What To Know
- The XPS 13 Plus further adopts a more minimalist aesthetic, with a blacked-out trackpad and a haptic power button that seamlessly blends into the chassis.
- In essence, the XPS 13 is a refined evolution of a classic design, while the XPS 13 Plus pushes boundaries with a more futuristic and minimalist approach.
- However, if you’re seeking a bolder, more futuristic design with innovative features like the haptic touchpad and redesigned keyboard, the XPS 13 Plus is the way to go.
The Dell XPS 13 has long been a favorite among ultrabook enthusiasts, known for its sleek design, powerful performance, and premium build quality. But in 2022, Dell introduced the Dell New XPS 13 vs XPS 13 Plus, a bold new iteration that promised further refinements and a more futuristic aesthetic. This begs the question: which one should you choose? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two premium ultrabooks, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Aesthetics: A Tale of Two Approaches
The Dell XPS 13 and XPS 13 Plus share a common lineage, but their design philosophies diverge significantly. The XPS 13 retains the familiar, elegant design language of its predecessors. Its aluminum unibody construction exudes a sense of premium quality, while the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic appeal to a wide range of users. The display is surrounded by thin bezels, offering a near-borderless viewing experience.
The XPS 13 Plus, however, embraces a more radical design. Its most striking feature is the haptic touchpad, which replaces traditional buttons with a touch-sensitive surface. The keyboard is also redesigned, with larger keys and a minimalist layout that eliminates the function keys. The XPS 13 Plus further adopts a more minimalist aesthetic, with a blacked-out trackpad and a haptic power button that seamlessly blends into the chassis.
In essence, the XPS 13 is a refined evolution of a classic design, while the XPS 13 Plus pushes boundaries with a more futuristic and minimalist approach.
Display: A Visual Feast for Both Models
Both the XPS 13 and **XPS 13 Plus** boast impressive displays that are perfect for work and entertainment. Both feature a 13.4-inch OLED display with a stunning 3.5K resolution, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional clarity. The displays also support Dolby Vision HDR, enhancing the viewing experience with richer colors and greater contrast.
While the display technology is identical, the XPS 13 Plus offers a slightly larger screen-to-body ratio thanks to its minimalist design, which reduces the bezel size even further.
Performance: Power Under the Hood
Both the XPS 13 and **XPS 13 Plus** are powered by Intel’s latest 12th Gen processors, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications. You can choose between various processor configurations, ranging from the entry-level Core i5 to the high-performance Core i7, catering to different needs and budgets.
In terms of RAM and storage, both models offer ample options, with up to 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 2TB of PCIe NVMe SSD storage. This ensures seamless multitasking and rapid application loading.
Battery Life: Staying Productive on the Go
The XPS 13 and **XPS 13 Plus** both deliver impressive battery life, allowing you to work or play for extended periods without needing to plug in. Dell claims up to 14 hours of battery life for the XPS 13 and up to 12 hours for the XPS 13 Plus, though real-world usage may vary depending on your usage patterns.
Connectivity: Staying Connected
Both the XPS 13 and **XPS 13 Plus** offer a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E for blazing-fast wireless speeds, Bluetooth 5.2 for reliable wireless peripherals, and a Thunderbolt 4 port for high-speed data transfers and external display connectivity.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right XPS 13 for You
The decision between the Dell New XPS 13 vs XPS 13 Plus comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you value a classic, elegant design with a proven track record, the **XPS 13** remains an excellent choice. It’s a refined and reliable ultrabook that delivers exceptional performance and battery life.
However, if you’re seeking a bolder, more futuristic design with innovative features like the haptic touchpad and redesigned keyboard, the XPS 13 Plus is the way to go. It’s a truly unique ultrabook that pushes the boundaries of design and technology.
Beyond the Specs: A Deeper Dive
XPS 13:
- Pros: Timeless design, proven reliability, comfortable keyboard, excellent battery life.
- Cons: Traditional touchpad, smaller screen-to-body ratio.
XPS 13 Plus:
- Pros: Bold, minimalist design, innovative haptic touchpad, larger screen-to-body ratio.
- Cons: Some users may find the redesigned keyboard less comfortable, potentially shorter battery life.
The Final Word: Beyond the Hype
Ultimately, the best Dell XPS 13 for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. The XPS 13 offers a familiar and reliable experience, while the **XPS 13 Plus** is a bold statement of innovation. Consider your priorities carefully and choose the model that best aligns with your workflow and style.
Questions You May Have
Q1: Is the XPS 13 Plus worth the extra cost?
A: The XPS 13 Plus is more expensive than the XPS 13. Whether it’s worth the extra cost depends on your budget and priorities. If you value the innovative design, haptic touchpad, and larger screen-to-body ratio, the XPS 13 Plus might be worth the investment. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or prefer a more traditional design, the XPS 13 is still an excellent choice.
Q2: Can I use a traditional mouse with the XPS 13 Plus?
A: Yes, you can use a traditional mouse with the XPS 13 Plus. The haptic touchpad is designed to provide a more intuitive and responsive experience, but it doesn’t replace the functionality of a traditional mouse.
Q3: Does the XPS 13 Plus have a webcam privacy shutter?
A: No, the XPS 13 Plus does not have a webcam privacy shutter. However, it does feature a built-in IR camera for facial recognition login.
Q4: Is the XPS 13 Plus suitable for gaming?
A: While both the XPS 13 and XPS 13 Plus offer powerful performance, they are not designed for gaming. Their focus is on productivity and content creation. If you’re looking for a laptop specifically for gaming, you’d be better off considering a gaming laptop.
Q5: What is the difference between the XPS 13 and the XPS 13 2-in-1?
A: The XPS 13 is a traditional clamshell laptop, while the XPS 13 2-in-1 is a convertible laptop with a touchscreen display that can be folded back into tablet mode. The XPS 13 2-in-1 offers more versatility but is typically heavier and more expensive than the traditional XPS 13.
