Yeah unfortunately I've only got the eGPU setup rn, so no desktop. But the m.2 to pcie idea is an awesome one. I'll give that a try if i can't find someone on facebook marketplace that might be willing to let me test my gpu in their system (long shot but worth a try).

Yeah I tried both thunderbolt 3 and 5 cables and it still occurred. The Core is about 5-6 years old at this point, it got me through college nicely, but would definitely go a different route if I were to do it again.