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Synology vs UGREEN NAS (in 2025)

Par : Rob Andrews
25 avril 2025 à 17:00

Synology vs UGREEN NAS – Which One Deserves Your Money and Your Data?

In the evolving world of network-attached storage (NAS), users in 2025 are faced with a broader range of choices than ever before. Among the most discussed options in both professional and enthusiast communities are Synology and UGREEN. Synology has been a mainstay in the industry for over two decades, known for its reliable software, long-term support, and deeply integrated ecosystem. UGREEN, by contrast, is a relative newcomer to the NAS market in the West, but has quickly established itself as a serious contender by offering competitive hardware and pricing. Originally known for consumer tech peripherals, UGREEN has leveraged its manufacturing experience and market agility to carve out space in an area traditionally dominated by established NAS brands.

This comparison aims to provide a clear, unbiased overview of both brands, structured across several key categories: hardware capabilities, storage flexibility, software ecosystem, security infrastructure, pricing strategy, and overall value proposition. While some buyers may lean toward a brand due to legacy, others are driven by performance-per-dollar, or openness to customization. It’s important to understand that neither brand is objectively “better” in all respects. Instead, each appeals to different user priorities. What follows is a breakdown of how Synology and UGREEN compare across the board, giving potential buyers the tools they need to make a decision that aligns with their use case, technical comfort level, and long-term plans.


Synology vs UGREEN NAS Hardware Compared 

Synology’s hardware lineup spans everything from small 1-bay entry-level NAS units to rackmount enterprise-class systems with dual controllers. With approximately 15–25 models available at any given time, the variety on offer is extensive. This allows users to choose systems that align closely with their needs—whether that’s for simple backups, media streaming, virtualization, or business-critical data management. However, despite the breadth of its portfolio, Synology’s consumer and SMB offerings are frequently criticized for underpowered processors and limited upgrade paths. Many of their mid-tier models still rely on AMD Embedded or lower-end Intel chips, and memory configurations are often modest compared to similarly priced alternatives. PCIe expansion, 10GbE networking, and true Flash storage support are typically reserved for only the highest-tier devices.

UGREEN, on the other hand, has entered the NAS space with a clear emphasis on hardware strength. Their NASync series—although more limited in model variety—delivers high-performance components out of the box. Even in models priced around $1,100 to $1,200 USD, UGREEN includes features like Intel i5 processors, 16GB of DDR5 RAM, dual 10GbE ports, USB4, SD card slots, and Thunderbolt connectivity. Most of specifications are generally only found in Synology’s XS or SA series, which can cost double or triple the price. In terms of build quality, UGREEN’s enclosures also lean toward a more robust, enterprise-like design with better thermal management and port selection. While they may not yet offer the same portfolio depth or high-end rackmount solutions, the raw hardware value they deliver—especially for power users and media professionals—is difficult to overlook.


Synology DSM vs UGREEN UGOS NAS Software & Services

Storage features and flexibility represent one of the most contested areas between the two brands. Synology has developed a very feature-rich storage management system over the years, offering support for RAID configurations, Btrfs and EXT4 file systems, fast RAID rebuilds, advanced iSCSI LUN management, and deep integration with backup and synchronization tools.

File Services SMB/NFS/AFP/WebDAV ✅ Supported ✅ Supported (AFP not confirmed) Core protocols available
iSCSI Support ✅ Native iSCSI manager ❌ Not currently supported Important for VM/block-level storage
RAID & Storage RAID 0/1/5/6/10, SHR ✅ SHR and traditional RAID ✅ Traditional RAID 0/1/5/6/10 No SHR support in UGREEN
Snapshots ✅ Btrfs-based with GUI versioning ✅ Btrfs-based snapshots Comparable snapshot system
Deduplication ✅ Btrfs-based ❌ Planned, not available yet UGREEN roadmap feature
Encryption ✅ Volume/folder/drive-level + WORM ❌ No integrated encryption Major security difference
SSD Caching ✅ GUI-managed ✅ CLI-managed only (UI planned) Limited interface currently

Their platform also supports drive pooling, storage tiering (in some models), and robust snapshot capabilities. Expansion options are a strong point too, with a range of proprietary expansion units that allow users to scale storage well beyond the original NAS chassis. These are bolstered by robust utilities in DSM that help manage redundancy, performance, and data recovery, all while maintaining consistency across the ecosystem.

