The CES 2025 served as the stage for the presentation of the Sparkle Studio-G 850, Sparkle’s first eGPU compatible with the new Thunderbolt 5 standard, which promises to revolutionize the market for external graphics cards for laptops and mini PCs. This launch marks a significant advance in the adoption of Thunderbolt 5, a standard announced by Intel in 2023 but which has so far seen limited integration into devices and accessories.
Main Features of the Sparkle Studio-G 850
- Thunderbolt 5 Compatibility
The standout feature of this model is its support for Thunderbolt 5, which offers transfer speeds of up to 120 Gbps in bidirectional configurations, double that of Thunderbolt 3 and 4. This ensures better utilization of high-performance GPUs, although there remains a bandwidth limitation compared to a direct PCIe connection. - Modular Design for Desktop GPUs
Unlike options like the ASUS ROG XG Mobile, which integrates a mobile GPU, the Studio-G 850 is designed as an empty enclosure, allowing users to install any desktop graphics card up to 3.5 slots thick. This flexibility makes it ideal for those looking to customize their hardware with the latest generation GPUs. - Integrated Power Supply
The Sparkle Studio-G 850 includes an 850W power supply, ensuring support for the most demanding graphics cards on the market, including those requiring 16-pin connectors. This positions it as a future-proof option for developments in the GPU market. - Enhanced Connectivity
In addition to the Thunderbolt 5 port, the eGPU features USB-C ports with support for Power Delivery of up to 100W, allowing for laptop charging and data transfer with a single cable. It also offers three USB-A ports and a Gigabit Ethernet port, expanding connectivity options. - Practical Design and Efficient Cooling
The enclosure design includes a foldable mechanism that facilitates GPU installation. Additionally, it has extra fans on the side and front to maintain good cooling, which is crucial for high-end graphics cards.
Dimensions and Portability
The Studio-G 850 measures 403 x 200 x 237 mm, placing it in the large eGPU segment. Despite this, it features a practical handle on the top, making it easier to move or install in different configurations.
Impact of Thunderbolt 5 on the Market
The adoption of Thunderbolt 5 is driven by the arrival of laptops featuring the new Intel Core Ultra 200 processors, which have begun to integrate this standard. With accessories like the Sparkle Studio-G 850, Thunderbolt 5 positions itself as a key solution for laptop and mini PC users who need a significant improvement in graphics performance without sacrificing mobility.
Availability and Price
Despite the excitement surrounding its presentation, Sparkle has not revealed the price or release date of the Studio-G 850. However, it is expected to target mid-to-high-end laptops and ultrabooks, as well as mini PCs that require a graphics boost.
Conclusion
The Sparkle Studio-G 850 represents a significant advancement in the eGPU market, combining the flexibility of a modular design with the advantages of Thunderbolt 5. With its capability to support high-performance desktop graphics cards and offer advanced connectivity options, this eGPU stands out as a solid choice for creative professionals, gamers, and advanced users looking to take their device’s graphics performance to the next level.
We will be on the lookout for more details regarding its launch and price, but one thing is clear: Sparkle has set a new standard in the eGPU category for 2025.
Source: Hardwareluxx