Looking for a premium, lightweight, 13-inch Windows laptop with excellent build quality and a well-known brand? You’ve probably come across the Dell XPS 13 and the HP Spectre x360 13.5 as top recommendations. These laptops are the cream of the crop in the 13-inch Windows laptop market. While they come at a higher price range, they offer sleek designs and are visually appealing. So, what sets them apart and which one should you choose? Having extensively used both devices, I’m here to provide you with an in-depth comparison.
Let’s start with the price. Currently, you can purchase a Spectre x360 13.5 with a Core i7, 16GB of memory, and 1TB of storage (the configuration I tested) for $1,434.99. On the other hand, a similarly specced XPS 13 has an MSRP of $1,449 but is currently discounted to $1,299 on Dell’s website. The price difference is around $135.99, which may vary depending on ongoing discounts. However, the extra money spent on the Spectre does offer some benefits.
Now, let’s talk about the look and feel of these laptops. The Spectre has a more eye-catching and sophisticated design. The black model, in particular, features gold accents on the touchpad, hinges, and other areas, giving it a suave C-suite look. On the other hand, the XPS is designed to be more subtle and blend in. It has a slightly plasticky feel but is still sturdy. In terms of portability, the XPS is lighter, weighing nearly half a pound less than the Spectre. This makes it more convenient for daily commuting. However, the XPS’s finish is more prone to scratches, while the Spectre is more likely to smudge with fingerprints.
Moving on to the video calling experience, the Spectre takes the lead. It has a better webcam, producing less grainy images and performing well with bright backgrounds. It also features GlamCam, a suite of beautification features including a Center Stage-like tracking feature, a lighting correction filter, a “BRB Mode” for temporary absence during calls, and an appearance filter. While these features may raise questions about beauty standards, they can be appealing to users. Additionally, the Spectre has twice as many speakers as the XPS, offering crisp audio and solid bass.
When it comes to the screen, the HP Spectre x360 shines. It boasts a 3000 x 2000 OLED display, which provides vivid colors, crisp details, and minimal glare even under bright lighting conditions. The XPS, on the other hand, offers a 1920 x 1200 IPS panel and only offers a higher-resolution OLED option on the more expensive XPS 13 Plus model.
Now, let’s talk about battery life. This is where the Spectre falls short. Despite having a larger battery than the XPS, the high-resolution OLED screen drains the battery quickly. Continuous use of the Spectre resulted in just over four hours of battery life, which may not be sufficient for users who need to use their laptops on the go. On the other hand, the XPS averaged six hours and 42 minutes of battery life, which is more favorable. However, it’s worth noting that all-day battery life has become more of a luxury than a standard in recent Windows laptops.
In terms of performance, both laptops are capable of handling everyday tasks with ease. The Spectre has a slightly more powerful processor, which may provide a slight advantage in gaming or video exporting tasks. However, for general use and office workloads, both devices perform well and offer smooth user experiences. One noticeable difference is the fan noise, with the Spectre being quieter overall.
In conclusion, the HP Spectre x360 offers several advantages over the Dell XPS 13, making it the preferred choice for most users. However, the Spectre’s battery life is a major drawback, particularly for those who need longer usage without access to power outlets. If battery life is a top priority, the XPS may be the more suitable option. Ultimately, it’s a personal preference depending on your specific needs and usage patterns.
