Minisforum MGA1

The Minisforum MGA1 breaks new ground as a dual-interface eGPU dock, offering both OCuLink 4i (PCIe 4.0 x4) and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity - a rare combination in the eGPU market. Paired with the Radeon 7600M XT (120W TGP), it delivers desktop-class 1440p gaming performance, achieving 60+ fps in demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 at High settings. At $559, it faces stiff competition from the GMKtec AD-GP1 (same GPU at 459$), forcing buyers to weigh Minisforum's build quality against GMKtec's price advantage.

The MGA1's dual-interface design solves compatibility headaches: OCuLink delivers 92% of desktop GPU performance (3DMark Time Spy: 9,800) for mini PC users, while Thunderbolt support accommodates laptop users. However, bandwidth tests reveal Thunderbolt's 40Gbps limit reduces performance by ~15% compared to OCuLink. The built-in 240W GaN PSU is more compact than rival solutions, though both the MGA1 and GMKtec AD-GP1 share the same 8GB VRAM limitation that struggles with 4K textures in Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora.

Against its closest rival - the GMKtec AD-GP1 - the MGA1 commands a $100 premium while offering identical core specs (7600M XT, dual interfaces). Minisforum justifies this premium price with an extra USB 3.2 Gen2 port. For Thunderbolt laptop users, the AD-GP1's lower price may win out, but OCuLink mini PC owners should compare thermal performance before deciding. As PCIe 5.0 eGPUs loom, both docks face obsolescence concerns - making the AD-GP1's price advantage potentially more future-proof.

- GhostKeyboard Review.