Dell Xps 15 Oled 9520 Review

The Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520, released in 2022, was a formidable contender in the high-performance laptop market, offering a compelling blend of premium design, powerful components, and a stunning OLED display that made it a go-to choice for creative professionals and power users alike.

While newer models have since emerged, the 9520 remains a strong option on the used or refurbished market, particularly for those prioritizing display quality and a robust build.

Its combination of Intel’s 12th Gen processors, NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti graphics, and that vibrant OLED screen delivered a truly immersive experience for tasks ranging from video editing and graphic design to casual gaming. This wasn’t just a workhorse.

It was a carefully crafted machine designed to impress.

The XPS 15 OLED 9520 built on Dell’s long-standing reputation for premium laptops, taking the already excellent XPS line and elevating it with the deep blacks and infinite contrast ratios only an OLED panel can provide.

It was a laptop that understood its audience: professionals who demand top-tier performance for demanding applications, but also appreciate a sleek, portable form factor.

From its machined aluminum chassis to its comfortable keyboard, every detail felt intentional.

If you’re looking at a 9520 now, you’re investing in a system that, while not bleeding-edge, still packs more than enough punch for most modern workflows and provides a visual experience that often surpasses many current-gen non-OLED displays.

It truly exemplified what a premium Windows laptop could be, and its legacy continues to influence Dell’s current lineup.

Here’s a comparison of some notable alternatives and complementary products that enhance a high-performance laptop experience:

• Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch M3 Pro/Max

  

  • Key Features: Apple M3 Pro or M3 Max chip, Liquid Retina XDR display, exceptional battery life, macOS ecosystem, excellent build quality, high-performance for video editing and creative tasks.
  • Average Price: $2,499 – $3,999+
  • Pros: Unmatched power efficiency, superb display for color-critical work, integrated ecosystem benefits, robust security features, industry-leading trackpad.
  • Cons: Higher price point, limited port selection compared to some Windows laptops, macOS learning curve for Windows users, less flexible for gaming compared to dedicated GPU Windows laptops.

• Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme Gen 5

  • Key Features: Intel 12th Gen i7/i9, NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti/3060, up to 64GB RAM, various display options including QHD+, robust security features, MIL-STD-810G tested durability.
  • Average Price: $1,800 – $3,000+
  • Pros: Excellent keyboard, strong performance for business and creative tasks, durable build, comprehensive port selection, strong enterprise security features.
  • Cons: Design can be less aesthetically “premium” than XPS for some, webcam quality can be inconsistent, fan noise can be noticeable under heavy load.

• HP Spectre x360 16

  • Key Features: Intel 12th Gen/13th Gen, Intel Arc or NVIDIA GeForce GPUs, 16-inch OLED display option, convertible 2-in-1 design, included stylus, premium audio.
  • Average Price: $1,500 – $2,500+
  • Pros: Versatile 2-in-1 form factor, beautiful OLED display, premium design, good for creative professionals needing touch input, excellent speakers.
  • Cons: Heavier than some clamshell laptops, battery life can be impacted by OLED and discrete GPU, fan noise can be an issue with demanding tasks.

• Razer Blade 15

  • Key Features: Intel 12th Gen/13th Gen, NVIDIA RTX 30-series/40-series GPUs, QHD/FHD high refresh rate displays, vapor chamber cooling, customizable RGB keyboard.
  • Average Price: $1,700 – $3,500+
  • Pros: Excellent gaming performance, sleek and premium aluminum chassis, vibrant display options, good cooling for its class, strong for creative work that benefits from powerful GPUs.
  • Cons: Battery life typically shorter than productivity-focused laptops, can run hot under sustained load, higher price per performance compared to some gaming-specific machines, more “gamer” aesthetic.

• Portable Monitor

  • Key Features: USB-C powered, various sizes 13-17 inches, IPS or OLED panels, some with touch functionality, thin and lightweight designs.
  • Average Price: $150 – $400
  • Pros: Great for extending screen real estate on the go, improves productivity for multi-tasking, easy setup with a single cable, ideal for presentations.
  • Cons: Can add extra clutter to a mobile setup, quality varies significantly between brands, may draw significant power from laptop battery.

• USB-C Docking Station

  • Key Features: Multiple USB-A/C ports, HDMI/DisplayPort outputs, Ethernet, SD card readers, power delivery to laptop, compact designs.
  • Average Price: $70 – $200
  • Pros: Simplifies cable management, expands connectivity options for peripherals and external displays, ideal for a fixed desk setup, some offer charging.
  • Cons: Can be expensive for higher-end models, compatibility issues can arise with specific laptops or operating systems, adds another device to carry for mobile use.

• External Solid State Drive SSD

  • Key Features: NVMe or SATA SSD technology, USB-C Thunderbolt or USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface, various capacities 500GB – 4TB+, durable enclosures.
  • Average Price: $70 – $300 depending on capacity and speed
  • Pros: Blazing fast data transfer speeds, highly durable and shock-resistant, portable for large file transfers or external project storage, great for video editors.
  • Cons: Higher cost per gigabyte than traditional external hard drives, performance can be limited by the connecting port on the laptop, less capacity than HDDs at the same price.

