Any rumbles on a XPS 13 refresh?

That's promising.

I'm waiting for Dell to figure out how to replace of my still under warranty XPS M1330 and while I was initially promised a Studio XPS 1340 now they are trying to pitch the Studio 14z (1458) as an upgrade to my M1330.

At least if the XPS 13 reappears on the US site I'd be able to point to it and say 'I want that one"

 

Nice find! I would love to see Dell refresh the XPS 13 with the ICores. The I7 quad would be sick in such a small machine. I wonder if it could run in such a confined space without catching on fire.

I have about 3 or 4 weeks to wait until I can order a Sony Z because the machine I want can't be ordered on the US CTO site. I have to order it from a Japaneese reseller. If Dell comes out with an I7 or an I7Quad and a decent GPU (dare we hope for a GT330M?) I would have to seriously consider buying the Dell. The Sony, as configured will cost $2,700 with the SSD drive and 6GB DDR3 Ram. I would assume that the Dell would be nearly $1,000 cheaper and I could purchase it with our corporate account.

I would expect that an XPS 13 refresh will be anounced at CeBit.

Bronsky

 

Sweet! Would love to see that. I wonder will it have GT 330M....

 

I'd probably prefer one of the newer i7s or i5s than the i7-720QM

http://ark.intel.com/Compare.aspx?ids=43544,43560,43122,

Quite a big difference in base frequency and power consumption as well as no AES, etc

 

Here is a CPU comparison. One thing to note is the i7-720QM is true Quad Cores with Hyperthread giving it 8 cores. Where as the i7-620M is only true dual cores with hyperthread giving it 4 cores.

 

How did they manage to get a Core i7-720QM in there (on a 13.3" chassis where people previously complained about heat and whose bigger 16" counterpart has had throttling issues)? Assuming they still offer discrete graphics on the laptop, I don't really trust that picture.

No...that is giving it the ability to execute eight threads simultaneously whereas the 620M can only execute 4 threads simultaneously. The other thing that went unmentioned was the presence of an integrated GPU on Arrandale CPU's permitting for switchable graphics which a Clarksfield build is highly unlikely to offer (which I currently doubt will exist on the SXPS 13 anyways).

 

i noticed that the SXPS 13 on the malaysian Dell site has been taken off. could be discontinuing or refresh?

 

I think a core i7 720 Quad Core would be too much for this chassis, not to mention (or second on that) it dosen’t support switchable graphics, therefore a core i7 620M or core i5 540M would be great.
Even a 640LM would be reasonable - I’ve never been (and still not) for LV or ULV processors, but if we can believe it’s specs, with turbo up to 2.93 GHz, and a standard 25 W TDP, is a deal worth considering (of course I’d probably go for i5 540M or i7 620M - if even possible).

As for the graphics, and again, as mentioned before, it’s unlikely Dell would adopt a faster GPU than the Alienware m11x has, so I expect something slower than that, and something faster than the G310M (the GPU which other brand’s similar notebooks are equiped with).

I hope Dell pulls the trigger before we have to, otherwise people who need a decent GPU as well will have to go for Vaio Z, my problem with that is by the time the Z would be delivered to my country, its 1800-2500 USD price would raise to 3000-4000 USD.

Whislists ont he refreshed specs? Anyone?

 

Instead of underengineering the XPS 13 refresh to prevent competition with the M11x, Dell should repeat the initial success of the M11x by following their own formula for success: put a lot of great stuff in the smallest package you can and sell it for a reasonable price. Ideally, they would use their experience with the GT335M to engineer it for the XPS. The machine would still be great with a GT330M. A GT325M would be a minimum. A 310M would be a refresh-fail.

As soon as the Vaio is available for shipping, my company is ordering the Z's from Japaneese resellers (mid-March). Hopefully, Dell will come up with something by then. Some of the stuff comming out of the Dell designers has been underwhelming. Hopefully, the success of the M11x will motivate the designers to maximize the CPU/GPU power they put under the hood.

The Studio chassis seems to have plenty of room for cooling and venting but earlier versions have had heat problems. ALthough I think they could fit the Quadcore I7 in an XPS 13, I'm not sure I would want one. I could imagine that some power users would. I think you are right about the I5-540M in this machine. If the GPU is powerful enough, it will need proper cooling. I would not want the CPU competing with it. In the Sony, I would go I7 but in the Dell, the I5-540M makes more sense. The I5 may also have more overclocking potential than the I7.

Bronsky

BTW Smilepack - are the 3Dmark06 scores on that chart for the ICore's integrated graphics? If so, they are not bad for on-chip graphics.

 

Has anyone seen the spec of the new Sonystyle Z Series. It comes in either i5-540m or i7-620m in a small 3lbs body. HD screen 1600x900 resolution. nVidia 330m GT video. Comes with standard 128GB SSD!

