When you’re spending over a thousand dollars on a premium Windows laptop, you expect nothing less than perfection — and Dell’s XPS 13 lineup is built for that. Both the XPS 13 and XPS 13 Plus deliver sleek aesthetics, powerful performance, and top-tier build quality. However, one model clearly offers better long-term value, performance, and innovation. After testing and comparing specs, I recommend the Dell XPS 13 Plus — here’s why.
Why Do I Recommend the Dell XPS 13 Plus?
The Dell XPS 13 Plus isn’t just a newer version — it’s a reimagined take on what a modern ultrabook should be. While the XPS 13 is still reliable, the Plus version introduces cutting-edge performance, a futuristic design, and a superior display that set it apart. Here’s why I recommend the XPS 13 Plus over the standard XPS 13:
- Superior Processing Power:
The XPS 13 Plus comes equipped with Intel’s 13th Gen Core i7-1355U processor, offering faster multi-core performance compared to the 11th or 12th Gen chips found in older XPS 13 models. Whether you’re editing photos, multitasking, or compiling code, the Plus stays cooler and faster. In contrast, the XPS 13’s performance is better suited for lighter productivity. - More Modern, Minimalist Design:
Dell redesigned the Plus with a seamless, edge-to-edge keyboard and invisible haptic touchpad. This futuristic layout gives it a sleeker look and a cleaner surface. The regular XPS 13 still looks elegant but feels dated next to the Plus. - Higher Display Brightness and Resolution:
The Plus model offers up to 3.5K OLED and 4K UHD+ display options, delivering deeper blacks, vibrant colors, and sharper visuals — perfect for content creators. The XPS 13 offers a solid Full HD+ or 4K panel, but the Plus’s OLED display steals the show. - Better Thermal Design:
Thanks to advanced dual-fan cooling and improved airflow, the XPS 13 Plus can maintain top performance for longer sessions. The XPS 13, with its passive cooling in some configurations, tends to throttle under heavy load. - Faster Memory and Storage:
With LPDDR5 RAM and PCIe Gen 4 SSD, the XPS 13 Plus offers quicker load times, faster multitasking, and better responsiveness compared to the XPS 13’s LPDDR4x and PCIe 3.0 setup. - More Powerful Charging and Battery Optimization:
The 13 Plus supports ExpressCharge 2.0, allowing up to 80% charge in just one hour. The regular XPS 13 still uses standard fast charging, which takes slightly longer. - Immersive Audio and Webcam Quality:
The Plus version includes upgraded quad speakers and a 720p + IR hybrid camera for improved video calls. The XPS 13 retains a decent webcam but lacks the dynamic sound system of the Plus. - Future-Ready Connectivity:
With two Thunderbolt 4 ports and Wi-Fi 6E, the XPS 13 Plus is built for modern connectivity. The XPS 13 still includes similar ports but lacks the same data transfer speeds and Wi-Fi range.
Side by Side Comparison Chart (XPS 13 vs XPS 13 Plus)
| Features | Dell XPS 13 | Dell XPS 13 Plus |
| Processor | Up to Intel Core i7-1250U | Intel Core i7-1355U (13th Gen) |
| GPU | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| Display Options | Full HD+ / 4K UHD+ | OLED 3.5K / 4K UHD+ |
| Brightness | Up to 500 nits | Up to 600 nits |
| RAM Type | LPDDR4x (up to 32GB) | LPDDR5 (up to 32GB) |
| Storage | PCIe Gen 3 SSD | PCIe Gen 4 SSD |
| Keyboard | Traditional backlit keyboard | Edge-to-edge zero-lattice keyboard |
| Touchpad | Standard mechanical | Seamless glass haptic touchpad |
| Speakers | Dual speakers | Quad speakers with spatial audio |
| Webcam | 720p HD | 720p IR with better low-light correction |
| Battery Life | Up to 12 hours | Up to 14 hours |
| Charging Speed | Standard Fast Charge | ExpressCharge 2.0 |
| Build Material | CNC aluminum | CNC aluminum (more minimal) |
| Weight | 2.6 lbs | 2.7 lbs |
| Ports | 2x Thunderbolt 4, USB-C | 2x Thunderbolt 4 (same, but faster transfer) |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Pro (optional) |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Price Range | More affordable | Premium pricing |
What Common XPS 13 vs XPS 13 Plus Can Do
Despite their differences, both Dell XPS models share a lot of DNA. They’re part of Dell’s flagship ultraportable lineup, known for quality, performance, and professional aesthetics. Let’s explore the features both have in common.
