Sonnet Technologies has introduced a new paradigm in Thunderbolt-connected external GPU (eGPU) devices with the eGFX Breakaway Puck, a portable, high-performance, all-in-one eGPU for Thunderbolt 3 computers that delivers accelerated graphics, and provides multi-display connectivity leveraging AMD’s Eyefinity technology. You can use it with a Mac. Kinda.
macOS High Sierra currently offers only beta support for connection of external GPUs, and not all Thunderbolt Macs are currently supported with AMD beta GPU Thunderbolt drivers. For information regarding enabling the use of the eGFX Breakaway Puck with macOS, click here.
With a Puck connected, a user’s computer can deliver dramatically accelerated frame rates in popular graphics-intensive games, and boosted GPU acceleration for pro video applications anytime and anywhere it is needed, according to the folks at Sonnet.
Sonnet will offer two Puck models: the eGFX Breakaway Puck Radeon RX 560 and eGFX Breakaway Puck Radeon RX 570, enabling users to select the device best suited to their needs. Each Puck model measures six inches wide by 5.1 inches deep by two inches tall. Each features one Thunderbolt 3 port, three DisplayPort ports and one HDMI port; and supports up to four 4K displays in multi-monitor mode.
When GPU acceleration is needed on the road, users can pack an eGFX Breakaway Puck along with a notebook in a backpack or computer bag. The Puck connects to a computer with a single Thunderbolt 3 cable and also provides 45W of power delivery to power and charge the computer, enabling many users to leave their computer’s power brick behind. With an optional VESA mounting bracket kit, the Puck can be attached to the back of a display or the arm of a multi-monitor stand, leaving a zero footprint on the desktop. The kit also includes a 0.5-meter DisplayPort cable to help reduce cable clutter.
The GFX Breakaway Puck Radeon RX 560 has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $449; the eGFX Breakaway Puck Radeon RX 570 has a MSRP of $599; the optional PuckCuff VESA Mounting Bracket Kit has an MSRP of $59. All models are immediately available.
