Dell XPS 13 Gen 6

Technical Specifications

The Dell XPS 13 9340 features Intel's latest Meteor Lake processors, offering a balance of performance and efficiency in a highly portable form factor. It integrates Intel Arc Graphics, providing capable visual processing for daily tasks and light creative work. The memory is soldered, emphasizing its compact design, while storage is expandable via a single M.2 SSD slot. Display options cater to various user preferences, from high-refresh-rate IPS panels to vibrant OLED. Connectivity is modern but minimal, relying on Thunderbolt 4 ports.

• Processor: Intel Core Ultra 5 125H, Ultra 7 155H, or Ultra 7 165H (Meteor Lake H-series with Intel AI Boost NPU).
• RAM: 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB LPDDR5x (6400 MT/s or 7467 MT/s). RAM is soldered.
• Storage: Single M.2 2280 slot supporting 512GB up to 4TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD.
• Display: 13.4-inch InfinityEdge. Options include:
  • FHD+ (1920 x 1200) IPS, 30-120Hz, 500 nits, anti-glare, non-touch, 100% sRGB.
  • QHD+ (2560 x 1600) IPS, 120Hz, 500 nits, anti-reflective, touch, 100% DCI-P3.
  • 2.8K+ (2880 x 1800) OLED, 60Hz, 400 nits, anti-reflective, touch, 100% DCI-P3.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Arc Graphics (7-core or 8-core, depending on CPU).
• Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4 (USB Type-C) with DisplayPort 2.1 and Power Delivery.
• Dimensions & Weight:
  • Height: 14.8 mm (OLED), 15.3 mm (FHD+/QHD+).
  • Width: 295.3 mm.
  • Depth: 199.1 mm.
  • Starting weight: 1.17 kg (OLED), 1.19 kg (FHD+/QHD+).
• Battery: 55Wh.
• Webcam: FHD (1080p) webcam, Windows Hello compliant.
• Wireless: Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7 1750, Bluetooth 5.4.
• Keyboard/Touchpad: Gapless keyboard, haptic touchpad, touchbar for function keys.

Support & Compatibility

The Dell XPS 13 9340 offers broad operating system support and standard Dell warranty options. Dell maintains a comprehensive support infrastructure for drivers and system updates.

• OS Support: Windows 11 Home/Pro, Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, Client Ubuntu 24.04.
• End of Support Date: Dell typically provides parts availability for approximately five years from a product's release. Specific end-of-life dates for the 9340 model are not yet publicly designated.
• Available Drivers: All necessary drivers and software updates are available through Dell's official support website.
• Warranty: Includes a 1-year Premium Support warranty as standard, with options for extended hardware warranty up to 4 years and Premium Support Plus.

Security Status

The Dell XPS 13 9340 incorporates several hardware-based security features. However, like many modern devices, it can be subject to firmware-level vulnerabilities that require timely patching.

• Security Features: Features a fingerprint reader, an IR camera for Windows Hello facial recognition, and a dTPM 2.0 chip. Optional vPro CPUs enhance enterprise security management. Privacy screen protector accessories are available to restrict viewing angles.
• Vulnerabilities: Firmware vulnerabilities, known as "ReVault flaws," affecting Broadcom ControlVault3 chips were disclosed in August 2025. These vulnerabilities could allow persistent access to affected Dell laptops. Dell initiated the release of patches for these issues starting in March 2025. Specific firmware vulnerabilities for the XPS 13 9340 are cataloged.
• Recommendations: It is crucial to promptly apply all available firmware and software updates released by Dell. If biometric or smartcard authentication is not utilized, disabling ControlVault services can mitigate certain risks.

Performance & Benchmarks

The Dell XPS 13 9340 delivers strong performance for everyday computing and light creative tasks, leveraging its Intel Core Ultra processors and integrated Arc graphics. While capable, its thin and light design can lead to thermal throttling under sustained heavy loads.