Design and Build Quality: A Masterclass in Minimalism

The Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 continued Dell’s tradition of near-flawless industrial design, making it one of the most aesthetically pleasing and robust laptops on the market.

From the moment you pick it up, there’s an undeniable sense of premium craftsmanship. Dell didn’t reinvent the wheel here.

Instead, they refined an already winning formula, focusing on materials and ergonomics that stand up to daily use while looking sophisticated in any setting.

The Machined Aluminum Chassis: Durability Meets Elegance

At the core of the XPS 15’s build is its machined aluminum chassis. This isn’t just a fancy term. it means the laptop’s body is precisely carved from a solid block of aluminum, which results in a unibody construction that is incredibly strong and resistant to flex. You won’t find any creaks or wobbles here. This level of rigidity provides exceptional durability, protecting the internal components from accidental bumps and drops far better than plastic alternatives. Beyond strength, the aluminum gives the laptop a cool, metallic feel in hand and a sophisticated, minimalist aesthetic that eschews unnecessary embellishments. It’s a design choice that signals both luxury and longevity, aiming to be a timeless piece of hardware rather than a fleeting trend. The silver finish with black carbon fiber interior on many models provided a striking contrast that was both professional and visually appealing.

Carbon Fiber Composite Deck: Comfort and Style

While the exterior is all aluminum, the interior deck, where your palms rest, is crafted from a soft-touch carbon fiber composite. This isn’t merely for aesthetics. it’s a critical ergonomic choice. The carbon fiber has several distinct advantages:

• Cool to the Touch: Unlike metal, which can get uncomfortably warm under load, carbon fiber remains relatively cool, providing a comfortable typing experience even during extended work sessions.
• Resistant to Fingerprints: While not entirely immune, the carbon fiber surface is far less prone to showing smudges and fingerprints compared to a smooth, metallic surface, helping maintain a clean look.
• Lightweight: Carbon fiber is incredibly strong for its weight, contributing to the XPS 15’s impressive portability for a 15-inch powerhouse.
• Tactile Feel: The subtle woven texture of the carbon fiber adds a pleasant tactile experience, enhancing the overall premium feel of the device.

This blend of materials – cold, sturdy aluminum on the outside and warm, comfortable carbon fiber on the inside – creates a user experience that balances durability with comfort, a hallmark of the XPS line.

Edge-to-Edge InfinityEdge Display: Maximizing Screen Real Estate

One of the most defining features of the XPS 15, and certainly the 9520, is its InfinityEdge display. This refers to the incredibly thin bezels surrounding the screen on all four sides. The result is an impressive 92.9% screen-to-body ratio, meaning you get maximum screen real estate within a compact footprint. This design choice doesn’t just look modern. it’s highly functional:

• Immersive Viewing: The minimal bezels make the content feel like it’s floating, drawing you deeper into videos, photos, and productivity applications. This is particularly noticeable with the OLED panel, where the deep blacks blend seamlessly into the thin bezels.
• Smaller Footprint: Despite featuring a 15.6-inch display, the XPS 15 9520 has dimensions closer to traditional 14-inch laptops, making it significantly more portable than many of its competitors with similar screen sizes.
• Enhanced Productivity: More screen space means less scrolling and more information visible at once, boosting efficiency for creative work, spreadsheets, and multi-tasking.

The InfinityEdge design, coupled with the precision-engineered hinge, contributes to the overall premium feel and usability of the XPS 15, cementing its status as a benchmark for laptop design.

Display Excellence: The OLED Advantage

The star of the show for the Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 is undoubtedly its 15.6-inch 3.5K 3456 x 2160 OLED display. This isn’t just “good”. it’s a game-changer for anyone who values visual fidelity, color accuracy, and an immersive viewing experience. While there were also IPS display options, the OLED variant was the one that truly set the 9520 apart.

Unparalleled Color Accuracy and Contrast

OLED technology works fundamentally differently than traditional LCD IPS panels. Apple Macbook Pro 13 Inch 2022 M2 Review

Instead of a backlight illuminating all pixels, each individual pixel in an OLED display emits its own light.

This crucial difference leads to several key benefits:

• True Blacks: When an OLED pixel is off, it emits no light, resulting in perfect black levels. This creates an incredible contrast ratio, often quoted as 1,000,000:1 or higher, making images pop with astounding depth and realism. Traditional LCDs can only achieve “dark grey” at best due to backlight bleed.
• Vibrant Colors: The 9520’s OLED panel boasted 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, a professional standard widely used in film and video production. This means the display can reproduce a vast spectrum of colors with incredible accuracy and vibrancy, making it ideal for graphic designers, photographers, and video editors who require precise color representation. Colors appear rich, saturated, and true-to-life.
• HDR Support: With its high peak brightness around 400 nits and infinite contrast, the OLED display was well-equipped to handle HDR High Dynamic Range content. This allows for a wider range of brightness and shadow detail, bringing compatible movies and games to life with stunning realism.

For professionals working with visual media, this level of color accuracy and contrast is not just a luxury.

It’s a necessity for ensuring their work translates correctly across different screens and mediums.

Response Time and Viewing Angles: Beyond the Numbers

Beyond color and contrast, the OLED panel brings other significant advantages:

• Wide Viewing Angles: Because each pixel emits its own light, OLED displays maintain their color accuracy and brightness even when viewed from extreme angles. There’s virtually no color shift or brightness degradation, which is beneficial for collaborative work or presenting content to a small group.

