Performance Review of the Dell XPS 13 (9350): Assessing the Potential of Lunar Lake

Performance Review of the Dell XPS 13 (9350): Assessing the Potential of Lunar Lake

Performance Review of the Dell XPS 13 (9350): Assessing the Potential of Lunar Lake


# Dell XPS 13 (9350): Can Lunar Lake Compete?

The Dell XPS 13 has been a leading option for buyers seeking premium laptops, providing a stylish design, strong performance, and an impressive display. With the rollout of Intel’s **Lunar Lake** processors, Dell now offers a choice alongside its **Snapdragon X Elite** model, allowing customers to either remain with Intel or venture into ARM-based computing. But how well does the **Dell XPS 13 (9350)** featuring Lunar Lake hold up in today’s crowded market? Let’s take a closer look.

## Dell XPS 13 (9350) Summary

The Dell XPS 13 (9350) is included in Dell’s latest product range, showcasing Intel’s **Lunar Lake** processors. Lunar Lake serves as Intel’s answer to the increasing appeal of ARM chips, like Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite, which claim enhanced power efficiency and performance. The XPS 13 fitted with Lunar Lake aims to strike a balance between performance and battery longevity, making it a compelling choice for both professionals and casual users.

Nonetheless, while the Lunar Lake variant of the XPS 13 (9350) performs reliably, many users might find the **Snapdragon X Elite** version to be a more appealing option, particularly for those who prioritize battery life and mobile performance. Let’s examine the reasons behind this.

## Key Features

| **Attribute** | **Dell XPS 13 (9350)** |
|—————————–|————————-|
| **Dimensions** | 11.62 x 7.84 x 0.58 inches |
| **Display Size** | 13.4 inches |
| **Display Type** | LCD, OLED |
| **Display Resolution** | 1920 x 1200, 2880 x 1800 |
| **Refresh Rate** | 30Hz-120Hz, 60Hz |
| **Brightness** | 400-500 nits |
| **Processor** | Intel Core Ultra 7 (Lunar Lake) |
| **Memory** | 16GB, 32GB |
| **Storage** | 512GB, 1TB, 2TB |
| **Webcam** | 1080p |
| **Ports** | 2x Thunderbolt 4 |
| **Battery** | 55Wh |
| **Speakers** | 4x 2W speakers |
| **Charging** | 60W |
| **Weight** | 2.7 lbs |
| **Colors** | Graphite, Platinum |
| **Price** | Starting at $1,399.99 |

## Design: Elegant Yet Port-Constrained

The Dell XPS 13 (9350) maintains the sleek, contemporary design ethos that characterizes the XPS series. It features a **flat keyboard** and a **capacitive key row** above the keyboard, reminiscent of the **XPS 13 Plus**. The **edge-to-edge display** with narrow bezels provides a luxurious appearance, and the build quality feels robust and reliable.

However, a drawback of the design is its **restricted port availability**. The laptop is equipped with only **two Thunderbolt 4 ports**; thus, if you connect the charger, only one port remains available for use. Additionally, there’s **no headphone jack**, which could deter some users. While this results in a thinner and lighter device (weighing a mere 2.7 lbs), the lack of connectivity options may be disappointing for users needing more versatility.

### Advantages:
– **Stylish and modern design**
– **Impressive battery endurance**
– **Reliable performance**
– **Attractive display**
– **Comfortable keyboard experience**

### Disadvantages:
– **Restrained port selection**
– **Intel variant less powerful than the Snapdragon model**

## Display: Premium Choices

The XPS 13 (9350) presents two display options: a **1920 x 1200 LCD** and a **2880 x 1800 Tandem OLED**. The OLED choice is particularly noteworthy, as it features one of the few Tandem OLED screens available in laptops, typically seen in high-end products like the Apple iPad Pro.

The LCD model, which we evaluated, offers a **120Hz refresh rate**, making it suitable for smooth scrolling and everyday tasks. The display boasts sufficient brightness for most indoor settings but could use higher brightness levels for outdoor conditions. The OLED variant, with its richer blacks and more vivid colors, would likely enhance the viewing experience for those who prioritize display excellence.

## Keyboard and Touchpad: Debated Yet Practical

The **keyboard** on the XPS 13 (9350)