5K iMac and External GPU

[Glockworkorange]

I have a 2017 5K.

I know macOS has had support for external GPU's since High Sierra.

I've heard using external GPU's with an all-in-one is problematic.

What are the problems with me using an external GPU with an iMac? Is it a performance hit? Is there any way to avoid those problems?

For example, I have an LG 5K hooked to the iMac---would I hook up the external and try to just drive the LG? Would that fix the problem?

Any help would be appreciated!

 

[nihil0]

Is it a performance hit? Is there any way to avoid those problems?

For example, I have an LG 5K hooked to the iMac---would I hook up the external and try to just drive the LG? Would that fix the problem?

Yes. No.

Yes.

 

[ruslan120]

I've explored this exact topic since I could not find an answer.

I've heard using external GPU's with an all-in-one is problematic.

Not really. Just in bootcamp, and the issue is not with all-in-ones. It's with bootcamp drivers if you have a Mac with a discrete GPU (driver conflicts).

What are the problems with me using an external GPU with an iMac? Is it a performance hit? Is there any way to avoid those problems?

No problems! It works great.

In terms of performance you lose a certain percentage over TB3, unavoidable. It still has benefits.

With a 2017:

With a 2019:

 

[Glockworkorange]

Thank you!!