However, Synology’s 2025 policy shift around hard drive compatibility introduces a significant caveat. Newer devices now strictly require Synology-branded drives for both HDD and SSD roles, including caching and storage pools. This effectively locks users into the Synology ecosystem and limits the ability to use commonly available alternatives from WD, Seagate, Samsung, and others. Availability issues in some regions further complicate this approach.

UGREEN, conversely, supports a far more open system—allowing users to populate their NAS devices with nearly any 2.5″, 3.5″, or NVMe drive on the market. With support for drives up to 24TB and Gen 4 NVMe speeds reaching 6,000–7,000 MB/s, UGREEN offers unmatched flexibility in storage media. However, their systems currently lack support for iSCSI and official expansion units, which could be a limitation for more advanced storage scenarios.


Software Comparison

Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM) is widely regarded as one of the most refined and mature NAS operating systems in the market. Backed by over two decades of development, DSM offers a wide range of first-party apps covering backup, multimedia, productivity, collaboration, and virtualization.

Tools like Synology Drive, Active Backup for Business, and Synology Photos provide enterprise-grade capabilities in a consumer-friendly package. The platform also integrates with cloud services like Office 365 and Google Workspace, and includes support for SANs, VMs, containers, and cloud sync. Importantly, most of these apps are license-free, representing significant value over time. The application center in DSM is extensive, and Synology’s desktop and mobile client tools are similarly well-developed.

Category Feature Synology UGREEN NASync (DXP Series) Notes
Core OS OS DSM (DiskStation Manager) UGOS Synology has a mature, polished UI
Mobile Apps ✅ Multiple DS apps across iOS/Android ✅ One core management app + FireTV/Google Home apps Broader app suite on Synology
Virtualization & Containers Virtual Machines ✅ Virtual Machine Manager ✅ Dedicated VM app Both platforms now offer VMs
Docker Support ✅ GUI + Docker CLI ✅ Portainer + Docker CLI Equal container support
GPU Passthrough ❌ Not available ❌ Not supported Neither platform offers this
AI & Surveillance AI Services ✅ Facial/people detection on DVA NAS ✅ Advanced AI model recognition (Photo AI) UGREEN offers more AI model types
Surveillance Suite ✅ Surveillance Station (native) ❌ No native system (use Frigate, MotionEye via Docker) Docker-based alternative
Media & Streaming Plex Media Server ✅ Native app support ✅ Docker-only installation Equal in function
Jellyfin ❌ Docker/homebrew only ✅ Native app available More flexible on UGREEN
Video App ❌ Video Station is EOL ✅ Native video player app UGREEN actively supports this
Backup & Sync Backup Solutions ✅ Hyper Backup, Active Backup Suite ✅ Rsync, SMB, Cloud Backup, USB GUI edge to Synology
Cloud Sync ✅ Native Cloud Sync app ❌ Planned, rclone CLI workaround only Still in development
Remote Access DDNS + Tunnel ✅ QuickConnect ✅ UGREEN-hosted tunnel system Functional equivalents
App Ecosystem App Center ✅ Extensive with many native packages ✅ Real app center, but much smaller Synology has a broader catalog
Package Manager ✅ synopkg ✅ APT + Docker

UGREEN’s UGOS, by contrast, is still in its early stages—at least in the Western market—but has made notable progress. Built on a Linux-based open-source foundation, UGOS offers a modern UI and essential features like RAID management, Docker support, virtualization, remote access, and media streaming. The system is responsive and user-friendly, with most core NAS functions well-covered.

UGREEN’s App Center is less populated but growing, and the brand has made particular strides in AI-driven features—particularly in its photo application, which allows customizable object and face recognition with trainable AI modules. While still lacking some advanced enterprise features like Synology’s iSCSI or SAN support, UGOS is impressive for a brand with only a few years of development. Notably, UGREEN also supports the installation of third-party operating systems like TrueNAS or OpenMediaVault, appealing to users who want full control over their NAS.


