Razer's External GPU Enclosure "Core X V2," Now Easier to Unleash GPU Performance with Thunderbolt 5 Support, Launches October 10
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/023/G002318/20251002031/
Editorial Department: Toshiaki Konishi | 2025/10/02 05:49 (UTC)
On October 2, 2025, Razer announced that the external GPU enclosure “Razer Core X V2,” compatible with Thunderbolt 5 connections, and the Thunderbolt dock “Razer Thunderbolt 5 Dock” series will be released on October 10.
Thunderbolt 5 Dock Chroma (left) and Core X V2 (right) Thumbnail image for Image Gallery No.002 / Razer’s external GPU box “Core X V2,” which makes it easier to unlock GPU performance with Thunderbolt 5, launches on October 10
The suggested retail prices (including tax) are as follows:
- Core X V2: 56,980 yen
- Thunderbolt 5 Dock Chroma: 69,980 yen
- Thunderbolt 5 Dock Mercury White: 67,980 yen
The Core X V2 is an external device that allows users to significantly boost graphics performance when connected to a notebook PC by installing their own graphics card and ATX power supply unit into its air-cooled fan-equipped enclosure. It works not only with Thunderbolt 5 but also with PCs supporting Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 (equivalent to Thunderbolt 3). However, it cannot be used with PCs that do not support the Thunderbolt standard—such as those equipped only with USB 3.x Type-C interfaces.
Usage scenario combining a notebook PC and Core X V2 Thumbnail image for Image Gallery No.003 / Razer’s external GPU box “Core X V2,” which makes it easier to unlock GPU performance with Thunderbolt 5, launches on October 10
The maximum dimensions of the graphics cards compatible with Core X V2 are 362.7 mm (W) × 185.1 mm (D) × 82 mm (H), so it should accommodate any graphics card that fits within a four-slot width.
Internal view showing installed graphics card and ATX power supply in the Core X V2 Thumbnail image for Image Gallery No.004 / Razer’s external GPU box “Core X V2,” which makes it easier to unlock GPU performance with Thunderbolt 5, launches on October 10
Since this is a device specifically designed for graphics card connectivity, users should note that it does not include USB hub functionality.
On the other hand, the Thunderbolt 5 Dock features 11 different types of interfaces, including a Thunderbolt 5 port, USB ports, a Gigabit Ethernet-capable wired LAN port, and audio output.
Thunderbolt 5 Dock Chroma, featuring Razer Chroma-compatible colored LED illumination on its bottom surface Thumbnail image for Image Gallery No.005 / Razer’s external GPU box “Core X V2,” which makes it easier to unlock GPU performance with Thunderbolt 5, launches on October 10
One interesting feature of this product is its built-in M.2 SSD slot. Since most notebook PCs do not allow users to replace or expand internal SSDs, this could serve as a viable solution for expanding storage on such devices. However, it’s worth noting that modern PCIe-connected M.2 SSDs generate considerable heat during operation, so there remains some concern about whether the Thunderbolt 5 Dock provides adequate cooling.
Photo showing the SSD slot of the Thunderbolt 5 Dock Mercury White Thumbnail image for Image Gallery No.006 / Razer’s external GPU box “Core X V2,” which makes it easier to unlock GPU performance with Thunderbolt 5, launches on October 10
Although the dock is relatively expensive for a docking station, gamers who find value in its built-in SSD capability may want to consider it.