If you require a laptop with a large storage capacity and robust processing power for tasks like video editing or demanding software applications, the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus would serve you better. However, the Dell XPS 13 excels in portability and has a longer battery life, which makes it ideal for travel or extended usage away from power outlets. The XPS 13 also features a higher quality build and better screen colors, but the Inspiron compensates with a better price-to-performance ratio if you need more computing power. Both have high-quality keyboards and multiple USB-C ports, but the XPS 13's lighter weight may appeal to those who prioritize mobility. Give Feedback
this description is based on the product variant with some specs and product variant with some specs. At the time of writing, the variant with some specs cost some dollars and the variant with some specs cost some dollars.
Advantages of the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus
The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus has no clear advantages over the Dell XPS 13.
Advantages of the Dell XPS 13
Very good overall build quality
Excellent portability
Very good battery life
Best in class speakers
Excellent keyboard
Key differences
Engineering and Design
7.8/10
7.2/10
9.1/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
6.2/10
3.8/10
OVERALL GPU SCORE
3.6/10
16.0 GB
RAM
16.0 GB
The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus and Dell XPS 13 are both good for engineering and design, though the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus is somewhat better.
The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus is equipped with stronger CPU and GPU capabilities and more RAM, making it better suited for intensive engineering and design tasks, however, it's larger and heavier, impacting portability. The Dell XPS 13, while still capable for engineering and design, offers a balance between performance and portability with its compact size, high-quality screen, and lower operating noise, making it a better choice for those prioritizing mobility and comfort during use.
Screen Quality
7.0/10
7.2/10
14.0in
SIZE
13.4in
2240 x 1400
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1200
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
60Hz
REFRESH RATE
60Hz
326.0 nits
BRIGHTNESS
442.0 nits
The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus has a better screen than the Dell XPS 13 for software development, and content creation, while the Dell XPS 13 has a better screen for general use.
For general use, both the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus and the XPS 13 offer panels with ample resolution and brightness, providing clear, vibrant images for everyday tasks like browsing and video streaming. Engineers and designers will appreciate their screens' wide color gamut coverage, ensuring that projects appear with accurate colors necessary for professional work. However, for gaming and 3D applications, the lack of high refresh rates on these laptops can lead to less smooth visuals, which is critical for fast-paced, immersive experiences.
Battery
6.0 Hours
10.0 Hours
The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus has 6 hours of battery life. The Dell XPS 13 has 10 hours of battery life.
Battery life estimate is based on a mix of common use patterns. More portable and higher performing laptops tend to have less battery life.
Portability
Very Good
Excellent
14.0in
SIZE
13.4in
3.7 lbs
WEIGHT
2.5 lbs
0.7in
THICKNESS
0.5in
The Dell XPS 13 has excellent portability, while the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus has very good portability.
The most portable laptops are small, thin, and light.
Build Quality
7.4/10
8.5/10
The Dell XPS 13 has very good build quality, while the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus has good build quality.
PerfectRec’s Build Quality Score incorporates case materials, display and keyboard flex, hinge quality, and overall reliability.
Cost
$808
$1,399
$0
$500
$1,000
$1,500
$2,000
$2,500
The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus has a price of $808 and the Dell XPS 13 costs $1,399.
The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus and Dell XPS 13 are both good for general use.
PerfectRec’s General Use Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for general productivity, web browsing, streaming, video calls, and running a wide variety of apps and programs.
Gaming and AI
6.6/10
6.2/10
3.8/10
OVERALL GPU SCORE
3.6/10
2240 x 1400
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1200
60Hz
REFRESH RATE
60Hz
No
SUPPORTS DLSS
No
No
MUX SWITCH / ADVANCED OPTIMUS
No
7.5/10
FAN NOISE SCORE
8.7/10
The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus and Dell XPS 13 are both only fair for gaming and AI.
The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus is better for gaming and 3D because it has a more powerful main processor and GPU, which are very important for gaming performance, while the XPS 13's less powerful CPU and GPU make it only fair for such tasks. Although both laptops have similar screen refresh rates and quality, factors that are crucial for smooth and clear visuals, the superior processing power of the Inspiron 14 Plus sets it apart for gaming and 3D applications.
Content Creation
7.9/10
7.7/10
9.1/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
6.2/10
2240 x 1400
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1200
16.0 GB
RAM
16.0 GB
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus and Dell XPS 13 are both good for content creation.
PerfectRec’s Content Creation Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for photo editing, video editing and other content creation tasks.
Software Development
7.7/10
7.5/10
9.1/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
6.2/10
16.0 GB
RAM
16.0 GB
2240 x 1400
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1200
8.0/10
KEYBOARD QUALITY SCORE
9.0/10
The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus and Dell XPS 13 are both good for software development.
PerfectRec’s Software Development Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for software developers.
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How the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus and the Dell XPS 13 compare to other laptops
"The Dell Inspiron 14 Plus is for power users on a budget. If you're looking to maximize CPU and GPU performance on your next 14-inch laptop, then consider the pricier Razer Blade 14 or Asus Zephyrus G14. If you're looking for a thin-and-light 14-inch Ultrabook, then the Asus Zenbook 14 or LG Gram 14 may be better options. For the best of both worlds, however, the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7420 rides a fine line between extreme performance and portability while keeping prices at reasonable levels. Frequent travelers who rely on performance beyond what the Core U-series and integrated graphics series can offer will find the Dell to be a solid solution."
"In the past, the XPS 13 was a hands-down contender for the best laptop on the market. But the Apple-silicon MacBook has since barrelled onto the scene, and it wipes the floor with most of the ultraportable Windows laptops that cross my desk on a daily basis. This XPS is no exception. Compared to the M2 MacBook Air, battery life is worse."
Get a great deal on the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus or the Dell XPS 13
About Dell
Dell is a highly recognizable American technology company, and is one of the largest personal computer vendor by market share. Their laptops are very popular for both personal and professional use, and they also own the Alienware brand which makes mid to high end gaming laptops. Their premium XPS range of laptops offer great build quality and portability, while Latitude and Precision laptops are known for reliability, repairability and performance for business users.
This information was produced and vetted by the PerfectRec laptops team. We are a product research and recommendation organization that meticulously reviews and evaluates the latest laptop information and makes it digestible for you.
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Joe Golden, Ph.D
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Joe is an entrepreneur and lifelong electronics enthusiast with a Ph.D in Economics from the University of Michigan.
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Staff Expert & Software Engineer
Chandradeep is a staff expert and software engineer and expert in televisions and monitors. He’s been making monitor recommendations for ten years.
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