Docking stations are merging with external GPU bases Minisforum's DEG2 even has a free SSD slot and TB5 compatibility, but I just wish it had more ports

Date:
Tue, 30 Dec 2025 20:30:00 +0000

Description:
Minisforum DEG2 blends external GPU support with limited docking features, focusing on PCIe bandwidth, internal SSD expansion, and user-supplied components.

FULL STORY ======================================================================Minisfor um DEG2 docking station prioritizes PCIe bandwidth over docking convenience Thunderbolt 5 and OCuLink define the entire design philosophy Internal M.2 support adds storage expansion directly inside the enclosure

Desktop-class expansion is increasingly being folded into what used to be simple laptop docking station designs.

The Minisforum DEG2 is a compact external GPU dock that combines high-bandwidth connectivity, internal storage support, and desktop-grade
power flexibility in a single enclosure.

It focuses on PCIe-level performance rather than peripheral aggregation and targets users who want storage expansion without committing to a full desktop system. DEG2 prioritizes bandwidth over ports

The DEG2 uses dual host connectivity, combining OCuLink based on PCIe 4.0 x4 with Thunderbolt 5 support.

OCuLink supports up to 64Gbps, while Thunderbolt 5 can reach 80Gbps under optimal conditions.

This design allows the dock to serve systems that support direct PCIe tunneling as well as systems limited to Thunderbolt connections.

Minisforum lists two Thunderbolt 5 ports on the rear, offering asymmetric power delivery depending on port usage, alongside a 2.5GbE Ethernet
connection and USB 3.2 support.

Like earlier Minisforum designs, the DEG2 does not include a built-in power supply.

Instead, it accepts both ATX and SFX units, allowing reuse of existing
desktop components.

The internal layout includes a full-length PCIe x16 slot intended for a discrete GPU, with physical dimensions designed to accommodate standard desktop graphics cards.

This approach keeps the enclosure thin at 270 x 175 x 41mm, although it
shifts additional cost and complexity to the buyer.

One of the more interesting features is the inclusion of an internal M.2 2280 slot.

This allows an SSD to be installed directly inside the dock, supported by a bundled heatsink.

While this does not replace dedicated storage solutions, it allows the enclosure to act as more than a graphics pass-through device, especially in desk-bound setups where cable reduction matters.

The DEG2s feature set overlaps conceptually with Minisforums MGA1 external graphics solution, which relies on OCuLink connectivity to deliver discrete GPU performance.

Unlike the MGA1, the DEG2 does not integrate a graphics card but instead offers flexibility by leaving graphics selection to the user.

Despite its advanced connectivity, the DEG2 offers a relatively modest selection of peripheral ports, which may limit its usefulness as a single-cable workstation hub.

This device is priced at around $239 (on promo), which places it closer to entry-level eGPU enclosures than conventional docks.

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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/pro/docking-stations-are-merging-with-external-gpu-b ases-minisforum-deg2-even-has-a-free-ssd-slot-and-tb5-compatibility-but-i-just -wish-it-had-more-ports


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