Discover the Dell XPS 13 Plus: A Unique Blend of Style and Performance
Are you ready to dive into the world of sleek laptops with a twist? Dell has taken a bold step with its XPS 13 Plus, a laptop that’s not afraid to stand out from the crowd. Let’s explore what makes this machine tick and whether it’s the right fit for your tech-savvy lifestyle.
Pros of the Dell XPS 13 Plus
- Different design that catches the eye
- Solid construction for durability
- Sharp OLED display for stunning visuals
Cons to Consider
- Haptic touchpad may be inconsistent
- Grainy 720p webcam that’s not up to current standards
- Bottom panel heats up under heavy use
- Requires two hands to open the lid
- Limited to only two ports
When Dell introduced the XPS 13 Plus last year, it certainly turned heads with its unique touchpad, keyboard, and Function row. Now, the second version is here, maintaining the same intriguing chassis but with an updated CPU and faster RAM. Despite the upgrades, the 720p webcam remains a relic of the past.
Fortunately, this year’s model boasts an improvement in a crucial area: battery life. While it’s not leading the pack, the XPS 13 Plus is now closer to the average, which is a significant step up from its predecessor. For an ultraportable laptop, battery life is essential, especially when you’re constantly on the go. However, I’m still left wanting more from the XPS 13 Plus, particularly a more reliable haptic touchpad and cooler operation.
Configuration as Tested
| Dell XPS 13 Plus (2023) | |
|---|---|
| Price as reviewed | $1,699 |
| Display size/resolution | 13.4-inch 3456 x 2160 60Hz OLED |
| CPU | 2.2GHz Intel Core i7-1360P |
| Memory | 16GB DDR5 6,400MHz RAM |
| Graphics | 128MB Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| Networking | Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Operating system | Windows Home 11 22H2 |
The XPS 13 Plus 9320 starts at a competitive price and offers various configurations. You can choose from different display upgrades, including OLED panels with higher resolution and brightness. Our test system, priced at $1,699, features a 3.5K OLED display and comes in two color options: white (platinum) and black (graphite).
Comparing this year’s model to last year’s, the changes are subtle but significant. The shift from a Core i7-1280P CPU to the Core i7-1360P and an upgrade in RAM speed are notable tweaks. Despite the tight enclosure, Dell has opted for an Intel Core P-series chip, striking a balance between efficiency and power.
In terms of performance, the new XPS 13 Plus doesn’t show a drastic improvement over its predecessor, which is expected given the similarities between the CPUs. However, it does manage to edge out the previous model in the PCMark 10 benchmark.
When pitted against competitors, the XPS 13 Plus’s performance is a mixed bag. It finds itself nestled between the Acer Swift Go 14 and the Asus ZenBook S 13, with HP Pavilions powered by AMD Ryzen chips outperforming it in some areas. This is an aspect where Dell’s ultraportable could use some fine-tuning.
Despite the stiff competition, the XPS 13 Plus does have its charms. Its longer battery life is a welcome improvement, and its unique design elements are sure to appeal to those looking for something different in a sea of similar-looking laptops.
So, is the Dell XPS 13 Plus the right choice for you? It’s a laptop that dares to be different, both in design and functionality. If you’re in the market for an ultraportable with a distinctive style and are willing to overlook a few quirks, the XPS 13 Plus might just be the breath of fresh air you’re looking for.
Remember, the perfect laptop is out there waiting for you, and who knows? The Dell XPS 13 Plus, with its blend of innovation and performance, could be the tech companion you’ve been searching for. Happy laptop hunting!
Discover the Dell XPS 13 Plus: A Striking Blend of Design and Performance
Are you in the market for an ultraportable laptop that doesn’t skimp on style or substance? The Dell XPS 13 Plus might just be the tech companion you’ve been searching for. With its 51-watt-hour battery, this model impresses with a seven-hour lifespan on streaming tests. That’s a significant leap from its predecessor, which tapped out before hitting four hours. However, it’s worth noting that other ultraportables can outlast the XPS 13 Plus by several hours.
