Dell unveils XPS 13 and XPS 13 2-in-1

Dell has introduced two new devices from the XPS family, which are supposed to complement the XPS 13 Plus, XPS 15 and 17. The new XPS 13 is supposed to offer familiar computing power in a compact design. The Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 is again a practical convertible that wants to convince with ease of use and flexibility.

Dell XPS 13

With the latest generation of the XPS 13, Dell wants to have completed an extensive design update. This is to ensure that it is even thinner and lighter than any XPS 13 ever released. Thus, it measures 13.99 mm x 295.4 mm x 199.4 mm and weighs just 1.17 kg. The US manufacturer calls the notebook the ultimate “companion on the go.”

In view of the low weight, compact design and 12 hours of battery life, Dell also seems to be able to back up its promise with suitable technology. Once again, the extremely thin screen edges are astonishing. The four-sided Infinity Edge display allows the hardware expert to rely on a small case.

Three different display options

No matter if entertainment or work – Dell promises to have created the best conditions for a real performance monster. According to the technical specs, you have the choice between three different displays here. In the entry-level version, there is a 13.4-inch FHD+ display, which is supposed to be able to offer 500 nits of brightness and 2000:1 contrast.

Furthermore, the is supposed to be able to cover the sRGB range by 100 percent. Dell adds a touch function to the display one level above that. In the top configuration, the display not only offers a touch function, but also a 4K UHD resolution. Thanks to Eyesafe technology, you should even be able to complete long workdays on the notebook without suffering from tired eyes.

Meager connectivity

An Intel Core of the 12th generation works under the hood of the notebook. Here you have the choice between an i5-1230U or an i7-1250U. It is supported by 8 GB, 16 GB or 32 GB of RAM and an Intel Iris Xe graphics unit. In terms of storage, you have the choice between a 256 GB, 512 GB or 1 TB PCIe 4 x2 SSD. Connections are rather sparsely represented on the notebook. Apart from 2x Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C incl. DisplayPort and Power Delivery), there is nothing here. However, Dell includes a USB-C to USB-A adapter and a USB-C to 3.5 mm adapter. Besides Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 is also available for wireless connections.

Frequent writers will be happy about the chiclet keyboard with backlight. The keyboard is supposed to provide a high operating comfort in combination with the precision touchpad. A 720p webcam is of course available for video conferencing or Skype calls with family and friends. Dell wants the notebook, which is equipped with a 51 Wh battery, to be made of high-quality materials. The company mainly uses CNC-machined aluminum for this. However, it is a pity that Dell relies on a permanently installed battery despite its emphasis on sustainable production.

Dell XPS 13 2-in-1

With the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1, the US manufacturer apparently wants to combine the usual high performance of the XPS family with the flexibility of a convertible. Accordingly, you should be able to use it as a tablet as well as a classic notebook. To convert the XPS 13 2-in-1 into a full-fledged notebook, you simply need the matching keyboard in the form of the XPS Folio. Once plugged into the port, it is almost indistinguishable from a classic notebook. However, you have to buy the magnetic keyboard separately.

For a convertible, Dell’s upcoming 2-in-1 is also equipped with decent performance. Thus, in terms of processor, there is a choice between the same two 12th-generation Intel CPUs as in the classic XPS 13 (i5-1230U or i7-1250U). The working memory can be 8 GB or 16 GB. On top of that, you have the choice between a 256 GB, 512 GB or 1 TB PCIe 4 x4 SSD. The display with a size of 13 inches and resistant Gorilla Glass 7, on the other hand, is without alternative. It has a 3K resolution and naturally offers a touch function.

500 nits brightness, 100 percent sRGB and 1800:1 contrast ratio read surprisingly good. The support of the active pen is exciting. This makes the XPS 2-in-1 a really exciting device for creative people like graphic designers. Not only WiFi 6E is supposed to provide fast Internet. The 2-in-1 also offers 5G as an option. Here, the mobile aspect of the device becomes clear once again. Otherwise, the connectivity is similarly lacking as in the XPS 13. Once again, there are only the two Thunderbolt 4 ports including the two adapters. The built-in battery with 49.5 Wh is supposed to provide endurance.

Prices and availability

You can order the Dell XPS 13 now for an MSRP starting at $999. On the other hand, you will have to wait until summer this year for the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1. Dell has not yet announced a price for the convertible. More information about the Dell XPS 13 and Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 can be found on the official website.