Tag: Minisforum DEG1

  • Aoostar EG01: New OCuLink eGPU Launch with Pricing Details

    Aoostar EG01: New OCuLink eGPU Launch with Pricing Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. Minisforum launched the DEG2, a new version of the DEG1, priced at $99 on Amazon.
    2. Aoostar introduced the EG01 with OCuLink connectivity and compatibility with ATX or SFX power supplies.
    3. The EG01 features a removable mount for attaching a mini-PC, secured with three screws.
    4. The EG01 includes 6-pin DC and 8-pin CPU connectors for power, allowing up to 150 W delivery to a mini-PC.
    5. The EG01 is priced at CNY 474 (about $67) in China and will be available for pre-order worldwide starting November 2 at $109.


    The eGPU market is becoming more exciting once again, with Minisforum introducing the DEG2 last week as a new version of the DEG1 (currently priced at $99 on Amazon). In addition, Aoostar has launched the EG01 in China, with plans for a worldwide release coming soon. Just over a month ago, Aoostar showcased the EG01, featuring OCuLink connectivity and compatibility with either ATX or SFX power supplies (PSUs).

    Design and Features

    At first glance, the EG01 looks similar to the Minisforum DEG1 but has a special mount for attaching a mini-PC. As illustrated in the image below, this mount can be removed but needs to be secured with three screws that go beneath the EG01’s bottom plate. This means that the mount is a bit more fixed than the GPU bracket used for ATX or SFX PSUs.

    Power Connectors

    One significant difference between the EG01 and the DEG1 is Aoostar’s choice to include 6-pin DC and 8-pin CPU connectors. The 6-pin connector is meant to deliver up to 150 W to a mini-PC using a DC power connector that Aoostar provides in the package. On the other hand, the 8-pin CPU connector appears to be designed for those who wish to connect a CPU directly in a more open workbench-style setup.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, the EG01 is being sold in China for CNY 474 (approximately $67). In comparison, the global price for the same device is set at $109. Customers can start pre-ordering the Aoostar EG01 worldwide on November 2, at 12:00 UTC.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • NXPort eGPU Dock Launches: Compact Design & 650W PSU

    NXPort eGPU Dock Launches: Compact Design & 650W PSU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Many eGPU options support Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, or USB4, with some using OCuLink for higher bandwidth.
    2. New eGPU dock NXPort focuses on design and features a compact size with a 650 W ATX 3.1 certified PSU.
    3. NXPort is limited to Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 speeds, reaching up to 40 Gbps.
    4. Compatibility concerns exist regarding graphics card stability and cable management in the NXPort design.
    5. NXPort is set to launch on Indiegogo, but pricing and release date are currently unknown.


    Plenty of desktop eGPU options already exist, many of which support Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, or USB4 devices. Some models, like the Minisforum DEG1 (currently priced at $99 on Amazon), offer OCuLink connectivity, which allows for much higher peak bandwidth than that of Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, or USB4 alternatives. Additionally, there are a few Thunderbolt 5 eGPU docks now available, including the Peladn Link S-3 and the Razr Core X V2.

    New Focus on Design

    A fresh choice has emerged that emphasizes design rather than pure performance. Known as the NXPort, this eGPU dock has dimensions of 169 x 102 x 82 mm, yet it houses an ATX 3.1 certified power supply (PSU) that can provide up to 650 W. To give some perspective, the Aoostar AG02 is larger, measuring 225 x 110 x 60 mm, and includes a built-in 800 W PSU. It’s important to note that the NXPort is restricted to Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 transfer speeds, peaking at 40 Gbps.

    Concerns About Compatibility

    Graphics card compatibility raises some concerns, as there doesn’t seem to be a clear design to keep a connected card from tipping forward. Furthermore, product images only reveal one 8-pin connector. The design also means that there will be cables hanging from both sides, owing to the PSU and USB Type-C connector being located below the PCIe retention clip. As of now, it appears that the NXPort will be launched on Indiegogo, but there is no information available regarding pricing or when it will be released.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Peladn Link S-2 Launches: Affordable OCuLink eGPU Dock

    Peladn Link S-2 Launches: Affordable OCuLink eGPU Dock

    Peladn just launched a new eGPU dock that looks a lot like the Minisforum DEG1. In fact, the external GPU dock has the same specifications as the one from Minisforum. The big difference is the price, with Peladn’s version going for $86.72 on AliExpress.

    In comparison, the DEG1 was released at a price of $99. Since these two products are nearly identical, the Link S-2 stands out because it includes an OCuLink port, making it a better choice than docks with a USB4 port due to its impressive 64 Gbps bandwidth.

    Features and Compatibility

    The Link S-2 from Peladn also comes with a PCIe x16 slot, and its open-air design allows it to accommodate virtually any graphics card, even the powerful Nvidia RTX 4090. Though it includes a 24-pin ATX connector for GPU power, it lacks a built-in power supply, unlike the Aoostar AG01. Furthermore, it does not come with a USB hub or M.2 slots, features found in some competing eGPUs.

    So, if you’re looking to add an external GPU to your setup, the Peladn Link S-2 is a solid option. Just keep in mind that it doesn’t have USB4 ports, meaning it will only work with systems that include an OCuLink port, like the OneXPlayer M1 currently priced at $699.95 on Amazon.

    Market Trends

    The similarity in design and specs with the Minisforum DEG1 is a trend seen often among Chinese makers. You might even find other less-known brands selling similar products under different labels.

    Source: Link


    Image 1