Dell XPS 14 (2026) Review: A Windows Laptop That Finally Rivals the Mac
With Intel's Panther Lake chip and a gorgeous OLED screen, the new XPS 14 delivers the battery life Windows users have been waiting for.
We spent 2 weeks testing the Dell XPS 14 as part of our daily routine to see how it holds up beyond the spec sheet. Here is everything you need to know before you buy.
Price and Availability
The Dell XPS 14 is available now from Dell and major retailers starting at $1,499. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, as we regularly see discounts during major shopping events.
Key Specifications
| Spec | Dell XPS 14 |
|---|---|
| Display | 14.5" 3.2K OLED, 120Hz |
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 355H |
| Memory | 32GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Battery life | Up to 16 hours |
| Weight | 1.68 kg |
Design and Build Quality
The Dell XPS 14 is impeccably built, with minimal flex in the chassis or around the keyboard. It slips easily into a backpack and feels sturdy enough to survive daily commutes.
Display, Keyboard and Speakers
The screen is crisp and color-accurate, making it great for photo editing and streaming. Typing is comfortable for long sessions, and the trackpad is large and precise. Speakers are clear with more bass than we expected.
Performance and Battery Life
In our benchmarks, the Dell XPS 14 handled multitasking, 4K video exports and light gaming with ease. Battery life in our web-browsing test was excellent, easily getting through a full workday away from the charger.
Pros and Cons
What we like
- Stunning OLED display
- Excellent battery life for Windows
- Premium CNC aluminum build
What we don't like
- Capacitive function row takes getting used to
- Limited ports
Verdict: Should You Buy the Dell XPS 14?
The XPS 14 is the best premium Windows ultrabook for creatives and professionals.
Our score: 9.0/10 – Editor’s Choice