The combination of these factors makes the 3.5K OLED on the XPS 15 9520 a standout feature, delivering a visual experience that remains top-tier even years after its release.

It’s a display that spoils you, making it hard to go back to conventional LCD panels.

Performance Under the Hood: Power for Professionals

The Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 was designed to be a true powerhouse, capable of handling demanding workloads with ease.

It packed the latest at the time Intel processors and a discrete NVIDIA GPU, making it a compelling option for creative professionals, engineers, and anyone who needed serious computational muscle in a portable form factor.

12th Gen Intel Core Processors: The Alder Lake Advantage

At the heart of the 9520 was Intel’s 12th Generation Alder Lake-H series processors. Specifically, you’d find configurations featuring: Samsung 43 Inch Class The Serif Qled Tv Review

• Intel Core i7-12700H: A 14-core 6 Performance cores + 8 Efficient cores, 20-thread processor with a maximum boost frequency of 4.70 GHz.
• Intel Core i9-12900HK: The top-tier option, also a 14-core 6 Performance cores + 8 Efficient cores, 20-thread chip, but with an unlocked multiplier and a higher maximum boost frequency of 5.00 GHz.

The key innovation of Alder Lake was its hybrid architecture, combining high-performance “P-cores” Performance cores for demanding tasks and energy-efficient “E-cores” Efficient cores for background processes and lighter workloads. Intel’s Thread Director technology intelligently managed tasks, assigning them to the most appropriate core, resulting in:

• Improved Multi-threaded Performance: For tasks like video rendering, 3D modeling, and complex code compilation, the increased core count and efficient scheduling provided significant boosts over previous generations.
• Better Power Efficiency: By offloading less demanding tasks to E-cores, the processor could consume less power, potentially extending battery life during lighter use cases.
• Enhanced Responsiveness: The system felt snappier and more responsive, even when juggling multiple applications simultaneously.

These processors were a substantial leap forward, providing the computational horsepower needed for professional applications like Adobe Premiere Pro, Photoshop, AutoCAD, and various development environments.

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti: Discrete Graphics for Creativity and Light Gaming

Complementing the powerful CPU was a discrete graphics card: the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Laptop GPU with 4GB GDDR6 VRAM. While not a top-tier gaming GPU, the RTX 3050 Ti was highly capable for the XPS 15’s target audience:

• Accelerated Creative Applications: NVIDIA’s RTX GPUs are optimized for various creative applications, leveraging CUDA cores and Tensor Cores for tasks such as:
  • Video Encoding/Decoding: Faster rendering and export times in applications like Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve.
  • 3D Rendering: Improved performance in Blender, Cinema 4D, and other 3D software.
  • Photo Editing: Quicker filter application and image manipulation in Photoshop and Lightroom.
  • AI/Machine Learning: The Tensor Cores accelerate AI-driven features within various software.
• Casual to Moderate Gaming: While not built primarily for gaming, the RTX 3050 Ti could handle many modern titles at 1080p or 1440p resolutions with respectable frame rates, especially if you adjusted settings. Esports titles would run flawlessly, and graphically demanding games could be played at medium to high settings.
• Ray Tracing Capabilities: As an RTX card, it also supported NVIDIA’s ray tracing technology, offering more realistic lighting and shadows in compatible games and applications, though at 4GB VRAM, it was more of a taste of ray tracing than a full-blown experience.

The combination of the robust Intel CPU and the capable RTX 3050 Ti meant the XPS 15 9520 was a highly versatile machine, equally at home with complex spreadsheets, intensive video editing, or even some after-hours gaming.

RAM and Storage Configurations: Speed and Capacity

Dell offered various configurations for RAM and storage, allowing users to tailor the laptop to their specific needs:

• RAM: The XPS 15 9520 utilized DDR5 RAM, a faster and more efficient memory standard than previous DDR4. Configurations typically ranged from 16GB up to 64GB. For heavy multi-taskers, video editors, and developers, 32GB or 64GB was a crucial upgrade, ensuring smooth performance even with multiple memory-intensive applications open.
• Storage: For storage, the 9520 came with PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs. These are significantly faster than older SATA SSDs and traditional hard drives, offering blazing-fast boot times, application loading, and file transfers. Storage options commonly included 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB, with some configurations potentially offering up to 4TB. The speed of the NVMe SSD is paramount for productivity, reducing wait times and improving overall system responsiveness.

The choice of DDR5 RAM and PCIe Gen 4 NVMe storage underscored Dell’s commitment to delivering a truly high-performance machine, minimizing bottlenecks and maximizing throughput for demanding professional workflows.

Thermal Management and Fan Noise: Keeping Cool Under Pressure

Any powerful laptop faces the challenge of dissipating heat efficiently without sounding like a jet engine.

The Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 employs a sophisticated thermal management system to keep its high-performance components cool, though like all thin and light powerhouses, there are trade-offs.

