Dell Xps 13 Plus Review

The Dell XPS 13 Plus, in essence, is a bold re-imagining of Dell’s flagship ultraportable, pushing the boundaries of minimalist design and integrated technology.

It’s a laptop that screams premium from every angle, aiming squarely at users who value a seamless, futuristic aesthetic alongside powerful performance in a compact form factor.

While it introduces some significant design departures, like the haptic force-feedback trackpad and the invisible function row, its core mission remains: deliver an exceptional user experience for productivity, content consumption, and light creative tasks, all wrapped in a sleek, highly portable package.

It’s a compelling option for those ready to embrace its innovative design choices and are looking for a true statement piece that performs.

When you’re into the world of high-end ultrabooks, it’s not just about one product. it’s about the ecosystem.

Here’s how the XPS 13 Plus stacks up against some other top contenders in the market, giving you a broader perspective on your options:

• Dell XPS 13 Plus

  

  • Key Features: Intel 12th Gen/13th Gen Core i7/i5 processors, up to 32GB LPDDR5 RAM, up to 2TB PCIe 4 SSD, 13.4-inch FHD+/3.5K OLED/UHD+ display options, haptic force-feedback trackpad, capacitive touch function row, dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, premium aluminum and glass design.
  • Average Price: Starts around $1,299, high-end configurations can exceed $2,000.
  • Pros: Stunning minimalist design, excellent display options especially OLED, powerful performance for its size, premium build quality, compact and lightweight.
  • Cons: Limited port selection only two Thunderbolt 4, controversial haptic trackpad and capacitive function row might not suit everyone, battery life can vary significantly with higher-resolution screens, runs warm under heavy load.

• Apple MacBook Air M2

  • Key Features: Apple M2 chip, up to 24GB unified memory, up to 2TB SSD, 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, MagSafe charging, two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, fanless design.
  • Average Price: Starts around $1,099, configurations can go up to $2,499.
  • Pros: Exceptional battery life, silent operation, powerful and efficient M2 chip for most tasks, excellent build quality, cohesive macOS ecosystem, superb display.
  • Cons: Fewer ports than some competitors, not ideal for intensive sustained workloads due to fanless design, higher price than some Windows alternatives for similar specs, limited upgradeability.

• HP Spectre x360 14

  • Key Features: Intel Core Ultra processors, up to 32GB RAM, up to 2TB SSD, 14-inch 2.8K OLED or FHD+ display, convertible 2-in-1 design, excellent port selection Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, HDMI, included stylus.
  • Average Price: Starts around $1,399, can reach over $2,000.
  • Pros: Versatile 2-in-1 design, stunning OLED display option, premium look and feel, good port variety, strong performance, comfortable keyboard.
  • Cons: Slightly heavier than pure clamshell ultrabooks, battery life can be average with OLED, some bloatware.

• Microsoft Surface Laptop 5

  • Key Features: Intel Core i5/i7 processors, up to 32GB LPDDR5x RAM, up to 1TB SSD, 13.5-inch or 15-inch PixelSense touchscreen, Alcantara or metal finish options, Thunderbolt 4 port.
  • Average Price: Starts around $999 for 13.5-inch, up to $2,399 for high-end 15-inch.
  • Pros: Excellent build quality, fantastic keyboard and trackpad, premium display, clean Windows 11 experience, very sleek design.
  • Cons: Limited port selection, less powerful than some competitors for demanding tasks, some configurations can be pricey, no AMD options.

• Lenovo Yoga 7i 16

  • Key Features: Intel Core i5/i7 processors, up to 16GB RAM, up to 1TB SSD, 16-inch 2.5K IPS display, convertible 2-in-1 design, good port selection Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, HDMI, larger screen real estate.
  • Average Price: Starts around $849, can go up to $1,399.
  • Pros: Great value for a 16-inch convertible, large and vibrant display, decent performance for daily tasks, comfortable keyboard.
  • Cons: Heavier and less portable than 13-inch ultrabooks, not as premium in build as some competitors, integrated graphics only.

• Asus ZenBook S 13 Flip OLED

  • Key Features: Intel 12th Gen Core i7, up to 16GB RAM, up to 1TB PCIe 4 SSD, 13.3-inch 2.8K OLED touchscreen, convertible design, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, very lightweight.
  • Average Price: Starts around $1,199, can exceed $1,500.
  • Pros: Incredible OLED display, extremely lightweight and portable, decent performance for its size, good battery life, premium design.
  • Cons: Limited port selection, runs a bit warm under load, keyboard can feel shallow to some.

