What To Know
- The XPS embraces a minimalist design with sharp edges and a metallic finish, while the Gram leans towards a more rounded and organic aesthetic with a lightweight magnesium alloy construction.
- The Dell XPS offers a higher resolution option with its 16-inch model and the option of an OLED panel for the 13.
- However, the Dell XPS provides a more premium build and higher performance for those willing to pay a premium.
The quest for the perfect ultraportable laptop is a constant battle between performance, portability, and price. Two titans in this arena are the Dell XPS and the LG Gram, both boasting impressive specs and sleek designs. But which one comes out on top? This in-depth comparison dives deep into the strengths and weaknesses of each laptop, helping you decide which one aligns better with your needs.
Design and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Aesthetics
Both the Dell XPS and the LG Gram are known for their premium build quality and sleek aesthetics. The XPS embraces a minimalist design with sharp edges and a metallic finish, while the Gram leans towards a more rounded and organic aesthetic with a lightweight magnesium alloy construction.
Dell XPS:
- Design: Minimalist, sharp edges, metal finish.
- Build Quality: Sturdy, premium feel, good durability.
- Weight: Starts at 2.7 pounds, depending on configuration.
LG Gram:
- Design: Rounded edges, sleek and lightweight.
- Build Quality: Extremely lightweight, durable magnesium alloy.
- Weight: Starts at 2.2 pounds, making it one of the lightest laptops available.
Winner: The LG Gram takes the win for its incredibly lightweight design, making it a true champion of portability. However, the Dell XPS offers a more premium and robust build, appealing to those who prioritize durability.
Display: A Visual Feast for Both Laptops
Both the Dell XPS and the LG Gram offer stunning displays, delivering vibrant colors and sharp detail. However, they differ in their screen size and resolution, catering to different preferences.
Dell XPS:
- Screen Size: 13.4 inches, 15 inches, and 16 inches.
- Resolution: 1920 x 1200 (13.4-inch), 1920 x 1080 (15-inch), 3840 x 2400 (16-inch).
- Panel Type: IPS LCD, OLED (13.4-inch).
LG Gram:
- Screen Size: 14 inches, 16 inches, and 17 inches.
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (14-inch), 2560 x 1600 (16-inch), 2560 x 1600 (17-inch).
- Panel Type: IPS LCD.
Winner: This category is a tie. The Dell XPS offers a higher resolution option with its 16-inch model and the option of an OLED panel for the 13.4-inch model, delivering superior color accuracy and contrast. The LG Gram, however, boasts larger screen sizes, ideal for multimedia consumption and productivity.
Performance: Powering Through Your Workload
The performance of both laptops varies depending on the chosen configuration. However, both offer powerful processors and ample RAM for everyday tasks and even some light gaming.
Dell XPS:
- Processor: Intel Core i5 and i7 processors.
- RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR5.
- Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe SSD.
LG Gram:
- Processor: Intel Core i5 and i7 processors.
- RAM: Up to 16GB LPDDR4X.
- Storage: Up to 1TB PCIe SSD.
Winner: The Dell XPS generally offers slightly better performance due to its higher RAM capacity and faster SSD options. However, the LG Gram still provides sufficient power for most users, especially those prioritizing portability.
Battery Life: Staying Productive on the Go
Battery life is paramount for ultraportable laptops, and both the Dell XPS and the LG Gram excel in this area.
Dell XPS:
- Battery Life: Up to 12 hours of mixed usage.
LG Gram:
- Battery Life: Up to 17 hours of mixed usage.
Winner: The LG Gram takes the crown for its impressive battery life, allowing you to work or entertain yourself for longer periods without needing a charger.
Connectivity: Staying Connected Wherever You Go
Both laptops offer a wide range of connectivity options, ensuring you can seamlessly connect to peripherals and networks.
Dell XPS:
- Connectivity: Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, HDMI, microSD card reader, fingerprint sensor.
LG Gram:
- Connectivity: Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, HDMI, microSD card reader, fingerprint sensor.
Winner: This category is a tie. Both laptops offer similar connectivity options, making them suitable for various scenarios.
Price: Finding the Right Value for Your Budget
The price of both laptops varies significantly depending on the configuration.
Dell XPS:
- Price: Starts at around $1,000 for the 13.4-inch model and goes up to $2,000 for the 16-inch model.
LG Gram:
- Price: Starts at around $1,000 for the 14-inch model and goes up to $1,800 for the 17-inch model.
Winner: The LG Gram generally offers better value for money, especially for users seeking a lightweight and long-lasting laptop. However, the Dell XPS provides a more premium build and higher performance for those willing to pay a premium.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Ultraportable Laptop
The choice between the Dell XPS and the LG Gram ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Choose the Dell XPS if:
- You prioritize performance and want a more premium build.
- You need a laptop with a high-resolution display, especially the 16-inch model with its 3840 x 2400 resolution.
- You’re willing to pay a premium for a powerful and stylish laptop.
Choose the LG Gram if:
- You value portability and battery life above all else.
- You need a lightweight laptop that can easily fit in your bag.
- You’re looking for a good value for money, especially for the 14-inch model.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Dell XPS and LG Gram are excellent choices, the ultraportable laptop market offers a diverse range of options. Consider exploring other brands like Lenovo, HP, and Acer, as they offer competitive models with unique features and price points.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which laptop is better for students?
A: Both the Dell XPS and LG Gram are great choices for students. The LG Gram’s lightweight design and long battery life make it ideal for carrying around campus, while the Dell XPS offers a more powerful performance for demanding tasks like video editing or gaming.
Q: Which laptop is better for travel?
A: The LG Gram‘s incredibly lightweight design makes it the clear winner for travel. Its long battery life also ensures you can work or entertain yourself on the go without worrying about power.
Q: Which laptop is better for everyday use?
A: Both laptops are excellent for everyday use. The Dell XPS offers a more premium experience with its powerful performance and stunning display, while the LG Gram excels in its portability and battery life. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Q: Which laptop is better for gaming?
A: While both laptops can handle light gaming, the Dell XPS offers a slight advantage due to its more powerful processors and dedicated graphics card options. However, neither laptop is ideal for demanding AAA games.
Q: Which laptop is better for video editing?
A: The Dell XPS is a better choice for video editing due to its more powerful processors and dedicated graphics card options. However, both laptops can handle basic video editing tasks.
