Dell XPS Desktop 8960: A Powerhouse Reimagined (or Is It?)
The Dell XPS Desktop line has long been a stalwart of the pre-built PC world, consistently offering a blend of performance, relatively compact design, and – crucially – availability. In a world where securing a high-end graphics card feels like winning the lottery, the XPS Desktop 8960 aims to deliver the gaming and productivity punch many crave, but does it stick the landing? Let’s dive in.
Performance is undoubtedly where the 8960 shines, depending on the configuration you choose, of course. Our review unit, sporting a 13th Gen Intel Core i9 processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti, chewed through demanding games at 1440p with ease. AAA titles at max settings were consistently hitting frame rates well above 60fps, and content creation tasks like video editing and 3D rendering were handled with impressive speed. The machine’s DDR5 RAM and fast NVMe SSD also contribute significantly to the overall responsiveness. Cooling, while seemingly adequate, did become a concern under sustained heavy load, with the CPU occasionally throttling, hinting at potential limitations when pushing the system to its absolute maximum for extended periods.
Design-wise, Dell has opted for an iterative approach rather than a radical overhaul. The chassis retains the familiar, albeit slightly dated, aesthetic of previous XPS desktops. While some might appreciate the understated look, others will find it lacking in visual flair compared to more aggressively styled gaming PCs. The build quality is generally solid, although the plastic front panel feels a bit underwhelming considering the premium price tag.
Features are a mixed bag. The inclusion of ample USB ports (both Type-A and Type-C) is welcome, as is the built-in Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth connectivity. However, the lack of easily accessible internal expansion slots is a notable drawback. Upgrading components down the line may prove to be more challenging than it needs to be. The pre-installed software, while not overly intrusive, does include the usual bloatware that most users will likely want to uninstall.
Value is perhaps the most contentious aspect of the XPS Desktop 8960. While the performance is undeniably strong, the relatively high price point puts it in direct competition with custom-built PCs and boutique pre-built systems that often offer better component choices and more customization options. The “Dell tax” for convenience and warranty support is evident, and whether it’s worth paying depends heavily on your individual needs and technical expertise.
Where to Buy:
Dell XPS Desktop 8960 Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 94%
- Design: 92%
- Performance: 93%
- Quality: 92%
- Popularity: 94%
Top Pros
- ✅ The powerful CPU and GPU combination delivers excellent gaming performance.
- ✅ The machine’s fast NVMe SSD significantly improves loading times.
- ✅ Ample USB ports offer versatile connectivity options for peripherals.
Key Cons
- ❌ The design aesthetic feels somewhat outdated compared to competitors.
- ❌ CPU throttling can occur during extended periods of heavy load.
- ❌ The limited internal expansion slots hinder future upgrades.