• Dell XPS 15

  • Key Features: Intel Core i7/i9 processors, up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU, up to 64GB DDR5 RAM, up to 8TB PCIe 4 SSD, 15.6-inch FHD+/3.5K OLED display, robust port selection.
  • Average Price: Starts around $1,799, high-end configurations can exceed $3,000.
  • Pros: Powerful performance for creative professionals and light gaming, stunning display options, premium build, excellent keyboard.
  • Cons: Less portable than 13-inch models, higher price point, can run hot under sustained heavy loads, battery life varies greatly with discrete GPU and OLED.

Design and Aesthetics: A Masterclass in Minimalism or Too Much?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus isn’t just another laptop. it’s a design statement.

Dell took a chainsaw to the traditional laptop blueprint, aiming for a “less is more” approach that’s both striking and, frankly, a bit controversial.

This is where the rubber meets the road on whether you’re a fan of cutting-edge minimalism or prefer the familiar comfort of classic design.

The Seamless Glass Palm Rest and Haptic Trackpad

One of the first things you’ll notice—or rather, won’t notice—is the trackpad.

It’s integrated seamlessly into the glass palm rest, with no visible delineation.

• Aesthetics First: This design choice is pure art. It gives the laptop an incredibly clean, uninterrupted look, almost like a single slab of futuristic tech.
• Haptic Feedback: Beneath the glass, Dell employs a haptic force-feedback mechanism. When you “click,” you don’t actually move anything. instead, tiny motors vibrate to simulate a click. It’s similar to the MacBook’s Force Touch trackpad.
  • Pros: Precise, responsive, and allows for consistent clicks anywhere on the pad. No moving parts mean less wear and tear.
  • Cons: It lacks the tactile satisfaction of a traditional physical click for some users. The muscle memory for finding the “edge” of the trackpad without visual cues takes getting used to.
• Real-World Takeaway: While incredibly cool, some users might find themselves occasionally searching for the boundaries of the trackpad, especially if they’re not looking directly at it. It’s a bold move that pays off aesthetically but requires a slight adjustment period.

The Invisible Capacitive Function Row

Another significant departure is the traditional function key row.

On the XPS 13 Plus, these are replaced by a capacitive touch strip that lights up.

• Elegance Personified: Again, this contributes to the minimalist design, making the keyboard area look incredibly sleek. The keys are illuminated, so they’re visible in the dark.
• Functionality vs. Tactility: This is where the debate gets intense. There’s no physical feedback, no “click” or “press” when you hit F1, volume up, or brightness down.
  • Pros: Ultra-clean look, modern feel.
  • Cons: Lack of tactile feedback means you have to look down to ensure you’re hitting the right “key.” This can slow down workflows for users who rely on muscle memory for function keys. Imagine trying to hit F5 to refresh without looking—you’ll be guessing.
• Power Button Integration: The power button is cleverly integrated into the top right of the capacitive row, with a tiny LED to indicate power status. It’s subtle, perhaps a bit too subtle for some.
• The “FN” Key Conundrum: Like traditional laptops, you hold the “Fn” key to switch between media controls and the actual F-keys. This is a common practice, but without tactile feedback, it can feel less intuitive here.

The Edge-to-Edge Keyboard

Dell also pushed the keyboard keys right to the very edges of the chassis, maximizing space.

• Larger Keycaps: This allows for slightly larger keycaps than previous XPS 13 models, which can improve typing comfort.
• Minimal Bezel: The side bezels around the keyboard are virtually non-existent, further enhancing the “edge-to-edge” aesthetic.
• Typing Experience: The key travel is decent for an ultraportable, and the keys feel stable. While some prefer more travel, it’s a solid typing experience for most.
• Practicality: The larger keycaps are a definite win for typing speed and accuracy, even if the overall design is divisive.

Performance: More Power Than Meets the Eye?

Don’t let the XPS 13 Plus’s svelte profile fool you.

Dell packed some serious processing muscle into this machine. Gateway 156 Inch Ultra Slim 2022 Review

It leverages Intel’s latest and greatest, aiming to deliver robust performance for a wide range of tasks, pushing the boundaries of what a 13-inch ultraportable can achieve.

Intel’s 12th/13th Gen Processors and Beyond

The heart of the XPS 13 Plus beats with Intel’s high-performance P-series processors.

