XPS Laptops: Dell’s Stylish and Powerful Laptops at CES 2026
Dell has officially brought back its flagship XPS series at CES 2026, introducing the new XPS 14 and XPS 16 laptops along with insights into the future of the entire XPS line. The message from Dell is clear: the XPS brand remains strong, and 2026 signifies the start of a fresh phase for its most distinguished premium laptops.
Redesigned XPS 14 and XPS 16 for Enhanced Performance
The revamped XPS 14 and XPS 16 have been meticulously redesigned, featuring slimmer profiles, improved performance metrics, extended battery longevity, and upgraded interfaces. Dell promotes these new models as compact productivity tools tailored for creators, professionals, and power users seeking high performance without added weight.
Innovative Build and Features
The new XPS series aims to feel like a seamless extension of the user. Both laptops boast a unibody structure crafted from CNC-machined aluminium and Gorilla Glass, with robust sidewalls integrated into the base to enhance durability.
For the first time, the XPS logo is displayed on the front lid, addressing a long-standing suggestion from users and critics. Furthermore, Dell has returned to a standard function key row, adjusted key travel for improved typing precision, and introduced discreet etching around the seamless glass touchpad for enhanced usability without excessive visual distractions.
Focus on Sustainability
Sustainability has become increasingly important in this generation of laptops. The models incorporate modular USB-C ports and easy-to-remove keyboards, facilitating simpler repairs. Additionally, Dell has used recycled materials throughout the chassis and battery components while adhering to the latest EPEAT 2.0 standards.
Powerful Performance Specifications
The XPS 14 and XPS 16 are powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, equipped with integrated Intel Arc graphics featuring 12 Xe cores. Dell claims that the XPS 14 delivers up to 57 percent enhanced AI performance, while the XPS 16 achieves a remarkable 78 percent improvement, alongside over 50 percent faster graphics relative to the previous generation.
To accommodate these advancements, Dell has revamped the thermal system, introducing its thinnest and largest fans to date, which improve airflow while managing noise and heat effectively. These thermal enhancements are also instrumental in prolonging battery life, which Dell asserts is among the best in its category.
Portability Redefined
The emphasis on portability is evident, with the XPS 14 measuring just 14.6mm thick and weighing around three pounds, making it more than half a pound lighter than its predecessor. The XPS 16 weighs in at 3.6 pounds, nearly a full pound lighter than the earlier model. Notably, the XPS 14 has a smaller footprint than the MacBook Air 13 while offering increased screen real estate.
Display Options and Battery Life
Both laptops come with choices of OLED or 2K LCD InfinityEdge displays. Dell is integrating its tandem OLED technology, first unveiled in 2024, into the new XPS models. These displays promise improved brightness, better efficiency, extended lifespan, and consistent colour reproduction.
For those prioritising battery life, the 2K LCD displays are the perfect option, providing up to 27 hours of usage or over 40 hours of local video playback with specific configurations. Smart power management, featuring variable refresh rates from 1Hz to 120Hz, significantly contributes to extending battery longevity.
Future Expansion of the XPS Lineup
Dell also confirmed that the XPS series will grow later this year with new models designed for various price points and forms. The first addition will be the XPS 13, anticipated to be Dell’s thinnest and lightest XPS laptop, measuring under 13mm thick. It is set to serve as an accessible entry point into the XPS collection.
The XPS 14 and XPS 16 will be available in select configurations across the US and Canada starting January 6. The XPS 14 starts at $1,649.99, while the XPS 16 begins at $1,849.99. Additional configurations, including a new entry-level variant, are expected by February. Both models will kick off in Graphite, with a Shimmer colour option planned for later in the year. An Ubuntu 24.04 version of the XPS 14 is also on the schedule.
