If you’re looking for the best external GPU enclosures for creatives in 2026, I recommend considering options like the Razer Core X V2, Sonnet 750ex, RIITOP OCuLink dock, and ONEXGPU 2nd Gen. These enclosures support high-speed Thunderbolt 3/4, PCIe 4.0, and powerful GPUs, making them perfect for editing, rendering, and gaming. Stay tuned to discover the top features and which one fits your setup best.
Key Takeaways
- Compatibility with Thunderbolt 3/4, USB4, and PCIe 4.0/3.0 interfaces ensures broad device support for creative workflows.
- Support for high-speed data transfer up to 40Gbps or 80Gbps optimizes GPU performance and minimizes lag.
- Enclosures offer powerful wattage options (130W to 750W) for demanding GPUs, ensuring stable and full utilization.
- Durable, lightweight designs with active cooling and sleek aesthetics facilitate portability and efficient operation.
- Compatibility with the latest GPU architectures (NVIDIA RTX 50, AMD RX 7000, RDNA3) future-proofs creative setups.
| Thunderbolt3/USB4 External GPU Dock Station |  | High-Performance Powerhouse | Interface Type: Thunderbolt 3 / USB4 | Graphics Card Compatibility: Supports PCIe x16 GPUs | Power Supply Support: Supports multiple power supplies (ATX, SFX, DC) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Box 750ex – External GPU Chassis |  | Creative Professional | Interface Type: Thunderbolt 3 | Graphics Card Compatibility: AMD Radeon, NVIDIA RTX, TITAN, Quadro | Power Supply Support: 750W power supply included | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| RIITOP OCuLink eGPU Dock for PCIe 4.0 x16 |  | Advanced Connectivity | Interface Type: OCuLink PCIe 4.0 x16 | Graphics Card Compatibility: NVIDIA RTX 50, AMD RX 7000 Series | Power Supply Support: Requires external ATX/SFX power supply | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| ONEXGPU 2nd Gen eGPU Dock with AMD Radeon RX 7800M |  | Portable Power | Interface Type: Thunderbolt 3/4, USB4, OCuLink | Graphics Card Compatibility: AMD Radeon RX 7800M, various desktop GPUs | Power Supply Support: 330W GaN fast charger | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mini eGPU Dock with Dual Power and Thunderbolt 3 |  | Versatile Expansion | Interface Type: Thunderbolt 3/4, USB4, PCIe 16X | Graphics Card Compatibility: Desktop PCIe 16X cards | Power Supply Support: Dual power inputs (ATX 24Pin, 12V DC) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| StarTech Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Expansion Chassis |  | Enterprise Ready | Interface Type: Thunderbolt 3 PCIe | Graphics Card Compatibility: High-performance PCIe cards, no restrictions | Power Supply Support: Internal power supplies via PCIe slot, active cooling | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Card Dock with Aluminum Housing |  | Silent Operation | Interface Type: Thunderbolt 3, USB4 | Graphics Card Compatibility: PCIe cards up to 180mm x 28mm x 80mm | Power Supply Support: 60W power via PCIe slot, external power supply | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| RIITOP USB4 eGPU Enclosure for PCIe 4.0 Graphics |  | Ultimate Compatibility | Interface Type: Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 | Graphics Card Compatibility: PCIe 4.0 x16 cards | Power Supply Support: Requires external power supply, compatible with PCIe 4.0 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Razer Core X V2 External eGPU Enclosure with PCIe 4.0 |  | Gaming & Content | Interface Type: Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 / Thunderbolt 5 | Graphics Card Compatibility: PCIe desktop cards (up to 4 slots wide) | Power Supply Support: Supports PCIe gen 4 power delivery, PSU sold separately | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| External GPU Enclosure Dock for Thunderbolt 3/4 |  | Budget-Friendly Efficiency | Interface Type: Thunderbolt 3/4, USB4 | Graphics Card Compatibility: NVIDIA RTX 50, AMD RX 7000 Series cards | Power Supply Support: External power supply (not included), supports high wattage GPUs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Box 750ex - External GPU Chassis
Boosts Graphics Performance - Connects a high-performance GPU card to your computer with Thunderbolt 3 ports. Mac &...
