Dell XPS Desktop 8960 Review

The Dell XPS Desktop 8960: A Refined Powerhouse with a Few Caveats

For years, the Dell XPS line has been the benchmark for high-performance, Windows-based desktops that don’t scream “gamer.” It’s the machine for the creative professional, the discerning power user, and the enthusiast who values a clean aesthetic as much as raw horsepower. The latest iteration, the XPS Desktop 8960, continues this legacy, packing Intel’s 13th and 14th Gen processors and NVIDIA’s formidable RTX 40-series graphics into a redesigned, more breathable chassis. It aims to be the ultimate do-it-all machine, but in a market saturated with boutique builders and DIY options, does Dell’s flagship still hold its ground?

Performance That Rarely Disappoints

Let’s get straight to the point: when configured appropriately, the XPS 8960 is an absolute beast. Our review unit, equipped with an Intel Core i7-13700K and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, chewed through every task we threw at it. In creative applications like Adobe Premiere Pro and Blender, render times were slashed, and timeline scrubbing in 4K was buttery smooth. The combination of potent processing and a fast NVMe SSD means the system is incredibly responsive, from boot-up to launching complex applications.

For gaming, the performance is equally impressive. It handles modern titles at 1440p and even 4K with grace, pushing high frame rates and making full use of features like DLSS 3 and ray tracing. However, this is where the first caveat appears. While the larger case and improved cooling options (including liquid cooling) are a massive step up from previous generations, the thermal solution can still be pushed to its limits by top-tier components like a Core i9-14900K. Under sustained, all-core loads, you may see some minor thermal throttling, preventing the chip from reaching its absolute maximum potential. For 99% of users, this is a non-issue, but performance purists may find it noteworthy.

A Design of Understated Elegance

Dell has refined the XPS tower design rather than reinventing it. The 8960 is housed in a larger 27L chassis, a direct and welcome response to the thermal constraints of its predecessors. Available in Graphite or Platinum, the aesthetic is clean, modern, and professional. It’s a machine that looks just as at home in a design studio as it does in a living room. The front panel provides easy access to an SD card slot, a headphone jack, and a generous array of USB ports, including Type-C.

The build quality is solid for the most part, with sturdy metal side panels. Accessing the internals is a breeze thanks to a tool-less removal mechanism, which is a fantastic touch for those looking to perform simple upgrades like adding RAM or a second SSD. The one minor letdown is the front panel itself, which remains plastic. While it’s a high-quality, well-finished plastic, at this premium price point, a touch of brushed aluminum would have elevated the machine’s feel from great to exceptional.

Features, Connectivity, and the Upgrade Question

Connectivity is a major strength. The rear I/O is packed with a comprehensive selection of USB ports, DisplayPort and HDMI outputs from the motherboard, and a full suite of audio connections. Coupled with the front ports, you’ll likely never find yourself hunting for a dongle. Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5Gb Ethernet port ensure you have the fastest networking options available.

Internally, the story is a bit more complicated. Dell’s cable management is clean, and the layout is logical. You have easy access to DIMM slots for RAM and M.2 slots for storage. However, the XPS 8960, like its predecessors, utilizes a proprietary motherboard and power supply. This is the system’s most significant weakness for the hardcore tinkerer. While you can easily swap out the GPU, RAM, and storage, upgrading the motherboard or power supply with standard off-the-shelf ATX parts is not a viable option. This effectively limits the machine’s long-term upgrade path, locking you into the core platform.

The Final Verdict: Who is This For?

The Dell XPS Desktop 8960 is a superb pre-built PC. It offers immense power in a sophisticated, user-friendly package backed by a comprehensive warranty. It successfully walks the tightrope between a high-end gaming rig and a professional creative workstation, delivering exceptional performance for both.

The compromises—namely the thermal ceiling on the highest-end CPUs and the use of proprietary components—are real, but they primarily affect a niche audience of overclockers and DIY builders. For its target demographic of creative professionals, prosumers, and discerning users who want a powerful, reliable machine that just works, the XPS 8960 is an outstanding choice. You’re paying a premium not just for the components, but for the cohesive design, convenience, and peace of mind that Dell provides. If that value proposition aligns with your needs, this desktop is one of the best you can buy.

Where to Buy:

Check it out on Amazon