MINISFORUM Launches DEG2 Graphics Card Dock With Thunderbolt 5 and OCuLink Interfaces

MINISFORUM has officially released the DEG2 graphics card dock, expanding its lineup of external GPU solutions for compact systems and high-performance laptops. The new dock targets users who need higher bandwidth options and flexible hardware configurations, offering support for both Thunderbolt 5 and OCuLink interfaces within an open-frame design.

Unlike many traditional eGPU enclosures, the MINISFORUM DEG2 does not include an integrated power supply. Instead, it features a standard 24-pin power connector, allowing users to install their own ATX or SFX power supply. This design choice gives users the freedom to select a power unit that matches the requirements of their graphics card, whether it is a mid-range GPU or a higher power model. It also helps reduce the overall cost for users who already own a compatible power supply.

Connectivity is one of the key aspects of the DEG2. The dock includes two Thunderbolt 5 ports, each capable of delivering up to 80Gbps of bandwidth. The upstream Thunderbolt 5 port is designed to connect to the host system and supports power delivery of up to 140W, which can be sufficient to charge many laptops while in use. The second Thunderbolt 5 port functions as a downstream connection and provides up to 30W of power output, making it suitable for peripherals or additional devices.

For users who prefer a more direct PCIe connection, the DEG2 also includes an OCuLink interface. This connection is based on a PCIe 4.0 x4 lane configuration and offers bandwidth of up to 64Gbps. OCuLink is often favored by advanced users due to its lower latency compared to Thunderbolt-based solutions, particularly in scenarios involving gaming or compute-heavy workloads.

Internally, the graphics card dock is powered by an Intel JHL9480 controller, which manages the high-speed data transfer across Thunderbolt connections. In addition to GPU support, MINISFORUM has equipped the DEG2 with an M.2 2280 slot, allowing users to install a PCIe NVMe solid-state drive. This feature enables the dock to function as an external storage expansion device alongside graphics processing.

The DEG2 also provides a range of additional I/O options. It includes a 2.5Gb Ethernet port for wired networking, along with one USB-A port rated at 10Gbps and another USB-A port rated at 5Gbps. These ports are positioned on both ends of the chassis, a layout that may help with cable routing and desk organization depending on the user’s setup.

The MINISFORUM DEG2 graphics card dock is currently available in overseas markets. The suggested retail price is set at $299, while an early bird price of $239.9 is being offered for a limited time. According to MINISFORUM, shipments are expected to begin early next year, making the DEG2 an option for users planning future upgrades to their external GPU setups.