eGPU
Technology & Computing abbreviation · Computer Hardware
| Stands for | External graphics processing unit |
|---|---|
| Categories | Technology & Computing |
eGPU stands for External graphics processing unit, a computer hardware abbreviation.
Desktop graphics card housed in an external enclosure with its own power supply and connected to a laptop, usually over Thunderbolt or USB4, to add gaming or compute power to a thin machine.
Example: At home I plug the ultrabook into an eGPU and play games on a big monitor.
Usage notes
Thunderbolt 3, launched in 2015, made eGPUs practical. The link provides about four lanes of PCI Express bandwidth, so performance trails the same card in a desktop, especially when the laptop's own screen is used. Apple silicon Macs do not support eGPUs. Some handheld PCs use proprietary connectors or OCuLink cables for higher bandwidth.
Related abbreviations
More computer hardware abbreviations
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- DVD-ROM – Digital Versatile Disc Read-Only Memory
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- eMMC – Embedded MultiMediaCard
- EPROM – Erasable programmable read-only memory
- EPS – Entry-Level Power Supply Specification (EPS12V connector)
- ESD – Electrostatic discharge
- EXPO – Extended Profiles for Overclocking
- FDD – Floppy disk drive