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Thunderbolt3/USB4 External GPU Dock Station
If you’re a creative professional looking to boost your GPU performance without sacrificing portability, the Thunderbolt3/USB4 External GPU Dock Station is a top choice. It supports lightning-fast 40Gbps data transfer and is compatible with NVIDIA, PCIe, and Daisy Chain setups. Easy to install on macOS 10.13.4+ and compatible with NUC, laptops, and gaming consoles, it markedly enhances gaming and rendering performance. Made from durable aluminum, it features dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, Ethernet, and an M.2 NVMe SSD slot. With 60W PD charging and flexible power options, it’s a powerful, portable solution for expanding external device connections and elevating your creative workflow.
- Interface Type:Thunderbolt 3 / USB4
- Graphics Card Compatibility:Supports PCIe x16 GPUs
- Power Supply Support:Supports multiple power supplies (ATX, SFX, DC)
- Connectivity Ports:2 Thunderbolt 3, Ethernet, M.2 SSD slot
- Size / Dimensions:~254 x 162 x 41mm
- Cooling Method:Aluminum alloy, passive cooling
- Additional Feature:Supports Daisy Chain setup
- Additional Feature:Includes M.2 NVMe SSD slot
- Additional Feature:Made from aluminum alloy
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RIITOP OCuLink eGPU Dock 64Gpbs Oculink SFF-8612 External GPU Enclosure for PCIe 4.0 x16 Graphics Cards
OCuLink eGPU Dock: RIITOP OCuLink eGPU Docking Station Compensates for the performance limitations of graphics card on thin/...
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Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Box 750ex – External GPU Chassis
The Sonnet eGPU Breakaway Box 750ex stands out as an excellent choice for creatives who need to boost their graphics performance with reliable external enclosures. It connects high-performance GPU cards via Thunderbolt 3, supporting both Mac and Windows systems (excluding M1 Macs for GPU use). Compatible with AMD Radeon VII, RX series, Vega, Pro W, NVIDIA GeForce RTX, TITAN, and Quadro, it’s versatile for demanding tasks like editing, rendering, and color grading. The 750W power supply future-proofs your setup, while four USB Type A ports and an Ethernet port add connectivity options. Overall, it’s a robust solution for professional creatives seeking enhanced graphics capabilities.
- Interface Type:Thunderbolt 3
- Graphics Card Compatibility:AMD Radeon, NVIDIA RTX, TITAN, Quadro
- Power Supply Support:750W power supply included
- Connectivity Ports:4 USB Type A, Ethernet
- Size / Dimensions:Compact, designed for desktop use
- Cooling Method:Active cooling with fan
- Additional Feature:Compatible with Pro W, Pro WX GPUs
- Additional Feature:Features USB Type A ports
- Additional Feature:Equipped with Gigabit Ethernet
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ONE XPLAYER ONEXGPU 2-2nd Generation eGPU Graphic Card Dock Expansion Card with AMD Radeon RX 7800M, 12GB GDDR6 RDNA3 Architecture M.2 2280 Oculink Thunderbolt 3 and 4
ONEXGPU 2 supports Laptop, PC, and Handheld Console PC with Thunderbolt 3/4, USB 4, or OCuLink ports. Also...
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RIITOP OCuLink eGPU Dock for PCIe 4.0 x16
Designed for users with Oculink SFF-8612 ports, the RIITOP OCuLink eGPU Dock delivers exceptional PCIe 4.0 x16 bandwidth, making it ideal for creatives and professionals who need high-performance graphics on thin or older laptops, mini PCs, or gaming rigs. It supports the latest NVIDIA RTX 50 Series and AMD RX 7000 Series GPUs, with compatibility across Windows, Linux, and Mac OS (AMD only). Its open design accommodates various card sizes, and it requires a matching power supply. The dock provides 64 Gbps bandwidth, perfect for AI, rendering, video editing, and gaming, elevating your setup’s graphics capabilities profoundly.