Synology vs UGREEN NAS – Security 

When it comes to security, Synology’s long-standing reputation and infrastructure give it a distinct advantage. Over the years, the company has invested heavily in platform hardening, threat detection, and vulnerability response. The built-in Security Advisor not only scans for malware and viruses but also detects weak passwords, outdated software, open ports, and potentially exploitable system configurations. Synology participates in vulnerability disclosure programs, works with penetration testers, and maintains a public-facing security advisory database. They’ve even implemented a bounty system to reward ethical hackers for reporting vulnerabilities. These layers of proactive defense have earned Synology its reputation as one of the most secure NAS platforms in the world.

UGREEN has not experienced any public security incidents as of 2025, but its shorter time in the market means less historical data on its resilience. Their systems now include two-factor authentication and basic malware scanning, but currently lack the more comprehensive vulnerability detection tools that Synology provides. The security advisor in UGOS focuses primarily on active threats like viruses rather than system-level hardening.

That said, UGREEN has been responsive to user feedback and appears committed to improving its security infrastructure. For experienced users who follow best practices and secure their networks effectively, this may not be a deal-breaker. However, for enterprise users or those deploying systems in high-risk environments, Synology’s mature security ecosystem provides more peace of mind.

Remote Access DDNS + Tunnel ✅ QuickConnect ✅ UGREEN-hosted tunnel system Functional equivalents
Security & Access Security Advisor ✅ Ransomware, audit, malware, system hardening ❌ Basic malware scanning only Synology offers deeper protections
VPN Server ✅ Native UI for OpenVPN, L2TP, PPTP ✅ Docker-based VPNs (WireGuard, OpenVPN) Manual setup on UGREEN
SSL Certificates ✅ Let’s Encrypt + GUI ✅ Let’s Encrypt via Web UI Parity here
2FA Support ✅ App-based 2FA ✅ TOTP/Web 2FA Both support 2FA login

Synology vs UGREEN NAS – Pricing and Value 

Pricing is one of the most decisive factors favoring UGREEN in 2025. The brand offers high-performance hardware at price points that undercut Synology by a substantial margin. An 8-bay UGREEN NAS with an Intel i5 CPU, 16GB DDR5 RAM, dual 10GbE, and Thunderbolt can be purchased for roughly $1,200-1300 (store depending). A Synology unit with similar specs would require jumping to the DS1823xs+ or even the SA series—devices that retail between $1,800 and $3,000 depending on configuration and region. This gap in price-performance makes UGREEN especially appealing to users who want modern hardware for tasks like 4K video editing, large-scale backups, or AI analytics but can’t justify enterprise-level spending.

Synology’s pricing strategy is rooted more in its software and long-term value. While the upfront cost may be higher, the investment is offset by an integrated ecosystem, professional-grade applications, and superior long-term support. For some buyers, particularly businesses and advanced home users who need software stability and vendor accountability, the price premium is justified. However, for price-sensitive consumers, hobbyists, or those comfortable managing their own systems, UGREEN’s value proposition is hard to beat. It’s also worth noting that UGREEN’s openness to third-party operating systems can further extend the device’s utility without adding cost, whereas Synology systems are heavily locked into their proprietary software environment. Here is a comparison of the Synology DS1823xs+ and the UGREEN DXP8800 PLUS NAS. Around $449 difference, but also the general level of the hardware inside and externally is technically higher on the UGREEN system. That said, the Synology system software does a huge amount with it’s software, keeping things super efficient. So, now let’s discuss storage and the respective software that both of these platforms offer to house and protect your data.


Synology vs UGREEN NAS – Verdict & Conclusion

Choosing between Synology and UGREEN in 2025 ultimately comes down to what matters most to the user. Synology is the more mature and refined platform, with a rock-solid software ecosystem, strong security credentials, and long-standing industry credibility. It is ideal for users who want a fully integrated solution with minimal tinkering, extensive app support, and professional-grade backup, synchronization, and collaboration tools. However, the brand’s increasing restrictions on drive compatibility, slower hardware updates, and higher prices may discourage users seeking flexibility or better raw performance.

