Dell joined the fierce ultrabook fray today with the slim, stylish 2.99-pound XPS 13. By using a bezel-free screen design, the XPS effectively delivers a 13-inch display in a body size typically found in a 12-inch laptop, including a full-size backlit keyboard. The design is distinctively thin, less than a quarter inch (6mm) at the front edge and less than three-quarters inch (18mm) at the thickest point. The buttonless touchpad may take a bit of getting used to, but it was large enough to use comfortably and felt nicely responsive in our test drive.
A Gorilla glass screen provides rugged defense against on-the-road collisions, while carbon fiber construction provides both strength and light weight. Dell promises 8-hour battery life.
The XPS 13 incorporates Intel’s Smart Connect technology, which wakes up periodically and, if an available network is detected, updates your email and calendar, so the information is ready the next time you turn on the laptop.
The XPS 13 will be available with 128GB and 256GB solid state drives and the full range of Intel Core processors, with prices starting at under $1000. Shipments will begin in late February. Reserve one now on Dell.com
