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AOOSTAR AG02 vs Razer Core X: Comparison
AOOSTAR AG02 vs Razer Core X cooling type compared
Cooling type is the dividing line, AOOSTAR AG02 Open-Air against Razer Core X Active Fan. Add psu wattage to that, 800 W on the AOOSTAR AG02 versus 650 W on the Razer Core X, and the pattern holds. There is a split on connection standard as well, OCuLink on the AOOSTAR AG02 versus Thunderbolt 3 on the Razer Core X. Gpu compatibility is not the same on both, GTX 10-Series Through RTX 4090 on the AOOSTAR AG02 versus Most desktop cards up to ~330mm length; no factory-installed... on the Razer Core X.
AOOSTAR AG02 vs Razer Core X: which one fits your build
Take the AOOSTAR AG02 for handhelds and mini PCs with a native OCuLink port. Nothing else gives this much bandwidth for the money. It is equally the pick for RTX 4090-class cards, where the 800W supply and open frame remove both the power and thermal limits. It is the wrong buy for anyone who needs the dock to charge the host. OCuLink carries no power at all. The Razer Core X is the one to take for shoppers hunting the enclosure on the used/discounted market, though it is not built for anyone wanting the fastest Thunderbolt 5 bandwidth available today and Apple Silicon Mac owners needing official eGPU support. It also earns its place with buyers who want Core X Chroma capacity without paying for RGB lighting. Our rating of the AOOSTAR AG02 (7/10): the fastest eGPU link you can buy for under $200, with a power button that does not work. Buy it for the bandwidth, plan around the defect. Our rating of the Razer Core X (7.5/10): A no-frills, high-value Thunderbolt 3 enclosure that remains one of the best-regarded budget eGPU boxes even years after launch.
Which is cheaper, AOOSTAR AG02 or Razer Core X?
The Razer Core X asks 50% more, $300 against $200 for the AOOSTAR AG02.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, AOOSTAR AG02 or Razer Core X?
The Razer Core X asks 50% more, $300 against $200 for the AOOSTAR AG02.
Specs and benchmarks
Brand
- AOOSTAR AG02
- AOOSTAR
- Razer Core X
- Razer
Connection Standard
- AOOSTAR AG02
- OCuLink
- Razer Core X
- Thunderbolt 3
Model Number
- AOOSTAR AG02
- AG02
- Razer Core X
- Core X
PSU Wattage
- AOOSTAR AG02
- 800 WBest
- Razer Core X
- 650 W-19%
Cooling Type
- AOOSTAR AG02
- Open-Air
- Razer Core X
- Active Fan (rear exhaust)
GPU Compatibility
- AOOSTAR AG02
- GTX 10-Series Through RTX 4090
- Razer Core X
- Most desktop cards up to ~330mm length; no factory-installed GPU
Price
- AOOSTAR AG02
- Under $200
- Razer Core X
- Launched at $299.99 (2019)
Which one should you pick?
Choose AOOSTAR AG02 if you want the higher PSU wattage (800 W vs 650 W).
Choose Razer Core X if you already have it on hand or find it at a lower price.
Price comparison
| Retailer | AOOSTAR AG02 | Razer Core X |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | $200.00 View on Amazon | $299.99 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
AOOSTAR AG02
7 / 10 Expert Rating
The fastest eGPU link you can buy for under $200, with a power button that does not work.
Razer Core X
7.5 / 10 Expert Rating
A no-frills, high-value Thunderbolt 3 enclosure that remains one of the best-regarded budget eGPU boxes even years after launch.