The Impact of Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Dock: A Game Changer in Laptop Gaming?
Exploring whether the new Thunderbolt 5 eGPU dock could revolutionize laptop gaming by enhancing performance and versatility.
Will Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Dock Change Gaming?
The concept of external graphics cards has always piqued interest, considering the benefits they could potentially offer to thin and lightweight laptops. This novelty may soon be tested with the advent of the Humbird 3, touted as the world’s first eGPU dock utilizing Thunderbolt 5, which promises remarkable features.
Key Features of the Humbird 3
- Supports 80 Gbps bi-directional bandwidth and a 120 Gbps one-way Boost mode designed for handling multiple high-resolution displays.
- Equipped with a full PCIe x16 slot for graphics cards, although it cannot accommodate full x16 bandwidth by PCIe Gen 4’s standards.
- Features include: three Thunderbolt 5 ports, two USB-A, an SD slot, Ethernet, and DisplayPort. It even offers an internal M.2 SSD slot, a small LCD screen, and a wireless charging pad for portable devices.
Is Thunderbolt 5 Adequate for Gaming?
The critical question remains whether this Thunderbolt 5 technology can sustain performance on par with direct PCIe connections. Early comparisons suggest mixed results, implying that while it enhances a laptop’s gaming capabilities, it may not fully replicate the experience of a dedicated desktop graphics card.
Despite these uncertainties, the promising features of the Humbird 3 make it a notable contender in the market, offering versatility beyond just gaming. The unit is currently priced at $316, with deliveries believed to commence in November.