Peppy Performance with a Warm Touch
When it comes to everyday tasks, the XPS 13 Plus is a peppy performer. Multitasking is a breeze, with no lag to slow you down. Nevertheless, the laptop does have a tendency to get warm, especially during multimedia tasks or extended video streaming. The cooling fans are relatively quiet, but the bottom panel can heat up, making it more suitable for desk use rather than on your lap.
The Borderless Touchpad: Innovative or Infuriating?
The XPS 13 Plus boasts an adventurous design, starting with its borderless touchpad. This touchpad extends across the wrist rest, offering a seamless look. The keyboard, with its edge-to-edge flat keys, adds to the laptop’s sleek appearance. Typing on this keyboard is surprisingly comfortable, despite the shallow key travel.
Haptic Feedback Hiccups
However, the touchpad’s haptic feedback can be a mixed bag. It’s similar to the MacBook’s touchpad, lacking a physical click mechanism. While this can be a modern touch, it also introduces the potential for haptic hiccups, which can disrupt your workflow. Drag-and-drop actions can be particularly tricky, making some users long for the reliability of a traditional touchpad.
Touch-Sensitive Function Row
The XPS 13 Plus also features a touch-sensitive function row, enhancing its minimalist aesthetic. But the absence of haptic feedback means you can’t operate it by feel alone, which could be a drawback for some users.
Opening Up the XPS 13 Plus: A Two-Handed Affair
Before you can even start admiring the keyboard and touchpad, you’ll need to open the laptop. This simple act is surprisingly difficult due to the lack of a cutout for easy lifting. The firm display hinge doesn’t help matters, often requiring a two-handed approach to open the lid.
Minimalist to a Fault?
The XPS 13 Plus takes minimalism to the extreme with its port selection. You’ll find just two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, and no headphone jack. Dell does include adapters, but keeping track of them can be a hassle.
Build Quality That Impresses
Despite any design quirks, the build quality of the XPS 13 Plus is undeniable. Its all-metal chassis is rigid, with no flex to speak of. Weighing in at 2.8 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than the M2 MacBook Air but still comfortably portable.
Display and Webcam: A Tale of Highs and Lows
The 3.5K OLED display is a true highlight, offering exceptional contrast and a wide color range. It’s sharp enough that the higher 4K option might not be necessary for most users, especially considering the potential impact on battery life. However, the display’s brightness falls slightly short of its advertised 400 nits.
The Webcam Conundrum
On the downside, the 720p webcam is a letdown. It’s outdated compared to the 1080p cameras found in most modern laptops. If video calls are a staple of your routine, this could be a significant drawback.
IR Camera and MyDell App Features
On the plus side, the IR camera allows for password-free logins, and the MyDell app offers handy Presence Detection features. These include locking the system when you walk away and waking it as you approach, as well as dimming the display to save battery life and protect privacy.
Is the Dell XPS 13 Plus the Right Choice for You?
If you’re drawn to the unique and premium feel of the XPS 13 Plus, it could be a worthy choice. Its average performance and battery life may not set it apart from the competition, but its design certainly will. The haptic touchpad’s reliability could be improved, but overall, the XPS 13 Plus stands out as a well-constructed ultraportable with a distinctive look.
For those who prioritize a conventional laptop experience, options like the HP Pavilion Plus 14 might be more appealing. But for those who value innovation and design, the XPS 13 Plus offers a compelling package.
Discover the Best OLED Ultrabooks: A Comprehensive Review
Are you in the market for an ultraportable laptop with a dazzling display? Look no further! We’re diving into the world of OLED ultrabooks, where the Asus Zenbook S 13 stands out with its portability and long battery life. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Let’s explore the top contenders and see how they stack up in performance and features.