Premium Build Quality
Both laptops feature CNC-machined aluminum chassis that feels solid and luxurious. The clean lines, diamond-cut edges, and compact form factor give them a professional look that rivals the MacBook Air and Pro.
Excellent Displays
Regardless of configuration, both models offer vivid displays with accurate color reproduction, wide viewing angles, and minimal bezels. Whether you choose the FHD+ or 4K variant, you’ll enjoy crisp text and lifelike visuals for creative or everyday tasks.
Compact Portability
Both the XPS 13 and XPS 13 Plus weigh under 3 pounds, making them ideal for travel, commuting, or working remotely. Their slim design slips easily into any backpack or sleeve.
Long Battery Life
Each delivers impressive battery performance, thanks to Intel’s energy-efficient architecture and Dell’s power management tools. Depending on usage, both laptops can last a full workday without needing a charge.
Fast and Secure Login
Windows Hello facial recognition and fingerprint login are available on both models, allowing quick, secure access.
Top-Tier Keyboard Feel
Both devices offer premium keyboard experiences with soft, responsive keys and ample travel — though the Plus’s design is more futuristic, while the XPS 13 retains traditional tactile feedback.
Excellent After-Sales Support
Dell provides strong customer support, warranty options, and regular BIOS updates for both devices, ensuring long-term reliability.
Common Features of XPS 13 vs XPS 13 Plus
| Features | Dell XPS 13 | Dell XPS 13 Plus |
| Build Material | CNC Aluminum | CNC Aluminum |
| Operating System | Windows 11 | Windows 11 |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe | Intel Iris Xe |
| Battery Performance | Up to 12–14 hours | Up to 14 hours |
| Weight Range | 2.6–2.7 lbs | 2.7 lbs |
| Thunderbolt 4 Ports | Yes | Yes |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | Wi-Fi 6 / BT 5.2 | Wi-Fi 6E / BT 5.3 |
| Fast Charging Support | Yes | Yes |
| Edge-to-Edge Display | Yes | Yes |
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A Detailed Comparison of the XPS 13 vs XPS 13 Plus
Let’s analyze the two laptops feature by feature to help you decide which one fits your needs better.
Performance and Processing Power
The XPS 13 is powered by 12th Gen Intel Core processors, offering solid performance for office tasks, web browsing, and light content creation. Intel Iris Xe graphics handle casual gaming and video editing reasonably well, but the laptop may throttle during sustained heavy workloads due to its single-fan cooling.
The XPS 13 Plus, with its 13th Gen Intel Core i7-1355U processor, takes performance to the next level. Its dual-fan cooling system ensures stable performance even under demanding tasks like video rendering or compiling multiple applications simultaneously. For users who need extra power and efficiency, the Plus is the clear winner here.
Design and Portability
The XPS 13 retains the classic Dell XPS design: sleek, compact, and lightweight. It’s easy to carry and has an elegant aluminum finish. However, the keyboard and touchpad feel conventional and slightly dated compared to the Plus.
The XPS 13 Plus introduces a futuristic design with edge-to-edge capacitive function keys and a seamless haptic touchpad. While slightly heavier at 2.73 lbs, its modern aesthetics, minimal bezels, and clean layout make it feel more premium. Professionals and tech enthusiasts will appreciate the forward-thinking design.
Display and Visual Experience
Both laptops offer high-quality displays, but differences matter depending on your use case. The XPS 13 provides FHD+ and optional 4K touch screens, delivering sharp visuals suitable for everyday tasks. Color accuracy is strong, and brightness levels up to 500 nits ensure usability in bright rooms.
The XPS 13 Plus ups the ante with a 3.5K OLED touch option, delivering deeper blacks, vivid colors, and improved contrast. Creative professionals will benefit from its wider color gamut, while casual users will enjoy stunning multimedia playback.
Keyboard, Touchpad, and User Experience
The XPS 13 has a traditional backlit keyboard with standard key travel. The touchpad is clicky and functional, though slightly smaller than ideal. Typing is comfortable for most users.