• P-Series Power: Unlike the more common U-series found in many ultrabooks, the P-series chips like the Core i7-1280P or i7-1360P are designed with a higher Thermal Design Power TDP of 28W, compared to the 15W of U-series chips. This means they can sustain higher clock speeds for longer, delivering more consistent performance.
• Hybrid Architecture: These chips feature Intel’s hybrid architecture, combining Performance-cores P-cores for demanding tasks and Efficient-cores E-cores for background processes and power efficiency.
  • Example: A typical Core i7-1280P has 6 P-cores and 8 E-cores, totaling 14 cores and 20 threads.
• Real-World Impact: For tasks like intensive multi-tab browsing, complex spreadsheets, light video editing, or photo manipulation in software like Adobe Photoshop, the XPS 13 Plus handles them with impressive alacrity. It feels snappier and more capable than many predecessors or competitors with lower-TDP chips.
• Data Point: In Cinebench R23 multi-core tests, the XPS 13 Plus often scores significantly higher than U-series equipped laptops, sometimes by as much as 20-30%, showcasing its sustained multi-threaded performance.

Integrated Graphics: Iris Xe

While not a gaming powerhouse, the integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics are surprisingly capable for an integrated solution.

• Casual Gaming: You won’t be playing Cyberpunk 2077 on ultra settings, but less demanding titles like League of Legends, CS:GO, or indie games are perfectly playable at lower settings and resolutions.
• Content Creation: Iris Xe provides hardware acceleration for tasks like video encoding/decoding and image processing, which benefits creative applications. This isn’t a substitute for a discrete GPU in heavy video editing, but it certainly helps for lighter workflows.
• 4K Playback: Smoothly handles 4K video playback, essential for a laptop with high-resolution display options.

RAM and Storage Configurations

Dell offers a range of configurations, making the XPS 13 Plus adaptable to different needs.

• LPDDR5 RAM: The laptop uses faster LPDDR5 RAM up to 32GB, which is soldered onto the motherboard. This means no user upgrades, so choose wisely upfront. LPDDR5 offers higher bandwidth and lower power consumption than previous generations.
• PCIe Gen 4 SSDs: Storage options go up to 2TB using blazing-fast PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs.
  • Speed Advantage: These drives offer sequential read/write speeds often exceeding 6,000 MB/s, which means incredibly fast boot times, app loading, and file transfers.
  • Practical Benefit: The difference in daily use is palpable. Opening large applications or large files feels instantaneous.

Thermal Management: Pushing the Limits

Packing powerful components into a thin chassis always poses a thermal challenge.

• Dual-Fan Design: The XPS 13 Plus employs a dual-fan cooling system, which is crucial for managing the higher TDP of the P-series chips.
• Heat Dissipation: While capable, under sustained heavy loads e.g., long video renders, intense gaming sessions, the laptop can get noticeably warm, especially on the underside and near the hinge. Fan noise also becomes audible, though generally not overly intrusive.
• Performance Throttling: Like all thin-and-light laptops, it will eventually throttle performance to prevent overheating during prolonged peak usage. However, for bursty tasks and everyday productivity, it maintains high performance levels.
• Understanding the Trade-off: This is the inherent trade-off with ultraportable powerhouses. You get incredible performance for the size, but you won’t get the sustained thermal headroom of a larger, thicker laptop. For most users, this is a non-issue as they rarely push the CPU to 100% for extended periods.

Display Options: Visual Feast for Every Preference

The screen is arguably the most important part of any laptop, and the Dell XPS 13 Plus offers a trio of stunning 13.4-inch display options, catering to different priorities whether you’re a pixel peeper, a battery life fanatic, or someone who craves inky blacks.

All options boast Dell’s signature InfinityEdge design, meaning super-thin bezels for an immersive viewing experience.

FHD+ Non-Touch 1920×1200

This is the standard, most practical, and often most battery-efficient option.

• Resolution: 1920×1200 pixels provides a sharp image for a 13.4-inch screen. It’s often referred to as “Full HD+” due to its slightly taller 16:10 aspect ratio, which offers more vertical screen real estate than traditional 16:9 displays. This is fantastic for productivity, as you see more lines of code, more of a document, or more website content without scrolling.
• Brightness: Typically around 500 nits, making it bright enough for most indoor and even some outdoor use, though direct sunlight can still be challenging.
• Color Accuracy: Generally very good, covering 100% of the sRGB color gamut, making it suitable for general use and even some creative work where sRGB is the standard.
• Battery Life: This resolution consumes the least power among the options, leading to the best battery endurance. If you’re a road warrior, this is your go-to.
• Real-World Scenario: Perfect for students, writers, developers, or anyone who spends hours in word processors, spreadsheets, or browsing the web.

