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External graphics card for a laptop – how to choose by connection method, manufacturer, power and price

This WordPress post provides users guidance when choosing an external graphics card for their laptop. Factors such as connection method, manufacturer, power and price are discussed in order to make an informative decision. Users can decide between HDMI, DisplayPort, Thunderbolts or USB-C connection, and similarly select between different manufacturers and cards with different power and price points. With this advice, users are empowered to make an educated selection which is both beneficial in the long run and fits with their budget.

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All computer users are thinking about improving its technical characteristics. For gamers or designers using graphic editors, the most important characteristic is its power. To increase productivity, it is not necessary to buy an expensive computer with an expensive discrete card installed in the case. In some cases, an external video card for a laptop will help, which can be easily connected to a computer using special adapters.

What is an external laptop video card

Each laptop or tablet contains an integrated graphics card. Through it, information from the motherboard is transmitted to the screen. By simple settings of the “Settings” tab of the screen properties, you can add a second monitor and expand the computer to both screens. If you connect an external graphics accelerator for a laptop between it and another monitor, you can achieve higher characteristics of the image transmitted to the second display. There are several ways to connect an external video adapter. They differ in the speed of the video signal..

How to connect an external graphics card to a laptop

Connecting an additional monitor to a laptop can be interesting not only for gamers. High-quality images with high resolution and a bright color palette have less negative impact on the eyes. The load is reduced due to the increase in text fonts, it becomes possible to work on a computer without glasses. There are several ways to connect an external graphics card to a laptop..

A portable video card for a laptop can be connected via:

  • USB connection is the easiest way, but has a speed limit for information transfer;
  • Express Card – it uses a slot to connect external peripheral modules to enable it, but is rarely used by the latest laptop models;
  • Mini-PCIe – this uses the standard interface for all laptops, but its speed is limited;
  • Thunderbolt is a specialized bus for high-speed data exchange with external devices, but it is installed in series only on MacBooks.

Connect to laptop

USB

The easiest way is to connect an additional video adapter via USB (universal serial bus, universal serial bus). It is impossible to get a high-quality picture due to the low data transfer rate in this channel. USB 2.0 will make possible a maximum resolution of 800×600. The USB 3.0 bus has a higher speed, but it does not work under Windows XP, which is installed on most older laptop models. A USB video card will not allow you to watch a video or get a high-quality graphic picture, but it can be used for simple tasks.

USB

Thunderbolt

The ideal option for connecting an external card to a laptop is a collaboration product between Apple and Intel – the Thunderbolt port. It has been installed on Apple brand laptops since 2012. This is a universal port that is capable of transmitting data, broadcasting video. At present, its 3rd modification is being produced. Thunderbolt 3 operates at speeds up to 40 Gb / s, which provides quick connection to docking stations, monitors, and other devices. By using a serial connection, it is possible to connect six Thunderbolt devices in a single circuit.

Thunderbolt 3

Expresscard

Since 2005, laptops have been equipped with an interface for connecting external ExpressCard modules. With it, it was optionally possible to connect multimedia devices, a Wi-Fi card, a TV tuner. This standard has replaced the PC Card and the PCMCIA and CardBus interfaces. Connecting an external card through it goes through the active EXP GDX adapter. Given the purchase of an additional power supply, this is the most budgetary option for upgrading a laptop and getting high-quality video images on an external monitor for gamers.

Expresscard

Mini PCIe

To use this method, you must have a mini PCI Express port in the laptop. A laptop dock with an EXP GDX graphics card is connected to this port. Buying this device, you will receive a cable for connecting the video adapter to the mini PCI Express port, a power supply, a cable for connecting additional power to the card. The removable video card itself is inserted into the adapter slot, and the monitor is already connected to it. After that, you need to install the drivers for the card on the laptop and check the operation of your laptop with new equipment.

Mini PCIe

External graphics cards

Computer hardware manufacturers compete to create more powerful and faster graphics cards. An additional impetus to the development of this direction was the fact that an external video card for a computer is used for cryptocurrency mining. Solving the problem of improving the graphic characteristics of a laptop, you should choose the best model in terms of price and quality. The most popular are the cards of two American brands: AMD (Advanced Micro Devices) and Nvidia.

You can buy a video card in computer supermarkets in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other cities of Russia. Active users of the network can find out how much it costs, select photos from online stores, see all the specifications, order a model for promotions or sales, purchase at a discount. Thanks to current services, the delivery task is reduced to indicating the address at the time of purchase. Many stores have their own delivery services, use courier companies, deliver goods by mail.

Remote video card

Nvidia

NVidia TM graphics cards have high performance, use advanced gaming technologies (NVIDIA GameWorks ™) and the most advanced gaming ecosystem (GeForce Experience ™). The technologies used for the GeForce GTX1060 Windforce card support the requirements of modern monitors, including ultra-high resolution, provide a smooth gameplay:

  • model name: Gigabyte GeForce GTX1060 Windforce OC 6GB;
  • price: 18 084 rubles;
  • specifications: 6 GB memory, type VRAM GDDR5, bus width 192 bits, PCIe 3.0 version, ports – HDMI, DisplayPort, miniDisplayPort, HDCP, DirectX 12, active cooling, cooler size Dual-Slot GPU Length 223 mm;
  • pluses: power level High End;
  • cons: not marked.

Gigabyte GeForce GTX1060 Windforce Graphics

By production of cards of TM NVidia high-quality components are used. The portable laptop video card has composite copper tubes that increase cooling efficiency by 29%:

  • model name: Palit GeForce GTX 1070Ti JetStream 8GB;
  • price: 30 431 r.;
  • specifications: Enthusiast power level, 8 GB memory, VRAM GDDR5 type, 256-bit bus width, PCIe 3.0 version, ports – HDMI, DVI, 3 pcs DisplayPort, HDCP, SLI, DirectX 12.1, active cooling, dual-slot GPU cooler size Length 285 mm;
  • pluses: the perfect gaming solution;
  • cons: high cost.

