As an avid Mac user, you may have noticed that certain applications and programs require more graphics processing power than your computer can handle. If you’re looking to boost your Mac’s graphics performance, an external graphics processing unit (eGPU) might be just the solution you need. This device works seamlessly with your Mac, providing a significant boost in graphics power, and making your workflows smoother and faster. In this article, we dive into the world of eGPU and uncover everything you need to know about this essential tool.
What is an eGPU for Mac?
An external graphics processing unit (eGPU) is an accessory device that empowers your Mac with a robust graphics card that you can connect externally. It’s a unique way to enhance your Mac’s graphics capabilities, enabling you to do more with your computer than ever before. The eGPU provides additional performance to your Mac’s graphics processing unit, allowing you to run demanding applications, such as video editing software, smoothly without causing any lags or glitches.
How Does an eGPU Work?
An eGPU is an external device that you connect to your Mac through the Thunderbolt 3 port, which is available on most modern Macs. Thunderbolt 3 is a technology that ensures high data-transfer rates, providing you with the best possible performance for your eGPU. Once connected, the eGPU takes over the graphics processing workload from your Mac’s built-in graphics processing unit (GPU), resulting in a significant boost in performance and speed.
What are the Benefits of Using an eGPU?
Here are some benefits of using an eGPU:
- Increased graphics performance: You can improve your Mac’s graphics processing performance significantly, empowering you to do more resource-intensive tasks smoothly.
- Better game experience: Playing games on your Mac becomes more fun and smoother when you use an eGPU.
- Future proof your Mac: An eGPU ensures your Mac can handle any new, graphics-intensive application in the future
- Improved video editing: Speed up your video editing process and reduce rendering times expertly.
Concluding thoughts on eGPU for Mac
If you’re looking to boost your Mac’s graphics capabilities, an eGPU might just be the solution you need. It is an external device that enhances your Mac’s graphics processing power, providing you with a smooth and seamless workflow. An eGPU can cope with the most demanding applications and provide stunning graphics; you’ll be impressed by its performance. It’s an ideal accessory for anyone who uses their Mac for resource-demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, or running intensive applications. With an eGPU, you can future-proof your Mac, ensuring that it is capable of handling any new graphics-demanding applications in the future.
FAQs about eGPUs
What Mac Computers are Compatible with eGPUs?
Most modern Macs with Thunderbolt 3 ports are compatible with eGPUs. Some of the compatible Macs include the MacBook Air (M1, 2020), MacBook Pro (M1, 2020), iMac (2017, including Retina 5K), and Mac mini (2018) and later models. It’s worth noting that some older models may be compatible with eGPUs, but the level of performance may not be satisfactory.
What Graphics Cards are Compatible with eGPUs?
eGPUs are compatible with a wide range of graphics cards, providing you with a versatile toolset. Some of the most popular graphics cards used with eGPUs include Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080, Nvidia GeForce GTX 1180ti, and AMD Radeon Vega 56. It’s essential to ensure that your graphics card is compatible with your eGPU to prevent any conflicts or performance issues.
How Do You Set Up an eGPU for Mac?
The setup process for eGPU varies, depending on your eGPU hardware and Mac model. However, here is a general guide on how to set up an eGPU:
- Ensure that your Mac is compatible with an eGPU and has a Thunderbolt 3 port
- Purchase the eGPU hardware and graphics card of your choice
- Turn off your Mac and connect the eGPU to your Mac’s Thunderbolt 3 port
- Connect the graphics card to your eGPU
- Boot up your Mac, and the eGPU should connect automatically and configure itself
- If your Mac doesn’t connect automatically, go to “System Preferences,” then “Displays,” and click on “Detect Displays.”
- After detection, select “Prefer External GPU” from the “Automatic Graphics Switching” option under “Energy Saver” in “System Preferences.”
- Restart your Mac, and the eGPU should be working seamlessly with your Mac.
What is the Best eGPU for Mac?
The best eGPU for Mac depends on your usage needs and performance expectations. Some top eGPU models include Sonnet eGFX Breakaway Box 550W, Blackmagic eGPU, and Akitio Node. It’s essential to purchase an eGPU that’s compatible with your Mac and most suitable for your needs, be it gaming, video editing, or performance.
Can eGPUs be Used for Gaming on Mac?
Yes. An eGPU will enhance your Mac’s graphics processing power, allowing you to play even the most demanding games smoothly. Gaming on your Mac becomes more enjoyable, responsive and the gaming performance experience overall improves with an eGPU.
Do I Need to Install Drivers for My eGPU?
Most eGPUs are designed to operate plug-and-play with your Mac, and no driver installation is required. However, some eGPUs may require a software driver installation to complete setup or maximize performance.
How Much Does an eGPU Cost?
The cost of an eGPU for Mac varies depending on the model and its capabilities. An entry-level eGPU costs around $200 to $500, while high-end eGPUs can cost $700 and above.
Can an eGPU for Mac be Used With Multiple Computers?
In most cases, an eGPU is designed to work with one computer at a time. It’s essential to detach your eGPU properly from your Mac before moving it to another machine. However, it is possible to switch your eGPU between multiple Macs if they are compatible with your eGPU.
Is an eGPU for Mac worth it?
Yes. Investing in an eGPU is a worthwhile investment, especially if your Mac is sluggish when running graphics-intensive tasks. An eGPU boosts your Mac’s graphics processing capabilities, making your workflows smoother and less stressful.
Conclusion
An eGPU is a valuable tool that empowers your Mac with the performance it needs for handling resource-intensive tasks. It enhances your Mac’s graphics processing power, making it an ideal accessory for gaming, video editing and any other demanding application. An eGPU guarantees your Mac is future-proof, and it can cope with any new graphics-intensive application that comes out in the future. With an eGPU, you can take your Mac performance to the next level and push it to its limits.
