Dell XPS 13 vs. MacBook Neo: A Surprising Upset
Apple's MacBook Neo entered the budget laptop segment at $699, establishing a new floor for premium computing at entry-level pricing. Dell responded with the XPS 13, also priced at $699, seeking to prove that a Windows manufacturer could match Apple's approach of maintaining quality without cutting costs.
Testing revealed the XPS 13 held unexpected advantages across multiple fronts. The Dell achieved better portability through reduced weight and minimal bezels, incorporated features like touchscreen capability and 120Hz refresh rates uncommon at this price tier, and delivered superior display colour reproduction. Whilst both machines featured excellent keyboards and trackpads, Dell demonstrated that Windows manufacturers could resist the industry tendency to compromise on input quality and materials—a significant departure from typical budget Windows offerings.
- Dell XPS 13 and MacBook Neo both launch at $699, but XPS 13 offers lighter weight, touchscreen, 120Hz display, and superior colour accuracy
- XPS 13 demonstrates that premium build materials and excellent input devices are achievable in budget Windows laptops, breaking the pattern of corner-cutting at this price point
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Laptops are portable computers used for work, study and entertainment. Apple makes MacBooks, which run macOS, while Dell’s XPS laptops run Windows; both companies also sell more expensive models, so their lower-priced machines bring premium brands into reach for more buyers.
At this price, buyers often weigh screen quality, portability and ease of use against cost. Touchscreens and high refresh rates, which make scrolling and movement look smoother, are less common in budget laptops. Comparing these models shows how manufacturers balance features and build quality at the entry level.