3.5K OLED Touch 3456×2160

This is the showstopper, offering an unparalleled visual experience.

• Resolution: 3.5K, effectively a 3456×2160 resolution, means incredibly crisp images and text. You won’t see individual pixels.
• OLED Advantage: OLED Organic Light-Emitting Diode technology means each pixel emits its own light, allowing for true blacks pixels are simply off and infinite contrast ratios. Colors pop with incredible vibrancy and accuracy.
• Brightness and HDR: While not as bright as some non-OLED panels in peak white luminance often around 400 nits, the contrast makes it feel much brighter. It also supports HDR High Dynamic Range content, making compatible movies and shows look breathtaking.
• Color Gamut: Covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, which is the standard for cinematic content and professional video editing. This makes it ideal for photographers, videographers, and graphic designers.
• Touch Functionality: Being a touch display adds versatility, especially for quick taps or gestures, though the clamshell design isn’t ideal for extensive touch interaction.
• Battery Life Impact: This panel is a significant battery drain. Expect several hours less endurance compared to the FHD+ option due to the higher resolution and OLED technology.
• Real-World Scenario: Best for content creators, multimedia enthusiasts, or anyone who simply wants the absolute best visual experience and is willing to compromise on battery life.

UHD+ Touch 3840×2400

The highest resolution offering, primarily designed for detail-oriented professionals. Google Pixel Buds Pro Review

• Resolution: 3840×2400 pixels, which is essentially 4K Ultra HD in a 16:10 aspect ratio. This offers the maximum pixel density for intricate work.
• Brightness: Often the brightest panel option, sometimes reaching 500 nits.
• Color Accuracy: Excellent color accuracy and gamut coverage, comparable to the OLED for professional work, though without the infinite contrast of OLED.
• Touch Functionality: Also a touch display, similar to the OLED.
• Battery Life Impact: Like the OLED, this panel significantly impacts battery life due to the sheer number of pixels it’s pushing.
• Real-World Scenario: Ideal for CAD designers, architects, or anyone who needs maximum screen real estate and pixel density for detailed work, and where battery life is a secondary concern.

Port Selection and Connectivity: The Minimalist’s Trade-Off

In its quest for ultimate sleekness and minimalism, the Dell XPS 13 Plus made some significant cuts in the port department.

This is a common trend in ultra-thin laptops, but it’s a decision that dramatically impacts daily usability for some users.

The USB-C Only Philosophy

The XPS 13 Plus embraces the USB-C future, perhaps a bit too enthusiastically for the present.

• Two Thunderbolt 4 Ports: You get two — and only two — Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports. One on each side.
  • Thunderbolt 4 Power: These are highly versatile ports. They support:
    • Power Delivery charging the laptop
    • DisplayPort Alt Mode connecting external monitors, up to two 4K displays or one 8K display
    • Data transfer at up to 40Gbps for external SSDs, high-speed docks
    • Connecting to eGPUs external graphics cards for serious graphics horsepower.
  • The Dilemma: While powerful, having only two means you’ll quickly run out of ports if you’re charging the laptop and trying to connect an external monitor, let alone a flash drive or an external hard drive.
• No USB-A Ports: This is a big one for many. Most legacy peripherals older keyboards, mice, printers, flash drives, external hard drives still use USB-A.
• No HDMI Port: Forget connecting directly to most TVs or projectors without an adapter.
• No microSD Card Slot: Photographers and drone enthusiasts will lament the absence of a built-in card reader.
• No Headphone Jack: Yes, Dell went there. The traditional 3.5mm headphone jack is gone, meaning you’ll need USB-C headphones, a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, or Bluetooth headphones. Dell does include a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter in the box, which is a small comfort.

The Dongle Life: An Inevitable Reality

For anyone with more than two peripherals or needing to connect to legacy devices, the XPS 13 Plus forces you into “dongle life.”

