Docking stations are merging with external GPU bases — Minisforum's DEG2 even has a free SSD slot and TB5 compatibility, but I just wish it had more ports
Users must provide their own GPU and power supply
· TechRadarNews By Efosa Udinmwen published 30 December 2025
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- Minisforum DEG2 docking station prioritizes PCIe bandwidth over docking convenience
- Thunderbolt 5 and OCuLink define the entire design philosophy
- Internal M.2 support adds storage expansion directly inside the enclosure
Desktop-class expansion is increasingly being folded into what used to be simple laptop docking station designs.
The Minisforum DEG2 is a compact external GPU dock that combines high-bandwidth connectivity, internal storage support, and desktop-grade power flexibility in a single enclosure.
It focuses on PCIe-level performance rather than peripheral aggregation and targets users who want storage expansion without committing to a full desktop system.
DEG2 prioritizes bandwidth over ports
The DEG2 uses dual host connectivity, combining OCuLink based on PCIe 4.0 x4 with Thunderbolt 5 support.
OCuLink supports up to 64Gbps, while Thunderbolt 5 can reach 80Gbps under optimal conditions.
This design allows the dock to serve systems that support direct PCIe tunneling as well as systems limited to Thunderbolt connections.
Minisforum lists two Thunderbolt 5 ports on the rear, offering asymmetric power delivery depending on port usage, alongside a 2.5GbE Ethernet connection and USB 3.2 support.
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