Can you upgrade the RAM in the new Dell XPS 13 2-in-1?

XPS 13 2-in-1
XPS 13 2-in-1 (Image credit: Windows Central)

Can you upgrade the RAM in the new Dell XPS 13 2-in-1?

Best answer: Unfortunately, you can't upgrade the RAM in the new Dell XPS 13 2-in-1. However, the Dell XPS 15's RAM can be upgraded, making it a great alternative choice if that's what you're after.Slim, sleek, and stylish: Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 (7390) (From $980 at Dell)Upgradeable RAM: Dell XPS 15 (From $960 at Dell)

What are your RAM options with the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1?

Sadly, it isn't possible to upgrade the RAM in the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1, as its soldered to the device and can't be removed to make any changes. However, that doesn't mean that you can't get the device with a lot of RAM. You're able to configure the laptop with up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM before purchase, which is a ton for an ultrabook (although you'll, of course, be paying for the privilege).

What makes the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 so good?

Dell XPS 13 2-in-1

Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 (Image credit: Windows Central)

While the lack of RAM upgrades is disappointing, there are other reasons to love the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1. The main one is that it has extremely thin bezels, which makes for an incredible viewing experience, and also helps cut down on the size and the weight of the device. This makes it compact and feel light as a feather to carry, which is excellent for the type of consumer that Dell is aiming to please with this convertible laptop.

In addition, it also comes with Intel UHD Graphics and Intel's brand new 10th Generation 10nm processors, which will give you all the power you could ever want for completing work tasks and viewing media. Speaking of visual media, the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 can also be bought with a gorgeous 16:10 4K display that has a rich color gamut, and it will make images and video look phenomenal.

What if you're set on upgradeable RAM?

Dell XPS 15

Dell XPS 15 (Image credit: Windows Central)

If you simply must have the ability to upgrade RAM, than we recommend checking out the new Dell XPS 15 laptop. It, like the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1, can be configured with up to 32GB of RAM, but you can also start off small with 8GB and upgrade yourself later on if you want to, which gives you some more flexibility and can save you money in the short term.

The device also can be purchased with a crisp 4K display, and you can get it with stronger hardware — up to an NVIDIA GTX 1650 graphics card and an Intel Core i9-9980HK processor, in fact, which pushes the laptop into the range where gaming is possible.

Overall, the Dell XPS 15 isn't as light or compact as the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 is, but if you want something you can upgrade the RAM in, it's the perfect alternative.

Brendan Lowry

Brendan Lowry is a Windows Central writer and Oakland University graduate with a burning passion for video games, of which he's been an avid fan since childhood. You'll find him doing reviews, editorials, and general coverage on everything Xbox and PC. Follow him on Twitter.