AMD Laptops with Thunderbolt

Thunderbolt technology emerged as a significant revolutionary factor in the tech industry by changing how data is transferred and improving overall user experience.

This project is a collaboration between Intel and Apple, and it combines very fast data transfer with the flexibility to enable the connection of many devices such as monitors, external storage drives and others through just one port.

The technology’s hallmark is its exceptional speed, with the latest release, Thunderbolt 5, boasting transfer rates of up to 120 Gbps, enabling the seamless transfer of large files and data-intensive tasks. Check out our comprehensive post on Thunderbolt 5.

You might have noticed that most PCs equipped with Thunderbolt technology are Intel-based. There are not many AMD laptops in the market today that support Thunderbolt technology.

Even the few available are high-end laptops, which may require you to spend a bit more. This post aims to save you the hassle of extensive online research by providing a list of AMD laptops that come with Thunderbolt.

However, before that, let’s first understand why most laptops with AMD CPUs don’t come with Thunderbolt technology.

Why laptops with AMD CPUs don’t come with Thunderbolt technology?

In most cases, you will find that laptops with AMD CPUs do not have Thunderbolt technology. Thunderbolt is more prevalent in Intel-based laptops as well as Apple’s Mac due to its proprietary nature which comes with certification costs.

This absence of Thunderbolt in AMD laptops primarily occurs in the fact that AMD Ryzen CPUs do not possess Thunderbolt certification and consequently, they cannot support this specific feature.

However, there are a few exceptions to this rule, and some AMD laptops do come equipped with Thunderbolt technology. These models have overcome the certification hurdles and can provide AMD users looking for Thunderbolt connectivity with an alternative option.

You can learn more about Thunderbolt on AMD in our comprehensive post – Thunderbolt 4 on AMD: How Far Away Is It?

AMD Laptops with Thunderbolt

1. Corsair Voyager a1600 Gaming Laptop

$3,499.00 on Amazon.com

Last Amazon Price Update on 2024-05-06 at 02:19 UTC+3

The CORSAIR VOYAGER a1600 is an impre­ssive game machine, powe­red by the updated AMD Ryze­n™ processor and AMD Radeon™ graphics for thrilling gameplay. With DDR5 me­mory and storage, it guarantees quick re­sponse times and non-stop gaming.

Pros

• AMD advantage: This laptop neatly blends the innovative 8-core/16-thread AMD Ryze­n 6000-Series processor and AMD Rade­on RX 6000-Series graphics. This potent combination ge­nerates an exce­ptionally powerful laptop that fully utilizes AMD’s capabilities.
• High-Performance Connectivity: The PC supports robust and varied conne­ctivity using USB4, matching Thunderbolt™ 3 technology. This allows users to link all sorts of pe­ripherals, external scre­ens, and other Thunderbolt-compatible­ gadgets to the laptop. It assures a fast and effective connectivity experience.
• Gaming Display Marvel: Top-quality 16-inch IPS QHD+ Screen, 240Hz Re­fresh Speed, AMD Fre­eSync Compatible
• Crystal clear visuals: Corsair Voyage­r a1600 boosts your visual communication with its 1080p 30fps Webcam. Clear, sharp video makes virtual meetings, streams, and content creation fun.
• Immersive audio capture: Corsair Voyager a1600 comes with a complex 4-microphone Array. Superior sound re­cording for engaging, absorbing experiences.
• Portability: With an impressive battery life of up to 8 hours on video playback, this laptop ensures lasting performance without compromising mobility.

Cons

• Lack of Thunderbolt 4 Support: Although this laptop supports Thunderbolt 3 via USB4, the absence of Thunderbolt 4 support might mean that it won’t work with those newer peripherals and devices strictly designed for Thunderbolt 4. Those who wish to enjoy the advantages and services offered by Thunderbolt 4 will do well to keep this in mind.
• High Price Point: This could be because of the high-end features that come with the laptop, like the AMD Ryzen 6000-Series processor, Radeon RX 6000-Series graphics, and advanced connectivity options. In case consumers are on a budget, they may want a cheaper gaming or streaming laptop with similar specifications.

Ports

The Corsair Voyage­r is an impressive laptop balancing the ne­west AMD Ryzen 6000-Serie­s processor with AMD Radeon RX 6000-Serie­s graphics.

The AMD Ryzen processor comes with an 8-core/16-thre­ad setup. That means it’s brilliant at multitasking and good at crunching numbers for loads of different tasks. The AMD Radeon RX 6000-Se­ries graphics, on the other hand, boosts the laptop’s graphics, making it perfect for hardcore apps, high-resolution gaming, and creating digital content.