Dual Fans and Heat Pipes: Engineered for Performance

The XPS 15 9520 features a dual-fan cooling system with multiple heat pipes. This setup is designed to draw in cool air from the bottom vents and exhaust hot air through vents located along the hinge and sides. The fans are relatively large for a laptop of this size, which helps in moving a higher volume of air at lower RPMs, theoretically leading to quieter operation. Dell also implemented a vapor chamber cooling system in some configurations especially higher-end ones or refined designs, which is even more efficient at transferring heat away from critical components like the CPU and GPU. This is particularly crucial for maintaining boost clocks during sustained workloads, ensuring that the powerful 12th Gen Intel chips and RTX 3050 Ti can operate at their peak potential for longer periods without significant thermal throttling.

Fan Noise Under Load: The Trade-off

While the cooling system is effective, it’s important to manage expectations for a thin and light laptop packing such powerful components. Under light loads, such as web browsing, document editing, or streaming video, the XPS 15 9520 is generally whisper-quiet, with fans either off or barely audible. This contributes significantly to a pleasant daily user experience. Toodledo Review

However, when you push the system with demanding tasks like:

• Video rendering e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro export
• 3D modeling e.g., Blender rendering
• Intensive gaming e.g., Cyberpunk 2077 at high settings
• Running benchmarks or stress tests

The fans will ramp up considerably. They can become quite audible, producing a distinct whirring sound. While this noise might be distracting in a very quiet environment, it’s a necessary byproduct of keeping the high-performance CPU and GPU from overheating and throttling down. It’s a common characteristic of powerful, thin laptops – physics dictates that heat needs to go somewhere. Most users report that the noise, while noticeable, isn’t typically high-pitched or annoying, but rather a consistent airflow sound. Using headphones during intensive tasks can easily mitigate this.

Thermal Throttling Management: Sustained Performance

One of the key concerns with powerful laptops is thermal throttling – when components get too hot, they reduce their clock speeds to prevent damage, leading to a dip in performance. The XPS 15 9520’s thermal design, combined with Dell’s power management profiles accessible via the My Dell or Dell Power Manager application, aims to minimize significant thermal throttling during sustained loads. While a slight decrease in peak performance might occur over very long stress tests, for typical professional workflows, the system generally maintains robust performance. Users can often adjust fan profiles e.g., “Quiet,” “Optimized,” “Ultra Performance” to balance noise levels with performance needs. For tasks that require absolute maximum sustained performance, a cooling pad can also be a viable accessory to further enhance thermal dissipation.

Keyboard and Trackpad: A Focus on Productivity

The Dell XPS 15 line has consistently been praised for its input devices, and the 9520 upheld this reputation.

For a laptop aimed at professionals who spend hours typing and navigating, the quality of the keyboard and trackpad is paramount, directly impacting comfort and productivity.

The Keyboard: A Comfortable Typing Experience

The XPS 15 9520 features an edge-to-edge keyboard with large, well-spaced keys. This design choice maximizes the usable surface area for keys, reducing the cramped feeling often found on smaller laptops.

• Key Travel: The keys offer a decent amount of key travel typically around 1.3mm, which is sufficient to provide a satisfying tactile feedback without feeling mushy. This level of travel allows for comfortable, rapid typing over extended periods, reducing finger fatigue.
• Tactile Feedback: Each key press provides a crisp, responsive bump, letting you know the input has registered. This tactile feedback is crucial for touch typists who rely on feel rather than sight.
• Backlighting: The keyboard is backlit with multiple brightness levels, making it easy to type in dimly lit environments. The even illumination prevents light bleed around the keycaps, contributing to a premium look.
• Layout: The layout is standard and intuitive, with a full-size shift, enter, and backspace keys, and dedicated function row keys for media controls, brightness, and volume. While it lacks a dedicated Numpad which is common for 15-inch productivity laptops prioritizing speaker grilles on the sides, the overall experience is highly conducive to efficient typing.

Many professional reviewers and users lauded the XPS 15’s keyboard as one of the best on a Windows laptop, especially for its balance of comfort, responsiveness, and minimal deck flex.

The Force Touch Trackpad: Precision and Smoothness

Dell equipped the XPS 15 9520 with a large glass trackpad that utilizes Force Touch technology, similar to what Apple uses in its MacBooks. This isn’t a traditional mechanical click pad. instead, it uses haptic feedback to simulate a click, regardless of where you press on the surface.

• Exceptional Size: The sheer size of the trackpad often cited as one of the largest on a Windows laptop provides ample room for multi-finger gestures and navigation, reducing the need to constantly reposition your hand.
• Smooth Gliding Surface: The glass surface is incredibly smooth, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly, which translates to precise cursor control.
• Consistent Click Experience: The Force Touch mechanism ensures a consistent “click” feel across the entire surface of the trackpad. This means you don’t have to press harder towards the top to register a click, unlike traditional mechanical trackpads. The haptic feedback is convincing and provides a satisfying sensation.
• Windows Precision Drivers: The trackpad utilizes Microsoft Precision drivers, which enable smooth and accurate multi-touch gestures e.g., two-finger scrolling, three-finger swipe for switching applications, four-finger tap for Action Center. These drivers are widely considered the gold standard for Windows trackpads, offering a fluid and responsive experience.

The combination of the comfortable keyboard and the industry-leading Force Touch trackpad makes the XPS 15 9520 an excellent device for extended work sessions, enabling efficient input and navigation without the immediate need for an external mouse or keyboard.