EPP price is under $1800.00

 

Didn't Dell at one stage offer T-class C2D's (35W) in the SXPS 13? I was nearly sure I saw a SXPS 13 with the option of a T-class CPU at some stage. A T-class C2D and chipset is rated overall for 49.5W TDP, compared to 48.5W of a i7-720QM (or any quad i7) and chipset. So if they ever did fit a T-class C2D into the SXPS 13, there's really no reason (that I can see) why they can't fit the quad i7's.

But, would I want one? Nope. I don't know of any programs or games that I currently use that utilise quad-core CPU's. I'd much prefer the considerably higher clocked dual-core i7-620M, which would also offer longer battery life, less heat output and the possibility of switchable graphics (providing Dell actually implements it).

I think the graphics card is the most difficult aspect of this machine to predict. They're not going to fit this machine with a HD 56XX card as all these cards are faster than the HD 4670 that's currently in the SXPS 16 (they also have high TDP's). The HD 54XX cards are good cards for power consumption but while they perform better than the G210M, they perform considerably worse than even a GT 325M.

The problem with comparing this to the M11x is that the M11x sacrificed the CPU for the GPU. The TDP of the G210M is 14W compared to around 25W for the GT335M. The CPU/chipset of the M11x is about 24W compared to ~40W for the SXPS 13's CPU and chipset. As you see, overall, it works out roughly the same. The small difference in TDP could be put down to the size difference.

Basically what I'm trying to say is I think we're going to be disappointed with the GPU in the SXPS 13 refresh. As much as I'd love it, we may not even see a performance Nvidia GT card at all. Unfortunately, I'm going to go against my hopes and wishes and officially, predict a 310M or a HD 5450/5470. I know, it's bad. At least this way, I'll be pleased if a higher performing card is fitted.

 

First of all, You do remember correctly, the SXPS 1340 is still avalable in my country (that would be Hungary BTW) with T9600 CPUs even as I’m posting.

As for te TDP rate, I think when calculating on the G210M equiped model, shouldn’t we consider the consumption of the integrated 9400M due to hybrid SLI mode? ( I mean as well as I know, both of them work at the same time, thats what SLI should be about – and that’s /and poor SLI support of course/ the raeson why I never bought one.)

I’m a bit more optimistic about the GPU. Other brands implement switchable graphics, Dell simply can’t afford not to do so. If that’s the case, the GPU can be switched off providing less comsupton and less heat.
I don’t know about others, but most of the times I do GPU stressing stuff, the notebook rests on a cooling pad, that helps.

At least You had Your wish/prediction, and no offense, but this time I hope it won’t come true.

 

Great, thanks for the info. In the UK, the highest spec CPU I can see is the P8700 (25W TDP).

Yes, you're right, they "combine" to supposedly offer better performance. From what I read, the first revision didn't perform that well, and in some cases, the integrated chipset performed better on it's own than it did in SLI! I'm not sure about how it performed with the G210M though.

The TDP of the 9400M was included in my calculations with the chipset/GPU. As it's integrated to the chipset, the TDP of the chipset includes the 9400M.

LOL, to be honest, I hope it won't either! But Dell have a habit of playing conservative...

 

Looks like work in progress, but is gonna take quite sometime now..

 

True but has the matter with the SXPS 16's issue with power throttling ever fixed? Then again, this may not have any effect on the SXPS 13 due to the presence of a weaker GPU.


Basically what I'm trying to say is I think we're going to be disappointed with the GPU in the SXPS 13 refresh. As much as I'd love it, we may not even see a performance Nvidia GT card at all. Unfortunately, I'm going to go against my hopes and wishes and officially, predict a 310M or a HD 5450/5470. I know, it's bad. At least this way, I'll be pleased if a higher performing card is fitted.[/QUOTE]

I wouldn't be disappointed if they used a Radeon 5470 with GDDR3/GDDR5.

I highly doubt Dell would replace a model WITH switchable-GPU support (which they adopted before most other OEMs) with a model WITHOUT switchable-GPU support (now that most other OEMs have implemented something similar). I'm guessing they are taking a bit longer with the SXPS 13 refresh than the SXPS 16 refresh due to the significant changes they have to make as far as design goes (i.e. different integrated/discrete GPU's, different CPU, different form of switchable graphics, etc.).

The 9500M GE is (9200M GS + 9400M G) is only helpful in cases where programs are optimized for SLI (and even though the difference was noticeable, it wasn't as large as one might hope). Multiple GPU's in SLI in general will perform worse in certain programs than if a single GPU were used. E.g. a notable example that comes to mind is GTA IV where usage of multiple-GPU's significantly lowered frame rate.

