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The evolution of XPS: why the Dell XPS 14 marks an exciting new era

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Dell’s XPS range of computers has been around since 1993, and shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, it might be reaching the peak of its powers.

The lineup has long been a jewel in the manufacturer’s crown, but the new XPS 14 model marks the culmination of a long journey.

Taking a look back on every prior version of the XPS laptop, the new model makes major improvements to just about every aspect of a user’s experience, offering forward-thinking tech and a fresh new design that’s as powerful as it is eye-catching.

Here’s why there’s never been a better time to pick up a Dell XPS 14.

TL;DR

The new Dell XPS 14 takes learnings from over a decade of XPS laptops and upgrades every aspect of the experience, including display, portability, power, and more.

How has the display on the XPS 14 built on its predecessors?

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Dell has been at the forefront of display technology for years, running InfinityEdge displays on laptops since the XPS 13 in 2015, but the new XPS 14 comes packing plenty of choice.

Both 2K and 2.8K options bring content to life beautifully. The 2K LCD model has the best battery life around, while the OLED models offer incredible contrast, deep blacks, and high brightness.

Add in variable refresh rates from as low as a battery-saving 1Hz, and up to 120Hz, and you’ve got a battery beast that runs super smoothly.

And, as you’d expect from Dell, there’s a fantastic webcam in the top bezel, too - something the company has offered since 2019’s XPS 13. In fact, it’s the world’s thinnest and narrowest 8MP/4K camera sensor, so you always look your best.

Is the XPS 14 as portable as previous models?

It would be fair to say that prior models of Dell XPS have run the gamut from desktop replacements like the 2010 XPS 17 to more portable recent incarnations, but the Dell XPS 14 somehow looks better and stays thinner despite its capabilities.

The XPS 14 is Dell’s thinnest ever 14-inch laptop, weighing just 3 lbs and measuring at 14.6mm.

It’s not just svelte for the sake of it, either. It’s got a gorgeous redesign that’s redesigned with machined aluminum for a fresh design. That makes it robust while remaining light, with a gorgeous keyboard that doesn’t compromise despite being in a smaller footprint than its rivals.

So, while other laptops have gotten chunkier and heavier in recent years, Dell offers the perfect balance of power and portability.

What new ports does the XPS 14 have?

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While many rivals leaned towards dongles in the mid-2010s, the XPS 13 in 2015 added Thunderbolt capabilities to Dell’s lineup - and that lineage is felt in the XPS 14.

The latest model includes three Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports for charging and peripherals, letting you turn the XPS 14 into a central hub for your work if you so wish, or letting you add docking stations and more with rapid connectivity. There’s even a headphone jack for audiophiles - although there is a quad speaker array with 3W woofers and 2W tweeters, too.

That’s not the only big hardware change, either. If you’re doing a lot of coding work, you’ll no doubt be pleased to see the return of physical function keys on the sleek new keyboard.

Does the XPS 14 cement the range’s place in the era of AI?

AI has become more prevalent than ever in 2025, and in 2026, that looks more likely to continue as Microsoft rolls out additional AI features for Windows 11.

Dell XPS models have supported Windows 11 since the XPS 13 in 2018, and as you’d expect from a manufacturer of its expertise, it’s ready for the Copilot era of the platform, too.

With up to 180TOPs for Copilot+ features, you can expect plenty of AI power at your fingertips.

Whether it’s image generation or using Copilot AI to adjust your mic and camera without you even knowing it, the XPS 14 is built for an AI future.

How powerful is this new XPS model?

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Laptop performance doesn’t stand still, and while the Dell XPS 14 from 2024 packed Intel Arc graphics with solid performance, the newest model goes multiple steps beyond.

The Intel chip inside can be specced up to the Ultra X9, while you can add up to 64GB of RAM and 4TB of SSD storage, making this a portable powerhouse you can take in your backpack and run your life from.

Dell says the integrated graphics are powerful enough to run mainstream games, and run 50% faster integrated graphics than prior generations. In fact, the latest integrated graphics here offer the kind of performance you’d expect from discrete GPUs, but with the advantage of improved power management thanks to a lower TDP.

How efficient is it? The Dell XPS 14, despite its performance and slimline design can run for a huge 27 hours on a single charge.

If you think a Dell XPS 14 is for you, find out more on the Dell website: US readers click here, CA readers here and UK readers here.

And there’s one more thing to know before you buy: Dell offers a price match guarantee. To learn more about the Dell price match and price guarantee, including the terms, exclusions and restrictions, US readers can click here, CA readers here and UK readers here.