Highlights
- The Windows Surface Laptop comes with Windows 10 S mode, which is a streamlined version of Windows that only allows apps from the Microsoft Store.
- If you prefer a more compact design, a built-in Surface Pen, and a streamlined Windows experience, the Windows Surface Laptop is a great option.
- The Dell XPS runs on Windows 10 or 11, while the Windows Surface Laptop runs on Windows 10 S mode by default.
In the realm of premium laptops, two titans stand tall: the Dell XPS and the Windows Surface Laptop. Both devices boast stunning designs, powerful performance, and innovative features. But which one is the ultimate choice for discerning users? In this comprehensive showdown, we delve into the key differences between the Dell XPS and Windows Surface Laptop to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Dell XPS and Windows Surface Laptop are renowned for their sleek and sophisticated designs. The XPS features a machined aluminum chassis with a carbon fiber interior, resulting in a lightweight and durable build. The Surface Laptop, on the other hand, showcases a premium magnesium alloy body with a luxurious Alcantara fabric keyboard deck. Both laptops are exceptionally well-built and offer a premium user experience.
Display
When it comes to display quality, both the Dell XPS and Windows Surface Laptop excel. The XPS offers a 13.4-inch or 15.6-inch InfinityEdge display with minimal bezels, delivering immersive viewing. The Surface Laptop features a 13.5-inch PixelSense display with high resolution and vibrant colors. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference and whether you prioritize a larger screen or a more compact device.
Performance
Under the hood, both the Dell XPS and Windows Surface Laptop pack a punch. The XPS is powered by Intel’s latest 11th-generation Core processors, while the Surface Laptop utilizes Microsoft’s Surface Edition processors. Both devices offer excellent performance for everyday tasks, multitasking, and light content creation. However, the XPS offers more powerful configurations with dedicated NVIDIA graphics, making it a better choice for demanding applications and gaming.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for mobile professionals. The Dell XPS boasts an impressive battery life of up to 17 hours on the 13.4-inch model and 15 hours on the 15.6-inch model. The Windows Surface Laptop also delivers solid battery life, offering up to 14.5 hours of usage. Both laptops support fast charging, allowing you to quickly power up when needed.
Features
The Dell XPS and Windows Surface Laptop come equipped with an array of features to enhance productivity and convenience. The XPS features Thunderbolt 4 ports, a fingerprint reader, and an optional OLED display. The Surface Laptop offers a built-in Surface Pen, a precision touchpad, and Windows Hello facial recognition. The choice of features depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Software
The Dell XPS runs on Windows 10 or 11, providing access to a wide range of software and applications. The Windows Surface Laptop comes with Windows 10 S mode, which is a streamlined version of Windows that only allows apps from the Microsoft Store. However, you can easily switch to Windows 10 Home or Pro if desired.
Price
The Dell XPS and Windows Surface Laptop are both premium laptops with a price tag to match. The XPS starts at around $999, while the Surface Laptop starts at $999.99. The price varies depending on the configuration and features you choose.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Dell XPS and Windows Surface Laptop are both exceptional laptops that cater to different user preferences. If you prioritize a large screen, powerful performance, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, the Dell XPS is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more compact design, a built-in Surface Pen, and a streamlined Windows experience, the Windows Surface Laptop is a great option.
Beyond the Conclusion: Additional Considerations
Apart from the key differences discussed above, here are some additional factors to consider before making a decision:
- Operating System: The Dell XPS runs on Windows 10 or 11, while the Windows Surface Laptop runs on Windows 10 S mode by default.
- Keyboard and Touchpad: Both laptops offer excellent keyboards and touchpads, but the Surface Laptop’s Alcantara fabric keyboard deck may be more comfortable for prolonged typing.
- Webcam: The Dell XPS features a 720p webcam, while the Surface Laptop offers a 5MP front-facing camera with Windows Hello support.
- Accessories: The Dell XPS supports Thunderbolt 4 accessories, while the Surface Laptop has a dedicated Surface Connect port for charging and connecting to accessories.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which laptop has a better display?
A: Both the Dell XPS and Windows Surface Laptop offer excellent displays, but the XPS’s InfinityEdge display with minimal bezels provides a more immersive viewing experience.
Q: Which laptop is more powerful?
A: The Dell XPS offers more powerful configurations with dedicated NVIDIA graphics, making it a better choice for demanding applications and gaming.
Q: Which laptop has a longer battery life?
A: The Dell XPS boasts a slightly longer battery life than the Windows Surface Laptop, with up to 17 hours of usage on the 13.4-inch model.