UGREEN, while newer and still building out its software platform, delivers excellent hardware value and impressive flexibility for the price. It supports a wide range of third-party drives, offers strong virtualization and AI capabilities, and even allows OS replacement—making it highly appealing to power users and technologists. While it may not yet match Synology in software maturity or enterprise security, it is evolving rapidly and clearly resonates with a growing segment of the NAS market. For buyers focused on hardware, performance, and freedom of customization, UGREEN may be the better choice today. For those seeking long-term support, stable software, and enterprise-grade functionality, Synology still sets the benchmark across the rest of the NAS industry in terms of providing an all covering solution, though there is no denying that buyers are getting a little more cost aware. Synology clearly has it’s eyes on bigger prizes right now, and perhaps this is a growing gap in the market that UGREEN is eying up – knife and fork in hand!

NAS Solutions

NAS Solutions

+ Better Software (In almost every respect!)

+ Much Better Global Support Presence

+ More More business desirable

+ Larger Range of solutions

– Compatibility restrictions on HDD and Upgrades More and more

– Underwhelming hardware (comparatively)

+ Better Hardware for Price

+ Flexibility to Install 3rd Party OS’

+ Excellent Mobile Application

+ Wide accessory compatibility

– Software still has beta elements

– The company has a much shorter NAS Market Experience

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Comment mettre un accent à une lettre majuscule À, É, È, Î, Ô, Û sur Mac

20 avril 2025 à 14:02

Pour celles et ceux qui peinent à écrire des majuscules accentuées sur un ordinateur Mac, ce guide apporte des solutions. Il y a des classiques raccourcis clavier à connaître, et d'autres manières encore plus commodes, à faire pâlir d'envie les personnes sous Windows.

Image Playground : « Phototèque non disponible », voici la solution…

Par : Fx
7 avril 2025 à 07:00
Image Playground Phototeque non disponible - Image Playground : "Phototèque non disponible", voici la solution...

Vous avez installé la dernière version de macOS, notamment pour profiter des fonctionnalités d’Apple Intelligence sur votre appareil compatible. Mais en lançant l’application Image Playground, vous êtes systématiquement confronté à ce message : « Photothèque non disponible – Ouvrez Photos pour utiliser Image Playground ». Le problème ? Une fois dans l’application Photos, aucun paramètre ne fait référence à Image Playground. Pas de menu caché, pas d’option dédiée. Pourtant, la solution s’y trouve bel et bien, mais elle n’est pas évidente à repérer.

Image Playground Phototeque non disponible - Image Playground : "Phototèque non disponible", voici la solution...

Pourquoi ce message d’erreur ?

Après avoir exploré les forums et tenté plusieurs pistes, vous avez sans doute constaté que rien ne semble résoudre ce problème. Et pour cause : Apple se contente d’un message vague, vous invitant à ouvrir Photos sans autre précision.

Le vrai souci se situe dans la configuration de votre photothèque. Si vous utilisez plusieurs photothèques (notamment après une migration, un autre support, ou depuis NAS), il est probable qu’aucune n’ait été définie comme photothèque système. C’est précisément ce qui bloque Image Playground.

Solution

Voici la procédure simple pour débloquer la situation :

  • Ouvrez l’application Photos
  • Dans la barre de menus, cliquez sur Photos > Réglages
  • Rendez-vous dans l’onglet Général
  • Dans la section Emplacement de la photothèque : puis cliquez sur Utiliser comme photothèque système

utiliser comme bibliotheque - Image Playground : "Phototèque non disponible", voici la solution...

Une fois cette opération effectuée, la modification est immédiatement prise en compte. Vous pouvez fermer l’application Photos. Relancez. Image Playground - Image Playground : "Phototèque non disponible", voici la solution...

Voilà, tout fonctionne correctement…

En résumé

Si Image Playground affiche le message « Photothèque non disponible », c’est probablement parce qu’aucune photothèque n’est définie comme photothèque système. Pour corriger cela, ouvrez l’application Photos, allez dans Photos > Réglages > Général, puis cliquez sur Utiliser comme photothèque système. Cette action permet à macOS de lier correctement Image Playground à votre photothèque. Relancez ensuite Image Playground : le problème est résolu.