• Included Adapters: Dell thoughtfully includes two adapters in the box:
  • USB-C to USB-A adapter
  • USB-C to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter
• Necessity for a Hub/Dock: For power users, a multi-port USB-C hub or a full-fledged Thunderbolt dock becomes an essential accessory, adding to the overall cost and portability burden.
  • Recommendation: If you plan on using multiple external monitors, wired peripherals, or need an Ethernet connection, factor in the cost of a good Thunderbolt dock.
• Pros of USB-C: It’s the future. One cable for everything, universal compatibility eventually.
• Cons of USB-C on the XPS 13 Plus: Too few ports right now makes the transition painful for many. It compromises the “grab and go” simplicity if you rely on traditional peripherals.

Wireless Connectivity: Top-Tier

While wired connectivity is sparse, wireless is cutting-edge.

• Wi-Fi 6E: Supports the latest Wi-Fi standard, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and less interference on compatible networks especially in the 6GHz band. This is crucial for high-speed internet access and streaming.
• Bluetooth 5.2: Ensures reliable and efficient connections with wireless peripherals like headphones, mice, and keyboards.

Battery Life: A Tale of Two Displays

Battery life on the Dell XPS 13 Plus is not a simple, single number. it’s a spectrum, heavily influenced by your choice of display and how you use the laptop. Like Tim Ferriss always says, “It depends.” And here, it really depends on your screen choice.

The FHD+ Panel: The Endurance Champion

If long endurance away from a power outlet is your top priority, the 1920×1200 FHD+ non-touch display is your best friend.

• Typical Usage: With general productivity tasks like web browsing, document editing, email, and streaming video at reasonable brightness levels, you can expect solid, all-day performance.
• Expected Hours: Reviews and user experiences generally report 9 to 12 hours of mixed-use battery life with the FHD+ panel. This is competitive with many other premium ultrabooks on the market and makes it an excellent choice for students or professionals on the go.
• Power Consumption: Lower resolution means fewer pixels to light up, and non-touch means no additional power draw for touch input. This directly translates to greater efficiency.
• Real-World Scenario: You can confidently leave your charger at home for a full day of classes or meetings.

The 3.5K OLED and UHD+ Panels: The Power Hogs

Opting for the stunning 3.5K OLED or the crisp UHD+ non-OLED display comes with a significant trade-off in battery longevity.

• Increased Pixel Count: More pixels require more power to illuminate. This is the fundamental reason for the reduced battery life.
• OLED’s Nuance: While OLED can be more power-efficient than LCD when displaying dark content because black pixels are off, it consumes considerably more power when displaying bright, white content like web pages or documents. Since most productivity tasks involve light backgrounds, OLED often drains faster in typical use cases.
• Expected Hours: With the 3.5K OLED or UHD+ panels, battery life typically drops to the 5 to 8-hour range for mixed usage. For video playback, it might stretch a bit longer, but sustained productivity or any demanding tasks will see that number dip closer to the lower end.
• Charger Awareness: If you choose one of these high-resolution, power-hungry displays, you should factor in bringing your charger with you for anything beyond a few hours of use.
• Impact of Brightness: Pushing the brightness to its maximum on these panels will further reduce battery life dramatically.

Factors Affecting Battery Life

Beyond the display, several other elements play a role in battery performance:

• CPU Usage: Demanding tasks that keep the CPU busy e.g., video rendering, compiling code, heavy gaming will drain the battery much faster, regardless of the display.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Constant active connections consume power.
• Screen Brightness: Higher brightness levels equal higher power consumption.
• Background Processes: Too many apps running in the background can silently eat away at your battery.
• Power Mode Settings: Windows 11 offers various power modes e.g., “Best power efficiency” vs. “Best performance” that directly impact CPU clock speeds and thus, battery life.
• Battery Capacity: The XPS 13 Plus typically comes with a 55Whr battery, which is decent for its size, but not exceptionally large compared to some competitors that might pack 60-70Whr.

User Experience: Living with the XPS 13 Plus

Beyond raw specs and benchmarks, how does the Dell XPS 13 Plus actually feel to use day-to-day? This is where Dell’s bold design choices truly shine or stumble, shaping the overall impression of this premium ultrabook. Adata Xpg Valor Air Review

The Typing Experience: Edge-to-Edge Comfort

The keyboard is a definite high point, despite the overall minimalist design.

• Key Travel: While shallow compared to some desktop keyboards, it offers a surprisingly satisfying amount of travel and a crisp actuation point for a laptop this thin.
• Keycap Size: The edge-to-edge design allows for larger keycaps, which reduces typos and makes for a more comfortable typing experience, especially for those with larger hands.
• Backlighting: The backlighting is uniform and adjustable, making it easy to type in dimly lit environments.
• Noise Level: The keys are relatively quiet, making it suitable for quiet offices or libraries.
• Overall: For most users, this keyboard will be a joy to type on for extended periods. It’s an improvement over some previous XPS models that had slightly cramped keys.

