Dell XPS 2024

Basic Information

• Model: Dell XPS 13 (9340/9350), Dell XPS 14 (9440), Dell XPS 16 (9640)
• Version: 2024 refresh of the XPS lineup. The XPS 13 (9340) replaces the XPS 13 Plus (9320), and a newer XPS 13 (9350) with Lunar Lake processors was also introduced. The XPS 14 (9440) is a new size, replacing the XPS 15. The XPS 16 (9640) is also a new size, replacing the XPS 17.
• Release Date:
  • XPS 13 (Intel Meteor Lake): Q1 2024, with some configurations available February 2024.
  • XPS 13 (Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite): July 2024.
  • XPS 13 (Intel Lunar Lake): October 15, 2024.
  • XPS 14: Q1 2024, with some configurations available February 20, 2024.
  • XPS 16: Q1 2024, with some configurations available February 20, 2024.
• Minimum Requirements: Varies by configuration, but all models require Windows 11.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 11 Home or Pro.
• Latest Stable Version: BIOS/firmware updates are regularly released by Dell and are specific to each model and configuration. Users should consult Dell's official support website for the latest versions.
• End of Support Date: Not publicly specified for consumer laptops; typically follows Dell's general support policies and product lifecycle, which can extend several years from the purchase date for driver and software updates.
• End of Life Date: Not publicly specified. Dell typically supports products for a reasonable period after their discontinuation.
• Auto-Update Expiration Date: Not applicable; this feature is primarily for ChromeOS devices. Windows updates are managed by Microsoft and Dell.
• License Type: Windows 11 Home or Pro. Additional pre-installed software may include trial versions or licensed applications.
• Deployment Model: Client device, personal computing.

Technical Specifications

• Processor:
  • XPS 13: Intel Core Ultra 5 125H, Core Ultra 7 155H, Core Ultra 7 165H (Meteor Lake); Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100; Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (Lunar Lake).
  • XPS 14: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, Core Ultra 7 165H.
  • XPS 16: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, Core Ultra 7 165H, Core Ultra 9 185H.
• RAM: Up to 64GB LPDDR5x (soldered). Speeds vary by model and configuration (e.g., 6400MHz or 7467MHz).
• Storage: Up to 4TB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD (single M.2 2280 slot).
• Graphics:
  • XPS 13: Intel Arc integrated graphics (Meteor Lake/Lunar Lake), Qualcomm Adreno graphics (Snapdragon X Elite).
  • XPS 14: Intel Arc integrated graphics, optional NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU (6GB GDDR6, 30W).
  • XPS 16: Intel Arc integrated graphics, optional NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 (6GB, 50W), RTX 4060 (8GB, 50W), or RTX 4070 (8GB, 60W) Laptop GPU.
• Display:
  • XPS 13 (13.4-inch): FHD+ (1920x1200) IPS 120Hz (non-touch), QHD+ (2560x1600) IPS 120Hz (touchscreen), 2.8K/3K+ (2880x1800) OLED 60Hz (touchscreen).
  • XPS 14 (14.5-inch): FHD+ (1920x1200) IPS 120Hz (non-touch), 3.2K (3200x2000) OLED 120Hz (touchscreen).
  • XPS 16 (16.3-inch): FHD+ (1920x1200) IPS 120Hz, 4K+ (3840x2400) OLED 90Hz (touchscreen).
• Ports:
  • XPS 13: 2x USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort 2.1).
  • XPS 14: 3x USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort), 1x microSD card reader, 1x 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack. Includes a USB-C to USB-A/HDMI dongle.
  • XPS 16: 3x USB-C/Thunderbolt 4, 1x audio jack, 1x SD card reader. Includes a USB-C to USB-A/HDMI dongle.
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home or Pro.
• Dimensions & Weight:
  • XPS 13: 11.62 x 7.84 x 0.6 inches (LCD model), 11.62 x 7.84 x 0.58 inches (OLED model). Starting at 2.6 pounds (1.18 kg for OLED, 1.22 kg for LCD).
  • XPS 14: 0.71 x 12.6 x 8.5 inches. Starting at 3.7 pounds (3.8 pounds for OLED models).
  • XPS 16: 0.74 x 14.1 x 9.4 inches. Starting at 4.7 pounds (4.8 pounds for touch OLED model).