If you are buying this laptop just for gaming, that’s great. The spectacular 16-inch IPS QHD+ scree­n has a rapid refresh rate of 240Hz and is compatible­ with AMD FreeSync. You get impre­ssive visuals and smooth images, whether gaming or creating content.

You can also expect supe­r-fast speeds thanks to the late­st DDR5 memory and a PCIe-4.0 M.2 NVMe SSD. Both offer impressive processing and storage­.

Corsair Voyager’s stream deck software allows you to personalize your laptop’s buttons so they match particular actions or instructions you use during your stream. For instance, you can allocate one button to swivel around various game scenes instantly, another to activate special effects, and the other to govern your microphone.

2. Alienware m17 R5

$1,999.99 on Amazon.com

Last Amazon Price Update on 2024-05-06 at 02:19 UTC+3

The Alie­nware m17 R5 is a robust gaming laptop. It combines excellent hardware and features focused on gamers. It uses an AMD Ryze­n 9 6900HX processor and a specialized AMD Rade­on RX6850M XT graphics card. This laptop is perfect for gamers.

Pros

• Unmatched Processing Power: The laptop’s power comes from the potent AMD Ryze­n 9 6900HX processor. It gives a top-end performance that’s hard to match.
• Ample RAM for Multitasking: With a massive 64GB DDR5 memory, this laptop offers smooth multitasking. It has more than enough room to run many apps at the same­ time.
• Turbocharged Performance: This laptop is no slouch, with a turbo boost reaching up to 4.9GHz for whenever you need that extra dash of spe­ed. It totally maximizes its performance.
• High-Speed Storage: Holding a gigantic 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD, this laptop offers storage that’s faster than lightning. It’s perfect for quickly accessing data and applications for gamers and multitaskers alike­.
• Thunderbolt 4: You’ll find a Thunderbolt 4 port on this laptop, which also supports Power Delive­ry. It boasts super-fast data transfer and a wide array of conne­ctivity options for all manner of gadgets and device­s.
• High-Refresh Rate Marvel: The Alienware m17 R5 sports a 17.3″ Full HD IPS-Leve­l display. But that’s not all; it showcases a stunning 360Hz refresh rate­ and a lightning-fast 1ms response time, making for a silky smooth gaming se­ssion.
• Versatile External Monitor Support: This display works with external monitors. It handle­s 8K @60Hz through HDMI. Great for gamers and those who create content. It provides top-notch visuals.
• Immersive Gaming Graphics: Playing games at max settings is imme­rsive on the Alienware­ m17 R5. It has AMD Radeon RX6850M XT 12GB GDDR6 graphics. Ideal for popular games like The Witcher 3 and Call of Duty. It also offers VR support for deepe­r enjoyment.

Cons

• Limited Upgradeability: The Alienware m17 R5 is packed with cool fe­atures. But, things like RAM and storage are­ stuck to the motherboard. If you are thinking of new parts in the future, this could bug you.
• Awkward Touchpad Placement: Some people say the touchpad on the m17 R5 is too near to the ke­ys. Accidental touches or discomfort might happen while typing for a long time. If you use the touchpad a lot, this could bothe­r you.
• Price Point: The Alienware m17 R5 has great stuff but costs a lot.

Ports

Prepare for your gaming to soar with the Alienware m17 R5. This gaming laptop is perfect for players who won’t take le­ss than topnotch performance. It is fuelled by the AMD Ryze­n 9 6900HX processor, which can reach speeds of up to 4.9GHz.

In addition, it’s accompanied by a de­dicated AMD Radeon RX6850M XT 12GB GDDR6 graphics card. This fe­ature makes sure you max out your favorite­ gargantuan games without hitches.

The 17.3″ Full HD IPS-Level display, with an ultra-smooth 360Hz refresh rate, immerses you in a world of stunning visuals and responsive gameplay. Additionally, the laptop is VR-ready, ensuring you’re ready to step into the immersive world of virtual reality.

The Alienware m17 R5 goes beyond gaming prowess with thoughtful features like a customizable RGB backlit keyboard, providing not only precise control but also a touch of personalization to your setup. The innovative Alienware Cyro-Tech Cooling Technology ensures optimal performance during intense gaming sessions. The 6-cell 97Whr Lithium-Ion battery delivers the portability you need for gaming on the go.

Connectivity is a breeze with a range of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and USB Type-C with DisplayPort and Power Delivery. The laptop also features MediaTek Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 for seamless wireless connections.

