Main points
- The XPS boasts a sleek aluminum chassis with a carbon fiber interior, while the Surface Pro features a magnesium alloy body.
- However, the Surface Pro has a slight edge in terms of durability, as its kickstand is more robust and the screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass.
- The XPS has a slightly larger display and more powerful graphics, while the Surface Pro has a more durable build and a lower price point.
In the competitive world of 2-in-1 laptops, the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro stand as two formidable contenders. Both devices offer a blend of power, portability, and style, making them ideal for students, professionals, and creative enthusiasts alike. But which one is the right choice for you? To help you make an informed decision, we’re pitting the Dell XPS vs Microsoft Surface Pro in a comprehensive comparison.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro exude premium craftsmanship. The XPS boasts a sleek aluminum chassis with a carbon fiber interior, while the Surface Pro features a magnesium alloy body. Both devices are incredibly thin and lightweight, making them easy to carry around. However, the Surface Pro has a slight edge in terms of durability, as its kickstand is more robust and the screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass.
Display
The display is a crucial aspect of any 2-in-1 laptop. The Dell XPS offers a 13.4-inch InfinityEdge display with a resolution of 3200 x 1800 pixels. It features a wide color gamut and high brightness, providing stunning visuals. The Microsoft Surface Pro, on the other hand, comes with a 13-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. It also boasts high color accuracy and brightness, but the smaller size may be a drawback for some users.
Performance
When it comes to performance, both the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro offer plenty of power for everyday tasks and light multitasking. The XPS is powered by Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, while the Surface Pro features Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 options. The XPS also has the advantage of dedicated graphics (Intel Iris Xe), while the Surface Pro relies on integrated graphics. This difference becomes noticeable in graphics-intensive tasks, such as video editing or gaming.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key consideration for any portable device. The Dell XPS has a slightly larger battery (51Wh) than the Microsoft Surface Pro (47Wh). However, the XPS also has a more power-hungry display, which results in comparable battery life. Both devices can last for around 10-12 hours on a single charge with moderate usage.
Connectivity and Ports
The Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro offer a similar range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and USB-C ports. The XPS has two Thunderbolt 4 ports, while the Surface Pro has one Thunderbolt 4 port and one USB-C port. Both devices also have a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Operating System
The Dell XPS runs on Windows 11 Home or Pro, while the Microsoft Surface Pro comes with Windows 11 Home with S Mode. S Mode is a more secure and streamlined version of Windows that restricts the installation of apps from outside the Microsoft Store. However, you can easily switch out of S Mode if you prefer.
Price
The Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro are both premium devices with a price tag to match. The base model Dell XPS starts at around $1,000, while the base model Microsoft Surface Pro starts at around $900. The price increases as you upgrade the processor, storage, and RAM.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
The Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro are both excellent 2-in-1 laptops that offer a great balance of power, portability, and style. The XPS has a slightly larger display and more powerful graphics, while the Surface Pro has a more durable build and a lower price point.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance and a large display, the Dell XPS is the way to go. If you’re looking for a more affordable and durable option, the Microsoft Surface Pro is a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which device has a better processor?
The Dell XPS generally has more powerful processor options than the Microsoft Surface Pro.
2. Does the Surface Pro come with a keyboard?
No, the Surface Pro does not come with a keyboard. You need to purchase the Type Cover keyboard separately.
3. Which device is more suitable for drawing and note-taking?
The Microsoft Surface Pro, with its Surface Pen, is better suited for drawing and note-taking.
4. Can the Dell XPS be used as a tablet?
Yes, the Dell XPS can be used as a tablet, but it is not as comfortable to hold as the Microsoft Surface Pro.
5. Which device has better battery life?
The battery life of the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Pro is comparable, with both lasting around 10-12 hours on a single charge.