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AKiTiO Node vs Alienware Graphics Amplifier: Comparison
What is the difference between AKiTiO Node and Alienware Graphics Amplifier?
Start with psu wattage, because it is the widest measured gap between them: AKiTiO Node 500 W against Alienware Graphics Amplifier 460 W, 8% in favour of AKiTiO Node. Gpu compatibility is not the same on both, GTX 10-series through RTX 20-series, dual-slot cards on the AKiTiO Node versus GTX 10-series through RTX 20-series and equivalent AMD cards,... on the Alienware Graphics Amplifier.
AKiTiO Node vs Alienware Graphics Amplifier: which one fits your build
Buy the AKiTiO Node for budget buyers running GTX 10-series or RTX 20-series dual-slot cards and anyone wanting the smallest, cheapest AKiTiO enclosure, though it is not built for cards drawing near or above the 500W ceiling and anyone wanting current Thunderbolt 4/5 or USB4 bandwidth. It is equally the pick for simple builds that don't need USB hub or Ethernet ports on the box. It is not the one for buyers who could instead get the Node Titan's 650W PSU for a modest premium. it is the wrong buy for anyone wanting USB-C laptop charging through the eGPU cable. The same goes for owners of a compatible older Alienware or Dell G-Series laptop with the Amplifier Port. Avoid it for any laptop without the specific Alienware Graphics Amplifier Port, since the connector is proprietary. Our rating of the AKiTiO Node (6/10): A cheap, no-frills TB3 box that's been outclassed by AKiTiO's own Node Titan. Our rating of the Alienware Graphics Amplifier (6/10): strong bandwidth for its era, but locked to a short list of older Alienware and Dell G-Series laptops.
Frequently asked questions
Do the AKiTiO Node and Alienware Graphics Amplifier differ on max gpu length?
Yes. Max GPU Length reads 300 mm on the AKiTiO Node versus 290 mm on the Alienware Graphics Amplifier.
Is the Cooling Type the same on the AKiTiO Node and Alienware Graphics Amplifier?
It is. Both are listed at Active Fan, so it is not a reason to pick one over the other.
Specs and benchmarks
Brand
- AKiTiO Node
- AKiTiO
- Alienware Graphics Amplifier
- Alienware
Connection Standard
- AKiTiO Node
- Thunderbolt 3
- Alienware Graphics Amplifier
- Proprietary
Model Number
- AKiTiO Node
- Node
- Alienware Graphics Amplifier
- Graphics Amplifier
Extra Ports
- AKiTiO Node
- None onboard beyond the GPU's own outputs
- Alienware Graphics Amplifier
- 4
PSU Wattage
- AKiTiO Node
- 500 WBest
- Alienware Graphics Amplifier
- 460 W-8%
Max GPU Length
- AKiTiO Node
- 300 mmBest
- Alienware Graphics Amplifier
- 290 mm-3%
Cooling Type
- AKiTiO Node
- Active Fan
- Alienware Graphics Amplifier
- Active Fan
GPU Compatibility
- AKiTiO Node
- GTX 10-series through RTX 20-series, dual-slot cards
- Alienware Graphics Amplifier
- GTX 10-series through RTX 20-series and equivalent AMD cards, dual-slot
Price
- AKiTiO Node
- Launched around $299 (2017)
- Alienware Graphics Amplifier
- Launched around $299 (2015)
Which one should you pick?
Choose AKiTiO Node if you want the higher PSU wattage (500 W vs 460 W) and the higher max GPU length (300 mm vs 290 mm).
Choose Alienware Graphics Amplifier if you already have it on hand or find it at a lower price.
Price comparison
| Retailer | AKiTiO Node | Alienware Graphics Amplifier |
|---|---|---|
| B&H Photo | $299.00 View on B&H Photo | |
| Amazon | $299.00 View on Amazon |
Disclaimer: The price and specification of the given product may differ from the actual product. Please confirm on the retailer's website before buying.
Verdict
AKiTiO Node
6 / 10 Expert Rating
A cheap, no-frills TB3 box that's been outclassed by AKiTiO's own Node Titan.
Alienware Graphics Amplifier
6 / 10 Expert Rating
Strong bandwidth for its era, but locked to a short list of older Alienware and Dell G-Series laptops.