Technical Specifications Analysis: The 2024 Dell XPS lineup unifies its design language across the XPS 13, 14, and 16, adopting the minimalist aesthetic of the previous XPS 13 Plus, featuring CNC machined aluminum and Gorilla Glass 3. All models incorporate Intel's new Core Ultra processors, which include a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for AI workloads, marking a significant step towards AI-enhanced computing. The XPS 13 also offers a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite option for enhanced efficiency and battery life. RAM is universally LPDDR5x and soldered, with options up to 64GB, emphasizing performance but limiting user upgradeability. Storage is robust, with single M.2 PCIe Gen 4 SSD slots supporting up to 4TB. Display options are a highlight, with high-resolution IPS and OLED panels available across the line, often featuring high refresh rates and wide color gamut support. The XPS 14 and XPS 16 offer discrete NVIDIA GeForce RTX GPUs (up to RTX 4050 and RTX 4070 respectively), catering to users requiring more graphical horsepower for creative tasks or light gaming, while the XPS 13 relies solely on integrated graphics. Port selection is minimalist, primarily USB-C/Thunderbolt 4, with dongles provided for USB-A and HDMI connectivity, which can be a point of contention for users with legacy peripherals. The dimensions and weight reflect their respective screen sizes, with the XPS 13 remaining ultraportable and the XPS 16 offering a larger screen in a relatively compact form factor for its class.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: The XPS 2024 models ship with the latest available hardware configurations at their respective release dates, including Intel Core Ultra (Meteor Lake/Lunar Lake) or Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processors.
• OS Support: Windows 11 Home and Pro are fully supported.
• End of Support Date: Dell provides ongoing driver and software updates for its XPS line. Specific end-of-support dates are not publicly fixed but generally align with the lifecycle of the Windows operating system and Dell's standard support policies for consumer devices.
• Localization: Available in various regional configurations and language options for the operating system.
• Available Drivers: All necessary drivers and firmware updates are available for download from Dell's official support website.
• Cartridge and Ink Codes: Not applicable, as this is a laptop.

Overall Support & Compatibility Status Analysis: The Dell XPS 2024 lineup offers strong support and compatibility, primarily due to its reliance on the Windows 11 ecosystem and Dell's established support infrastructure. Users can expect comprehensive driver availability and regular firmware updates directly from Dell. The inclusion of Intel's Core Ultra processors with NPUs and Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite ensures compatibility with current and future AI-enhanced Windows features. The primary limitation is the soldered RAM, which prevents user upgrades, but the available configurations offer ample memory for most tasks. The minimalist port selection, while aesthetically pleasing, necessitates dongles for some common peripherals, which Dell often includes.

Security Status

• Security Features: Windows Hello facial recognition (IR camera), fingerprint sensor (on some models), TPM 2.0, physical webcam shutter (digital on some models).
• Known Vulnerabilities: As with any complex computing device, potential vulnerabilities are addressed through regular software and firmware updates from Dell and Microsoft. Users are advised to keep their systems updated.
• Blacklist Status: No known blacklist status.
• Certifications: Likely includes standard industry certifications such as Energy Star, EPEAT, and TCO, reflecting environmental and safety compliance.
• Encryption Support: Full disk encryption via BitLocker (with Windows Pro) and hardware-level encryption supported by TPM 2.0.
• Authentication Methods: Biometric (facial recognition, fingerprint reader) and traditional password/PIN.
• General Recommendations: Keep the operating system and drivers updated, use strong, unique passwords, enable multi-factor authentication where possible, and utilize built-in security features like Windows Hello and BitLocker.