- Interface Type:OCuLink PCIe 4.0 x16
- Graphics Card Compatibility:NVIDIA RTX 50, AMD RX 7000 Series
- Power Supply Support:Requires external ATX/SFX power supply
- Connectivity Ports:Oculink, multiple video, USB, Ethernet
- Size / Dimensions:Open design, supports various sizes
- Cooling Method:Passive, open design
- Additional Feature:Supports AI computing workloads
- Additional Feature:Open design for various cards
- Additional Feature:Supports large graphics cards
ONEXGPU 2nd Gen eGPU Dock with AMD Radeon RX 7800M
For creatives seeking top-tier performance on the go, the ONEXGPU 2nd Gen eGPU Dock with AMD Radeon RX 7800M stands out thanks to its powerful RDNA3-based graphics card, which outperforms many high-end laptop GPUs like the RTX 4070M. It supports Thunderbolt 3/4, USB 4, and OCuLink, making it highly versatile for laptops, PCs, and handheld consoles like the Legion Go. Its compact, lightweight design (1.56kg) packs extensive features, including dual HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, SSD expansion up to 4TB, and gigabit Ethernet. With a 330W GaN charger, it delivers robust power, combining portability with professional-grade performance for gaming, editing, and demanding workflows.
- Interface Type:Thunderbolt 3/4, USB4, OCuLink
- Graphics Card Compatibility:AMD Radeon RX 7800M, various desktop GPUs
- Power Supply Support:330W GaN fast charger
- Connectivity Ports:USB-C, USB-A, Ethernet, multiple video outputs
- Size / Dimensions:Portable, around 229mm x 175mm x 43mm
- Cooling Method:Passive cooling, aluminum enclosure
- Additional Feature:Built-in AMD RX 7800M GPU
- Additional Feature:Supports up to four displays
- Additional Feature:Includes 330W GaN fast charger
Mini eGPU Dock with Dual Power and Thunderbolt 3
If you’re seeking a compact, versatile external GPU solution that can handle demanding creative tasks, the Mini eGPU Dock with Dual Power and Thunderbolt 3 stands out. It connects via Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, or USB4, expanding your system’s PCIe 16X slot for desktop graphics cards, SSDs, sound cards, and network adapters. Powered by a dual supply—ATX 24Pin and DC 12V—it delivers reliable power to high-performance GPUs and peripherals. Its portable design measures about 9.45 x 6.69 x 1.57 inches, making it perfect for laptops, small PCs, or handheld devices, providing plug-and-play upgrades for creative workflows.
- Interface Type:Thunderbolt 3/4, USB4, PCIe 16X
- Graphics Card Compatibility:Desktop PCIe 16X cards
- Power Supply Support:Dual power inputs (ATX 24Pin, 12V DC)
- Connectivity Ports:Dual power, external connections, PCIe 16X slot
- Size / Dimensions:Compact, ~9.45 x 6.69 x 1.57 inches
- Cooling Method:Passive with some active cooling options
- Additional Feature:Dual power supply capability
- Additional Feature:Supports PCIE X4 SSDs
- Additional Feature:Portable compact design
StarTech Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Expansion Chassis
The StarTech Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Expansion Chassis stands out as an excellent choice for creative professionals seeking versatile expansion options. It adds PCIe support to Thunderbolt 3 and 4 devices, with dual x16 slots delivering up to 32Gbps bandwidth. Its toolless, durable aluminum design makes setup a breeze, while the built-in fan ensures active cooling for sustained performance. Supporting high-resolution video outputs up to 8K or dual 4K, it’s perfect for connecting external displays. Compatibility with macOS and Windows, along with TAA compliance, makes it flexible for various workflows. It’s ideal for expanding connectivity with video capture cards, NVMe drives, and more, all without GPU support.