Port Selection and Connectivity: Bridging Legacy and Modern Standards

The Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 offers a carefully considered selection of ports, balancing modern high-speed connectivity with some concessions for legacy peripherals. Ruggard Edc 600L S Electronic Dry Cabinet Review

While it leans heavily into USB-C, it still provides enough versatility for most professional users.

The USB-C / Thunderbolt 4 Emphasis

The XPS 15 9520 heavily relies on USB-C and Thunderbolt 4 ports, which are the backbone of its modern connectivity:

• Two Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-C Ports: These are the most versatile ports on the laptop, located on the left side. Thunderbolt 4 offers:
  • Blazing Data Transfer Speeds: Up to 40 Gbps, ideal for external NVMe SSDs, high-speed docks, and professional data workflows.
  • Display Output: Can drive multiple 4K displays or a single 8K display, making it perfect for multi-monitor setups.
  • Power Delivery: Can charge the laptop up to 130W via the included charger and deliver power to connected peripherals.
  • eGPU Support: Theoretically supports external GPUs, though this is less common for a laptop with a discrete GPU already.
• One USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Port: Located on the right side, this port also supports DisplayPort and Power Delivery. While not Thunderbolt 4, it still offers speeds up to 10 Gbps, which is perfectly adequate for most external drives and peripherals.
  • Note: The inclusion of a non-Thunderbolt USB-C port means you need to be mindful of which port you’re connecting high-bandwidth devices to for optimal performance.

This strong emphasis on USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 means users can leverage a single cable for docking solutions, connecting multiple peripherals, external displays, and charging, simplifying desk setups.

Essential Traditional Ports

Despite the USB-C focus, Dell wisely included a few essential traditional ports that many professionals still rely on:

• SD Card Reader Full-size: Located on the right side, this is a crucial inclusion for photographers and videographers who frequently transfer media from cameras. A full-size slot is far more convenient than a microSD slot or requiring an adapter.
• 3.5mm Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack: Also on the right side, this standard audio jack ensures compatibility with a wide range of headphones, headsets, and external microphones, which is important for audio professionals or anyone using traditional audio gear.

What’s Missing and Why it Matters Less

The XPS 15 9520 famously lacks certain traditional ports that were common on older laptops:

• No USB-A Ports: This is perhaps the most significant omission for some users. It means older peripherals like mice, keyboards, or USB drives that only have a USB-A connector will require a USB-C to USB-A adapter or a dongle. Dell typically includes a basic USB-C to USB-A adapter in the box to alleviate this.
• No HDMI Port: External displays will need to be connected via the USB-C/Thunderbolt ports using a USB-C to HDMI adapter or a dock.
• No Ethernet Port: Wired network connectivity requires a USB-C to Ethernet adapter or a docking station.

While these omissions might initially seem inconvenient, they are increasingly common on modern thin and light laptops. The high bandwidth of Thunderbolt 4 ports means that a single, good quality USB-C hub or docking station can easily add all the necessary legacy ports, often with better performance than integrated ones. For instance, a quality USB-C Docking Station can transform your portable XPS 15 into a full desktop workstation with just one cable.

Wireless Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2

For wireless connectivity, the XPS 15 9520 was at the forefront with:

• Wi-Fi 6E Killer Wi-Fi 6E 1675: This is the latest Wi-Fi standard at the time of release, supporting the new 6GHz band, in addition to the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. When connected to a compatible Wi-Fi 6E router, it offers:
  • Lower Latency: Less interference in the 6GHz band means more reliable and responsive connections, crucial for online gaming or real-time collaboration.
  • Higher Bandwidth: Potentially faster speeds, especially in congested environments.
  • Improved Efficiency: Better battery life for wireless activities.
• Bluetooth 5.2: This standard provides a stable and efficient connection for wireless peripherals like headphones, mice, keyboards, and other smart devices, with improved range and speed over older Bluetooth versions.

Overall, the XPS 15 9520’s port selection, while modern and minimal, is well-thought-out for its target audience.

It encourages the use of modern, versatile USB-C accessories while still providing the essential card reader and audio jack. Lian Li O11 Dynamic Evo Review

Battery Life: Endurance for On-the-Go Productivity

Battery life is a critical factor for any portable workstation, and the Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520, despite packing powerful components and a vibrant OLED display, offered respectable endurance for its class.

Dell typically equips its XPS 15 models with a large battery, but the power demands of the components need to be considered.

Battery Capacity: A Generous Power Source

The Dell XPS 15 9520 typically came with an 86 Wh Watt-hour battery. This is a significantly large capacity for a 15-inch laptop, providing a solid foundation for extended use away from a power outlet. For context, many thin and light laptops often feature batteries in the 50-70 Wh range. The generous battery size is crucial for offsetting the power consumption of the high-resolution OLED display and the discrete NVIDIA GPU.