The Haptic Trackpad: A Learning Curve

This is the big differentiator and the primary source of user adjustment.

• Precision and Responsiveness: The haptic trackpad itself is incredibly precise and responsive. Gestures two-finger scroll, pinch-to-zoom work flawlessly.
• Invisible Edges: The challenge is the lack of physical demarcation. You have to visually orient yourself to ensure your finger is within the trackpad’s active area.
• Simulated Click: The “click” sensation is excellent, mimicking a real click convincingly. However, some users simply prefer the tangible movement of a physical click.
• Adjusting Muscle Memory: For those accustomed to traditional trackpads, there will be a brief period of awkwardness as your muscle memory adapts to the invisible boundaries. It’s not a deal-breaker for everyone, but it’s not universally loved either.
• Tim Ferriss Angle: Think of it like learning a new skill. It requires deliberate practice and patience. Once you “hack” it, it becomes second nature. But that initial learning curve exists.

The Capacitive Function Row: The Most Divisive Feature

This is arguably the most controversial design choice and has the biggest impact on routine workflows.

• Lack of Tactile Feedback: The absence of physical buttons means you have to look down to confirm you’re hitting the correct “key.” This is particularly frustrating for power users who rely on F-keys for shortcuts in applications e.g., F5 to refresh, Alt+F4 to close apps.
• Accidental Touches: While generally responsive, accidental touches can occur, especially when reaching for the numbers row or just resting your hand near the top.
• Brightness and Volume: Adjusting volume or screen brightness requires precise tapping, which feels less immediate than a physical button.
• Why Dell Did It: Pure aesthetics and to further reduce moving parts.
• Recommendation: If you frequently use function keys without looking, this design choice will require significant adjustment or might be a deal-breaker. If you mostly use a mouse and don’t rely heavily on F-keys, it’s less of an issue.

Webcam and Microphones: Good Enough for Video Calls

In an age of remote work, webcam and microphone quality are more important than ever.

• Webcam: The XPS 13 Plus features a 720p webcam. It’s generally adequate for video calls in well-lit environments, offering decent clarity. However, it’s not going to blow you away, and it struggles in low light, often producing grainy images.
• Microphones: The dual array microphones are good at picking up your voice and filtering out some background noise, making you sound clear on calls.
• No Windows Hello Face Recognition: Unlike many premium laptops, the XPS 13 Plus does not feature an IR camera for Windows Hello facial recognition. It relies solely on a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button for biometric login.

Speakers: Surprisingly Decent for the Size

Despite its small stature, the XPS 13 Plus delivers surprisingly good audio.

• Speaker Placement: Features four speakers, which contribute to a richer sound profile.
• Sound Quality: They produce clear vocals and a decent amount of bass for a laptop of this size. They’re loud enough to fill a small room.
• Use Case: Excellent for video calls, YouTube, and casual podcast listening. Don’t expect room-shaking audio or audiophile quality, but it’s certainly above average for an ultraportable.

Software and Ecosystem: Clean Windows Experience with Dell Utilities

The Dell XPS 13 Plus runs Windows 11, offering a modern and refined operating system experience.

Dell, to its credit, keeps the pre-installed software relatively clean, focusing on essential utilities rather than excessive bloatware.

Windows 11 Home/Pro

• Modern Interface: Windows 11 brings a redesigned user interface with a centered Start menu, rounded corners, and new animations, giving it a fresh, clean look.
• Snap Layouts and Groups: Features like Snap Layouts are incredibly useful for multitasking, allowing you to easily arrange multiple windows on your screen. This is a significant productivity booster, especially on a 13-inch screen where maximizing space is key.
• Widgets: A personalized feed for news, weather, and other information, though some users find it distracting.
• Performance and Security: Windows 11 is optimized for modern hardware, and with regular updates, it maintains strong security protocols.
• DirectX 12 Ultimate: For those interested in gaming even light gaming on Iris Xe, Windows 11 offers the latest gaming technologies.

Dell-Specific Software

Dell includes a few proprietary applications designed to enhance the user experience and manage hardware.

