Dell XPS 13 (Snapdragon X Elite) Review

The Dell XPS 13 has long been the benchmark for Windows ultrabooks, but this year’s model feels like a genuine paradigm shift. By swapping Intel for Qualcomm’s powerful Snapdragon X Elite, Dell isn’t just refreshing a classic; it’s placing a bold bet on the future of personal computing. This is the machine that could finally deliver on the promise of an all-day, always-on, seriously powerful Windows experience.

Dell’s flagship ultrabook enters a bold new era, and the star of the show is unequivocally the Snapdragon X Elite processor. This Arm-based chip is Qualcomm’s direct challenger to Apple’s M-series silicon, and the promises are immense: blistering multi-core performance that rivals the best in the business, coupled with efficiency that enables true multi-day battery life. For everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming, and office productivity, the XPS 13 feels instantaneously responsive. More impressively, it handles demanding creative workloads like photo editing and light video rendering without breaking a sweat or turning on its fans, a feat that has long eluded its x86-based predecessors. The integrated NPU (Neural Processing Unit) also future-proofs the device, accelerating a new wave of on-device AI features in Windows 11 like Copilot+ and live captions.

Of course, the transition to Arm architecture on Windows comes with one major caveat: application compatibility. While Microsoft’s Prism emulation layer does a commendable job running legacy x86 apps, it’s not flawless. Most mainstream applications run without a hitch, but users who rely on niche software, specialized drivers for older peripherals, or certain games may encounter frustrating compatibility issues or performance penalties. This is the pioneer’s tax for being on the bleeding edge.

Aesthetically, this XPS 13 inherits the hyper-modern, minimalist design introduced in the last generation. The CNC-milled aluminum chassis is impossibly sleek and rigid, exuding a premium feel from every angle. The design is dominated by two controversial but futuristic features: the seamless haptic touchpad and the capacitive touch function row. The “invisible” trackpad is large and responsive, but finding its edges without looking can take some getting used to. The touch row, which replaces physical function keys, offers a clean look but lacks the tactile feedback that many power users cherish.

As always, the display is a highlight. The optional 3K OLED touch panel is simply breathtaking, with perfect blacks, stunning color accuracy, and razor-sharp detail that make both work and media consumption a joy. The port situation, however, is less joyful. With just two USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 ports, the design prioritizes thinness over connectivity, meaning a dongle or dock will be a mandatory accessory for anyone needing to connect a standard USB-A device, external monitor, or SD card.

Ultimately, the Dell XPS 13 (Snapdragon X Elite) is a statement piece. It’s a beautifully crafted, incredibly powerful, and astonishingly efficient machine that represents the future of Windows laptops. It’s the perfect device for the mobile professional, student, or tech enthusiast who prioritizes cutting-edge performance, epic battery life, and a premium build above all else. However, it’s best suited for those whose workflows are primarily based in modern, cloud-based, or Arm-native applications, and who are willing to navigate the occasional software hiccup that comes with being an early adopter.

Where to Buy:

Check it out on Amazon