Real-World Battery Performance: Balanced Expectations

Real-world battery life, however, always varies significantly based on usage. With the 9520, you could expect:

• Light Usage Web browsing, document editing, video streaming at moderate brightness: For typical productivity tasks, the XPS 15 OLED 9520 could deliver around 6-8 hours of battery life. This is decent for a powerful machine with an OLED screen, allowing you to get through a good portion of a workday without needing to plug in.
• Moderate Usage Light photo editing, programming, multi-tasking: As you push the system with more demanding applications, the battery life will naturally decrease. Expect around 4-6 hours in these scenarios.
• Heavy Usage Video rendering, 3D modeling, gaming: When the CPU and especially the discrete GPU are engaged consistently, battery life drops considerably. You might only get 1.5-3 hours under heavy, sustained load, similar to other performance-oriented laptops. This is where the 130W power adapter becomes essential.

It’s important to note that the OLED display, while stunning, is generally more power-hungry than an equivalent IPS LCD panel, especially when displaying bright white content. Dark mode usage can help extend battery life on an OLED screen as black pixels consume no power. The presence of a discrete GPU RTX 3050 Ti also means that when graphics-intensive tasks are being performed, more power is drawn, impacting battery life.

Optimizing Battery Life: Tips and Tricks

Users can take several steps to maximize the battery life of their XPS 15 9520:

• Adjust Screen Brightness: Lowering screen brightness is one of the most effective ways to conserve power on an OLED display.
• Utilize Dark Mode: For applications and operating system interfaces that support it, dark mode can significantly reduce power consumption on an OLED screen.
• Manage Power Profiles: Dell’s Power Manager software or Windows’ built-in power settings allow you to switch between profiles e.g., “Quiet,” “Optimized,” “Best Power Efficiency”. Selecting a more power-efficient profile will throttle performance slightly but extend battery life.
• Close Unused Applications: Background processes and open applications can consume significant power.
• Disconnect Unused Peripherals: USB-C docks, external drives, and other peripherals draw power from the laptop.
• Update Drivers: Keeping graphics and chipset drivers updated can sometimes improve power efficiency.

While not an all-day endurance champion in the same vein as some ultra-low-power ultrabooks, the Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 offered a very respectable balance of performance and battery life for a device of its caliber, especially considering the power-hungry components it houses.

For professionals on the go, it provided enough juice to tackle significant chunks of work away from the desk.

Audio and Webcam: Meeting Professional Expectations

The Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 aimed to deliver a premium experience in these areas, suitable for video conferencing, media consumption, and casual listening.

Audio Quality: Immersive Sound with Quad Speakers

The XPS 15 9520 features a quad-speaker setup, consisting of two upward-firing tweeters flanking the keyboard and two downward-firing woofers on the underside. This configuration, coupled with Waves MaxxAudio Pro tuning, provides a surprisingly rich and immersive audio experience for a laptop. Asrock Z690 Phantom Gaming Itxtb4 Review

• Clarity and Detail: The tweeters deliver crisp highs and clear vocals, making dialogue in movies and calls easy to understand.
• Presence and Bass: The woofers provide more depth and a noticeable though not thunderous bass response, adding body to podcast and effects in games.
• Stereo Separation: The placement of the speakers contributes to excellent stereo separation, creating a wider soundstage that makes audio feel more encompassing.
• Volume: The speakers can get reasonably loud without significant distortion, making them suitable for small room listening or presentations.

For a laptop, the audio quality of the XPS 15 9520 is well above average.

It’s excellent for video calls, streaming movies and podcast, and even some casual gaming.

While it won’t replace a dedicated set of external speakers or high-end headphones for critical audio work, it certainly enhances the overall multimedia experience.

The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack also ensures compatibility with traditional audio gear for those who demand superior fidelity.

Webcam and Microphones: Functional for Communication

For video conferencing, the XPS 15 9520 incorporates a 720p HD webcam located in the top bezel. Dell famously moved the webcam from the awkward “nosecam” position below the screen in previous generations to its rightful place above the display, a significant ergonomic improvement.

• Image Quality: The 720p resolution is standard for many laptops, and while it provides a clear enough image for video calls, it won’t offer the crisp detail of a dedicated external webcam. In well-lit environments, the image is generally acceptable, but performance can degrade in low light, showing more noise and less detail. It’s functional for Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet.
• Infrared Camera Windows Hello: Crucially, the webcam module also includes an infrared IR camera that enables Windows Hello facial recognition. This allows for quick, secure, and convenient login simply by looking at the laptop, a highly appreciated feature for daily use.

Complementing the webcam are dual array microphones. These microphones are designed to capture your voice clearly while attempting to filter out some background noise. In most indoor environments, they do a good job of picking up speech for video calls and voice commands. However, for professional-grade podcasts, streaming, or very sensitive audio recording, an external USB microphone is always recommended.

In summary, the Dell XPS 15 9520 provides a solid audio and webcam experience that meets the demands of modern professional communication.

The speakers are a highlight, offering immersive sound, while the webcam, though 720p, is perfectly functional and benefits greatly from the inclusion of Windows Hello for seamless logins.

Software and User Experience: Polish and Practicality

The Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520, like all Windows laptops, comes with Windows 11 pre-installed.

Beyond the operating system itself, Dell adds its own suite of software and utilities, which generally enhance the user experience rather than detract from it. Afterlight For Iphone Review

The focus is on optimization, security, and convenience.