External graphics card Palit GeForce GTX 1070Ti

AMD

The AMD Dual line of video processors from AMD has the highest performance, but also high power consumption. The presented version of the card is equipped with a cooler with a pair of fans and is characterized by factory overclocking:

  • model name: Radeon RX 580 DUAL-RX580-O8G 8GB;
  • price: 31 080 r.;
  • specifications: Enthusiast power level, 8 GB memory, VRAM GDDR5 type, 256-bit bus width, PCIe 3.0 version, ports – 2pcs HDMI, DVI, 2 pcs DisplayPort, HDCP, CrossFireX, DirectX 12, overclocked, active cooling, Dual- cooler size Slot GPU Length 242 mm;
  • pluses: factory overclocking;
  • cons: not at all cheap.

Powerful Radeon RX 580 Graphics

AMD cards offer better cooling with significant factory overclocking. This solution works at a higher core frequency and claims to be the fastest card in the Radeon version:

  • model name: Powercolor Radeon RX 580 Red Devil Golden Sample 8GB;
  • price: 19 823 r.;
  • specifications: High End power level, 8 GB memory, VRAM GDDR5 type, 256-bit bus width, PCIe 3.0 version, ports – HDMI, DVI, 3 pcs DisplayPort, HDCP, CrossFireX, DirectX 12, overclocked, active cooling, Dual- cooler size Slot GPU Length 255 mm;
  • pluses: overclocked card;
  • cons: not seen.

Powercolor Radeon RX 580 Red Devil Golden Sample 8GB

How to choose an external graphics card for a laptop

Manufacturers offer a wide range of graphics cards. The review shows the latest developments of leading world brands. It makes no sense to buy the most expensive of the existing cards. Most characteristics of laptops will not be able to fully use its full potential. The best choice would be an inexpensive card of the last two generations. The main criteria for your choice should be:

  • price – cards of the game segment or for mining purposes cost from 250 to 3000 USD;
  • most of the latest games at maximum settings will require cards in the price range of 300-550 USD;
  • video outputs – when choosing, matching the input of your monitor with the card is necessary;
  • video memory generation – must be at least GDDR3;
  • AMD cards are well suited for the Thunderbolt interface, which is installed on the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air;
  • Nvidia graphics cards are suitable for all other users.
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Comments: 6
  1. Giselle

    What are the key factors to consider when selecting an external graphics card for a laptop? How do different connection methods, manufacturers, power requirements, and prices vary in terms of compatibility, performance, and overall value? Any recommendations on the best options available in the market?

    Reply
  2. Juniper

    Are external graphics cards compatible with all laptops? How do I determine the connection method that is suitable for my laptop? Which manufacturers offer reliable external GPUs? What factors should I consider when choosing an external graphics card based on power and performance? Lastly, how do prices vary for different external graphics card options?

    Reply
    1. Leo Moore

      External graphics cards, also known as eGPUs, are not compatible with all laptops. The compatibility depends on various factors like the laptop’s connectivity options and power delivery capabilities. To determine the suitable connection method for your laptop, you should check its available ports such as Thunderbolt, USB-C, or ExpressCard slots, as these are commonly used for eGPU connectivity.

      Several manufacturers offer reliable external GPUs, including ASUS, Razer, and Gigabyte. It is essential to research and read reviews from users to ensure compatibility and reliability.

      When choosing an external graphics card based on power and performance, critical factors to consider are the card’s GPU model, VRAM capacity, and clock speeds. Higher-end cards like the NVIDIA RTX series generally offer superior performance for gaming and demanding tasks.

      Prices for external graphics cards can vary significantly depending on the brand, GPU model, and additional features. Entry-level eGPUs typically range from $200 to $400, while high-performance options can exceed $1000. Consider your budget and performance requirements when comparing options.

      In conclusion, compatibility, connection method, manufacturer reliability, power/performance factors, and varying prices are crucial aspects to consider when choosing an external graphics card for your laptop. Thorough research and consideration of your specific needs will help in making an informed decision.

      Reply
  3. Lucas Watson

    What are the most important factors to consider when choosing an external graphics card for a laptop? Should I focus on the connection method, manufacturer reputation, power capacity, or pricing? I’m curious to know what would be the best approach to make an informed decision in order to enhance my laptop’s graphics capabilities. Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

    Reply
    1. Nova White

      When choosing an external graphics card for a laptop, there are several important factors to consider.

      First and foremost, you should ensure that the external graphics card is compatible with your laptop in terms of connection method. Check if your laptop has the necessary ports (such as Thunderbolt 3) to connect the external graphics card.

      Secondly, consider the manufacturer reputation. Look for reputable brands that are known for quality and reliability. This will ensure that you are getting a product that will work well and last long.

      Power capacity is another crucial factor to consider. Make sure the external graphics card has enough power to handle the demands of the games or software you will be running.

      Lastly, pricing is important as well. Set a budget and look for options that fit within your price range while still meeting your needs.

      Overall, focusing on compatibility, manufacturer reputation, power capacity, and pricing will help you make an informed decision when choosing an external graphics card for your laptop.

      Reply
      1. Ethan Rice

        When choosing an external graphics card for a laptop, compatibility, manufacturer reputation, power capacity, and pricing are key factors to consider. Ensure that the card is compatible with your laptop’s ports, opt for reputable brands for reliability, check if it has enough power for your needs, and stay within your budget. By focusing on these factors, you can make a well-informed decision and get the most out of your external graphics card.

        Reply
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