Best eGPU for Dell XPS 15 in 2022

XPS 15 9500
XPS 15 9500 (Image credit: Dell)

The Dell XPS 15 isn't a terrible gaming laptop. In fact, it comes with a dedicated GPU if you configure it from Dell, but that's still not enough for more demanding PC games. This is when you'll want to hook up an external GPU (eGPU) to the available Thunderbolt 3 port. We'd recommend the Razer Core X enclosure along with a GPU simply because it offers the best bang for your buck.

Razer Core X

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Our Pick

You can throw a powerful NVIDIA RTX GPU inside this enclosure, thanks to the internal 650W PSU. This amount of performance could totally transform the experience on the Dell XPS 15.

GIGABYTE AORUS RTX 2080 Ti Gaming Box

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Ready to Play

This is a better choice for those who aren't comfortable with installing an expensive component into a box. This eGPU has everything you need already configured and ready to go. It may seem a little pricey, but the pre-installed RTX 2080 Ti GPU alone is around $1,350, so it's a good value overall.

Pair your XPS 15 with one of these

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When considering an eGPU for your Dell XPS 15, you need to consider power delivery, styling, and price. The Razer Core X strikes a great balance between these factors, making it ideal for pairing up a capable desktop GPU to really provide some additional horsepower to your laptop.

When looking at which GPU to install inside an eGPU enclosure such as the Razer Core X, be sure to check our comprehensive guide to the best graphics card for gaming. We take into account your budget, the resolution you plan on gaming at (whether it's on an external monitor or on the XPS 15 itself), and value.

If you do not already have a GPU ready to go and don't fancy installing it into an enclosure yourself, the AORUS Gaming Box comes with a GPU already installed and ready to use. Simply plug it in, load up your favorite games and you're set. It's pricey, but that's because it houses an NVIDIA RTX 2080 Ti.

Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.