Dell Xps 13 Plus Graphite Vs. your Budget: Can You Afford The Best?

The Dell XPS 13 Plus is a sleek and powerful laptop that has captured the attention of tech enthusiasts and professionals alike. With its stunning design and impressive performance, it’s no wonder that this laptop has become a top choice for those seeking a premium computing experience. However, one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make when purchasing the XPS 13 Plus is choosing between the two available color options: Graphite and Platinum. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into the differences between the Dell XPS 13 Plus Graphite and Platinum models, helping you make an informed decision based on your preferences and needs.

Design and Aesthetics: A Matter of Personal Taste

The Dell XPS 13 Plus Graphite and Platinum models share the same sleek and minimalist design, featuring a CNC-machined aluminum chassis and a stunning InfinityEdge display. However, the difference in color can significantly impact the overall look and feel of the laptop.

• Graphite: The Graphite model exudes a sophisticated and understated elegance. Its dark gray finish gives it a professional and timeless look, making it a suitable choice for business and academic settings.

• Platinum: The Platinum model, on the other hand, offers a lighter and more playful aesthetic. Its silver-white finish gives it a modern and stylish appearance, making it a great option for those who prefer a more vibrant and eye-catching look.

Ultimately, the choice between Graphite and Platinum comes down to personal preference. Both color options are beautifully crafted and complement the sleek design of the XPS 13 Plus.

Performance and Hardware: Powerhouse Under the Hood

The Dell XPS 13 Plus Graphite and Platinum models offer similar performance and hardware configurations. Both laptops are powered by the latest 12th-generation Intel Core processors, providing blazing-fast performance for demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, and programming.

• Processor: The base model of both the Graphite and Platinum XPS 13 Plus comes equipped with an Intel Core i5-1240P processor. However, you can upgrade to more powerful options like the Intel Core i7-1260P or i7-1280P for even better performance.

• Memory and Storage: The standard memory configuration for both models is 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and handling of memory-intensive applications. Storage options range from 512GB to 2TB of PCIe NVMe SSD, providing ample space for your files, programs, and multimedia content.

• Graphics: Both the Graphite and Platinum XPS 13 Plus models feature integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics. While not suitable for hardcore gaming, the Iris Xe graphics can handle basic gaming and video editing tasks without any issues.

Display and Multimedia: Immersive Visuals and Audio

The Dell XPS 13 Plus Graphite and Platinum models boast stunning InfinityEdge displays with incredibly narrow bezels. The 13.4-inch touchscreen display offers a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals.

• Color Accuracy: Both models feature IPS panels with excellent color accuracy, making them ideal for photo and video editing. The displays cover 100% of the sRGB color gamut and offer wide viewing angles.

• Touchscreen Functionality: The touchscreen functionality on the XPS 13 Plus allows for intuitive interaction with Windows 11 and various touch-enabled applications. It’s a great feature for artists, designers, and anyone who prefers the convenience of touch input.

• Audio Quality: The XPS 13 Plus features a quad-speaker sound system tuned by Waves MaxxAudio Pro. The speakers deliver clear and immersive audio, making it a great choice for watching movies, listening to music, or participating in video conferences.

Keyboard and Touchpad: Precision and Comfort

The Dell XPS 13 Plus Graphite and Platinum models come with a backlit chiclet keyboard. The keys offer good travel and a comfortable typing experience. However, it’s worth noting that the XPS 13 Plus features a new keyboard design with a zero-lattice layout and larger keycaps. This new design may take some time to get used to, especially if you’re coming from a traditional laptop keyboard.

• Touchpad: The touchpad on the XPS 13 Plus is spacious and responsive, supporting multi-touch gestures and Windows Precision drivers. It provides a smooth and accurate navigation experience.

Connectivity and Ports: Staying Connected

The Dell XPS 13 Plus Graphite and Platinum models offer a range of connectivity options to meet your needs.

• Thunderbolt 4 Ports: Both models feature two Thunderbolt 4 ports, allowing you to connect external displays, high-speed storage devices, and other peripherals.

• USB-C Port: There’s also a USB-C port that supports data transfer and charging.

• Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth: Both models come with built-in Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connections.

Battery Life and Portability: Power on the Go

The Dell XPS 13 Plus Graphite and Platinum models pack a 55WHr battery, providing up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge. This makes them ideal for professionals and students who need a laptop that can keep up with their busy schedules.

• Weight and Dimensions: Both models share the same compact and lightweight design. They weigh around 2.7 pounds and measure 11.6 x 7.8 x 0.6 inches, making them easy to carry around all day.

Wrap Up: Making the Right Choice

The Dell XPS 13 Plus Graphite and Platinum models are both excellent laptops that offer a premium computing experience. The choice between the two comes down to personal preference, whether you prefer the sophisticated elegance of Graphite or the modern and stylish Platinum finish. Ultimately, both models deliver exceptional performance, stunning visuals, and a comfortable typing experience.

Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations

• Accessories: Dell offers a range of accessories for the XPS 13 Plus, including a stylus, a carrying sleeve, and a docking station. These accessories can enhance your productivity and make the most of your laptop.

• Software: The XPS 13 Plus comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, providing a user-friendly and feature-rich operating system. You can also choose to install Linux or other operating systems if you prefer.

• Warranty and Support: Dell offers a one-year limited warranty with the XPS 13 Plus. You can extend the warranty period or purchase additional support services for peace of mind.

Popular Questions

1. Which color option is more resistant to fingerprints and smudges?

Both the Graphite and Platinum models are fingerprint-resistant, thanks to their anodized aluminum finish. However, the Platinum model may be slightly more prone to smudges due to its lighter color.

2. Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on the XPS 13 Plus?

No, the RAM and storage on the XPS 13 Plus are soldered onto the motherboard and cannot be upgraded after purchase. Therefore, it’s important to choose the appropriate configuration at the time of purchase.

3. Does the XPS 13 Plus support external GPUs?

No, the XPS 13 Plus does not support external GPUs. It relies solely on the integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics for graphical tasks.