The Dell XPS 13 has long been a leader in the ultraportable laptop space, but the 2024 model raises concerns. Inheriting the design language of the XPS 13 Plus, this iteration prioritizes aesthetics, but at what cost? While undeniably sleek and lightweight, its performance lags behind cheaper competitors, making its premium price tag difficult to justify.
Dell XPS 13 (2024) in hand
Specifications and Features
The Dell XPS 13 offers several configurations. Our review unit, priced at $1,399 (base price $1,299), features:
- CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
- Memory: 16GB LPDDR5x (non-upgradeable)
- Graphics: Intel Arc Graphics
- Display: 13.4-inch, 1920×1200, 30-120Hz, non-touch
- Storage: 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD
- Webcam: 1080p with Windows Hello facial recognition
- Connectivity: 2x Thunderbolt 4/USB-C (Power Delivery, DisplayPort 2.1), Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
- Battery: 55Wh
- Dimensions: 11.62 x 7.84 x 0.6 inches
- Weight: 2.7 pounds
Design and Build Quality
The XPS 13 boasts a premium build with aluminum and glass construction. Its compact design eliminates side-mounted speakers, opting for downward-firing ones that integrate seamlessly. However, the sharp-cornered display clashes slightly with the rounded chassis corners.
Dell XPS 13 (2024) keyboard
The keyboard layout, inherited from the XPS 13 Plus, presents challenges. While mechanically sound, the edge-to-edge key placement and capacitive function row can lead to typing inconsistencies. The expansive glass trackpad, while visually appealing, lacks defined edges, making it difficult to discern its boundaries.
Keyboard and Trackpad Experience
While capable of achieving high typing speeds, the XPS 13’s keyboard lacks the comfort and consistency of other Dell models. The flat keys and narrow gaps make it challenging to find the home row by touch, slowing down typing. The small arrow keys and capacitive delete key further complicate navigation.
The trackpad’s palm rejection is excellent, and its haptic feedback is satisfying. However, its lack of defined edges remains a usability issue.
Display and Audio Quality
The base model’s 1920×1200 IPS display offers decent sharpness and a smooth 30-120Hz refresh rate. Its high peak brightness and anti-glare coating ensure good visibility in various lighting conditions. Color accuracy is generally good, covering 99% of the sRGB color space, though some blue shades deviate noticeably.
The downward-firing speakers deliver surprisingly robust audio for their size. While prone to distortion at high volumes, they offer a balanced sound profile with respectable bass at moderate levels.
Webcam, Microphone, and Biometrics
The 1080p webcam delivers sharp, color-accurate video, even in challenging lighting conditions. Windows Hello facial recognition, powered by the webcam, provides quick and convenient logins. The fingerprint scanner adds an additional layer of security.
The microphone system effectively captures voice audio and filters out some background noise. However, it struggles to suppress louder ambient sounds.
Dell XPS 13 (2024) webcam
Connectivity
The XPS 13 provides strong wireless connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. Wired connectivity is limited to two Thunderbolt 4/USB-C ports, necessitating a dock for simultaneous charging and peripheral connections. An included USB-A and HDMI dongle offers some added convenience.
Performance Analysis
The XPS 13’s performance is its biggest letdown. While achieving respectable scores in PCMark 10, it consistently trails competitors equipped with the same Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor. Cinebench and Handbrake benchmarks further expose its performance limitations, likely due to thermal constraints within its compact chassis.
Dell XPS 13 (2024) PCMark 10
Dell XPS 13 (2024) Cinebench
Dell XPS 13 (2024) Handbrake
Dell XPS 13 (2024) 3DMark
Performance benchmarks reveal the XPS 13 lagging behind competitors.
Battery Life
The XPS 13 achieves impressive battery life, exceeding 14 hours in our video playback test. However, competitors offer similar or better endurance, despite having larger batteries.
Dell XPS 13 (2024) battery
Conclusion
The Dell XPS 13 (2024) is a stylish ultraportable with a premium build and impressive battery life. However, its subpar performance, questionable keyboard design, and high price tag make it difficult to recommend over cheaper, more powerful alternatives. While its sleek design might turn heads, its performance shortcomings ultimately hold it back.
