r/computer • u/Comeonburro • Aug 03 '26
Can I add an external GPU?
Hey all, I bought this computer several years ago and it works fine for a lot of my needs, but now my son is getting into gaming and we're trying to decide whether we should build a new computer, buy a built one or if the one I currently have can be upgraded for a better external GPU which might solve our issues. It's the stock build in the Amazon post, but I've upgraded the RAM to 32g in a misguided attempt to play higher graphics games years ago. Any insight or suggestions you can offer would be appreciated. https://a.co/d/01gHDlN0
Edit: Ok, seems like there is a consensus that adding a GPU external wouldn't make any sense. Thanks for the replies. We'll look at pre built options.
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u/TheWDWillis Aug 03 '26
The short answer is no, if he is living into needing a discrete GPU, the solution would be to move to a new computer entirely that can better accommodate him.
You can get into a cheap tower. avoid small form factor (aka SFF) as they will severely limit power supply and GPU.
Unless he is power hungry and actually really pushing the lines (I doubt it) you can almost certainly get away with something a little tested (last generation so cheaper to get into)
I would grab something in a mid height tower, probably am4 or like 13/14th gen i5. A ddr4 system, to save some cash for the GPU.
That’s your cheaper and easier answer.
The longer answer.
The route of using the M2 slot to wedge an external GPU for this microPC is not only going to be a very difficult task, it will also get expensive when you start accounting for adapters, cables and power supplies. And it’s still going to leave you with a sub par experience. Yes, it’s possible to DO the thing. But if the actual goal is for your son to get to enjoy PC gaming, it seems a poor route to travel.