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Dell XPS 13 Hits $699, Challenging Apple
13 Aug
Summary
- The Dell XPS 13 starts at $699 with an Intel Core 5 320 processor.
- Base model includes 8GB RAM and a 512GB SSD; 16GB RAM costs $899.
- Student discounts are available, with Dell's expiring November 2, 2026.
The Dell XPS 13 has launched at a competitive starting price of $699, positioning it as a significant threat to the MacBook Neo. This base configuration includes an Intel Core 5 320 processor, 8GB of DDR5 memory, and a 512GB SSD, all powering a 13.4-inch 1600p display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
While the entry-level pricing is attractive, crucial component choices in the base model may be limiting. The 8GB of single-channel RAM could be insufficient for demanding tasks, as Windows 11 and certain applications benefit greatly from 16GB. Upgrading to 16GB RAM pushes the XPS 13's cost to $899, placing it in a different competitive landscape.
Dell plans to introduce more powerful 'Panther Lake' processors later, which will support up to 32GB of memory and 1TB SSDs, likely increasing the price point further. Currently, the Core 5 320 chip is the sole CPU option. Both the XPS 13 and MacBook Neo offer student discounts, though Dell's educational discount is set to expire on November 2, 2026.