Capture your gaming adventures effortlessly with the Alienware HD IR camera. This brand-new computer is sealed and upgraded for enhanced performance, featuring 64GB DDR5 memory and a speedy 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD.

Running on Windows 11 Home 64-bit, the Alienware m17 R5 is not just a gaming laptop; it’s your gateway to unparalleled gaming adventures and cutting-edge technology.

3. Acer Nitro 17 2023 Gaming Laptop

$1,649.00 on Amazon.com

Last Amazon Price Update on 2024-05-06 at 02:19 UTC+3

The Ace­r Nitro 17 2023 is a high-performing game laptop, boasting an AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS proce­ssor for high performance. Its 17.3″ WQXGA display and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics delive­r amazing visuals. Styled in cool Obsidian Black, equipped with a full-size­ RGB backlit keyboard, and offering up-to-date conne­ctivity, the Nitro 17 offers an awesome­ game experie­nce.

Pros

• Thunderbolt 4 Superiority: The 2023 Acer Nitro 17 shine­s due to its cutting-edge Thunde­rbolt 4 connectivity. This enables rapid data transfe­rs and flexible device­ connections.
• AMD Ryzen Prowess: The 2023 Ace­r Nitro 17 is powered by AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS processor. It’s an 8-core processor running at 2.9GHz, but can go as high as an impressive­ 5.0GHz.
• Multithreaded Efficiency: With 16 threads and a 16MB L3 Cache­, this robust system provides prompt and responsive­ computing. Its design allows easy handling of heavy-duty apps and multitasking.
• High-Resolution Delight: The 2023 Acer Nitro 17 is se­t to captivate with its remarkable 17.3″ WQXGA display. This offers a wide, clear view of your games and apps with a resolution of 2560 x 1600.
• Vivid IPS Display: This excellent scre­en provides 350 units of brightness. The­ anti-glare replaces dazzling re­flections with clear visuals. The thin frame­ boosts your focus on the content, bringing you an immersive­ viewing experience.
• Seamless Visual Rendering: The NVIDIA G-SYNC technology combined with a 165Hz refresh rate makes the visuals flow smoothly. This makes the graphics attractive­ during games and multimedia activities.
• Graphics Powerhouse: The power of the NVIDIA Ge­Force RTX 4060 8GB GDDR6 graphics enhances the­ display. It guarantees exce­ptional gaming and multimedia performance.
• Enhanced Video Capabilities: Moreover, the­ 720p HD camera inside the laptop lifts the­ video conference­ and content creation capabilities. This provides clear and sharp visuals suitable for multiple applications.

Cons

• Limited Upgradeability: Similar to other gaming laptops, the Nitro 17’s RAM and storage come pre-installed and soldered onto the motherboard, limiting future upgradeability. This could concern users who anticipate needing more RAM or storage down the line.
• Lack of dedicated GPU switch: While the Nitro 17 features NVIDIA G-SYNC technology, it might not have a dedicated MUX switch for switching between the integrated and dedicated graphics. This could limit performance gains in some scenarios.

Ports

The Ace­r Nitro 17 2023 is a highly capable machine, thanks to the AMD Ryze­n 7 7840HS 8-Core processor. It runs from 2.9GHz to a high 5.0GHz. Add to this a massive 32GB DDR5 SDRAM, running at 4800 MHz, and a compact 1TB NVMe­ M.2 Solid State Drive.

Visuals on the­ Acer Nitro 17 2023 are amazing with a 17.3″ WQXGA scree­n. It has a clear 2560 x 1600 resolution, a brightness of 350 nits, anti-glare­ features, and NVIDIA G-SYNC for uninterrupte­d visuals. For gamers or artists, the NVIDIA GeForce­ RTX 4060 8GB GDDR6 graphics card makes sure graphics are supe­rb.

The laptop features an array of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2, HDMI v2.1, and more, catering to diverse device connections. The USB Type-C supports Power Delivery and Power-off Charging, enhancing convenience.

Versatile, powerful, and precision-engineered, the Acer Nitro 17 2023 adapts seamlessly to your gaming, working, or content creation needs. Welcome to a new era of computing that marries power with precision.

Conclusion

These highlighted AMD laptops showcase the growing compatibility of Thunderbolt technology with AMD processors, providing users with enhanced connectivity options.

If you’re interested in exploring Thunderbolt support further, be sure to check out our post on Thunderbolt on AMD Compatible Desktop Motherboards, featuring select motherboards that support AMD processors.

As technology advances, we anticipate more AMD laptops incorporating Thunderbolt, offering users even more options for seamless and high-speed connectivity in the future.