Sonnet adds to portable eGPU family with RX 5500 XT and RX 5700

Replacing the now discontinued eGFX Breakaway Puck Radeon RX 560 and Radeon RX 570 eGPUs, the new models retain the same form factor are said to deliver more than 300% performance improvement over the previous-generation models. The new models now include two USB ports for connecting peripheral devices and a second Thunderbolt port for fully supporting a Thunderbolt/USB-C display, including the 6K Apple Pro Display XDR.

eGPU systems boost a computer’s graphics performance by connecting a more powerful graphics processor via a Thunderbolt 3 connection and bypassing the computer’s onboard GPU to deliver graphics performance not otherwise possible. Sonnet’s eGPU Breakaway Puck Radeon RX 5500 XT and Radeon RX 5700 systems are designed for professionals who need to run graphics-intensive applications on their Intel-based MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, or iMac with Thunderbolt 3 ports. eGPU Breakaway Pucks accelerate a computer’s graphics performance on its built-in display (if equipped) and on up to four externally connected displays.

Both eGPU Breakaway Puck models support up to three 4K @ 60 Hz displays (four with one of Sonnet’s dual-display adapters, sold separately) or one 6K plus two 4K displays at the same time. Through a second Thunderbolt 3 port, the Pucks provide both graphics and data to fully support all popular Thunderbolt/USB-C displays, including the LG UltraFine 4K and 5K displays sold in the Apple store. They also provide enough power to drive the 6K Apple Pro Display XDR without compromise. Both models include two USB Type A ports to enable connection of peripherals — such as a keyboard, mouse, or even a software licence authorisation key dongle — to the computer without taking up its few onboard ports.