XPS 14 UltraBook Owners Lounge

All I can tell you is that I have three MBP 13 sleeves, they all work great with the XPS14. The one I gave the link for is the best fit and offers the best protectio. This is my experience - your own may be different.

 

Could anyone please advise me which one I should go for out of these 2?

Dell Inspiron 14z with 128GB SSD
Dell XPS 14 with 500 GB HDD with 32GB SSD Cache

I"m looking for a laptop for my basic needs but I feel SSD will be very useful for me particularly in opening browsers and other applications. But both Inzpiron 14z and XPS 14 are similarly priced and I'm really confused which one to go for

At the price of Dell Inspiron 14z with SSD, I'm getting XPS 14 which is one step above Inspiron series but I'm losing pure SSD. I'm not sure if SSD cache will suffice my needs (browsing, watching movies etc). Basically opening applications should be faster for me

I really appreciate your opinion

Thanks

 

I applied the A06 BIOS update. No problems at all with the WiFi signal. Still 5 bars.
Everything seems fine.

 

So you are a lucky one with a good xps14, or is there no problem with the xps14, only with the xps15? I see more wifi discussions on the xps15, but could not immagine it is different for the xps14...

And i want to buy one, so badly!!! ;-) but wifi problem is a dealbreaker for me.


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There's no conclusive evidence that the XPS 14 has WIFI issues. Some people have experienced problems but the vast majority have not. If you want it badly, but it. If you end up with WIFI issues, send it back.

 

well, mine doesn't have any. It shows fewer bars since the A06 update but it works just the same. Never had any connection issues.

 

I am not a notebook expert, but I wouldn't call this screen bad. I've seen better, but I don't think it's a problem.

 

I bought the XPS 14 for the battery life, it's a way bigger battery. Buying an 830 retail and installing yourself ought to be cheaper than paying Dell.

 

The explanation is easy, laptop is crippled with Single Channel DDR3 1333MHz memory. With Dual-Channel you could see larger number.
May I ask what is your 3DMark 11 score?

 

I now have an XPS 14 and I agree - the screen's great!

 

I've been a fan of Elecom's ZeroShock cases for years. I've had one for every laptop I've owned. Just got a XPS 14 and also ordered a ZeroShock IV (ZeroShock Advanced) 13.3" model. Got it this past Saturday. The XPS 14 slides around inside and I'm not comfortable with that.

These are the interior dimensions of the ZeroShock IV that I got:
W340 x D45 x H260 mm


I've been slipping the XPS 14 into a Tucano Softskin Sleeve then that combo into the ZeroShock IV. With that combo, the XPS 14 (in the Softskin sleeve) fits snugly in the ZeroShock IV.

Sadly, I didn't see a ZeroShock IV with a smaller interior that would still fit the XPS 14.

There is a ZeroShock III though with these internal dimensions:
W315 × D40 × H235mm

I guess I'm going to try this ZeroShock III model. It's a shame, I like the IV better than the III.

ZeroShock IV:



ZeroShock III:



Tucano Softskin Sleeve:

 

Hi, I'm finding some errors in clean installing Windows 7 from XPS 14's formatted drive. i've found my drivers from dell support but it doesn't solve all of the problems. When I start the installation, it says 'windows can't prepare computer to reboot for next phase'.does anyone have solution for it?

 

Running Nvidia Beta drivers. I've not 3DMarked before but was not impressed during the test.

NVIDIA GeForce GT 620M video card benchmark result - Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-3517U CPU @ 1.90GHz,Dell Inc. 08HDPJ score: P1205 3DMarks

 

Hey Cowboy, how do you like the notebook for development? I was looking at the XPS 15 but the wifi problems make it a no-go. I then saw this and it perked my interest.

I'll be doing WinPhone and WinRT development, C# and XAML to give you an idea of the kind of work I'll be doing.

 

Hey guys!

I've been lurking for a while and haven't posted on the forums since the old XPS M1330 owners threads using a different (now forgotten) account.

I'm still using it, albeit with CPU, RAM and Hard Disk upgrades. I'm at the point where I've been looking for a while and need to soon purchase something before it gives out when it's not convenient (Murphy's law!).