• My Dell: This is your central hub for system information, warranty status, support resources, drivers, and software updates. It’s quite useful for keeping your machine running optimally and troubleshooting issues.
  • Driver Updates: My Dell makes it easy to check for and install the latest drivers, which are crucial for performance and stability.
  • Support: Direct links to Dell support, including chat and phone options.
• Dell Power Manager or similar utility: This application allows you to fine-tune power settings beyond what Windows offers.
  • Thermal Management: You can often switch between different thermal profiles e.g., “Optimized,” “Quiet,” “Ultra Performance,” “Cool” to prioritize fan noise, performance, or heat. This is very useful for customizing the laptop’s behavior based on your task. For example, “Quiet” mode for meetings, “Ultra Performance” for a quick photo edit.
  • Battery Settings: Control battery charging behavior e.g., express charge, adaptive charging to prolong battery health.
• Dell Mobile Connect or Dell Pair: This utility enables seamless integration between your Dell laptop and your smartphone iOS or Android.
  • Features: You can make calls, send texts, receive notifications, and mirror your phone screen directly on your laptop. This reduces the need to constantly pick up your phone, keeping your focus on the laptop.
  • Practicality: While third-party solutions exist, Dell’s integrated approach is often smoother for basic phone-to-PC interaction.
• Dell Digital Delivery: Manages the download and installation of software titles purchased with your system.
• Minimal Bloatware: Compared to many other Windows OEMs, Dell keeps the pre-installed third-party bloatware to a minimum on the XPS line, which is highly appreciated. You might find a trial of McAfee or similar, but it’s usually easy to uninstall.

Biometric Security: Fingerprint Reader

• Integrated Fingerprint Reader: The XPS 13 Plus utilizes a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button for Windows Hello biometric login.
• Speed and Accuracy: It’s generally fast and accurate, allowing for quick and secure logins.
• Missing Facial Recognition: As noted, the absence of an IR camera for facial recognition might be a minor inconvenience for those accustomed to it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Dell XPS 13 Plus a good laptop for students?

Yes, the Dell XPS 13 Plus is an excellent laptop for students, especially with the FHD+ display option due to its portability, strong performance for productivity, and premium build.

However, the limited port selection may require a USB-C hub for connecting peripherals. Trend Micro Password Manager Review

Does the Dell XPS 13 Plus have a headphone jack?

No, the Dell XPS 13 Plus does not have a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.

It relies on USB-C headphones or requires a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, which Dell includes in the box.

How many USB-C ports does the XPS 13 Plus have?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus has two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, one on each side. These are the only physical ports on the laptop.

Can I upgrade the RAM on the Dell XPS 13 Plus?

No, the RAM on the Dell XPS 13 Plus is soldered directly onto the motherboard, meaning it cannot be upgraded after purchase.

It’s crucial to choose the right amount of RAM up to 32GB LPDDR5 when configuring your laptop.

Is the Dell XPS 13 Plus good for gaming?

No, the Dell XPS 13 Plus is not designed for serious gaming.

It uses integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, which can handle casual or older, less demanding games at lower settings, but it lacks the dedicated GPU power for modern AAA titles.

What is the difference between the XPS 13 and XPS 13 Plus?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus features a more radical, minimalist design with a seamless haptic trackpad, a capacitive touch function row, and higher-TDP Intel P-series processors for more performance.

The standard XPS 13 maintains a more traditional design with a physical trackpad, function keys, and typically lower-TDP U-series processors.

What are the display options for the XPS 13 Plus?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus offers three 13.4-inch display options: an FHD+ 1920×1200 non-touch panel, a 3.5K 3456×2160 OLED touch panel, and a UHD+ 3840×2400 non-OLED touch panel. Kodak Step Slim Instant Mobile Photo Printer Review

Which display option is best for battery life on the XPS 13 Plus?

The FHD+ 1920×1200 non-touch display offers the best battery life on the Dell XPS 13 Plus, typically lasting 9-12 hours on a single charge.

The OLED and UHD+ options significantly reduce battery endurance.

Does the XPS 13 Plus get hot?

Yes, under sustained heavy loads, the Dell XPS 13 Plus can get noticeably warm, especially on the underside and near the hinge, due to its powerful P-series processors in a thin chassis.

Fan noise also becomes audible during these periods.

Does the XPS 13 Plus have a touchscreen?

Yes, two of the three display options for the Dell XPS 13 Plus the 3.5K OLED and the UHD+ are touchscreens. The base FHD+ option is non-touch.

Is the keyboard on the XPS 13 Plus good for typing?