The XPS 13 Plus replaces traditional function keys with capacitive touch buttons and integrates a haptic touchpad. This new layout may take some adjustment but provides a futuristic, uninterrupted surface, enhancing aesthetics and workflow once you get used to it.
Audio and Webcam
Audio performance is superior on the XPS 13 Plus, featuring quad speakers with spatial audio, providing rich sound for music, videos, and conferencing. The webcam is a hybrid IR/720p setup with better low-light performance.
The XPS 13 has dual speakers and a standard 720p webcam, which are fine for meetings and video calls but don’t match the immersive sound and image quality of the Plus.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life for the XPS 13 ranges between 10–13 hours, depending on display choice and workload. Fast charging allows 80% battery in under an hour.
The XPS 13 Plus maintains slightly shorter real-world endurance due to more power-hungry internals, but ExpressCharge 2.0 compensates with rapid charging, achieving 80% in around 60 minutes. The battery can comfortably last a full workday for most users.
Connectivity and Ports
Both models have Thunderbolt 4 ports, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3. The XPS 13 Plus emphasizes minimalism, removing extra ports like a headphone jack and SD card reader. While this may require adapters, it aligns with the modern ultra-thin design.
The XPS 13 provides more legacy connectivity options for users who prefer traditional ports without relying on adapters.
Pricing and Value
The XPS 13 is more affordable, making it appealing for students, casual users, or professionals on a budget. Its slightly older design and hardware still provide excellent value for productivity, browsing, and media consumption.
The XPS 13 Plus is a premium product with a higher price tag. However, for professionals, content creators, or anyone valuing cutting-edge design, faster processing, and future-proof features, the investment is justified.
Conclusion
After analyzing all features, I recommend the Dell XPS 13 Plus for most users. Here’s why:
- Faster Performance: Handles multitasking and creative workloads better due to its 13th Gen processor and dual-fan cooling.
- Futuristic Design: Edge-to-edge keys and haptic touchpad create a sleek, modern aesthetic.
- Better Display: OLED 3.5K option offers deeper contrast and vibrant colors.
- Enhanced Audio & Webcam: Quad speakers and IR camera provide better conference calls and multimedia.
- Future-Ready: PCIe Gen 4 SSD, LPDDR5 RAM, Wi-Fi 6E, and Thunderbolt 4 ports ensure longevity.
The XPS 13 remains an excellent option if budget and traditional design are priorities. But for users who want cutting-edge performance, future-ready features, and a bold design, the XPS 13 Plus is worth every penny.
FAQs: XPS 13 vs XPS 13 Plus
- Is XPS 13 Plus better than XPS 13?
Yes. The Plus version has a faster 13th Gen processor, better display, superior audio, and a futuristic design, making it more suitable for professionals and creators. - Can XPS 13 handle heavy workloads?
The standard XPS 13 handles everyday tasks efficiently but may throttle under long high-performance tasks. For sustained workloads, XPS 13 Plus is preferable. - Which laptop is more portable?
Both are lightweight ultrabooks, but the XPS 13 is slightly lighter at 2.59 lbs. The Plus weighs 2.73 lbs, which is still travel-friendly. - Do both laptops support touchscreens?
Yes. The XPS 13 offers FHD+ and optional 4K touchscreen, while the Plus adds a vibrant OLED touch option. - How long does the battery last?
XPS 13: 10–13 hours depending on usage.
XPS 13 Plus: 12–14 hours depending on workload and display. - Are the ports different?
The Plus focuses on minimalism with only two Thunderbolt 4 ports, while XPS 13 has additional legacy options like headphone jack and microSD. - Which display is better for content creation?
The XPS 13 Plus OLED 3.5K panel offers deeper blacks, wider color gamut, and higher brightness, making it ideal for photo and video editing. - Which is better value for money?
If budget is the primary concern, XPS 13 offers great performance at a lower cost. For long-term investment, cutting-edge design, and future-proof performance, XPS 13 Plus offers more value.
Alex Turner is a dedicated product researcher and reviewer at TopBuyGuide.com, known for his clear, honest, and data-driven insights. He spends countless hours testing, comparing, and analyzing products to help readers make confident and informed buying decisions.