The following FAQ describes external graphics processing units in relation to Dell XPS 13 laptops.
Among the items discussed are how it works with a 9300 and a two-in-one unit.
The piece also reveals information on the graphics card in the XPS 13 9300 and if an external GPU is worth it for 2022.
Dell XPS 13 9300 With eGPU
Graphics cards come standard with Dell XPS 13 laptops.
These are ultra-high-definition (UHD) models that work with built-in full HD displays. Generally, they provide clean and sharp graphics for browsing, work, and low-level online gaming.
For some, these cards are sufficient. Yet, they don’t have the processing power to handle graphics-heavy business applications.
Let alone do they work with triple-A personal computer games, which require immense power to maintain their amazing graphics. Hence, the reason some Dell XPS 13 owners utilize an external graphics processing unit or eGPU.
When plugged into an XPS 13 9300, the eGPU enhances the power of the existing graphics cards and central processing unit (CPU).
It can increase the number of gigabits per second (Gbps) severalfold. As a result, the CPU doesn’t overheat nor do the graphics start to blur or bleed.
Dell XPS 13 2 in 1 With eGPU
The Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 is a hybrid model. It’s utilized as a laptop and a tablet. While it has the same performance power as others in the series, it doesn’t have as many ports to support peripherals like an eGPU.
It has two Thunderbolt ports. This is where the eGPU would be added to allow for a processing increase to as much as 40Gbps. However, doing so prevents you from adding additional items like monitors.
The solution to this is to purchase a Thunderbolt dock for the 2-in-1 model. This contains several high-speed ports for various peripherals.
Once the Dells XPS 13 is inserted the dock reads system configurations and powers the various devices. One of these would be the eGPU.
Can You Use eGPU With Dell XPS?
Overall, you can use an eGPU with most of the Dell XPS laptops. Where it’s installed depends on the model.
A Thunderbolt 3 port is ideal to get the best return on investment for the eGPU. While a Thunderbolt 2 is also acceptable, the processing speed drops to 20Gbps.
Can You Put A Graphics Card In A Dell XPS 13?
The technical answer is no.
Due to its slim and thin design, the internal GPU is custom-made for the Dell XPS 13. While you could get one from the manufacturer it’s harder, if not available at all, to get a similar model from a third-party company.
In this case, you would want to consider an eGPU to enhance graphic quality.
What Graphics Card Does The Dell XPS 13 9300 Have?
The Dell XPS 13 9300 has an integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 GPU. Integrated is the keyword here. This means it’s nearly embedded into the laptop’s motherboard.
Thus, it would require subject matter expertise to replace it with something similar.
Are eGPU’s Worth It In 2022?
Whether or not eGPUs are worth it for 2022 depends on what you’ll be doing with the Dell XPS 13. If it’s for basic work, streaming, and some small gaming, then it’s not required.
The Intel UHD GPU is more than sufficient to work on the built-in display or external monitors.
On the other hand, you may require an eGPU if you intend on serious gaming on 4K/5K displays hooked into the Thunderbolt ports.
The internal graphics card and CPU can’t handle this much power. Thus, your system could slow severely or even shut down due to overheating.
Another item to look at is price. eGPUs cost several hundred dollars.
If you require a Thunderbolt dock, then you need to add in more funds. After you review the total price you need to consider the return on investment the eGPU could provide.
Final Thoughts
Dell XPS supports external graphics processing units (eGPUs). This includes the XPS 13 9300 and the XPS 13 2-in-1. How it does depends on the machine.
The 2-in-1 model only has two available Thunderbolt ports. So, it’s best to use a Thunderbolt dock to link the eGPU along with other peripherals.
Whether or not it’s worth the investment depends on how much processing power you need to handle high-quality graphics.