- Minisforum MGA1 improves graphics with AMD Radeon 7600M XT
- Supports three displays, 8K at 60Hz via HDMI and DisplayPort
- It has OCuLink, USB 3.2, USB-C ports; requires OCuLink connectivity
Minisforum, best known for its range of mini PCs such as the AtomMan and EliteMini series, has launched MGA1, an external GPU docking station. Equipped with the AMD Radeon 7600M
Built with an advanced RDNA 3.0 architecture and 6nm production process, and functioning as an eGPU and docking station, the MGA1 is ideal for use with compatible laptops and mini PCs. The substantial improvement in graphics performance it provides makes it ideal for graphics-intensive tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and even gaming.
The MGA1 supports up to three displays via its dual HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.0 connections, each capable of 8K at 60Hz for ultra-high resolution and smooth refresh rates. It also features three USB 3.2 ports with 10Gbps transfer speeds, one OCuLink 4i port, and one USB-C 3.1 port with 65W Power Delivery, making it suitable for charging devices like, you guessed it, mini PCs. by Minisforum.
OCuLink port required
As Tom Hardware notes: “By adding an eGPU like the MGA1 to your system, you'll get the best of both worlds: a mini PC that won't take up much space on your desk and is easy to take anywhere, and a gaming PC that will give you the performance what you need to play AAA titles.”
The docking station features high-speed data transfer via its OCuLink 4i port with PCIe 4.0 x4 compatibility, ensuring reliable performance for demanding tasks.
But – and this will be a deal breaker for many – USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity are missing, so you'll need to make sure you have an OCuLink port on your laptop or mini PC before purchasing the MGA1.
Priced quite steeply at $559, the MGA1 provides a balanced mix of power and connectivity in a compact form factor, although there are more versatile eGPUs available that may be better suited for use with a wider range of devices, such as the recently updated G1 of GPD.