The Rigorous Review Process: How We Test
Our review process for laptops and similar devices is thorough, to say the least. It’s a two-pronged approach: first, we put the machines through their paces with performance testing in the controlled environment of CNET Labs. Then, our expert reviewers get their hands on them for an in-depth evaluation. We scrutinize everything from aesthetics and ergonomics to the nitty-gritty of their features. Ultimately, our final verdict is a blend of objective data and subjective experience.
Performance Benchmarking: The Tools of the Trade
As technology evolves, so does our suite of benchmarking software. Currently, we’re running a core set of tests on every compatible computer. These include Primate Labs’ Geekbench 5, Cinebench R23, PCMark 10, and 3DMark Fire Strike Ultra. For a more in-depth look at each benchmark and how we utilize them, check out our ‘How We Test Computers’ page.
Geekbench 6 (Multicore) Performance Showdown
When it comes to multicore performance, the Acer Swift Go 14 (SFG14-71) is a powerhouse, boasting a score of 12833. Not far behind, the Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 (2023) impresses with a score of 10900. The HP Pavilion Plus 14 isn’t slouching either, with a solid 10523. Meanwhile, the HP Dragonfly Pro and Asus ZenBook S 13 OLED UX5304V round out the competition with scores of 9322 and 8491, Respectively.
Geekbench 5 (Multicore) Benchmarking
Geekbench 5 tells a similar story, with the Acer Swift Go 14 leading the pack at 11804. The HP Pavilion Plus 14 and HP Dragonfly Pro follow with scores of 9569 and 9146. Apple’s M2 MacBook Air sneaks in with an 8592, while the Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 (2022) and Asus ZenBook S 13 OLED UX5304V trail with scores of 8302 and 7999. The Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 (2023) lags a bit at 6749.
PCMark 10 Pro Edition: A Comprehensive Test
In the PCMark 10 Pro Edition benchmark, the HP Pavilion Plus 14 takes the lead with a score of 6800. The Acer Swift Go 14 follows with 6196, and the HP Dragonfly Pro is close behind at 6085. The Asus ZenBook S 13 OLED UX5304V and Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 (2023) score 5858 and 5433, respectively, while the Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 (2022) rounds out the list with 4643.
Cinebench R23 (Multicore) Testing
Cinebench R23 offers a look at rendering performance, where the Acer Swift Go 14 and HP Dragonfly Pro are neck and neck with scores of 12789 and 12696. The HP Pavilion Plus 14 isn’t far off at 12473. The Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 (2022) and (2023) models score 10344 and 7377, while the M2 Apple MacBook Air and Asus ZenBook S 13 OLED UX5304V are tied at the bottom with 6793 and 6796.
3DMark Wild Life Extreme Unlimited: Graphics Prowess
For those interested in graphics performance, the 3DMark Wild Life Extreme Unlimited benchmark is telling. The M2 Apple MacBook Air leads with a score of 6803. The HP Pavilion Plus 14 and Acer Swift Go 14 are in a dead heat at 4541 and 4116. The Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 (2022) and (2023) models score 4116 and 3906, while the HP Dragonfly Pro and Asus ZenBook S 13 OLED UX5304V are close competitors with 3790 and 3780.
In conclusion, whether you’re a professional on the go, a student, or just someone who appreciates a great display and solid performance, there’s an OLED ultrabook out there for you. The Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED stands out for its portability and battery life, but the competition is fierce with offerings from Acer, HP, Dell, and Apple. Remember, the best laptop for you depends on your specific needs and use case, so consider these benchmarks as a starting point for your search. Happy laptop hunting!
Ultimate Guide to Laptop Battery Life: Streaming Showdown
Are you tired of your laptop dying on you during the most climactic moments of your favorite shows? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we’re diving into the riveting world of online streaming battery drain tests. That’s right, we’re talking about the ultimate showdown that pits the stamina of the latest laptops against the power-hungry demands of binge-watching. So, grab your popcorn and let’s see which laptops can truly go the distance!
