What To Know
- The XPS 2-in-1 has an additional microSD card slot, while the Surface Pro 9 has a Surface Connect port for proprietary charging and accessories.
- The base model of the XPS 2-in-1 starts at $1,299, while the Surface Pro 9 starts at $1,299 for the Wi-Fi-only model and $1,499 for the LTE model.
- The Surface Pro 9, on the other hand, offers a more compact design, a higher refresh rate display, and the convenience of Windows 11 Pro for Education.
The world of computing has evolved significantly, with the emergence of versatile 2-in-1 devices that seamlessly blend the functionality of laptops and tablets. Two prominent contenders in this arena are the Dell XPS 2-in-1 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 9. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences and similarities between these two exceptional devices to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Dell XPS 2-in-1 boasts a sleek and sophisticated design with a premium aluminum chassis. Its slim profile and lightweight construction make it highly portable. The Surface Pro 9, on the other hand, features a more traditional tablet design with a magnesium kickstand. It is slightly heavier than the XPS 2-in-1, but its build quality is equally impressive.
Display
Both devices offer stunning displays with high resolution and vibrant colors. The Dell XPS 2-in-1 features a 13.4-inch OLED touch display with a resolution of 2880 x 1800 pixels. The Surface Pro 9 has a slightly larger 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels. The XPS 2-in-1’s OLED display provides deeper blacks and more accurate colors, while the Surface Pro 9’s PixelSense Flow display offers a higher refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations.
Performance
The Dell XPS 2-in-1 and Surface Pro 9 offer a wide range of performance options. The XPS 2-in-1 is powered by 12th-generation Intel Core processors, while the Surface Pro 9 is equipped with 12th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors. Both devices provide ample performance for everyday tasks, multitasking, and content creation.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor when choosing a 2-in-1 device. The Dell XPS 2-in-1 offers up to 13 hours of battery life, while the Surface Pro 9 lasts up to 15 hours. However, real-world battery life may vary depending on usage patterns and settings.
Connectivity
The Dell XPS 2-in-1 and Surface Pro 9 offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options. Both devices include Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB-C ports, and headphone jacks. The XPS 2-in-1 has an additional microSD card slot, while the Surface Pro 9 has a Surface Connect port for proprietary charging and accessories.
Keyboard and Stylus
Both the Dell XPS 2-in-1 and Surface Pro 9 come with detachable keyboards. The XPS 2-in-1’s keyboard has a spacious layout and comfortable key travel, while the Surface Pro 9’s keyboard is slightly more compact but offers a more responsive typing experience. Both devices also support active styluses, the Dell Active Pen and the Surface Pen, respectively, for precise drawing and note-taking.
Software
The Dell XPS 2-in-1 runs Windows 11 Home or Pro, while the Surface Pro 9 comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home or Pro and supports Windows 11 Pro for Education. Both devices offer a full Windows experience with access to the Microsoft Store and a wide range of software and applications.
Price
The Dell XPS 2-in-1 and Surface Pro 9 are both premium devices with price tags to match. The base model of the XPS 2-in-1 starts at $1,299, while the Surface Pro 9 starts at $1,299 for the Wi-Fi-only model and $1,499 for the LTE model.
The Verdict
The Dell XPS 2-in-1 and Surface Pro 9 are both exceptional 2-in-1 devices that offer a blend of power, portability, and versatility. The Dell XPS 2-in-1 excels with its premium design, stunning OLED display, and longer battery life. The Surface Pro 9, on the other hand, offers a more compact design, a higher refresh rate display, and the convenience of Windows 11 Pro for Education. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The Dell XPS 2-in-1 has a slightly better display with deeper blacks and more accurate colors due to its OLED panel.
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: The Dell XPS 2-in-1 is slightly lighter and has a slimmer profile, making it more portable.
Q: Which device has a longer battery life?
A: The Surface Pro 9 has a slightly longer battery life of up to 15 hours, compared to the XPS 2-in-1’s 13 hours.
Q: Which device has a better keyboard?
A: The Surface Pro 9’s keyboard is slightly more compact but offers a more responsive typing experience.
Q: Which device is better for students?
A: The Surface Pro 9 supports Windows 11 Pro for Education, making it a better choice for students who require specific educational software and features.
