Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of laptops and ultrabooks, Dell’s XPS series has been a perennial favorite, known for its combination of sleek design, cutting-edge technology, and top-notch performance. The Dell XPS 13 Plus, released in 2023, is the latest iteration in this highly acclaimed line. With a legacy of success to uphold, does the XPS 13 Plus continue to live up to the expectations set by its predecessors? In this comprehensive review, we will take an in-depth look at the Dell XPS 13 Plus (2023) and explore its design, performance, display, and other key features to help you decide if it’s the right laptop for you.
Design and Build Quality
The Dell XPS 13 Plus has always been a poster child for premium design and build quality, and the 2023 model is no exception. The laptop’s exterior is clad in a combination of aluminum and carbon fiber, giving it a robust yet elegant look. The slim profile and compact form factor make it one of the most portable ultrabooks on the market. The build quality is exceptional, with no noticeable flex or creaking in the chassis.
The XPS 13 Plus (2023) retains the InfinityEdge display with ultra-thin bezels, offering an immersive visual experience. The near-borderless display design continues to be a highlight of the XPS series, and it gives the impression of a larger screen within a smaller footprint.
The keyboard is backlit and provides a comfortable typing experience. Key travel is decent, and the spacing is just right, allowing for accurate and effortless typing. The touchpad is responsive and precise, supporting Windows gestures, making navigation a breeze.
Performance
Under the hood, the XPS 13 Plus (2023) packs some serious power. It is available with a range of configurations to suit different needs and budgets. The unit we tested came equipped with an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a fast SSD, and it did not disappoint.
In day-to-day usage, the laptop handles multitasking with ease. The responsiveness and speed of the SSD contribute to quick boot times and app loading.
For those who require more processing power, Dell offers configurations with Intel Core i9 processors and up to 32GB of RAM.
The laptop runs quietly and efficiently, thanks to its well-designed thermal management system. It utilizes a combination of fans and heat pipes to dissipate heat effectively, ensuring that the laptop remains cool even under heavy workloads.
Also read – Alienware M16 Review
Display Quality
The 13.4-inch InfinityEdge display comes in different configurations, including Full HD+ and Ultra HD+ options. Our review unit featured the Ultra HD+ display with a resolution of 3840 x 2400 pixels.
The display is a touch screen with support for the Dell Active Pen, offering a responsive and precise touch input experience. Colors are vibrant and accurate, thanks to the display’s ability to cover 100% of the sRGB color gamut. With a peak brightness of 500 nits, the XPS 13 Plus is suitable for outdoor use, and the anti-reflective coating helps reduce glare.
This means you can enjoy content with high dynamic range, providing deeper blacks and brighter highlights for a more lifelike viewing experience.
Audio Quality
The laptop is equipped with quad speakers, tuned by Waves MaxxAudio Pro, which produces clear and loud sound. The sound quality is above average for a laptop of this size, making it suitable for casual media consumption without the need for external speakers or headphones.
Connectivity
The XPS 13 Plus offers a good selection of ports and connectivity options. It includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Thunderbolt 4 support provides fast data transfer and the ability to connect to multiple external displays. The inclusion of a microSD card slot is a thoughtful touch for photographers and content creators, making it easy to transfer files from cameras and other devices.
Dell has taken care to ensure that the XPS 13 Plus is well-equipped for the future, supporting the latest connectivity standards.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the Dell XPS 13 series has always been its impressive battery life, and the 2023 model continues this tradition. The laptop is equipped with a 52Whr battery, which, combined with power-efficient components, provides excellent battery life. In our tests, the XPS 13 Plus consistently delivered around 10 to 12 hours of battery life under regular use, including web browsing, document editing, and media playback.
Operating System and Software
The Dell XPS 13 Plus (2023) comes with Windows 11 pre-installed. Windows 11 is a visually appealing and feature-rich operating system that takes full advantage of the laptop’s hardware capabilities. It offers a more streamlined and modern user interface, improved window management, and better support for touch and pen input.
This clean software environment is a welcome feature, as it allows users to tailor their laptop’s software to their specific needs and preferences.
Price and Availability
The Dell XPS 13 Plus (2023) is available in various configurations, allowing you to choose the one that suits your needs and budget. You can expect to pay more for higher-end configurations with faster processors, more RAM, and larger storage capacities.
Final Verdict
The Dell XPS 13 Plus (2023) is a stellar addition to the XPS series, carrying forward the legacy of premium design and excellent performance. It excels in almost every department, from its sleek and sturdy build to the vibrant and sharp display, all the way to its impressive battery life.
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality and design.
- Powerful performance for various use cases.
- Stunning Ultra HD+ display with HDR support.
- Impressive battery life.
- Clean software environment with Windows 11.
- Good selection of ports and connectivity options.
Cons:
- Higher-end configurations can be expensive.
- The Ultra HD+ display may affect battery life.
Its blend of style, performance, and portability makes it a laptop that caters to a wide range of users.
