As laptops continue to become thinner and more portable, they also reach new limits on their internal GPU performance due to space, power, and thermal constraints. This is where an external GPU (eGPU) enclosure becomes an attractive solution for gamers, creative professionals, and anyone needing more graphical horsepower without sacrificing mobility. In 2025, eGPU technology has matured significantly, offering better compatibility, improved speeds using Thunderbolt 4 and USB4, and a range of designs tailored to different needs and budgets.
This comprehensive guide compares the best eGPU enclosures available in 2025, examining not just raw performance but also portability, design, and future-proofing. Whether you’re looking to turbocharge your ultrabook for 4K gaming or speed up rendering times in your creative workflow, there’s an eGPU enclosure suited for you.
What is an eGPU and Why Use One?
An external GPU, or eGPU, is an enclosure that enables a desktop-class graphics card to connect to a laptop or compact desktop via Thunderbolt or USB4 interfaces. The concept is simple: plug your laptop into an eGPU, and your system can offload graphically intensive tasks to a more powerful GPU — all without opening your machine or changing its internal hardware.
Key benefits of using an eGPU include:
- Portability: Keep your laptop light and slim for travel, and connect it to high-end graphics when at home or the office.
- Upgradeability: Unlike soldered laptop GPUs, desktop cards in eGPU enclosures can be swapped out for better performance down the road.
- Versatility: eGPUs can power VR setups, multiple 4K displays, or demanding creative applications like DaVinci Resolve and Blender.
Top External GPU Enclosures of 2025
Let’s take an in-depth look at the best eGPU enclosures of the year, weighing their pros, cons, and ideal use cases.
1. Razer Core X Chroma V2
Price: $449
Best for: Gamers and creators wanting high performance with future expandability
The Razer Core X Chroma V2 is the update to the beloved Core X model. It supports full-length, triple-slot GPUs, features a 750W PSU, and includes Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 connectivity for broad compatibility. The Chroma RGB lighting adds a slick aesthetic, while the internal cooling keeps high-performing GPUs running efficiently.
Pros:
- Supports high-wattage GPUs, including Nvidia RTX 4090
- Built-in 4-port USB hub and Ethernet port
- Tool-free GPU installation
Cons:
- Large and heavy – not ideal for portable setups
- On the pricey side
2. Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Box 750ex
Price: $349
Best for: Professional users and developers needing stable, quiet operation
Sonnet’s updated 750ex enclosure is designed for serious users with support for cards up to 375W. It’s professional in design, offering whisper-quiet operation and great thermal efficiency. Included expansion ports make it a good choice for users running workstation setups.
Pros:
- Clean, professional look with minimal RGB
- Quiet operation under load
- Intel-certified Thunderbolt port
Cons:
- No built-in power delivery for laptops
- Lacks USB input ports
3. ASUS ROG XG Mobile (2025)
Price: $899 (includes RTX 4070 laptop GPU)
Best for: ASUS Flow Z-series laptop owners
Unlike traditional eGPU boxes, the XG Mobile is an ultracompact and proprietary solution intended for ASUS Flow gaming laptops. It uses a custom PCIe interface which, while not Thunderbolt-based, offers superior bandwidth and lower latency. It’s significantly smaller than traditional eGPU boxes while still packing serious punch.
Pros:
- Ultra-portable: fits in a backpack
- Custom connection provides great performance
- Comes with GPU pre-installed
Cons:
- Only compatible with select ASUS laptops
- Expensive for its narrow compatibility
4. OWC Mercury Helios 4S
Price: $299
Best for: Mac and creative professionals
OWC focused the 4S on Mac users, particularly creatives who want a seamless workflow with macOS. The enclosure supports both AMD and Apple-endorsed GPUs and has rock-solid Thunderbolt 4 integration for plug-and-play reliability. It’s compact yet capable, built using premium materials and Mac-friendly software integration.
Pros:
- Ideal for Final Cut Pro and Apple Silicon Macs
- Robust Thunderbolt performance
- Solid aluminum construction
Cons:
- May require driver tweaks for some cards
- No additional USB or Ethernet ports
5. Cooler Master MasterCase EG200 (2025)
Price: $259
Best for: Budget-conscious users wanting extra storage too
The EG200 is one of the few enclosures that includes a built-in 2.5”/3.5” hard drive bay for extra storage expansion. While limited to older Thunderbolt 3 speeds, the 2025 version now supports USB4, increasing compatibility. It’s a value-packed enclosure ideal for students or mobile creators on a budget.
Pros:
- Affordable entry point
- Integrated HDD/SSD storage option
- USB docking station included
Cons:
- Not compatible with the highest-end GPUs
- Chunky design may not be for everyone
Interface and Compatibility: Thunderbolt 4, USB4, and PCIe
As of 2025, Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 are the primary interfaces for modern eGPU enclosures. These offer speeds of up to 40Gbps and backward compatibility with Thunderbolt 3. Some high-end enclosures—like the ASUS ROG XG Mobile—use proprietary PCIe connections for even faster performance but are brand-restricted.
It’s important to check the compatibility of your laptop before purchasing an eGPU enclosure. Not all USB-C ports support external GPUs, and driver support (especially on macOS or with certain Nvidia drivers) can vary.
Things to Consider When Choosing an eGPU
When downsizing your shortlist of options, consider these key factors:
- GPU size and power: Will your desired GPU physically and electrically fit?
- Port selection: Do you need Ethernet, USB hubs, or an SD card slot?
- Noise levels: If you work in a quiet environment, fan acoustics matter.
- Future upgrades: Choose a case with room for your next GPU upgrade.
- Laptop support: Ensure your machine has the correct port and operating system compatibility.
Best Use Cases for eGPU Enclosures
External GPUs have niche and mainstream applications alike. Here are popular scenarios where they shine:
- Gaming Laptops: Pair a lightweight laptop with an RTX 4080 desktop GPU and get desktop-level gaming when docked.
- Video Editing and 3D Rendering: Export 4K projects quicker with a boost from external AMD or Nvidia GPUs.
- Machine Learning: Developers can utilize CUDA or ROCm-supported cards for training AI models