The Dell XPS 16 (9640) is a high-performance laptop blending stunning design with powerful specifications, appealing to creative professionals and everyday users. Its premium build, exceptional display, and robust performance distinguish it in the competitive laptop market, though some design choices might polarize users.

Design and Build Quality

Crafted from machined aluminum and Gorilla Glass, the XPS 16 offers durability and elegance in Graphite and Platinum finishes. Boasting an 89.6% screen-to-body ratio, it weighs 2.2kg and is 18.7mm thick. The innovative touch-sensitive Function row might challenge traditional users, but the overall build quality remains exceptional.

Display

The 16.3-inch OLED display delivers 3840 x 2400 pixels resolution with vibrant colors and deep blacks. Excellent for content creation and media consumption, it provides superior color accuracy. The glossy finish, however, can cause reflections in bright environments, potentially affecting user experience.

Software

Running Windows 11 Home or Pro, the laptop includes Dell Power Manager and MyDell utilities. While some users appreciate these tools, others find the pre-installed applications somewhat unnecessary. Windows updates enhance security and productivity features.

Performance

Powered by Intel’s Core Ultra processors (up to i9) and NVIDIA RTX graphics (up to RTX 4070), the XPS 16 delivers outstanding performance. Supporting up to 64GB LPDDR5x RAM and 4TB NVMe SSD storage, it handles demanding applications seamlessly. Benchmark tests position it competitively against the MacBook Pro 16-inch and ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14. Users report smooth multitasking and minimal lag during intensive workloads. The thermal management system effectively maintains performance without excessive noise, ensuring consistent operation across various computing tasks.

Battery Life

The laptop offers over 11 hours of battery life under moderate usage, with fast USB-C charging. Intensive tasks like gaming or video rendering significantly reduce battery duration.

Keyboard and Trackpad

Low-profile keys with adequate travel provide comfortable typing. The backlit keyboard enhances low-light usability. The touch-sensitive trackpad offers responsive haptic feedback but lacks physical boundaries, potentially challenging some users.

Ports and Connectivity

Featuring three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port, and an SD card reader, the XPS 16 offers comprehensive connectivity. The absence of USB-A ports might limit compatibility with older peripherals. Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 ensure robust wireless connections.

Audio and Webcam

The quad-speaker setup delivers rich sound quality. The built-in webcam provides decent video conferencing capabilities but lacks advanced features found in some competitors.

Thermal Performance

Efficient heat dissipation occurs without excessive fan noise, keeping the laptop cool during extended use through strategically placed vents.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Stunning OLED display
• Powerful Intel Core Ultra processors
• Premium build quality
• Comprehensive connectivity options
• Impressive audio performance

Cons

• Touch-sensitive Function row requires adjustment
• Average webcam quality
• No traditional USB-A ports
• Relatively heavy

Market Buzz

E-commerce platforms reveal mixed user reactions, praising the display and performance while noting the touch-sensitive Function row’s learning curve.

Pricing

• Intel Core Ultra i7/16GB RAM/512GB SSD: ₹2,99,990
• Intel Core Ultra i9/32GB RAM/1TB SSD: ₹3,49,990
• Intel Core Ultra i9/64GB RAM/4TB SSD: ₹4,99,990

Value for Money

The XPS 16 offers good value within its premium segment, justifying its higher price through unique features and professional-grade performance.

Final Verdict

The Dell XPS 16 (9640) impresses with its stunning display and powerful performance. While its design might require adaptation, it remains a compelling choice for professionals seeking a high-end, versatile laptop.