Avec cette manipulation, Image Playground peut enfin accéder à votre photothèque. Les fonctionnalités d’Apple Intelligence deviennent pleinement opérationnelles.

Les Macs sont-ils vraiment plus protégés contre les virus que Windows ?

4 mars 2025 à 07:00

Une idée largement répandue veut que les Mac d'Apple soient plus sécurisés que les PC sous Windows. Mais, cette idée reçue est-elle toujours vraie en 2025 ?

The post Les Macs sont-ils vraiment plus protégés contre les virus que Windows ? first appeared on IT-Connect.

Minisforum MGA1 7600M XT eGPU Docking Station Review

Par : Rob Andrews
17 janvier 2025 à 18:00

Minisforum MGA1 Oculink GPU Dock Review

The Minisforum MGA1 Oculink GPU Dock is a purpose-built external graphics solution that combines portability with performance. It features an integrated AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT GPU, making it ideal for users who need scalable graphical performance for tasks like gaming, video editing, or 3D rendering. Unlike traditional eGPU docks that rely on USB4 or Thunderbolt, the MGA1 leverages the Oculink PCIe Gen 4 x4 interface, which delivers up to 64Gbps of bandwidth. This connection offers higher data throughput compared to USB4 or Thunderbolt 4, ensuring minimal bottlenecks for demanding applications. Additionally, the dock includes a robust set of connectivity options, such as three USB-A 10Gbps ports, one USB-C 65W Power Delivery output, and video outputs supporting up to three 8K displays through HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.0. Its design makes it a powerful and versatile addition to compact computing setups.

Minisforum MGA1 Review – Quick Conclusion

The Minisforum MGA1 Oculink GPU Dock is a thoughtfully designed external graphics solution that provides a substantial performance boost for compatible mini-PCs, laptops, and workstations. By utilizing the high-bandwidth Oculink PCIe Gen 4 x4 interface, it ensures minimal bottlenecking and smooth performance for gaming, video editing, and multitasking tasks. Its integrated AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT GPU delivers reliable mid-tier graphical power, making it a practical choice for professionals and gamers alike. The dock’s compact design, built-in 240W power supply, and efficient thermal management system enhance portability and ease of use, making it a convenient option for users transitioning between home, office, and travel setups.

While the reliance on Oculink limits its out-of-the-box compatibility to devices with this emerging standard, the availability of affordable M.2-to-Oculink adapters expands its usability to a wider range of systems. Additionally, the dock supports a USB-C fallback connection, though with reduced performance. Its ability to drive multiple 8K displays, combined with versatile USB connectivity, positions it as more than just an eGPU—it’s also a capable docking station. For users seeking a portable yet powerful external GPU solution that balances performance and convenience at a competitive price, the MGA1 is an appealing option that bridges the gap between compact computing and high-performance workloads.

BUILD QUALITY - 10/10
HARDWARE - 9/10
PERFORMANCE - 8/10
PRICE - 8/10
VALUE - 8/10


8.6
PROS
👍🏻High bandwidth through Oculink (64Gbps).
👍🏻Compact design with a built-in 240W power supply.
👍🏻Effective thermal management and low noise levels.
👍🏻Plug-and-play functionality for Oculink-enabled devices.
👍🏻Support for three 8K displays via HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.0.
👍🏻Versatile USB-C and USB-A connectivity.
👍🏻Significant performance improvements in gaming and professional workloads.
👍🏻Competitive pricing compared to USB4/Thunderbolt eGPU solutions.
CONS
👎🏻Limited compatibility due to Oculink’s niche adoption.
👎🏻USB-C fallback results in reduced performance.
👎🏻Requires additional adapters for non-Oculink systems, adding complexity.