Windows 11 Home/Pro: The Foundation

The XPS 15 9520 ships with either Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro, depending on the configuration. Windows 11 brings:

• Modern Interface: A refreshed user interface with a centered Start menu, rounded corners, and new animations, offering a more streamlined and aesthetically pleasing experience.
• Snap Layouts and Groups: Enhanced multi-tasking features that make it easier to arrange and manage multiple windows on the screen, particularly useful on the 15.6-inch display.
• Microsoft Teams Integration: Built-in Teams chat directly from the taskbar, facilitating communication.
• Gaming Enhancements: Features like DirectStorage and Auto HDR, though the latter is less impactful on an already HDR-capable OLED screen.
• Security Features: Robust built-in security features, including Windows Defender and a TPM 2.0 chip for secure boot and encryption.

For professionals, Windows 11 Pro offers additional features like BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop, and Group Policy management, which are crucial in many corporate environments.

Dell’s Value-Added Software: Enhancements, Not Bloatware

Unlike some manufacturers that pack their laptops with unnecessary “bloatware,” Dell generally provides a suite of useful applications that enhance the XPS 15’s functionality:

• My Dell / Dell SupportAssist: This is a comprehensive utility that acts as a central hub for system diagnostics, driver updates, warranty information, and technical support. It’s incredibly useful for keeping the laptop running smoothly and troubleshooting issues. SupportAssist can proactively detect and resolve issues, download necessary drivers, and optimize performance.
• Dell Power Manager: This application allows users to control the laptop’s thermal management, fan profiles e.g., Quiet, Optimized, Ultra Performance, battery charge settings e.g., ExpressCharge, Adaptive Battery, and battery health. This is particularly useful for tailoring performance and longevity to specific usage patterns. For instance, you can set it to extend battery life by not charging to 100% all the time.
• Dell Update: Ensures that all Dell-specific drivers and firmware are kept up-to-date, which is vital for system stability and performance.
• Waves MaxxAudio Pro: As mentioned in the audio section, this software provides advanced audio processing features, allowing users to fine-tune sound profiles for podcast, movies, or gaming. It significantly enhances the built-in speaker quality.
• Killer Control Center for Wi-Fi 6E models: If the laptop has the Killer Wi-Fi 6E card, this utility allows for network traffic prioritization, ensuring critical applications like video calls or games get bandwidth preference over less important background activities.

The key takeaway is that Dell’s pre-installed software is generally purposeful and minimally intrusive. It’s designed to give users more control over their hardware, maintain system health, and provide quick access to support, rather than just pushing third-party promotions. This contributes to a clean and efficient user experience right out of the box, aligning with the premium nature of the XPS line.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key specs of the Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520?

The Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 typically features a 15.6-inch 3.5K 3456 x 2160 OLED display, 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700H or i9-12900HK processors, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU with 4GB GDDR6 VRAM, up to 64GB DDR5 RAM, and PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD storage up to 2TB or more.

Is the Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 good for video editing?

Yes, the Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 is excellent for video editing.

Its powerful 12th Gen Intel Core i7/i9 processors, discrete NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti GPU, fast DDR5 RAM, and rapid NVMe SSD storage provide strong performance for rendering, scrubbing timelines, and exporting projects in applications like Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve.

The OLED display’s color accuracy is also a huge benefit for post-production.

How is the battery life on the XPS 15 OLED 9520?

The XPS 15 OLED 9520 typically offers around 6-8 hours of battery life for light usage web browsing, document editing and 4-6 hours for moderate tasks. Azeron Cyborg Review

Under heavy loads like video rendering or gaming, battery life will drop to 1.5-3 hours.

The 86Wh battery is generous, but the OLED screen and discrete GPU are power-hungry.

Does the XPS 15 9520 have a good screen for creative work?

Yes, the 3.5K OLED display on the XPS 15 9520 is outstanding for creative work.

It boasts perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, ensuring highly accurate and vibrant color reproduction essential for graphic design, photography, and video editing.

What ports does the Dell XPS 15 9520 have?

The XPS 15 9520 features two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port with DisplayPort and Power Delivery, a full-size SD card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack.

It does not have traditional USB-A, HDMI, or Ethernet ports, requiring adapters for legacy peripherals.

Is the keyboard on the XPS 15 9520 comfortable for typing?

Yes, the keyboard on the XPS 15 9520 is widely praised for its comfortable typing experience.

It offers good key travel around 1.3mm, satisfying tactile feedback, well-spaced keys, and adjustable backlighting, making it suitable for extended typing sessions.

How is the trackpad on the XPS 15 9520?

The XPS 15 9520 features a large glass Force Touch trackpad.

It provides an incredibly smooth gliding surface, consistent haptic “click” feedback across the entire surface, and excellent precision thanks to Microsoft Precision drivers, making it one of the best trackpads on a Windows laptop. Level Lock Touch Edition Review

Does the Dell XPS 15 9520 get hot under load?

Like most powerful, thin laptops, the XPS 15 9520 will get warm under sustained heavy loads e.g., gaming, video rendering, and its fans will become audible.

However, Dell’s dual-fan and heat pipe cooling system is designed to minimize significant thermal throttling, allowing it to maintain good performance.

Can I upgrade the RAM and storage on the XPS 15 9520?

Yes, the RAM DDR5 and NVMe SSD storage on the Dell XPS 15 9520 are generally user-upgradable.

This allows you to expand memory up to 64GB and storage with a larger capacity NVMe SSD down the line, extending the laptop’s longevity and capability.

