The compact computing world is buzzing with innovation, and the eGPU (external Graphics Processing Unit) segment is once again taking center stage. Hot on the heels of Minisforum's DEG2 announcement last week, the competitor Aoostar has officially launched its own compelling entry: the Aoostar EG01 eGPU docking station.
Initially revealed to the Chinese market, the EG01 brings a unique feature set to the table, headlined by its OCuLink connectivity and flexible power supply support. For global mini-PC enthusiasts who have been eagerly watching, the wait is almost over, as Aoostar has now confirmed international availability and pricing.
A Closer Look at the Aoostar EG01's Design and Features
At first glance, the Aoostar EG01 bears a resemblance to the popular Minisforum DEG1 (currently retailing for around $99 on Amazon), but a deeper look reveals significant upgrades and thoughtful design choices tailored for the modern compact setup.
The most visually distinctive feature is a dedicated, detachable mount for storing a mini-PC directly on the dock itself. This creates a streamlined, all-in-one footprint for users looking to consolidate their gaming or creative workstation. However, this integration is more permanent than a simple clip-on bracket. As seen in promotional materials, the mount attaches via three screws that secure beneath the EG01's bottom plate, suggesting a setup designed for stability rather than frequent swapping.
The core of the EG01's appeal lies in its connectivity. Unlike older eGPU solutions that rely on Thunderbolt, Aoostar has embraced OCuLink. This interface is gaining traction for providing a more direct, lower-latency connection to the PCIe lanes, potentially offering better performance per dollar than Thunderbolt, especially for high-end graphics cards.
Powering your GPU is a critical consideration, and the EG01 offers welcome flexibility. It supports both standard ATX and compact SFX power supplies, giving users the freedom to use hardware they may already own or choose a PSU that perfectly matches their GPU's wattage requirements.
Beyond GPU Power: A Dock That Can Power Your Entire Mini-PC
Perhaps the most intriguing departure from the competition is Aoostar's inclusion of additional power connectors. The EG01 is equipped with both a 6-pin DC output and an 8-pin CPU connector.
The 6-pin DC output is a game-changer for simplicity. Aoostar includes a DC power cable in the box, which can deliver up to 150W to a compatible mini-PC. This means with a single power cord to the EG01's PSU, you can power both your beefy graphics card and your mini-PC, drastically reducing cable clutter.
The inclusion of an 8-pin CPU connector is more niche but opens up fascinating possibilities. It appears designed for enthusiasts running open bench-style systems, allowing them to directly power a CPU from the eGPU dock's internal PSU. This positions the EG01 not just as an accessory, but as a central power hub for custom, compact builds.
For more detailed specifications and official product images, you can visit the Aoostar EG01 product page.
Global Launch Pricing and Availability: A Notable Disparity
The EG01 is already making waves in China with a highly competitive price point of CNY 474 (approximately $67). This aggressive pricing puts significant pressure on other players in the market.
However, Aoostar has announced that the global version will carry a different price tag. The company will charge $109 for the EG01 internationally. While this is still a compelling value, the price difference is notable. The global pre-order campaign is set to begin on November 2 at 12:00 UTC.
- Check out the initial product listing on JD.com (Chinese market).
- For early technical reviews and community discussion, see the coverage at ITHome.
- For comparison, you can find the competing Minisforum DEG1 on Amazon.
The Bottom Line
The Aoostar EG01 arrives as a potent and thoughtfully designed contender in the eGPU arena. By combining the high-bandwidth potential of OCuLink with the exceptional flexibility of supporting multiple PSU types and even powering a mini-PC directly, it offers a level of integration that sets it apart. While the global price is higher than its Chinese counterpart, its $109 asking price undercuts many existing solutions, promising to make high-performance graphics more accessible to mini-PC users worldwide. The battle for eGPU supremacy is well and truly on.
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