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Oculink is the cornerstone of the MGA1’s performance advantage, providing significantly more bandwidth than USB4 or Thunderbolt 4. While Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 max out at 40Gbps, Oculink achieves up to 64Gbps, translating to roughly 8GB/s of real-world data transfer rates. This increased bandwidth directly benefits GPU-intensive tasks, reducing data transfer delays and improving frame rates in games or rendering times in creative applications. However, it’s important to note that Oculink is not yet widely adopted, limiting the MGA1’s compatibility to devices that support the interface. For systems without native Oculink ports, adapters are available to convert M.2 PCIe slots into Oculink connections, albeit with additional setup complexity. This positions the MGA1 as a forward-thinking device that offers unmatched performance for users with compatible systems but requires additional considerations for broader adoption.

Component Specification
GPU AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT
Memory 8GB GDDR6
Uplink Oculink 4i (PCIe Gen 4 x4)
Video Outputs 1x HDMI 2.1, 2x DisplayPort 2.0
USB Ports 1x USB-C PD (65W), 3x USB 3.2 Gen 2
Power Supply Built-in 240W GaN
Power Input 110-220V ~3A
Dimensions 247 x 128 x 46.5 mm
Weight 1.42 kg

The MGA1’s compact design enhances its appeal for users who prioritize portability. Weighing approximately 1.42 kg and featuring a slim form factor, the dock is easy to transport, making it suitable for both stationary and mobile setups. Its built-in 240W GaN power supply eliminates the need for bulky external power bricks, reducing clutter.

The dock is also equipped with advanced thermal management, utilizing ventilation on all sides to maintain optimal GPU temperatures. During testing, the cooling system performed efficiently, keeping noise levels at a minimum compared to the connected mini-PCs. These design choices make the MGA1 an attractive option for professionals and gamers who require occasional high-performance capabilities in a portable form factor.

Performance benchmarks of the MGA1 validate its capabilities as a reliable eGPU solution. The dock demonstrated significant improvements in synthetic tests such as 3DMark and FurMark, showcasing its ability to handle GPU-intensive tasks with ease. With a TDP rating of 120W, the AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT GPU draws between 90W and 110W during typical workloads, ensuring stable performance without exceeding power limitations.

For creative professionals, the MGA1 excelled in video editing and rendering tasks, significantly reducing processing times compared to integrated GPUs. Its ability to handle multiple workloads efficiently makes it a versatile tool for users seeking an upgrade without the need for a desktop GPU setup.

Compatibility is another critical aspect of the MGA1. While Oculink remains the ideal interface for maximum performance, the dock supports USB-C connections for reduced-speed operations. This fallback option allows users with systems lacking Oculink ports to still utilize the dock’s GPU capabilities, albeit with limitations.

For users with PCIe Gen 4 M.2 slots, adapters are available to bridge the compatibility gap, enabling Oculink functionality. However, these adapters may introduce additional setup steps, making them less user-friendly for non-technical users. As Oculink adoption increases in upcoming devices, the MGA1’s relevance and usability are expected to grow, aligning it well with future market trends.

Compared to other eGPU docks, the MGA1 offers a balanced mix of performance and convenience. Open-air GPU docks, such as the Minisforum DEG1 or Aoostar AG01, may provide more flexibility for custom configurations but often require external power supplies and are bulkier. On the other hand, USB4/Thunderbolt 4 eGPU solutions like the Ayaneo AG01 and OneXGPU2 offer broader compatibility but fall short in terms of bandwidth and real-world performance. The MGA1’s self-contained design, combined with its advanced connectivity and thermal management, makes it a compelling choice for users seeking a hassle-free eGPU solution.

In gaming scenarios, the MGA1 delivered consistent performance, particularly at 1080p and 1440p resolutions. The AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT GPU provided smooth frame rates in modern titles, with minimal bottlenecking thanks to the Oculink interface. While ultra-high resolutions like 4K revealed some limitations in bandwidth, the dock excelled in scenarios where data-intensive transfers were less critical. For casual gamers and enthusiasts, the MGA1 strikes a good balance between performance and portability, offering an effective solution for mid-tier gaming setups.

