The Dell XPS 17 has long been a favorite for its sleek design and powerful performance. The 2023 model (9730) continues this tradition, boasting Intel’s 13th-gen CPUs and faster GPUs, including the RTX 4070. However, with a design carried over from previous generations, the XPS 17 is starting to feel a bit dated in the face of newer competition. While it still earns a spot on our list of best 17-inch laptops, it’s no longer the clear winner it once was.
Dell XPS 17 (9730): Specifications and Pricing
Here’s a quick overview of the Dell XPS 17 (9730)’s key specifications:
| Feature | Dell XPS 17 (9730) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 14.74 x 9.76 x 0.77 inches |
| Weight | 5.37 pounds |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-13500H, i7-13700H, i9-13900H |
| Graphics | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 4060, 4070, 4080 (60W) |
| RAM | 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB DDR5-4800MHz |
| Display | 17-inch 16:10 Full HD+ IPS, 4K+ IPS |
| Storage | 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 8TB PCIe SSD |
| Touchscreen | Optional |
| Ports | 4 x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, 1 x 3.5mm Audio, 1 x SD Card Reader |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Webcam | 720p with IR for Windows Hello |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Battery | 97 watt-hours |
| Starting Price | $2,450+ |
The XPS 17 remains a premium laptop, with prices starting at $2,450. Configurations vary, but expect to pay a premium for higher-end specs. For example, a model with a Core i7, 32GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, an RTX 4070, and a 4K+ display costs around $2,950. The most expensive configuration, featuring a Core i9, 64GB of RAM, an 8TB SSD, and an RTX 4080, reaches a hefty $5,200.
Design: A Classic Look Starting to Show Age
Dell XPS 17 9370 front angled view showing display and keyboard deck.
The XPS 17’s aluminum and carbon fiber design remains elegant, with the fiber palm rests adding a touch of warmth. However, compared to the newer all-aluminum design of the XPS 13, it feels somewhat dated. While its thin and light profile is impressive, competitors like the MSI Creator Z17 HX Studio offer similar portability with potentially more power. Build quality remains excellent, with no flex or twisting in the chassis. The dual-clutch hinge provides smooth opening and secure display positioning.
Dell XPS 17 9730 top down view showing keyboard and touchpad.
The keyboard is a highlight, with well-spaced keys, comfortable keycaps, and a light yet snappy feel. The spacious touchpad is responsive and offers satisfying clicks. However, connectivity is somewhat limited, with only three Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, an audio jack, and an SD card reader. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, rather than the newer Wi-Fi 6E, also feels like a missed opportunity.
Dell XPS 17 9730 left side view showing ports.
Dell XPS 17 9730 right side view showing ports.
Finally, the 720p webcam, likely a consequence of the thin bezels, provides a subpar image compared to other modern laptops. While facial recognition via Windows Hello works well, the webcam quality is disappointing for video conferencing.
Performance: Solid, But Not Class-Leading
Dell XPS 17 9370 rear view showing lid and logo.
The Core i7-13700H provides solid performance for productivity and creative tasks. However, the XPS 17’s thermal limitations, with a 60W RTX 4070 instead of the full 115W, impact its potential. In benchmarks, the XPS 17 performed well in CPU-intensive tests, matching similarly equipped laptops. However, it fell behind competitors in GPU-accelerated tasks, such as the PugetBench Premiere Pro benchmark.
Dell XPS 17 9730 rear view showing vents.
Gaming performance is a bright spot, with the RTX 4070 providing a noticeable boost over the previous generation’s RTX 3060. The XPS 17 handled 1080p gaming well and might even be capable of 1440p gaming at lower settings.
| Benchmark | Dell XPS 17 (9730) |
|---|---|
| Geekbench (Single/Multi) | 1901 / 12654 |
| Handbrake (seconds) | 79 |
| Cinebench R23 (Single/Multi) | 1933 / 13384 |
| Pugetbench Premiere Pro | 760 |
| Assassin’s Creed Valhalla (1080p Ultra High) | 88 fps |
| Cyberpunk 2077 (1080p Ultra) | 75 fps |
| Civilization VI (1080p Ultra) | 155 fps |
| 3DMark Time Spy | 9,639 |
Display and Audio: Excellent Visuals and Sound
Dell XPS 17 9730 front view showing display.
The XPS 17’s 4K+ IPS display is a strong point, with excellent brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. While OLED or mini-LED would have been preferable, the IPS panel still delivers a high-quality visual experience.
Dell XPS 17 9730 top down view showing speaker.
The quad-speaker setup provides impressive audio, with ample volume, clear highs and mids, and decent bass. While not quite matching the MacBook Pro 16’s audio quality, the XPS 17’s sound is still excellent.
Battery Life: A Disappointing Step Backwards
Dell XPS 17 9730 rear angled view showing ports and vents.
Despite having the same battery capacity as its predecessor, the XPS 17 9730 delivered significantly shorter battery life in our testing. This is a disappointing result and limits its usability for extended periods away from a power outlet.
| Test | Dell XPS 17 (9730) |
|---|---|
| Web Browsing | 4 hours, 46 minutes |
| Video Playback | 5 hours, 17 minutes |
| PCMark 10 Applications | 5 hours, 34 minutes |
Conclusion: A Good Laptop, But No Longer a Leader
The Dell XPS 17 9730 is a good laptop with a sleek design, powerful components, and a beautiful display. However, it’s held back by its aging design, thermal limitations, dated connectivity, and surprisingly poor battery life. While it remains a viable option for those seeking a premium 17-inch laptop, it’s no longer the dominant force it once was in this category.
