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| The Minisforum DEG2 takes after the overall look of its predecessor. |
As the year winds down, Minisforum is making sure it goes out with a bang. The innovative maker of compact computing gear has finally pulled back the curtain on the successor to its popular DEG1 eGPU dock. Dubbed the DEG2, this isn't just a minor refresh—it’s a substantial overhaul that addresses key desires from the enthusiast community while pushing external graphics connectivity into the future.
For those who missed the original, the DEG1 (still available for around $99) was a game-changer. By leveraging an OCuLink 4i connector paired with a 16-pin PCIe 4.0 interface, it offered a staggering 64 Gbps of dedicated bandwidth to your graphics card. That's a significant leap over the limitations of Thunderbolt 4 or USB4, all packaged in a sleek, PSU-less enclosure measuring 270 x 175 x 41 mm.
The DEG2: Evolution, Not Revolution (At First Glance)
At its core, the DEG2 follows the same successful formula. It remains a streamlined dock without a built-in power supply, relying on you to provide an ATX or SFX PSU. Minisforum includes the necessary screws and a robust metal brace to secure both the power supply and your precious GPU, preventing any sag or slippage—a thoughtful touch for a barebones enclosure.
But look closer, and the DEG2 reveals where Minisforum has been listening. It diverges from its predecessor in two major, exciting ways.
The Thunderbolt 5 Power Play
First and foremost, the DEG2 future-proofs your setup with not one, but two Thunderbolt 5 ports. This is a masterstroke that sets it apart from competitors like the Peladn Link S-3, which force you to choose between OCuLink and Thunderbolt. The DEG2 gives you both.
According to Minisforum, these ports deliver the full 80 Gbps bandwidth of the Thunderbolt 5 standard. However, it's important to note that the connection to your graphics card remains a PCIe 4.0 x4 link (via either OCuLink or Thunderbolt), maintaining that 64 Gbps ceiling. The real-world benefit? Unparalleled versatility. You can now connect a single high-resolution, high-refresh-rate monitor or multiple displays through the dock itself with ease.
A slight quirk: while one Thunderbolt 5 port offers robust 140W charging for your laptop, the other is limited to 30W, better suited for peripherals.
From Barebones to Expansion Hub
The second major upgrade transforms the DEG2 from a simple graphics dock into a true desktop expansion hub. Minisforum has baked in features the DEG1 entirely lacked:
- An M.2 2280 Slot: Want to add blazing-fast Gen4 NVMe storage directly to the dock? Now you can. This is perfect for a dedicated game library or scratch disk.
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet: Ditch the dongle and get wired for high-speed networking with a built-in LAN port.
- Additional USB Type-A Ports: Extra connectivity for your keyboard, mouse, or other accessories is now conveniently placed on the enclosure.
This turns the DEG2 into a central hub for a minimalist desk setup. Connect your laptop with one cable, and gain immediate access to a powerful GPU, fast storage, wired internet, and USB peripherals.
Availability and Pricing
The Minisforum DEG2 carries a retail price of $299. For early adopters, there's a compelling pre-order offer, bringing the price down to $239.90. Shipments are slated to begin in early January 2026.
You can check out all the specs and place your order directly at the Minisforum store.
Shop the Minisforum DEG2 eGPU Dock on the Official Store
The dock is already listed for sale in several key markets, including Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and the Eurozone, with global availability expected soon.
The Verdict
With the DEG2, Minisforum isn't just iterating; it's defining what a modern eGPU dock should be. By marrying the raw, unfiltered bandwidth of OCuLink with the next-gen convenience and display prowess of Thunderbolt 5, and then topping it off with practical expansion like SSD storage and LAN, they've created a uniquely flexible powerhouse. For enthusiasts looking to maximize their compact PC or laptop, the DEG2 has just set a formidable new benchmark.
Looking for the pre-order deal? Keep an eye on Amazon for potential listings as the launch date approaches.