- Interface Type:Thunderbolt 3 PCIe
- Graphics Card Compatibility:High-performance PCIe cards, no restrictions
- Power Supply Support:Internal power supplies via PCIe slot, active cooling
- Connectivity Ports:Thunderbolt 3/4, daisy chain, video outputs
- Size / Dimensions:Toolless, durable, specific dimensions not listed
- Cooling Method:Built-in active fan
- Additional Feature:Supports 8K/5K video output
- Additional Feature:Daisy chain multiple devices
- Additional Feature:Toolless setup design
Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Card Dock with Aluminum Housing
The Thunderbolt 3 PCIe Card Dock with Aluminum Housing stands out as an ideal choice for creatives who need high-speed, versatile expansion for their laptops or desktops. It supports PCIe 3.0 x16 cards, with data transfer speeds up to 40Gbps via Thunderbolt 3, making it perfect for high-performance tasks like video capture, NVMe storage, or fiber connections. Its all-aluminum chassis provides passive cooling, ensuring silent operation. Compatible with Windows, Linux, and MacOS, it’s driverless and easy to set up. With a compact design and a 60W power supply, it’s a reliable, stylish solution to expand connectivity and boost performance seamlessly.
- Interface Type:Thunderbolt 3, USB4
- Graphics Card Compatibility:PCIe cards up to 180mm x 28mm x 80mm
- Power Supply Support:60W power via PCIe slot, external power supply
- Connectivity Ports:External PCIe slot, USB, video outputs, power
- Size / Dimensions:Approx. 7.55 x 2.01 x 3.9 inches
- Cooling Method:Passive aluminum design
- Additional Feature:Supports PCIe cards up to 180mm
- Additional Feature:Passive aluminum cooling
- Additional Feature:Supports multiple card types
RIITOP USB4 eGPU Enclosure for PCIe 4.0 Graphics
For creatives seeking a high-performance external GPU solution, the RIITOP USB4 eGPU Enclosure stands out thanks to its support for PCIe 4.0 x16 graphics cards and blazing 40Gbps data transfer speeds. It’s compatible with the latest NVIDIA RTX 50 and AMD RX 7000 series GPUs, making it ideal for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and AI computing. The enclosure supports USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 interfaces, ensuring broad compatibility with Windows, Linux, and Mac OS devices. Easy to install, it features an open design that accommodates various card sizes. This enclosure delivers exceptional performance, bridging the gap between powerful GPUs and portable laptops or compact workstations.
- Interface Type:Thunderbolt 4 / USB4
- Graphics Card Compatibility:PCIe 4.0 x16 cards
- Power Supply Support:Requires external power supply, compatible with PCIe 4.0
- Connectivity Ports:USB4, Thunderbolt 4, multiple video outputs
- Size / Dimensions:Medium size, detailed dimensions not specified
- Cooling Method:Passive, open design
- Additional Feature:Compatible with PCIe 4.0 x16 cards
- Additional Feature:Supports latest NVIDIA AMD GPUs
- Additional Feature:Open design for various card sizes
Razer Core X V2 External eGPU Enclosure with PCIe 4.0
If you’re looking to supercharge your laptop with desktop-class graphics, the Razer Core X V2 stands out by supporting PCIe Gen 4, ensuring blazing-fast data transfer speeds. This enclosure transforms compatible Windows laptops and handhelds into powerful gaming or content creation stations. It supports NVIDIA and AMD GPUs up to four slots wide, with easy tool-free GPU and PSU swaps. The vented steel chassis and 120mm active fan keep temperatures in check during demanding tasks. Connecting via Thunderbolt 4 or 5, it delivers up to 80 Gbps bandwidth and 140W power. Setup is straightforward, making it ideal for professionals who want high performance on the go.
