Dell XPS 13 Plus Review: Redefining Elegance and Performance
Published On 31-Jul, 2025, Updated On 07-Aug, 2025
Dell XPS 13 Plus Review: Redefining Elegance and Performance
In the crowded world of ultraportables, the Dell XPS 13 Plus stakes its claim as a bold blend of minimalist design and raw power. This isn’t just a refresh of a beloved lineup—it’s a reinvention. Here’s why this machine belongs at the top of your shortlist.
Design & Build Quality
- Precision CNC-machined aluminum chassis in Platinum Silver
- Seamless edge-to-edge keyboard deck with flush, backlit keys
- 13.4" 3.5K OLED touch display with ultra-thin bezels
The XPS 13 Plus feels like holding the future in your hands. Its seamless glass touch bar and continuous palm rest erase distractions, letting you zero-in on what matters.
Innovative Touch Bar
Dell’s new capacitive touch function row replaces traditional keys with adaptive shortcuts. Customize it for media controls, brightness, or even macro commands—no driver downloads required.
Performance That Excels
Equipped with an Intel Core i7-1360P, 16 GB LPDDR5 RAM, and a 1 TB PCIe Gen4 SSD, this XPS zips through heavy multitasking. From compiling code to editing 4K footage, it never misses a beat.
Marathon Battery Life
Its 55 Wh battery delivers up to 14 hours of mixed-use endurance—enough to power through back-to-back meetings or a cross-country flight without scrambling for an outlet.
Portability & Connectivity
| Feature | XPS 13 Plus | MacBook Air M2 | HP Elite Dragonfly G4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 2.8 lbs | 2.7 lbs | 2.2 lbs |
| Ports |
2× Thunderbolt 4 1× USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 3.5 mm audio jack |
2× Thunderbolt 4 MagSafe 3 |
2× Thunderbolt 4 1× USB-A 3.2 HDMI 2.0 |
| Display Brightness | 400 nits | 500 nits | 400 nits |
| Wi-Fi 6E / Bluetooth 5.3 | ✓ / ✓ | ✓ / ✓ | ✓ / ✓ |
While it’s slightly heavier than the competition, the XPS 13 Plus balances features and speed without sacrificing a sleek profile.
Who Should Buy the Dell XPS 13 Plus?
- Design-savvy professionals craving a next-gen keyboard experience
- Content creators needing a bright OLED panel for color-accurate edits
- On-the-go power users who appreciate unibody durability
For a direct comparison, see our Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition Review or check out the Elite Dragonfly G4
Pros & Cons
- Pros
- Revolutionary touch bar
- Vibrant 3.5K OLED display
- PCIe Gen4 SSD for blazing storage speeds
- Cons
- No USB-A or HDMI port
- Touch bar has a learning curve
- Premium price tag
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade the RAM later?
The LPDDR5 memory is soldered. You’ll choose between 8 GB, 16 GB, or 32 GB at purchase.
How do I customize the touch bar shortcuts?
Open Dell QuickSet and assign functions to each zone—no additional drivers needed.
Does it support fast charging?
Yes. With a 65 W USB-C adapter, you get a 50% charge in about 30 minutes.
Is Wi-Fi 7 supported?
Not yet. This model ships with Killer Wi-Fi 6E; Wi-Fi 7 will arrive in next-gen revisions.