How to fix a Razer Core or Razer eGPU that is not detecting the GPU

| Answer ID: 3937

This article shows how to fix a Razer Core or Razer eGPU, including the Razer Core X V2, that is not detecting the GPU.

Applicable models:

The issue of a GPU not being detected in a Razer eGPU setup is possibly caused by the following scenarios:

  • Improper GPU installation

  • Razer Core has no power

  • The Razer eGPU was disconnected and reconnected while the system was powered on

  • The connected port does not support high-bandwidth traffic (for example, USB 3.1 Gen 1 compared to USB4, Thunderbolt 4, or Thunderbolt 5)

You can view the video below for instructions or review a copy of the video transcript.

See the step-by-step instructions below on how to fix a Razer eGPU that is not detecting the GPU.

Select an option

Check the system’s USB settings

  1. Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > USB > USB4 hubs and devices.

  2. Make sure the Razer eGPU model name and topology ID are displayed.

    USB4 hubs and devices window showing the device model name and topology ID

Ensure the GPU driver is installed and updated

  1. Open “Device Manager”.

  2. Expand “Display adapters”.

  3. Right-click on the device and select “Update driver”.

    Device Manager window with the Update Driver option selected for a USB4 device

  4. Click “Search automatically for drivers”.

    Update Drivers window with Search automatically for drivers option highlighted

  5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Ensure the GPU is properly installed (Razer Core V2, Core X, Core X Chroma)

  1. Pull the lever to unlock the compartment.

  2. Detach the compartment from the enclosure.

    Razer Core diagram

  3. Verify that the graphics card is securely seated in the PCI-E port.

    Razer Core compartment diagram

  4. Tighten or reinsert the slot thumbscrew.

    Razer Core compartment with a GPU inserted diagram

  5. Make sure the GPU power connectors are securely plugged in.

    Razer Core compartment with the GPU power connectors plugged in diagram

  6. Reattach the compartment to the enclosure.

  7. Tuck the lever to secure the compartment.

    Razer Core diagram

Ensure the GPU is properly installed (Razer Core X V2)

  1. Unfasten the thumbscrews and remove the chassis cover.

    Removing mount screws to detach the chassis cover

  2. Verify that the graphics card is securely seated in the PCI-E port.

  3. Tighten or reinsert the slot thumbscrew.

    Fastening thumbscrews to secure internal components

  4. Make sure the GPU power connectors are securely plugged in.

    Connecting power cables to the graphics card power pins

  5. Reattach the chassis cover and secure it with thumbscrews.

    Reattaching the chassis cover and securing it with thumbscrews

Ensure the Razer eGPU is receiving power

Razer Core X V2: Ensure the installed PSU meets the GPU’s power requirements plus an additional 230 W to power the Razer Core X V2.

  1. Inspect the power cord, adapter, and outlet. Make sure all connections are secure.

  2. Test the power source using another device.

  3. Ensure the Razer eGPU power switch is turned on and that the fans are spinning.

Avoid disconnecting and reconnecting the Razer eGPU while the system is powered on

  1. Disconnect the Razer eGPU and shut down the system.

    Razer Core with a Razer Blade diagram

  2. Reconnect the Razer eGPU while the system is powered off.

    Razer Core with a Razer Blade diagram

  3. Power on the system. The GPU should now be detected.

    Device Manager window

Important: If disconnection is necessary while the system is running, wait for the confirmation prompt that the GPU has been safely removed before reconnecting.

Install the Nvidia graphics driver for the Razer Core X V2 eGPU enclosure

When the external Nvidia GPU is not detected, the Device Manager may display it as "Microsoft Basic Display Adapter" or list it as "Nvidia" with an error.

See the answer below for more details.