- Interface Type:Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 / Thunderbolt 5
- Graphics Card Compatibility:PCIe desktop cards (up to 4 slots wide)
- Power Supply Support:Supports PCIe gen 4 power delivery, PSU sold separately
- Connectivity Ports:Thunderbolt 4/5, USB-C, multiple video outputs
- Size / Dimensions:Large (approx. 16.59 x 7.76 x 8.51 inches)
- Cooling Method:Active cooling fan
- Additional Feature:Supports Thunderbolt 4/5
- Additional Feature:Features 120mm active fan
- Additional Feature:Toolless GPU/PSU upgrade
External GPU Enclosure Dock for Thunderbolt 3/4
Designed for creators who demand high-performance graphics, external GPU enclosure docks supporting Thunderbolt 3 and 4 offer seamless compatibility with a wide range of laptops and mini PCs. These docks support NVIDIA RTX 50 Series and AMD RX 7000 Series GPUs, making them ideal for gaming, AI, 3D modeling, and rendering. They feature a certified JHL7440 controller and include ports like USB A, Thunderbolt 4, and daisy chain options for added versatility. Keep in mind, they don’t include power supplies or graphics cards, so you’ll need to supply your own. Proper installation and connection are vital for excellent performance and safety.
- Interface Type:Thunderbolt 3/4, USB4
- Graphics Card Compatibility:NVIDIA RTX 50, AMD RX 7000 Series cards
- Power Supply Support:External power supply (not included), supports high wattage GPUs
- Connectivity Ports:Thunderbolt 3/4, daisy chain ports, USB
- Size / Dimensions:Compact, ~8 x 8 inches
- Cooling Method:Passive, vented chassis
- Additional Feature:Compatible with NVIDIA RTX 50 series
- Additional Feature:Daisy chain port included
- Additional Feature:Supports high-performance workloads
Factors to Consider When Choosing an External GPU Enclosure for Creatives
When choosing an external GPU enclosure, I focus on how well it matches my device’s compatibility and performance needs. I also consider the power supply and connectivity options to guarantee smooth and reliable operation. Finally, size and portability matter, especially if I plan to take my setup on the go.
Compatibility With Devices
Choosing the right external GPU enclosure starts with guaranteeing it’s compatible with your device’s connection interface and operating system. You need to verify that the enclosure supports your device’s port, whether it’s Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, USB4, or OCuLink, to ensure proper connectivity. It’s also essential to confirm compatibility with your operating system—Windows, macOS, or Linux—to avoid driver issues. Additionally, check if the enclosure supports your specific GPU model and size, including length, width, and power needs, for maximum performance. Make sure your device has the necessary ports and bandwidth capabilities, like 40Gbps or higher, to handle high-speed data transfer. Matching the hardware specs with your device’s power output and expansion requirements guarantees seamless integration and reliable operation.
Performance and Speed
To get the most out of your external GPU enclosure, prioritizing high data transfer speeds is essential, as this directly impacts performance and latency. Look for enclosures supporting 40Gbps via Thunderbolt 3 or 4, or USB4, to guarantee minimal lag and maximum throughput. Choose models with PCIe 3.0 x4 or higher interfaces, providing the bandwidth necessary for modern high-performance graphics cards. Verify compatibility with the latest GPU architectures, like NVIDIA RTX 50 Series or AMD RX 7000 Series, to enhance speed and stability. Additionally, consider enclosures with active or efficient passive cooling to maintain top temperatures during intensive workloads, preventing throttling. Ensuring your enclosure can handle the power demands of high-end GPUs guarantees full utilization of their processing capabilities without bottlenecks.
Power Supply Requirements
A powerful external GPU enclosure is only as good as its power supply. To support high-performance GPUs, the power supply needs to deliver enough wattage to match the GPU’s TDP, which can range from 130W to over 750W. Choosing an enclosure with an ATX or SFX power supply guarantees compatibility with different GPU models and their power connectors, like 8-pin or multiple PCIe cables. Some enclosures include built-in power supplies, simplifying setup, while others require you to supply your own, giving flexibility to match your GPU. Adequate power delivery prevents bottlenecks and guarantees stable operation during intensive tasks. Ensuring the power supply matches your GPU’s demands is vital for reliable performance and longevity of your creative workstation.