Overall Security Rating Analysis: The Dell XPS 2024 series offers a robust security posture, leveraging both hardware and software features. The inclusion of TPM 2.0, Windows Hello for biometric authentication, and regular updates from Dell and Microsoft provides a strong foundation against common threats. While no system is entirely impervious to vulnerabilities, the XPS line integrates industry-standard security measures and benefits from ongoing support to mitigate risks. The focus on AI-enhanced processors also suggests future-proofing for advanced security features.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • XPS 13 (Intel Core Ultra):
    • Geekbench 6: Single-core around 2660-2772, Multi-core around 10846-11033.
  • XPS 13 (Snapdragon X Elite):
    • Geekbench 6: Single-core around 2797.
    • Handbrake (4K to 1080p): Faster than MacBook Air M3 and Dell XPS 14.
  • XPS 14 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, RTX 4050):
    • Geekbench 6.2: Single-core 1686, Multi-core 11082.
    • PCMark 10: Overall score competitive, Digital Content Creation score 8332.
    • Cinebench R20: Beats competitors.
    • Cinebench R23: Single-core 1721, Multi-core 12859.
    • Handbrake (4K to 1080p): ~13 minutes, faster than some competitors.
    • 3DMark Time Spy (RTX 4050): Significantly outperforms integrated graphics.
    • Shadow of the Tomb Raider (1080p, High): ~50 fps.
  • XPS 16 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, RTX 4070):
    • Cinebench R23: Single-core 1703, Multi-core 17873 (due to beefier cooling).
    • 3DMark Time Spy (RTX 4070): More than double the performance of integrated graphics.
• Real-World Performance Metrics:
  • XPS 13 (Snapdragon X Elite): Excellent for everyday tasks, strong multi-tasking, and "MacBook-shattering battery life."
  • XPS 14: Capable for everyday tasks, creative workloads, and light gaming.
  • XPS 16: Handles tough workloads like video editing and graphical rendering with ease.
• Power Consumption:
  • XPS 13 (Snapdragon X Elite): Exceptional power efficiency, leading to very long battery life.
  • XPS 14: Good battery life, around 10-11 hours in web browsing tests.
  • XPS 16: Impressive battery life, up to 18 hours 40 minutes in some tests.
• Carbon Footprint: Dell emphasizes sustainability in its XPS lineup, using machined aluminum and Gorilla Glass 3. Specific carbon footprint data for each model is not readily available but generally aligns with Dell's broader environmental initiatives.
• Comparison with Similar Assets:
  • XPS 13 (Snapdragon X Elite) competes with MacBook Air M3, often surpassing it in battery life and some performance metrics.
  • XPS 14 competes with ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED, Dell Inspiron 14 Plus, MSI Prestige 15 AI Evo, and Microsoft Surface Laptop 7.
  • XPS 16 competes with MacBook Pro, ASUS ProArt P16, and Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i 16.

Overall Performance Status Analysis: The Dell XPS 2024 lineup delivers strong performance across its various models, largely driven by the adoption of Intel's new Core Ultra processors with integrated NPUs and the option for discrete NVIDIA RTX GPUs in the larger models. The XPS 13, particularly with the Snapdragon X Elite, excels in power efficiency and battery life, making it an outstanding ultraportable. The XPS 14 strikes a balance, offering solid CPU performance and capable discrete graphics for creative tasks, though its RTX 4050 can be power-limited. The XPS 16 is the powerhouse, designed for demanding workloads with its Core Ultra 9 and RTX 4070 options. Benchmarks consistently show competitive or leading performance within their respective categories, especially in CPU-intensive tasks. Battery life is a significant strength across the line, with all models offering impressive longevity.

