Australian digital cinema company Blackmagic recently worked with Apple to develop Blackmagic eGPU, an external GPU that brings `desktop-class graphics performance` to the new MacBook Pro laptops with Thunderbolt 3 ports.
The Blackmagic eGPU features an AMD Radeon Pro 580 graphics processor with 8GB of GDDR5 memory, one HDMI 2.0 port, four USB 3 ports, two Thunderbolt 3 ports, and an 85W power supply. Thunderbolt 3 provides a 40Gb/s connection over a single cable, enabling rapid data transfers between the external graphics processor and MacBook Pro.
Graphics performance speed improvements depend on the laptop model; The Verge reports that the 13-inch MacBook Pro experiences an 8x boost, while the 15-inch model experiences a 2.8x increase.
As a first for external GPUs, the eGPU`s second Thunderbolt 3 port provides optional connectivity with the LG UltraFine 5K Display, the model Apple offers directly, and other Thunderbolt 3 displays. A second monitor can be connected via the HDMI port; peripherals, such as a mouse and keyboard, can be plugged into the eGPU`s USB hub.
Users must be running macOS 10.13.6 High Sierra or later to use the Blackmagic eGPU. Apple is exclusively offering the device through some of its retail stores and online for $699 USD.
Via: The Verge
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