Connectivity Options Available
When selecting an external GPU enclosure, it’s essential to take into account the connectivity options it offers, as these determine how seamlessly your workspace integrates with your devices. Most enclosures support Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, or USB4, each providing up to 40Gbps bandwidth, perfect for high-performance GPU tasks. USB4 offers similar speeds and broader device compatibility, making it a versatile choice. Some enclosures feature additional ports like USB-A, Ethernet, or video outputs, expanding your connectivity options for peripherals and displays. Daisy chaining support lets you connect multiple Thunderbolt or USB4 devices in sequence, reducing clutter and optimizing workspace efficiency. Compatibility with your operating system and hardware interfaces also influences connectivity choices, ensuring you get the best performance and flexibility for your creative workflow.
Size and Portability
Choosing the right size and portability for an external GPU enclosure is essential, especially if you need to carry your setup on the go. I recommend considering the enclosure’s dimensions and weight to make sure it fits comfortably in your workspace or bag. Smaller, compact enclosures are perfect for mobile creatives who frequently travel or work remotely. Look for designs that strike a balance between size and cooling capabilities, preventing overheating during long sessions. Lightweight materials like aluminum alloy help reduce weight without sacrificing durability, making transport easier. Features such as handles or slim profiles can also enhance portability. Ultimately, selecting an enclosure that’s easy to carry while providing sufficient cooling and protection will streamline your workflow and keep your creative process smooth wherever you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does an External GPU Enclosure Impact Overall Creative Workflow Efficiency?
An external GPU enclosure substantially boosts my creative workflow efficiency by providing faster graphics processing and reducing rendering times. It allows me to run demanding applications smoothly, switch between projects seamlessly, and work on high-resolution files without lag. The portability means I can easily connect my powerful GPU to different devices, saving time and increasing productivity. Overall, it’s a game-changer for handling intensive creative tasks effortlessly.
Are External GPU Enclosures Compatible With Macbook Pro and Other Apple Devices?
Yes, external GPU enclosures are compatible with MacBook Pro and other Apple devices, but it depends on the specific model and connection ports. I’ve found that Thunderbolt 3 or 4 enclosures work best, offering high-speed data transfer and seamless integration. Just make certain your Mac supports external GPUs, and you might need to update your software or drivers. Compatibility has improved considerably, making them a great boost for creative workflows.
What Are the Typical Latency Impacts When Using an External GPU for Creative Applications?
Latency typically increases by about 1-5 milliseconds when using an external GPU, which is barely noticeable for most creative tasks. I’ve found that this minimal delay doesn’t hinder workflows like video editing or 3D rendering. Modern enclosures and Thunderbolt 4 connections help keep latency low, ensuring smooth performance. So, unless you’re working on ultra-sensitive real-time projects, the impact remains negligible and well worth the boost in graphic power.
How Do Power Supply Requirements Vary Among Different External GPU Enclosures?
Power supply requirements vary among external GPU enclosures depending on the GPU’s power needs and enclosure design. I’ve found that high-performance GPUs often need enclosures with 450W or more, guaranteeing stable operation during intense tasks. Some enclosures include their own power supplies, while others require you to supply your own. Always check the wattage ratings and compatibility to avoid bottlenecks and make certain your setup runs smoothly.
Can External GPU Enclosures Be Upgraded With New Graphics Cards Over Time?
Yes, external GPU enclosures can be upgraded with new graphics cards over time. I’ve done it myself, and it’s usually straightforward—just open the enclosure, remove the old card, and install the new one. Keep in mind, you’ll want to make certain the enclosure’s power supply and size support the new GPU. Upgrading keeps your setup current and lets you enjoy better performance without replacing the entire enclosure.
Conclusion
Choosing the right external GPU enclosure can feel overwhelming, but I’ve found that the best options blend performance and flexibility—just like these top picks. It’s funny how sometimes, the perfect upgrade arrives when you least expect it, transforming your creative workflow in ways you never imagined. So, whether you’re editing, rendering, or gaming, trust your instincts and pick what feels right. After all, your creative journey might just be one enclosure away from its next big breakthrough.
