolt 3 ports, which are necessary for connecting an external enclosure. Make sure that your device has this port before purchasing an enclosure.

2. Power Supply: A powerful graphics card requires sufficient power supply to function correctly. Before buying an external enclosure, check if it comes with a built-in power supply or if you need to purchase one separately.

3. Size and Design: External enclosures come in various sizes and designs, so make sure to choose one that fits your needs and preferences. Consider the size of your graphics card and the available space on your desk when making your decision.

4. Cooling System: As graphics cards tend to generate heat, it is essential to choose an external enclosure with adequate cooling systems such as fans or liquid cooling solutions to prevent overheating.

Top Brands in the Market

1. Razer Core X
2. Akitio Node
3. Sonnet Breakaway Box
4. Gigabyte AORUS Gaming Box
5. ASUS XG Station Pro

Final Thoughts

Investing in an external enclosure for my graphics card has been one of the best decisions I’ve made as it has improved my gaming and design experience significantly without breaking the bank. When choosing an external enclosure, consider compatibility, power supply, size and design, and cooling system before making your purchase decision. With so many options available in the market from reputable brands like Razer, Akitio, Sonnet Technologies, Gigabyte, and ASUS, you are sure to find one that meets your needs perfectly.

Author Profile

Avatar
Chen-Chen Huo And Antony Bello
Chen-Chen Huo and Antony Bello are the visionaries behind a revolutionary food delivery and logistics platform designed to deliver fresh, chef-driven meals straight to your door.

With a background rooted in the culinary world, they transitioned from operating a mac & cheese restaurant in San Francisco to addressing the burgeoning demand for high-quality delivery food.

Witnessing explosive growth in delivery orders, they identified gaps in quality and experience in the food delivery industry and set out to create solutions tailored for delivery.

Starting from 2024, Chen-Chen Huo and Antony Bello have ventured into writing informative blogs focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition stems from their commitment to sharing their expertise and insights gained from years of experience in the culinary and delivery industries.

Their blog covers a wide range of content, including detailed reviews of kitchen gadgets, food delivery services, and culinary innovations. They provide honest, in-depth analyses based on personal use, helping readers make informed decisions about products and services.

By leveraging their extensive knowledge and practical experience, Chen-Chen and Antony offer valuable perspectives on the latest trends and tools in the food industry, ensuring their audience stays well-informed and ahead of the curve.