This article touches on the use of a Dell XPS 13 series of laptops works with an external graphics processing unit. Among the items discussed are if it’s supported, if the Dell XPS 13 has one, and if laptops, in general, can utilize these items.
Dell XPS With External GPU
Graphics cards have come a long way since the introduction of personal computers (PCs). When companies came out with them in the 1980s the concept of a 256-color graphics processing unit (GPU) seemed amazing.
Years later, it felt antiquated as GPUs became more powerful.
Today’s desktops are installed with cards that render high-end graphics.
The most powerful PCs have the central processing unit (CPU) capacity to handle the maintenance of these animations. Thus, business and gaming applications produce nearly life-like graphics.
However, this isn’t always the case with laptops. Even those with the strongest CPUs and graphic cards have trouble with resolution.
Particularly if they attach external displays for a better view. This causes the loss of sharpness or color bleeding.
A solution to this issue has been developed and honed over the last few years. It’s the creation and implementation of an external graphics processing unit (eGPU).
Does XPS Support External GPU?
Yes, the Dell XPS series of laptops supports an external GPU.
While they have a dedicated internal version it still has problems handling applications and PC games that require more processing power for sharper graphics.
Can You Use eGPU With Dell XPS?
To use an eGPU with your Dell XPS laptop you need to connect it to the Thunderbolt 3 port that comes with the system. This is a high-performance connector that transfers data at up to 40 gigabits per second (Gbps).
This is four times as fast as a USB-C port, which is also used for enhanced transfers of both data and power.
In addition to eGPUs, the Thunderbolt 3 port lets laptop owners connect high-speed hard drives, 4K and 5K displays, and additional peripherals.
Needless to say, you want to ensure the external graphics processor is compatible with the Thunderbolt 3 before it’s purchased. If not, find out of the eGPU can be used with a USB-C cable.
An external GPU could cost several hundred dollars. Thus, you want to be certain the purchase has an equal return on investment.
For instance, you need to calculate the frequency of its use. On top of this, will you need to purchase enhanced monitors, also several hundred dollars, to get the full benefits of the eGPU?
In the end, you may wish to consider a top-line Dell XPS desktop tower instead of a laptop.
This is especially true if your gaming and other activities are based in a static location. In other words, there’s no need to transport the computer from one location to another.
Does Dell XPS 13 Have GPU?
Along with a 1GHz Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor and 8GB of random access memory (RAM), the standard Dell XPS 13 has an ultra-high-definition (UHD) graphics card.
This provides sharp and clean displays on the laptop’s full HD monitor.
The GPU works fine for standard PC games.
However, for triple-A games with the highest levels of development, it’s best to purchase an external unit. Fortunately, XPS 13 models feature two USB-C and two Thunderbolt 3 ports.
Can Laptops In General Use External GPU?
Most Windows and Apple laptops have the power to use an eGPU as long as they have the necessary high-capacity connectors. In other words, a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 port.
Some of these external models could use a Thunderbolt 2, which only has a capacity of 20Gbps. However, the displayed images might not have similar sharpness.
Final Thoughts
An external graphics processing unit (eGPU) is used to enhance the display capabilities on a Dell XPS laptop.
The newest models enhance the standard power of an internal CPU for nearly real-life production. To maximize its use, the eGPU must be plugged into a Thunderbolt 3 slot.
This transfers data at 40Gbps, four times more than the specialty USB-C port.
An eGPU can be used with a Dell XPS 13 thanks to its pair of Thunderbolt 3 ports. Of course, research is required to purchase the right unit as they do cost several hundred dollars.