Is the 9520 a good laptop for gaming?

While not primarily a gaming laptop, the XPS 15 9520 with its NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti can handle casual to moderate gaming.

It can play many modern titles at 1080p or 1440p resolutions with respectable frame rates on medium to high settings. Esports titles will run flawlessly.

What is the advantage of the OLED display over IPS?

The OLED display offers perfect black levels infinite contrast, superior color accuracy 100% DCI-P3, faster response times, and wider viewing angles compared to an IPS LCD panel.

This results in a more vibrant, immersive, and visually stunning experience, especially for media consumption and creative work.

Does the XPS 15 9520 support Thunderbolt 4?

Yes, the Dell XPS 15 9520 includes two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, offering 40 Gbps data transfer speeds, support for multiple external displays, and power delivery.

What is the difference between the 9520 and previous XPS 15 models?

The primary upgrades in the XPS 15 9520 over its predecessors like the 9510 were the adoption of 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake processors, faster DDR5 RAM, and the continuation of the stunning OLED display option. Nzxt H7 Flow Review

Thermal management and port selection remained largely similar to the immediately preceding models.

Is the webcam good for video conferencing?

The XPS 15 9520 features a 720p HD webcam located above the display.

It’s functional and generally acceptable for video conferencing in well-lit conditions, but it won’t offer the crispness or detail of higher-resolution external webcams.

Does the XPS 15 9520 have Windows Hello?

Yes, the Dell XPS 15 9520 supports Windows Hello facial recognition through its infrared IR camera integrated with the webcam, allowing for quick and secure logins.

What kind of charger does the XPS 15 9520 use?

The XPS 15 9520 typically comes with a 130W USB-C power adapter for fast charging and sustained performance, especially under heavy load.

The laptop can also charge via any of its USB-C/Thunderbolt ports, though a lower wattage charger might not be sufficient for peak performance.

Is the Dell XPS 15 9520 loud?

Under light to moderate use, the XPS 15 9520 is very quiet, with fans often off or barely audible.

When pushed with demanding tasks, the fans will become noticeably audible, but the noise profile is generally a consistent whirring rather than a high-pitched whine.

How durable is the XPS 15 9520?

The XPS 15 9520 is known for its excellent build quality, featuring a machined aluminum chassis and a carbon fiber composite palm rest.

This construction provides high durability and resistance to flex, making it a robust laptop for daily use and travel. Alienware 38 Curved Gaming Monitor Aw3821Dw Review

Can I connect an external monitor to the XPS 15 9520?

Yes, you can connect multiple external monitors to the XPS 15 9520 via its Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C ports using appropriate adapters or a docking station. It can easily drive dual 4K displays.

Is the XPS 15 9520 good for programming or software development?

Yes, the XPS 15 9520 is an excellent choice for programming and software development.

Its powerful multi-core CPU, ample RAM especially if configured with 32GB or more, fast NVMe SSD, and high-resolution display make it ideal for compiling code, running virtual machines, and managing complex development environments.

Does the XPS 15 9520 have good speakers?

Yes, the XPS 15 9520 features a quad-speaker setup with Waves MaxxAudio Pro tuning, providing surprisingly rich, clear, and immersive audio for a laptop.

It’s well above average for media consumption and video calls.

What is the maximum RAM supported by XPS 15 9520?

The Dell XPS 15 9520 typically supports up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM, which is sufficient for even the most demanding professional workflows.

Is the Dell XPS 15 9520 still a good purchase in 2024?

While newer models have been released, the Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 remains a very capable and desirable laptop in 2024, especially if found at a good price on the used or refurbished market.

Its OLED display, build quality, and performance for creative tasks are still highly competitive.

What kind of SSD does the XPS 15 9520 use?

The XPS 15 9520 uses fast PCIe Gen 4 NVMe Solid State Drives, providing excellent read and write speeds for rapid boot times, application loading, and file transfers.

Does the 9520 have good cooling?

The 9520 employs an effective dual-fan and heat pipe cooling system. Samsung 75 Inch Class The Frame Qled Tv Review

While it’s designed to keep powerful components cool in a thin chassis, sustained heavy loads will make the fans audible, and the chassis may get warm, which is typical for its class.

How much does the Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 weigh?

The Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 typically weighs around 4.23 lbs 1.92 kg, making it relatively portable for a 15-inch performance laptop with a discrete GPU.

Can I use a USB-C hub with the XPS 15 9520?

Absolutely, using a USB-C hub or docking station is highly recommended for the XPS 15 9520 to expand its connectivity options, especially if you need USB-A ports, HDMI, or Ethernet.

Is the XPS 15 9520 good for everyday use?

Yes, the XPS 15 9520 is excellent for everyday use.

Its powerful CPU, ample RAM, fast SSD, and comfortable input devices make it incredibly responsive and enjoyable for tasks like web browsing, email, word processing, and streaming.

What operating system does the XPS 15 OLED 9520 run?

The Dell XPS 15 OLED 9520 typically runs Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro, depending on the specific configuration purchased.

Does the 9520 have a touchscreen option?

Yes, the 3.5K OLED display option on the XPS 15 9520 typically includes touchscreen functionality, though there were also non-touch IPS options available for those who didn’t require it.