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Dell xps vs microsoft surface pro 9: battle of the ultra-portables

At a Glance

  • For those seeking a versatile companion that seamlessly blends portability with power, the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 stand out as two formidable contenders in the 2-in-1 laptop market.
  • The Surface Pro 9, on the other hand, offers a 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels.
  • The Dell XPS has a slight edge in terms of performance and display quality, while the Surface Pro 9 is more compact and offers the added convenience of a built-in kickstand and Surface Pen support.

For those seeking a versatile companion that seamlessly blends portability with power, the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 stand out as two formidable contenders in the 2-in-1 laptop market. With exceptional designs, cutting-edge features, and impressive performance, these devices offer a compelling choice for students, professionals, and creatives alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of the Dell XPS vs Microsoft Surface Pro 9 to help you make an informed decision about your next 2-in-1 investment.

Design and Build

The Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 both exude elegance and durability. The XPS boasts a sleek aluminum chassis with a carbon fiber interior, resulting in a lightweight yet robust construction. The Surface Pro 9, on the other hand, features a magnesium alloy body that is both sturdy and stylish. Both devices offer excellent portability, with the Surface Pro 9 being slightly more compact due to its smaller display.

Display

The Dell XPS comes with a stunning 13.4-inch OLED InfinityEdge display with a resolution of 3840 x 2400 pixels. This display delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and wide viewing angles. The Surface Pro 9, on the other hand, offers a 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels. While not as sharp as the XPS’s OLED panel, the Surface Pro 9’s display still offers excellent color accuracy and brightness.

Performance

Under the hood, both the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 pack a punch. The XPS is powered by Intel’s latest 12th-generation Core i5 or i7 processors, while the Surface Pro 9 offers Intel’s 11th-generation Core i5 or i7 processors. In terms of performance, the Dell XPS has a slight edge due to its more powerful processor. However, both devices offer ample power for everyday tasks, light gaming, and content creation.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial consideration for any portable device. The Dell XPS has a slightly larger battery than the Surface Pro 9, with a capacity of 55Wh compared to 47.7Wh. In real-world usage, both devices offer comparable battery life, lasting around 8-10 hours on a single charge.

Connectivity

Both the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 offer a range of connectivity options. The XPS features two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB-C ports, and a microSD card slot. The Surface Pro 9 has two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a Surface Connect port, and a microSD card slot. Both devices also support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1.

Features

The Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 come with a variety of features to enhance productivity and convenience. The XPS has a built-in fingerprint reader for added security. The Surface Pro 9, on the other hand, has a built-in kickstand that allows it to be used in various positions. Additionally, the Surface Pro 9 supports the Surface Pen, which provides a natural writing and drawing experience.

Price

The Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 come in a range of configurations, with varying prices. The base model of the XPS starts at $999, while the base model of the Surface Pro 9 starts at $999.99. The price of both devices increases with higher specifications and configurations.

The Verdict: Dell XPS vs Microsoft Surface Pro 9

Both the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 are exceptional 2-in-1 laptops that offer a blend of portability, performance, and versatility. The Dell XPS has a slight edge in terms of performance and display quality, while the Surface Pro 9 is more compact and offers the added convenience of a built-in kickstand and Surface Pen support. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

What You Need to Know

1. Which device has better battery life?

Both the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 offer comparable battery life, lasting around 8-10 hours on a single charge.

2. Which device has more ports?

The Dell XPS has more ports than the Surface Pro 9, with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB-C ports, and a microSD card slot.

3. Which device is better for gaming?

The Dell XPS has a more powerful processor than the Surface Pro 9, making it better for light gaming. However, both devices are not designed for heavy-duty gaming.

4. Which device is better for students?

Both the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 are great choices for students, offering a balance of portability, performance, and features.

5. Which device is better for artists?

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is a better choice for artists due to its built-in kickstand and Surface Pen support, which provide a more natural and immersive drawing experience.

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About the Author
My name is Michael, and I am passionate about all things laptops. With years of experience as a technology journalist and reviewer, I have an in-depth understanding of the latest and greatest laptops on the market.