Dell XPS 14 (2023) vs Dell XPS 16 (9640)
The Verdict
Both Dell XPS models deliver premium build quality and reliable performance, but serve different use cases. XPS 14 excels with its compact 1.68 kg design, sharper 2560x1600 display running at 120Hz, and Intel Core i7-13620H processor paired with 16GB LPDDR5 RAM. XPS 16 compensates with a larger 16.3 inch screen, more powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 155H with 16 cores, and greater expandable storage flexibility, though its 1920x1200 resolution and 60Hz refresh rate are less impressive. Battery life matches at 13 hours across both models. The 14-inch is ideal for mobile professionals prioritizing portability and display crispness, while the 16-inch suits creative workers needing screen real estate and processing power. For most users, XPS 14 delivers better value with superior specifications at a $400 lower price point.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Dell XPS 14 (2023) if…
- →120Hz display is smooth and responsive for everyday work
- →Thunderbolt 4 ports support fast external displays and storage
- →Solid build quality with premium aluminum and carbon fiber
Buy the Dell XPS 16 (9640) if…
- →Premium CNC aluminum chassis with edge-to-edge keyboard
- →Optional 4K OLED touch display available
- →Powerful Core Ultra and RTX 4050-4070 GPU options
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Dell XPS 14 (2023)
Pros
- 120Hz display is smooth and responsive for everyday work
- Thunderbolt 4 ports support fast external displays and storage
- Solid build quality with premium aluminum and carbon fiber
- Good 69.5 Wh battery capacity for the form factor
- Optional OLED display upgrade for creative professionals
Cons
- Fan noise is noticeable under sustained workloads
- No USB-A ports may require dongles
- 1.68 kg is heavier than ultrabook competitors
- Webcam quality is average for the price
- Soldered RAM cannot be upgraded after purchase
Dell XPS 16 (9640)
Pros
- Premium CNC aluminum chassis with edge-to-edge keyboard
- Optional 4K OLED touch display available
- Powerful Core Ultra and RTX 4050-4070 GPU options
- Large 99.5 Wh battery
- Three Thunderbolt 4 ports
Cons
- No USB-A, HDMI, or SD card slot
- Capacitive touch function row is divisive
- Invisible haptic trackpad takes adjustment
- Heavy and runs hot under load
- Mediocre battery life with discrete GPU
Full Specifications
| Spec | Dell XPS 14 (2023) | Dell XPS 16 (9640) |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Home |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 1.68 kg | 2.13 kg |
| Material | Aluminum and carbon fiber | CNC aluminum and carbon fiber |
| Dimensions | 319 x 226 x 18.0 mm | 358.1 x 240.1 x 18.7 mm |
| Ports | ||
| USB-C ports | 1 | — |
| SD card | ||
| Thunderbolt ports | 2 | 3 |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 13 hours | Up to 13 hours mixed use |
| Capacity | 69.5 Wh | 99.5 Wh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 14.5 inches | 16.3 inches |
| Type | IPS LCD (OLED optional) | InfinityEdge IPS non-touch |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1600 | 1920 x 1200 |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 60Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 500 | 500 |
| Storage | ||
| SSD | 512 GB NVMe PCIe 4.0 | 512 GB NVMe |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Keyboard | ||
| Backlit | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 16 GB LPDDR5 | 16 GB LPDDR5x |
| Cores | 10-core (6P + 4E) | 16-core (6P+8E+2LPE) |
| Chipset | 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13620H | Intel Core Ultra 7 155H |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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