• Benchmark Scores:
  • Geekbench 6 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H): Achieves approximately 2,307 in single-core tests and 11,652 in multi-core tests.
  • 3DMark Time Spy (Intel Arc Xe-LPG 128EU): Scores around 3,244, indicating modest integrated graphics performance.
  • Cinebench 2024 (multi-core): May show lower scores (e.g., 454 points) compared to other Core Ultra 7 155H devices due to thermal management.
• Real-world Performance: The system is responsive and efficient for general day-to-day tasks, multitasking, and light creative applications. The integrated NPU enhances AI-accelerated workloads.
• Comparison with Similar Devices: While competitive in many aspects, its performance under sustained load can be limited by thermal design compared to less constrained systems with the same processors. Battery life can also be below that of some competitors.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback for the Dell XPS 13 9340 highlights its premium design and portability as key strengths, though some design choices and performance aspects receive criticism.

• Praises:
  • Design and Build: Users consistently praise its premium, sleek, compact, and lightweight design, noting the exceptional build quality from machined aluminum and Gorilla Glass 3.
  • Display: The various display options are well-regarded for brightness, clarity, and vibrant colors, with high refresh rate IPS and OLED panels being highlights.
  • Keyboard and Touchpad: The keyboard is often described as comfortable for extended typing, and the haptic touchpad is generally well-received for its precision.
  • Portability: Its small form factor and light weight make it highly portable and convenient for users on the go.
• Criticisms:
  • Port Selection: A common complaint is the limited port selection, featuring only two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports and omitting traditional USB-A or a 3.5mm audio jack.
  • Keyboard and Touchbar: The touchbar for function keys and the capacitive Esc/Delete keys are frequently criticized as impractical and a step backward in usability.
  • Performance Throttling: Despite powerful processors, the laptop can experience thermal throttling under heavy, sustained workloads, leading to performance that falls short of some expectations for its specifications.
  • Battery Life: While some users report good battery life, others find it inconsistent or below expectations compared to competitors.
  • Upgradability: The soldered RAM and single SSD slot limit future upgrade options.
  • Price: The premium features and design contribute to a higher price point, which some users find expensive given certain trade-offs.
  • Software/Stability: Some users have reported display issues with Linux and occasional system instability or slow boot times.

Summary

The Dell XPS 13 9340 represents a significant iteration in Dell's flagship ultrabook line, distinguished by its refined, minimalist design and premium build quality. Its compact and lightweight chassis, crafted from machined aluminum and Gorilla Glass, makes it an exceptionally portable device, ideal for professionals requiring mobility. The display options are a strong point, offering vibrant visuals and high refresh rates that enhance the user experience for both productivity and media consumption.

Under the hood, the integration of Intel's Core Ultra processors with built-in NPU provides robust performance for daily tasks and leverages AI capabilities for enhanced efficiency. The keyboard, despite its controversial touchbar, offers a comfortable typing experience, and the haptic touchpad is precise.

However, the XPS 13 9340 is not without its compromises. The highly minimalist port selection, limited to just two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, necessitates adapters for many common peripherals, which can be inconvenient. The innovative touchbar for function keys, particularly for critical keys like Esc and Delete, has been a point of contention among users. While powerful, the thin design can lead to thermal throttling under sustained heavy loads, limiting its peak performance in demanding scenarios. Battery life, while generally adequate, can be inconsistent and may not always meet the high expectations set by its premium positioning or compete with some rivals. Furthermore, the soldered RAM and single SSD slot restrict future upgradeability, a consideration for long-term asset management.

Overall, the Dell XPS 13 9340 is a highly desirable ultrabook for users prioritizing design, portability, and a premium experience for general productivity and light creative work. Its strengths lie in its aesthetic appeal, build quality, and capable core performance. However, potential buyers should weigh these benefits against the limited port selection, the polarizing keyboard design, and the potential for performance throttling during intensive tasks. For enterprise deployment, its robust security features and broad OS compatibility are advantageous, but the need for dongles and the non-upgradable RAM should be factored into procurement and lifecycle planning.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.