Ultrabooks are handy and all, what with their lightweight design, but in terms of power, a bit (though not too much, really) of horsepower is compromised for said design choice.
(prHWY.com) September 4, 2012 - Reno, NV -- Ultrabooks are handy and all, what with their lightweight design, but in terms of power, a bit (though not too much, really) of horsepower is compromised for said design choice. While the Dell XPS 13 isn't necessarily looking to change that perception, it does give a solid outing.
An excellent blend of laptop functionality and stylishly portable lightweight design, the Dell XPS 13 is giving most other ultras a run for their money. The
Dell laptop parts installed in the gadget include an Intel Core i5 processor (upgradable to an i7), a Samsung 128 GB solid state drive (also upgradable to a 256 GB model), an Intel HD 3000 integrated graphics chip, 4 GB of DDR3-1333 RAM, and an Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6230. Other features include a 13.3 inch 720p LCD screen with LED backlighting and Gorilla Glass, Bluetooth functionality, and a 720p webcam. It has no internal optical drive (how many ultrabooks do), but this isn't something an external optical drive purchase can't overcome. Finally, it comes with Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit pre-installed, and has a 1-year limited warranty. All these laptop parts will cost you $999.99, with the upgrades upping the price to $1,499.99. Dimensions measure at 0.24-0.71 x 12.4 x 8.1 inches, and the whole thing weighs at around 3 lbs. Overall, for what it's offering, it's a pretty sweet deal.
Every ultrabook release is measured against Apple's MacBook Air, and the XPS 13 doesn't disappoint. In fact, it actually takes up less desk space than the Air; and the aluminum, magnesium, and carbon fiber construction definitely don't hurt. The aluminum top not only gives the XPS 13 a nice look, but also gives the LCD screen some backboard protection. The magnesium keyboard has a nice feel to it. Finally, the carbon fiber bottom prevents heat from transferring from the computer to your lap, and also keeps the weight down.
With large monitors being almost a prerequisite for HD content which is becoming more and more prevalent these days, the XPS 13's 720p 13.3 inch display just doesn't cut it. This is to be expected of an ultrabook, of course; but what brings the grade down is that, unless you don't mind color issues, skewed viewing angles with this ultra will quickly become your worst nightmare. The screen does have impact protection afforded by the Gorilla Glass. However, it is this glass which heightens glare issues.
That said, the built-in speakers are rather impressive for an ultrabook. While audiophiles will still want to go with headphones, the speakers still pack enough aural punch should you require it.
The island-style keyboard is soft to the touch, with a backlight to help you type in dark places. Little flex is afforded by the keyboard, but with a computer this small, you'll be hard-pressed to think of realistic situations where the keyboard will be flexed.
The clickpad, on the other hand, doesn't have much to show for it. There is only a printed gray line that separates what are supposedly the left and right mouse buttons; but all too often, I found myself activating the right click when what I wanted to press was the left.
Overall, this is a pretty solid ultrabook. While not necessarily going above and beyond other ultras on the market, with its nifty features and upgradable laptop replacement parts, it's a viable strong alternative.
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