Dell XPS 15: A true multimedia notebook

After their XPS 15 designed specifically for gaming, Dell has launched another reference in the same range: the latter is designed for multimedia applications. From what we have to check for the components selected by the manufacturer, we can confirm that this is a quality computer.

We shall not dwell too much on the design or ergonomics of the machine, which is similar to other computers on the brand: between the version designed for gamers and this version of "multimedia" nothing changes. Details: Housing is a bit thick (4 cm) and slightly heavier (2.84 kg) for the mean, but it is difficult to bring in a sports setting and a set of speakers 2.1 on a PC thin as a MacBook Air Apple. The keyboard should be Chiclet, and although comfortable, is a bit old fashioned.



To enjoy full HD content on a laptop, it is necessary to have a quality screen. Dell has brought in a lot of pixels on the 15.6-inch glossy display this XPS, since the definition reaches 1920 x 1080 pixels. The screen quality is satisfactory, with almost 265 cd/m2 brightness and an 800:1 contrast ratio.

Incorporating the NVIDIA Optimus, the machine only uses the graphics card to run software (the machine comes with Microsoft Office Starter) or to see pictures. It rotates automatically and easily between the graphics chip built into the Intel Core i5-460M. The latter is very capable of meeting the most demanding users to the vast majority of tasks of encoding and photo editing. Another advantage of Optimus, its ability to slightly increase the autonomy of the notebook. The supplied six-cell battery keeps the machine running for over two hours and forty minutes of video playback, Wi-Fi and full screen.

Review :

The good: Stellar JBL speakers with subwoofer; great specs for the price; large touch pad and backlit keyboard; Nvidia Optimus graphics; large variety of upgrade options; HDMI 1.4 and USB 3.0 ports come standard.
The bad: Clunky-looking design; disappointing battery life; no VGA port.
The bottom line: Dell's new line of XPS laptops, including the XPS 15, offers more bang for the buck than most, combining great audio and rock-solid features for less than $1,000.