Dell XPS 13 Review: A Slim, Sturdy Performer for Anyone with MacBook Envy
The Dell XPS 13 has garnered attention from tech enthusiasts and users seeking to satisfy their MacBook envy with a Windows alternative. With its slim design, solid build, and impressive performance, it’s no surprise why this laptop is making waves. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the Dell XPS 13 to help you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for you.
Design and Build
At first glance, the Dell XPS 13 boasts a sleek and stylish appearance. It is designed with an aluminum exterior that demonstrates its durability and strength while maintaining a lightweight feel. The carbon fiber palm rest adds a level of comfort when typing or using the touchpad.
The ergonomic hinge on the laptop allows for smooth opening and closing, while also facilitating adequate air circulation to prevent overheating. Its compact size makes it highly portable—perfect for professionals on-the-go or users prioritizing mobility.
Display and Audio Quality
The Dell XPS 13 features a jaw-dropping InfinityEdge display which maximizes screen space with minimal bezels. Regardless of the model you choose, the available resolutions are either Full HD+ (1920 x 1200) or UHD+ (3840 x 2400). The display ensures you enjoy crisp images, vivid colors, and immersive visuals.
When it comes to audio quality, the XPS 13 does not disappoint. With its side-firing speakers and Waves MaxxAudio Pro technology, it delivers clear sounds despite its small size. It may not replace a dedicated sound system but is more than adequate for everyday use.
Performance
Under the hood, the Dell XPS 13 can be equipped with Intel’s latest Tiger Lake processors (i3, i5, or i7). It provides robust performance suitable for everyday tasks like web browsing, office productivity, and media consumption. Users with heavier multitasking needs or those who do light gaming can opt for higher configurations.
The XPS 13 offers excellent battery life, lasting anywhere from 8 to 14 hours depending on the screen resolution, configuration, and usage patterns. With its integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, it outperforms many of its competitors concerning GPU-intensive tasks like video editing or design work.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The XPS 13 has a backlit chiclet-style keyboard that offers a comfortable typing experience. The key travel is shallow but satisfying with good tactile feedback. The touchpad is responsive and supports a wide range of multi-touch gestures thanks to its Windows Precision drivers.
Additional Features
The Dell XPS 13 comes equipped with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a MicroSD card slot, a headphone jack, and Wi-Fi 6 support. While some users may miss the inclusion of full-sized USB-A ports, Dell does offer an adapter to ease the transition to USB-C.
Overall Impression
The Dell XPS 13 is an outstanding choice for users looking for an ultraportable laptop that doesn’t sacrifice on performance or build quality. Its sleek design, gorgeous display, and impressive performance make it an ideal MacBook alternative for those leaning towards the Windows ecosystem.