 

Wow, thanks for the info. That's very disappointing. I've waited ages for the refresh already and it seems there's not even going to be a refresh on the 1-year-old 1340. They really have scrapped it. Well, I can't wait any longer for a new laptop, so it's the M11x for me. Thankfully it's at such a price point that I won't lose much when I come to sell it 6 - 8 months down the line. Then I'll see what the SXPS 1350 (?) has to offer...

 

No discrete GPU?Now I'm really down....looks like it'll be Sony.

 

Going by bill's post it looks like they are building one with discrete GPU, but it'll take some time

 

Wow. Nothing will be ready until Q3/Q4? That's giving quite the head start in sales to other OEM's for the high-performance/high-mobility market (main two coming to mind being Sony and Apple)....

 

Bitterly disappointed by that. I dont want to buy Sony, but I have conferences in the summer, and a bulky laptop whose battery has had it again :/

 

So You've decided to go SU7300. I don't know, I thought of what You've considered an alternative, buying m11x then sell it when the refresh is available, but I'm afraid of the SU7300 CPU and the lack of built in optical drive. Not to mention 870 GBP for a decent config (4Gb, SU7300, adn still only 320Gb HDD).

That info about the delay of the proper refresh filled the rest of my day with emptiness.

C'mon Dell! Surprise us!

 

Quad core must be a typo. Quad cores will eventually become mainstream (2011/2012), but for now they give off too much heat for such a small chasis.

 

Wow, thanks for this information. I would have never dug up the post on my own.

Man, right now, there are basically no compact, good GPU notebooks other than VAIO Z and M11X. M11x's CPU is too weak for me, screen size is too small. VAIO Z is too expensive and has a history of not playing well with Linux. Apple is probably running into similar issues that affected SXPS13; perhaps this is why the MacBook Pros are running late?

At any rate, what are similar 13"-14" options with performance comparable to the 330M?
- IdeaPads: terrible screens
- HP: not really up to par GPUs

I'll bet you that the "redesign" will take the screen to 16:9 (just like the VAIO Z), another terrible potential development for me as that aspect ratio feels really cramped to my eyes. Really, an updated SXPS13 in the same chassis would have been the ideal computer for me. And DELL are the only ones who will stop by my office to fix my laptop if it break---none of the other extended warranties do this.

Sigh... the only thing left to hope for is an update of the S14z with a 330M...

 

Same here.

A core i5 540M or i7 620M paired with a discrete GPU in a SXPS 13 would have been the ONE for me.

Now, that it takes Dell 6 months to give us this refresh, I either have to wait if the Sutdio line ever gets a better GPU, or just buy Vaio Z.

Edit: Studio 14 would be a good alternative, it offers a core i5 520M on tops, and Radeon 4530. The CPU is OK, although I think most of us would prefer at least a i5 540M, and as for the GPU, it must be upgraded to make it a considerable alternative.

 

YES! take that! told you sooo! LOL

Dont be dissapointed guys! This means everything is gona be different, its going to look different, better shell, better cooling better gpu. just wait if u can.
I feel good the fact that my xps1340 isnt going to be outdated by a newer one soon

 

The new Sony Vaio Z is pretty nice. With EPP discount, the base system is around $1700 - $1800. That comes standard with i5-540m, 4GB RAM, 128GB SSD, Built in GPS, and 1600x900 resolution. ALl in a 13.1" Screen and under 4lbs.

 

or even better, a complete powerhouse, if you dont mind the 17inch screen Asus G73JH-A1 17.3" FHD/ATI HD5870 GDDR5/i7-720QM/8GB DDR3/1TB 7200rpm/Blu-Ray/W7HP64 ... will cost $1700 without any discounts.. but everything in it is latest technology with the most superior cooling!

 

The asus G73 is a good alternative if one dosent't stick to the 13" chassis.

Anyways not only the Vaio Z, but the Vaio CW could be a good alternative if one can't wait for the sxps 1340 to be refreshed, though it's a bit annoying about the Vaio CW that You can have a GT330 GPU but only with a core i3 CPU, or You can upgrade to core i5 CPU but then You can only configure it with a unacceptable G310M GPU.

 

This is what I am looking for and having problem finding one that fit the mold.

i5-540m or i7-620m
at least 4GB RAM
under 6.5lbs
smaller than 17" must have high resolution. Dont want a 14" with 1380x768 resolution, for example
A good GPU.

 

Doesn't the SXPS 16 fit this? The SXPS 13 refresh probably wouldn't apply to you anyways due to the screen resolution.

 

XPS16 does in a sense. However they still have the old ATI 4xxx series. Waiting for them to refresh it with the 5xxx series.

HP Envy 15 also fit that build too.

In either case, waiting for some coupon.

 

It's not there online but BestBuy still has it:

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Sony+-+...digo/9724013.p?id=1218159867984&skuId=9724013

It's pretty great combo. If only it was a bit less chunky.