For professionals, the MGA1’s support for up to three 8K displays and its robust USB and video output options make it a versatile docking station. Whether used for multitasking across multiple monitors or rendering high-resolution content, the dock’s capabilities align well with the demands of creative workflows. Its compact and portable nature further enhances its utility, allowing professionals to transition seamlessly between home, office, and travel setups without compromising on performance.

Oculink vs Thunderbolt4/USB4?

Oculink offers a significant performance edge over Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 by leveraging the PCIe Gen 4 x4 interface, delivering up to 64Gbps of bandwidth compared to the 40Gbps limit of its competitors. This additional throughput results in tangible advantages for GPU-intensive tasks, such as gaming, rendering, and video editing, where data transfer rates directly impact performance. Oculink achieves this by providing a dedicated PCIe connection with minimal overhead, allowing for near-direct communication between the GPU and the host system. Thunderbolt 4 and USB4, on the other hand, introduce additional layers of protocol overhead and shared bandwidth, which can lead to bottlenecks in high-demand scenarios. For users seeking maximum performance, Oculink’s raw data transfer capabilities are unmatched, making it particularly suitable for applications where latency and throughput are critical. However, Oculink’s advantages come with notable limitations. Its adoption is still in its infancy, with only a limited number of devices, such as select mini-PCs and laptops, supporting the interface. This makes it less versatile than Thunderbolt 4 and USB4, which are widely implemented across modern consumer and professional devices. Furthermore, Oculink lacks the plug-and-play convenience of Thunderbolt and USB4, often requiring system restarts or cold boots for device recognition, as it operates more like an internal PCIe connection. In contrast, Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 prioritize ease of use, offering hot-swappable connections and seamless integration into a wide variety of ecosystems. These interfaces also support multi-functionality, including data transfer, video output, and power delivery, making them more versatile for general-purpose use.

From a pros-and-cons perspective, Oculink excels in raw performance and efficiency, making it ideal for power users and professionals who demand the highest data transfer rates for specific workloads. On the downside, its niche adoption and less intuitive setup process can be barriers for casual users. Conversely, Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 offer broader compatibility, user-friendly features, and a well-established ecosystem of peripherals, but their lower bandwidth and protocol overhead make them less suitable for tasks requiring maximum performance. Choosing between the two depends largely on user priorities: those seeking top-tier performance should consider Oculink, while users valuing flexibility and ease of use may prefer Thunderbolt 4 or USB4.

Minisforum MGA1 Review – Verdict

The Minisforum MGA1 Oculink GPU Dock is an innovative solution that combines high performance with portability. Its reliance on the emerging Oculink standard positions it as a forward-thinking product, but it also limits its immediate appeal to users with compatible systems. The dock excels in delivering substantial performance gains for GPU-intensive tasks while offering a compact and user-friendly design. For users with compatible systems or those willing to invest in adapters, the MGA1 offers a compelling mix of performance, portability, and convenience. Its design and functionality make it a valuable addition to compact computing setups, bridging the gap between portability and high-performance computing.

PROS of the Minisforum MGA1 eGPU CONS of the Minisforum MGA1 eGPU
  • High bandwidth through Oculink (64Gbps).
  • Compact design with a built-in 240W power supply.
  • Effective thermal management and low noise levels.
  • Plug-and-play functionality for Oculink-enabled devices.
  • Support for three 8K displays via HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.0.
  • Versatile USB-C and USB-A connectivity.
  • Significant performance improvements in gaming and professional workloads.
  • Competitive pricing compared to USB4/Thunderbolt eGPU solutions.
  • Limited compatibility due to Oculink’s niche adoption.
  • USB-C fallback results in reduced performance.
  • Requires additional adapters for non-Oculink systems, adding complexity.

The MGA1 is Available on Amazon for $569

The MGA1 is Available on AliExpress for $561 HERE

 



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Finally, for free advice about your setup, just leave a message in the comments below here at NASCompares.com and we will get back to you. Need Help? Where possible (and where appropriate) please provide as much information about your requirements, as then I can arrange the best answer and solution to your needs. Do not worry about your e-mail address being required, it will NOT be used in a mailing list and will NOT be used in any way other than to respond to your enquiry. [contact-form-7] TRY CHAT Terms and Conditions
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