What is the Difference Between Built-in and External GPUs? What is Better to Choose?

The choice between a built-in (integrated) GPU and an external GPU is crucial for users who require graphics processing for gaming, video editing, 3D rendering, or artificial intelligence computations. With the increasing demand for high-quality graphics and processing power, understanding the fundamental differences between these two types of GPUs is essential. In this article, we will explore how built-in and external GPUs function, compare their performance, discuss their pros and cons, and determine which one is better suited for different types of users.

What is a Built-in (Integrated) GPU?

A built-in GPU, also known as an integrated graphics processor, is a graphics processing unit that is embedded directly into a computer’s CPU (central processing unit) or chipset. Unlike dedicated GPUs, integrated graphics do not have their own dedicated video memory (VRAM) and instead share the system’s RAM.

How Does a Built-in GPU Work?

Integrated GPUs use the processing power and memory of the CPU to handle graphics-related tasks. While they have improved significantly in recent years, they are still less powerful compared to dedicated GPUs.

Popular Built-in GPUs and Why They Are Good

Several modern built-in GPUs provide excellent performance for casual computing and even light gaming. Some of the best integrated GPUs include:

1. Intel Iris Xe Graphics

   • Found in 11th and 12th Gen Intel Core processors, Iris Xe Graphics offers decent performance for lightweight gaming, video streaming, and basic content creation.

   • Supports hardware-accelerated video decoding and AI processing.

   • Good power efficiency, making it ideal for ultrabooks and business laptops.

2. AMD Radeon 680M (RDNA 2 Architecture)

   • Found in AMD Ryzen 6000 series APUs, this integrated GPU is one of the most powerful on the market.

   • Capable of running modern games at lower settings.

   • Offers excellent efficiency and compatibility with AMD’s Smart Access Memory (SAM) technology.

3. Apple M1/M2 GPU

   • Integrated into Apple’s custom ARM-based processors, the Apple M1 and M2 GPUs deliver exceptional performance for video editing and creative workloads.

   • Optimized for macOS, providing smooth performance in professional applications like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro.

Advantages of a Built-in GPU

• Power Efficiency: Consumes less power than external GPUs, making it ideal for laptops and ultrabooks.

• Cost-effective: No need for an additional GPU purchase.

• Compact Design: Laptops and small form-factor desktops can remain lightweight and portable.

• Good for Everyday Use: Ideal for web browsing, office work, streaming, and some light gaming.

Disadvantages of a Built-in GPU

• Limited Performance: Not suitable for demanding tasks like AAA gaming or professional video editing.

• Shared Memory: Uses system RAM, reducing available memory for other tasks.

• Lack of Upgradability: Cannot be replaced or upgraded independently from the CPU.

What is an External GPU?

An external GPU (eGPU) is a dedicated graphics processor housed in an external enclosure, connected to a computer via a high-speed interface like Thunderbolt 3/4 or USB-C. These GPUs are often used with laptops to provide desktop-class graphics performance.

How Does an External GPU Work?

External GPUs function by offloading graphical computations from the laptop or desktop’s built-in GPU. They are connected through a PCIe-based enclosure and typically include their own dedicated power supply and cooling system.

Who is an External GPU Good for?

External GPUs benefit users who require high-performance graphics but prefer the portability of a laptop.

1. Gamers

   • Those who own ultrabooks or lightweight laptops but want to play AAA games at high settings.

   • eGPUs allow gaming laptops to be more portable when unplugged and powerful when docked.

2. Content Creators

   • Video editors, 3D artists, and animators benefit from the additional power an external GPU provides.

   • Faster rendering times and real-time previews in software like Adobe Premiere Pro and Blender.

3. AI Researchers & Developers

   • AI and deep learning tasks require powerful GPUs, which external solutions can provide without investing in a full desktop setup.

4. VR Enthusiasts

   • Virtual reality applications require significant GPU power, and an external GPU can enable a laptop to run VR headsets smoothly.

Advantages of an External GPU

• Upgradability: Can be replaced with a newer or more powerful GPU.

• Better Performance: Provides a significant performance boost compared to built-in GPUs.

• Versatility: Can be used across multiple devices.

Disadvantages of an External GPU

• Expensive: Requires an external GPU enclosure in addition to the GPU itself.

• Reduced Bandwidth: Thunderbolt and USB-C interfaces limit performance compared to a fully dedicated internal GPU.

• Less Portability: Adds bulk, reducing the overall portability of a laptop setup.

Key Differences Between Built-in and External GPUs

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose a Built-in GPU if:

• You need a laptop for daily tasks like browsing, office work, and media streaming.

• You want longer battery life and a compact device.

• You do light gaming or casual photo/video editing.

• Budget is a key consideration.

Choose an External GPU if:

• You require high-end gaming performance on a laptop.

• You do professional video editing, 3D rendering, or AI development.

• You already own a lightweight laptop but need more graphics power when working at a desk.

In Conclusion

The decision between a built-in and an external GPU depends entirely on your specific needs. Built-in GPUs offer cost efficiency, portability, and power-saving benefits, making them great for everyday computing and light creative work. On the other hand, external GPUs provide substantial performance boosts, making them ideal for gaming, professional workloads, and AI research.

If you need a balance between portability and power, an external GPU can be a great investment. However, if you don’t require intense graphics performance, a modern built-in GPU like Intel Iris Xe, AMD Radeon 680M, or Apple’s M1/M2 GPU may be more than enough.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on how much graphics power you need and how flexible you want your setup to be.