 

Just an update to anybody who was going to purchase the SXPS 13 before dell took it off. I'm headed off to college at the end of june and had been eyeing the SPXS 13 for a long time as it'll perform well for what I need (Music/multi media software as well as engineering software), plus I am a huge fan of the looks. I was pretty bummed when Dell took it off their website and even more so when I read it was discontinued.

I was searching on google shopping and somehow managed to get to the build page on Dells website for the SXPS 13, and was able to go through and build it. It showed the delivery date as about a month out so I decided to go ahead and order it. It actually worked and I was able to place the order fine, and everything seems surprisingly ok. I'm really hoping this isn't just some glitch and it actually works, but I'll post an update either way for those who are interested.

 

hopefully you'll get your SXPS 13

the SXPS 13 is now completely off the malaysian Dell site, not even in the nav bar on top. the SXPS pages only show the SXPS 16. been like that for a few days? perhaps a refresh finally?

 

The XPS 1340 is still hanging around on the US site. I went through their online version of their paper catalog and found a link: http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?oc=DYPCGP1&c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19

 

Only option for video card is the 9500. The G210M isn't listed.

 

The options regarding the GPU varies among countries, for example, in the UK You can only configure Your system with the G210M.

BTW it costs a 40 GBP less than it did a week ago.

According to Dell_Bill there won't be a refresh, instead Dell has to build a new system that would took them like 6 months. I wonder with what they plan to fill the gap with, Studio 14 would be a potential alternative, but not with it's HD 4530 GPU.

 

...and supported switchable graphics, and/or 1 Gb dedicated RAM.

Now, Vaio CW has a fast CPU, but it's GPU (even if we accept it won't support switchable graphics) could use twice the VRAM, while Lenovo Y460 will have a good GPU (HD 5650 I believe) but - as roumored - it will offer a "only" a core i5 430M on tops.

 

Now been pulled from the UK site too (well, its listed, but you cannot configure one). Oh well, waiting game now I guess.

 

A better combination might be the I5-Optimus-GT335M in the new Asus N82. Production model is on display at CeBit now so it should be for sale soon.

Bronksy

Are we really going to have to wait 6 months for a new studio 13? Somebody has been asleep at the switch.

 

The 5650 is quite a step above the 325M (I assume you meant 325 rather than 335 which afaik doesn't exist) so that may not be ideal. Asus' GE600 claims to have graphics switching and that uses a 5xxx card so you may not need nVidia for this anymore.

 

The 335M definitely exists, it's being used in the Alienware M11x. I would say the 5650 isn't too far above the levels of the 335M.

 

No ... I meant the GT 335M.

http://www.notebookjournal.de/news/asus-14-zoll-notebook-mit-gt-335m-nkrt-1694

Looks to be very close in performance to the 5650. Asus will probably overclock it a bit as well. ATI will probably have graphics switching in the next month or so, but for now Optimus is the only game in town.

Still not happy with Dell. We should have a new 13" studio at CeBit to consider. Now, I have to pay nearly $2,400 for a Sony if I want a 13" with a GT 330M GPU or step up to a 14" N82 unit if I want the GT 335M. The UL30JT also looks tempting but comes with an anemic 1GB 310M.

Decisions ... decisions ... decisions.

Bronsky

 

I'm unhappy with dell too...

I'm going through the same long delays and order hassle with my m11x order that i went through trying to get my xps 1645...

Definitely will never purchase another Dell system... if i hadn't gotten each system for under $750 I'd be cancelling my order.

 

That would be splendid, 'cause the HD 5650 what that would make me go Lenovo orather than ASUS, no matter the lack of Optimus.

Haven't thought of that, but if it was so, it'd be nice. I don't know about the difference between HD5650 and GT 335 regarding performance, but I think there can't be a big gap.

That's what I'm up to. I also wanted a 13" chassis, but since Dell won't update it -accordig to Dell_Bill - I rather go 14", than to pay around 3000-4000 USD for Sony (and I bet the Vaio Z series would be sold at this price in my country /Hungary/ - always has been).

That's not an alternative worth the consideriation.

 

Me too.

I simply can't understand why Dell thinks they can afford having no 13" power system on their market.

Currrently, they can't offer us any 13", or even 14" notebooks with decent CPU and GPU -as I mentioned before, they could temporary fill their gap by updating the studio 14's GPU, but there's no news about that.

 

They're probably waiting for the nVidia Optimus thing.

 

Maybe you guys would like this?

 

Regarding replacement/refresh for Studio XPS 13: Nothing is imminent, but look for something new in the second half of the year. From what I hear, it looks to be worth the wait. I have no details at this time, but as we get closer to launch, I might be able to find out a thing or two I can share.

 

Thanks for checking in Bill, it's good to know Dell cares, I know You told us no details are certain, I just hope second half means june-july.