The Contenders in the Streaming Marathon
First up in our battery endurance race, we have the M2 Apple MacBook Air, boasting an impressive 1039 on the battery scoreboard. Following closely behind is the sleek Asus ZenBook S 13 OLED UX5304V with a score of 660. Not too shabby, Asus!
But wait, there’s more! The Acer Swift Go 14 (SFG14-71) isn’t far behind, clocking in at 563. Meanwhile, the HP Pavilion Plus 14 is giving it the old college try with a score of 479. And let’s not forget the HP Dragonfly Pro, fluttering in with 449.
Now, for the Dell duo: the Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 (2023) edition scores a 432, while its predecessor, the Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 (2022), seems to have partied a bit too hard last year, coming in at a mere 235. Talk about a power nap!
What’s Under the Hood?
But hey, it’s not all about the numbers. Let’s peek under the hood and check out the system configurations that make these laptops tick. After all, it’s what’s on the inside that counts, right?
Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 (2023)
Starting with the latest Dell XPS 13 Plus, we’re looking at Microsoft Windows 11 Home, a zippy 2.2GHz Intel Core i7-1360P, a solid 16GB DDR5 RAM, and a 128MB Intel Iris Xe Graphics card. Oh, and let’s not forget the 512GB SSD for all your storage needs.
Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 (2022)
Its older sibling, the 2022 model, isn’t too different, with the same OS, RAM, graphics, and storage. However, it’s powered by a slightly less peppy 1.8GHz Intel Core i7-1280P. Still, not too shabby for last year’s tech!
HP Pavilion Plus 14
Switching gears to HP, the Pavilion Plus 14 steps up with Microsoft Windows 11 Home, a robust 3.3GHz AMD Ryzen 7 7840U, a whopping 16GB DDR5 RAM, and a 512MB AMD Radeon 780M graphics card. And for the digital hoarders, a generous 1TB SSD.
HP Dragonfly Pro
The HP Dragonfly Pro flutters in with similar specs: Windows 11 Home, a 2.7GHz AMD Ryzen 7 7736U, the same RAM and graphics, and a 512GB SSD. It’s like the Pavilion’s slightly less buff cousin.
Acer Swift Go 14 (SFG14-71)
The Acer Swift Go 14 isn’t playing around either. It’s kitted out with Windows 11 Home, a 2.4GHz Intel Core i7-13700H, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 128MB Intel Iris Xe Graphics, and a 512GB SSD. Swift by name, swift by nature!
Asus ZenBook S 13 OLED UX5304V
Asus is here to impress with the ZenBook S 13 OLED, running Windows 11 Pro on a 1.7GHz Intel Core i7-1355U, a hefty 32GB DDR5 RAM, the standard 128MB Intel Iris Xe Graphics, and a roomy 1TB SSD. That’s a lot of bang for your buck!
M2 Apple MacBook Air
Last but not least, the M2 Apple MacBook Air floats in with its own MacOS Monterey 12.4, an Apple M2 8-core chip, 8GB RAM, a 10-core GPU, and a 256GB SSD. It’s the minimalist’s dream with a battery life that just won’t quit.
Who’s the Marathon Champion?
So, who takes the crown in this epic battle of battery longevity? Well, it seems the M2 Apple MacBook Air is the marathon champion, with the Asus ZenBook S 13 OLED and Acer Swift Go 14 not too far behind. But let’s be real, each of these laptops has its own strengths, and they’re all winners in our hearts (and in our living rooms).
Whether you’re a die-hard Windows aficionado or a MacOS maven, there’s a power-sipping laptop out there for you. So, the next time you settle in for a streaming spree, you can rest easy knowing your trusty laptop won’t leave you hanging at the worst possible moment. Unless, of course, you forget to charge it, but that’s a story for another day.
In conclusion, the world of laptops is full of surprises, and battery life is just one piece of the puzzle. So, choose wisely, charge regularly, and may your streams never buffer nor your batteries ever die!