User Reviews & Feedback

• Strengths:
  • Design: Unified, minimalist, sleek design with CNC machined aluminum and Gorilla Glass 3. Features a seamless glass trackpad and a zero-lattice keyboard.
  • Displays: Gorgeous high-resolution OLED and IPS options with high refresh rates and excellent color accuracy (DCI-P3 coverage). Thin bezels maximize screen real estate.
  • Performance: Powerful Intel Core Ultra processors (and Snapdragon X Elite for XPS 13) handle everyday tasks and demanding workloads effectively. Discrete GPU options in XPS 14 and 16 enhance creative and gaming capabilities.
  • Battery Life: Consistently praised for long-lasting battery performance across the lineup, especially the XPS 13 with Snapdragon X Elite.
  • Build Quality: Premium feel and rigid chassis.
  • Audio: Room-filling Dolby Atmos speakers (XPS 16) and generally good sound quality.
  • Webcam: Improved 1080p webcams across the line.
• Weaknesses:
  • Price: High premium pricing, especially for higher configurations.
  • Port Selection: Minimal USB-C/Thunderbolt-only ports, requiring dongles for USB-A and HDMI, which can be inconvenient.
  • Keyboard/Touchpad Design: The capacitive function row and seamless haptic touchpad, while sleek, can take getting used to and may not be preferred by all users, particularly those who rely on tactile feedback for function keys.
  • Soldered RAM: Non-upgradeable RAM limits future expansion.
  • GPU Performance (XPS 14): The RTX 4050 in the XPS 14 can be power-limited (30W), leading to underperformance compared to other laptops with the same GPU.
  • Weight (XPS 14/16): Some find the XPS 14 and 16 to be on the heavier side for their class.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • XPS 13: Ideal for users prioritizing ultra-portability, long battery life, and everyday productivity, including students and mobile professionals.
  • XPS 14: Suitable for users needing a balance of portability and performance, including content creators, designers, and professionals who require a discrete GPU for moderate workloads.
  • XPS 16: Best for power users, creative professionals, and those requiring desktop-replacement performance for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and light gaming.

Summary

The Dell XPS 2024 lineup represents a significant refresh, unifying the design language across its 13-inch, 14-inch, and 16-inch models with a sleek, minimalist aesthetic inherited from the XPS 13 Plus. This includes CNC machined aluminum chassis, Gorilla Glass 3, a seamless haptic touchpad, and a zero-lattice keyboard with a capacitive function row. The series is powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra processors, featuring integrated NPUs for AI acceleration, with the XPS 13 also offering a highly efficient Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite option.

Strengths: The standout features are the stunning display options, including high-resolution OLED and IPS panels with excellent color accuracy and high refresh rates, providing an immersive visual experience. Performance is robust across the board, with the Core Ultra CPUs handling demanding tasks, and the optional NVIDIA RTX GPUs in the XPS 14 and 16 boosting capabilities for creative work and light gaming. Exceptional battery life is another major advantage, particularly for the XPS 13 with the Snapdragon X Elite, making the lineup highly portable and reliable for on-the-go use. The build quality is premium, and the 1080p webcams are a welcome improvement.

Weaknesses: The primary drawbacks include the high price point, positioning the XPS line as a premium offering. The minimalist port selection, relying heavily on USB-C/Thunderbolt, necessitates dongles for common peripherals, which can be an inconvenience. While aesthetically pleasing, the capacitive function row and seamless haptic touchpad may not appeal to all users due to the lack of tactile feedback. The soldered RAM, while fast, prevents user upgrades, and the power-limited RTX 4050 in the XPS 14 can lead to underperformance compared to competitors.

Recommendations: The Dell XPS 2024 series is highly recommended for users seeking a premium, well-designed laptop with strong performance and excellent battery life. The XPS 13 is ideal for ultimate portability and efficiency, the XPS 14 offers a balanced blend of power and size for creative professionals, and the XPS 16 serves as a powerful desktop replacement for intensive workloads. Potential buyers should weigh the premium cost and minimalist port selection against the superior build quality, stunning displays, and robust performance. Users who prioritize tactile function keys or extensive port variety without dongles might consider alternative options. However, for those who value a sleek design, cutting-edge processors, and long endurance, the XPS 2024 lineup stands as a top contender in the high-end laptop market.

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.