Asus has unveiled its 2025 XG Mobile, a groundbreaking external graphics card (eGPU) that redefines portability. This compact device boasts a powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 mobile GPU, up to 140W of power delivery, dual monitor support, and a comprehensive I/O hub, all delivered through a single Thunderbolt 5 cable.
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Leveraging the 80Gbps bidirectional bandwidth of Thunderbolt 5, the 2025 XG Mobile surpasses previous eGPU solutions. It’s the first standards-based portable eGPU with an Nvidia GPU, overcoming the limitations of proprietary connectors found in earlier models.
Despite its impressive capabilities, the XG Mobile remains remarkably compact and lightweight. Housed in a sleek, smoky black enclosure, it features a built-in 350W power supply, eliminating the need for an external brick. Asus claims a 25% reduction in weight and an 18% decrease in size compared to its predecessor.
The XG Mobile offers extensive connectivity options, including HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, two 10Gbps USB-A ports, and 5Gbps Ethernet. While performance figures are yet to be released, the Thunderbolt 5 connection provides up to 64Gbps of bandwidth for the Nvidia GPU, ensuring optimal performance.
The 2025 XG Mobile will be available in two configurations:
- RTX 5090 Model: Priced at $2199.99, this high-end model offers maximum performance.
- RTX 5070 Ti Model: A more affordable option at $1199.99, providing excellent performance for a lower price point.
While compatible with Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 laptops, the 2025 XG Mobile will deliver optimal performance with Thunderbolt 5 devices. While finding a Thunderbolt 5 laptop without a dedicated GPU may be challenging, this technology presents exciting possibilities for future thin-and-light laptops, enabling them to transform into powerful desktop workstations on demand.
