The Dell XPS 13, once the gold standard for thin-and-light Windows laptops, has seen better days. The latest model, released in late 2024, brings some much-needed improvements, including a stunning OLED screen and a capable Intel Lunar Lake chipset. However, these advancements are overshadowed by a plethora of design flaws that make the laptop a frustrating experience to use.

The XPS 13's OLED screen is undoubtedly its strongest feature, offering vibrant colors, exceptional contrast, and a super-sharp 2880 x 1800 resolution. The laptop's build quality is also top-notch, with a sturdy and compact design that weighs in at just 2.7 pounds. Additionally, the Intel Lunar Lake chipset provides a significant boost in performance and battery life, with the laptop lasting over 12 hours in our battery rundown test.

Unfortunately, these positives are negated by a multitude of design missteps. The keyboard, in particular, is a major letdown, with a gapless layout and springy keys that make typing a chore. The capacitive function row, which lacks physical feedback, is also a source of frustration. The lack of ports, with only two USB-C / Thunderbolt 4 ports and no headphone jack, is another significant drawback.

The XPS 13's redesign, which was introduced with the XPS 13 Plus in 2022, has been a major misstep for Dell. The company's decision to replace its well-regarded keyboard design with a subpar alternative has been met with widespread criticism. The XPS 13's competitors, such as the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition and the Asus Zenbook A14, offer more polished designs and better user experiences.

It's a shame, because the XPS 13 had the potential to be a great laptop. With its capable performance, beautiful OLED screen, and improved battery life, it could have been a top contender in the thin-and-light laptop market. Instead, Dell's design flaws have relegated it to mediocrity. As the company prepares to phase out the XPS brand in favor of more generic names, it's clear that the XPS 13's swan song is a disappointing one.

In conclusion, while the Dell XPS 13 has some notable strengths, its design flaws make it a hard sell for anyone looking for a reliable and enjoyable laptop experience. With better options available on the market, it's difficult to recommend the XPS 13 in its current form.