Yes, the Dell XPS 13 Plus features an edge-to-edge keyboard with surprisingly good key travel and larger keycaps for its size, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.

How durable is the Dell XPS 13 Plus?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus boasts a premium build with aluminum and glass, making it feel very sturdy and durable.

Its minimalist design also means fewer moving parts in areas like the trackpad.

Does the XPS 13 Plus support Windows Hello facial recognition?

No, the Dell XPS 13 Plus does not include an IR camera for Windows Hello facial recognition.

It relies on a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button for biometric login. Razer Deathadder V3 Pro Review

Is the Dell XPS 13 Plus fanless?

No, the Dell XPS 13 Plus is not fanless.

It uses a dual-fan cooling system to manage the heat generated by its powerful Intel P-series processors.

Can the XPS 13 Plus run CAD software?

Yes, the Dell XPS 13 Plus, especially with its powerful Intel P-series processors and high-resolution display options like UHD+, can run CAD software for light to moderate tasks.

For very complex 3D modeling or rendering, a laptop with a dedicated GPU like the XPS 15 or 16 would be more suitable.

What comes in the box with the Dell XPS 13 Plus?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus typically comes with the laptop itself, a USB-C power adapter 60W, a USB-C to USB-A adapter, and a USB-C to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter.

How much does the Dell XPS 13 Plus weigh?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus weighs approximately 2.71 lbs 1.23 kg, making it a very lightweight and portable ultraportable laptop.

Does the XPS 13 Plus have good speakers?

Yes, for its size, the Dell XPS 13 Plus has surprisingly good speakers, featuring a quad-speaker design that delivers clear audio and decent volume for casual listening and video calls.

What is the aspect ratio of the XPS 13 Plus display?

All display options on the Dell XPS 13 Plus feature a 16:10 aspect ratio, which provides more vertical screen real estate than traditional 16:9 displays, beneficial for productivity.

Is the Dell XPS 13 Plus good for programming?

Yes, the Dell XPS 13 Plus is very good for programming due to its powerful P-series processors, fast RAM up to 32GB, quick SSD storage, and excellent display options.

The 16:10 aspect ratio is also beneficial for viewing code. Cooler Master Gm34 Cwq Argb Review

Does the Dell XPS 13 Plus support external monitors?

Yes, the Dell XPS 13 Plus supports external monitors via its two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports.

Each port can drive an external display, and with a proper dock, you can connect multiple monitors.

What is the battery capacity of the XPS 13 Plus?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus typically features a 55Whr battery.

Is the haptic trackpad on the XPS 13 Plus good?

The haptic trackpad on the Dell XPS 13 Plus is precise and responsive, offering excellent simulated clicks.

However, its seamless, invisible design requires an adjustment period for users accustomed to traditional trackpads.

How long does it take to charge the XPS 13 Plus?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus typically charges relatively quickly using its 60W USB-C power adapter, often reaching 80% charge in about an hour with Dell’s ExpressCharge technology.

Can I run Linux on the Dell XPS 13 Plus?

Yes, the Dell XPS 13 Plus is compatible with Linux.

Dell even offers developer editions of some XPS models with Ubuntu pre-installed, indicating good Linux support, though some specific drivers for newer hardware might require manual installation.

Does the XPS 13 Plus have a webcam?

Yes, the Dell XPS 13 Plus includes a 720p webcam, which is suitable for basic video calls in well-lit environments.

What processors does the XPS 13 Plus use?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus uses Intel’s 12th or 13th Gen P-series processors, such as the Core i5 or Core i7, which are designed for higher performance in thin and light form factors. Das Keyboard Mactigr Review

Is the Dell XPS 13 Plus a convertible laptop?

No, the Dell XPS 13 Plus is a traditional clamshell laptop and is not a 2-in-1 convertible. Its screen does not fold back to become a tablet.

How does the Dell XPS 13 Plus compare to the MacBook Air M2?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus generally offers more raw CPU performance for sustained workloads due to its higher TDP Intel P-series chips and active cooling.

However, the MacBook Air M2 often delivers better overall battery life, silent operation fanless, and a highly optimized ecosystem, especially for video editing. The XPS 13 Plus has a more radical design.

Is the capacitive function row a problem on the XPS 13 Plus?

For some users, the capacitive function row without physical buttons or tactile feedback is a significant drawback because it requires looking down to confirm key presses, disrupting muscle memory for quick shortcuts.

For others who rarely use function keys, it’s a non-issue.