Key Takeaways
1. Thunderbolt 5-based eGPUs are now widely available, with options like the Razer Core X V2 priced at $349.99.
2. The GeForce RTX 5090 can achieve around 90 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 at 4K Ultra settings when paired with Thunderbolt 5.
3. Thunderbolt 5’s bandwidth often falls short compared to OCuLink, as shown in tests with the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti.
4. The performance of graphics cards like the RTX 5070 Ti is negatively affected when connected via Thunderbolt 5, resulting in lower FPS.
5. While Thunderbolt 5 is improving, it still cannot match OCuLink’s bandwidth, which also has its own performance and compatibility issues.
Thunderbolt 5-based eGPUs are now starting to be widely available, following their introduction earlier this year with the new Asus ROG XG Mobile. Although Asus’ GeForce RTX 50 laptop models are hard to find, devices that utilize desktop graphics cards, such as the Razer Core X V2, can be easily ordered (currently priced at $349.99 on Amazon).
Performance Expectations
In a recent demonstration, ETA Prime revealed the performance that can be expected from a GeForce RTX 5090 when paired with Razer’s latest eGPU. Nvidia’s most powerful consumer GPU can achieve around 90 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 at 4K Ultra settings with DLSS turned off, even when using Thunderbolt 5 for connection.
Bandwidth Comparison
Theoretically, Thunderbolt 5 should meet or surpass the maximum bandwidth provided by OCuLink. However, YouTuber Try Some Tech has shown that this is rarely the reality. In his test with the Peladn Link S-3 and a GeForce RTX 5070 Ti, he confirms that Thunderbolt 5 significantly lags behind the bandwidth capabilities of OCuLink, as demonstrated around 3:29 minutes into the video linked below.
Gameplay Impact
Due to this limitation, the Peladn Link S-3 causes the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti to deliver noticeably lower frames per second compared to when it’s connected to a device via OCuLink or used in a desktop setup. Furthermore, the 1% FPS lows are more pronounced over Thunderbolt 5, which can make for a less smooth gaming experience overall.
In conclusion, while Thunderbolt 5 is narrowing the gap with OCuLink, it still has a long way to go to match the bandwidth that OCuLink provides. Nevertheless, OCuLink isn’t without its flaws either, as it suffers from performance losses compared to desktop systems, cable compatibility issues, and the absence of hotswapping, among other drawbacks.
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