The Best Windows Laptop. Period. - Dell XPS 15 & 17 Review

The Dell XPS 15 and 17 are presented as a strong all around package that aims to redefine what a Windows laptop can be. The host emphasizes the chassis, screen, and especially the trackpad as standout features, arguing that a great keyboard alone isn’t enough if the pointing device and chassis aren’t excellent. The video goes deep into how the display quality, color accuracy, and brightness up to 500 nits influence daily use, including practical color calibration tips to achieve near perfect color reproduction for most non-professional editors. Battery life is measured in real-world terms with up to about nine to ten hours in typical use, though actual life depends heavily on brightness, workload, and whether high performance modes are engaged. The thermal and performance capabilities of the XPS 15 and 17 are explored, including a discussion of the Ultra Performance toggle and the cooling system, which helps the machines handle demanding tasks like 3D rendering and video editing while weighing the trade offs in thermals and longevity. In summary, the review positions the XPS lineup as possibly the best Windows laptops on the market, while acknowledging price, configuration options, and a few areas for improvement that could make them perfect in the future. The video also covers expandability and future potential, highlighting dual M.2 SSD slots and dual SODIMM slots for easy RAM and storage upgrades, a key advantage for power users who want longevity from a machine. Dell’s design choices, such as a massive trackpad and a rigid, carbon-fiber top deck, are praised for enhancing daily interaction and ergonomics. The review compares the XPS to other Windows options and notes that while gaming performance isn’t on par with dedicated gaming laptops, it remains capable, especially when paired with the GTX 1650 and reduced resolution settings. There is an acknowledgment that screen options come with price premiums, particularly for 4K touch, and suggestions for better balance such as a 1200p option. The host also evaluates the webcam placement and microphone arrangement, explaining how the compact bezel affects video calls, while also celebrating the overall speaker quality as among the best on Windows laptops. The closing segments express strong enthusiasm for the XPS line while offering constructive ideas for Dell to consider in future iterations, including AMD versions, enhanced Thunderbolt support, and potential design flourishes for an even more complete package.

Topics · technology · hardware · computing · laptops · consumer-electronics · display · audio