This FAQ addresses graphics cards within the Dell XPS laptops. The main point of discussion is if the graphics card can be upgraded and the current versions installed.
Dell XPS Graphics Card Upgrade
The graphics card also called the graphics processing unit (GPU) controls what’s seen on your Dell XPS laptop.
Current models contain GPUs with ultra-high definition (UHD) or something similar.
As a result, they can handle more pixels per inch (ppi) for sharper images and bolder colors.
Most owners are happy with the GPUs within their laptops. They don’t see much difference between the quality of graphics on their built-in display or their external monitors. However, some desire to upgrade the GPUs.
Some want to do this because they realize the newer Dell XPS models have higher-end cards. Others wish to upgrade because they want to spend more time gaming. In the end, replacing the graphics card on the laptop’s motherboard is not doable.
Video Card For Dell XPS 8700
On the other hand, the GPU is upgradable on older XPS desktop towners.
For instance, the 8700, which originally came with the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 745 graphics card. The reason is there’s more available space to do this with a desktop than the slimmer XPS laptops.
If you want to upgrade the video card for the Dell XPS 8700, then you also need to consider a stronger power supply and a central processing unit (CPU).
Newer GPUs transfer more gigabits per second (Gbps) of data. Thus, the original hardware on the 8700 is probably not capable of handling the capacity.
Can You Add A Graphics Card To A Dell XPS?
A graphics card can be added to a Dell XPS desktop but not a laptop.
Generally, the former type of computer is used as a gaming console. So, it has the capacity to upgrade various components with Dell or third-party products.
The XPS laptops don’t have this capability.
Their motherboards are designed to fit into thinner cases.
Therefore, many of the components are much smaller and fully integrated onto the system board. In other words, they can’t be removed by the owner.
What Graphics Card Is In The Dell XPS?
The desktop version of the Dell XPS features an NVIDIA graphics card.
The laptops feature the Intel UHD Graphics 630 GPU. The XPS 15 also has a secondary Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 for tasks that require more graphical power.
Does Dell XPS 13 Have Graphics Card?
The Dell XPS 13 laptop has an Intel UHD Graphics 630 GPU. It cannot be upgraded. It’s integrated directly into the motherboard through several sodering beads.
Thus, only someone with the subject matter expertise to remove it from the board could add a new chip.
Should you require more graphics power, then it’s recommended to purchase an external GPU (eGPU). This peripheral increases processing capabilities severalfold.
Used properly, it allows someone to handle high-end business applications to partake in triple-A gaming.
There are several things to consider in an eGPU. First is the cost. These graphics units cost several hundred dollars. This means you need to determine if what it’s used for has a proper return on investment.
The second item to review is where to hook it up. The Dell 13 XPS comes standard with a pair of Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C ports. While both allow for high-speed processing, the eGPU would plug into one of the Thunderbolts.
However, this only leaves one for other peripherals, such as an external monitor. To correct this, you would need to purchase a Thunderbolt dock.
This contains several different ports to hook up multiple peripherals, including an eGPU.
Final Thoughts
The Dell XPS desktop towers are designed to be upgraded for business and gaming purposes. Thus, your can switch out the GPU for a faster model.
Yet, you also need to ensure the power supply and CPU also have enough power to handle the increase. Conversely, you cannot upgrade the GPU on a Dell XPS laptop.
The cards are integrated directly into the motherboard. If you require increased graphics power, then you need to consider purchasing an external GPU.
On top of this, you may also want to buy a Thunderbolt docking port to install the eGPU as well as other peripherals.