I've seen that quite a few of you are like me and have held off over the past years with (imo) underwhelming new XPS models coming out until now.

Since I haven't used many other laptops, I have a few Q's and would appreciate any help or experience you guys might have:

1) How does the 14inch behind the GG on the 14 compare to the Toshiba/Samsung LED panels in the M1330 (I have the toshiba)?

2) Do you think it will be likely so see a Matte option made available in later refreshes? Is it possible for Dell to put a matte display behind Gorilla Glass or does that defeat the point?

3) How noticeable is the smudgy/oily black surface on the palmrest/trackpad. I'm really happy with the brushed aluminium on the M1330 that doesn't show up anything!

Cheers from Australia!

Jim

 

@seamusmc - I'm also using the XPS14 for visual studio, sql server, etc. love it. the 1600x900 is plenty for most stuff and i'm usually plugged into a second monitor (80% of the time anyway) so the laptop display is secondary in that case. Anyway, even on the 1600x900, studio is fine. Obviously SSMS is ok too. I think the one place it might get nasty, is if you are doing your XAML in Blend. That UI is just nasty anyway, and you drop down to 1600x900, you might feel cramped. But then again, I think you'd feel cramped in Blend w/ a zillion by zillion dual monitor rig (sarcasm).

@Jim from down under - I have always been underwhelmed w/ XPS models and have been a diehard Latitude guy for years. But this was too compelling to not try. So far, very happy w/ the choice. Cannot compare to the M1330 for you, sorry. But on your #2, I kinda doubt it...matte isn't 'cool enough' for folks anymore and it's a shame. I think matte will be reserved to Latitudes and 'business' notebooks. Yes, the XPS14 is sold under the business moniker too, but it straddles the fence. On your #3, it's terrible...no doubt about it. It gets all smudgy and oily at the drop of a hat. But happily a quick wipe w/ a damp papertowel or one of those computer wipe things and looks good as new. Even the touchpad cleans up nicely and seems very durable under heavy use w/ dirt/oil from hands.

 

Thanks Hylton! I thought that would be the case regarding the palmrest and I agree with your sad matte predictions for cool laptops. I was looking at the Lenovo T430s as well as other durable 14 inchers...but I've decided that I'd like to hold off on the black slabs just a little bit longer before I go the full boring business type

Still a bit of uni to go...and while I've never considered switching to OS X, I do respect the simple and durable design of the MBP's. These (new xps) seem pretty spot on; I can deal with my glossy screen currently, just want to find out how it shapes up compared to the XPS 14's.

 

I spent some time playing with one of these yesterday. I liked everything about it except for the weight. I'm truly sorry that it's not a bit lighter.

 

I was just looking at the Samsung NP900X4C-A03US. It has only Intel HD 4000 graphics and yet it scores:

Processor: 7.1
Memory(RAM): 7.5
Graphics: 6.5
Gaming graphics: 6.5
Primary hard disk: 7.9

Wonder what's up with that. My XPS 14 is on order, but I must say, I am very tempted by this Samsung ultrabook. Specs are virtually identical (except for the graphics card, and the Samsung has a 128GB SSD 830). Samsung is 1 pound lighter and, according to several sources, it cold boots in 9 seconds.

 

Hi, I code in C# and SQL using Visual Studio 2010 and SQL Management Studio 2012. As 'development' uses different aspects of the laptop, I'll break down my thoughts on each component:

Screen
Absolutely fine (after Win + X and altering Dell's 'Splendid Colour' to 'Generic' to remove the over-saturated colours which are off-putting on the toolbars within the IDE. The resolution is perfect, enough space to not feel cramped and low enough to not require a magnifying glass. I realise screen resolution is very subjective, however.

Processor
No problems here. Ivy Bridge Core i5 ULV is more than adequate for development. Remember this chip out performs a high end Core 2 Duo from just a couple of years ago.

Chassis
Very nice to look at, if a little heavy. Not a problem for me as I do dev work at a desk with an external mouse. Still light enough for lap use without getting uncomfortable and stays relatively cool.

Bit worried about the brushed alumnimum lid as I suspect it will scratch quite easily if caught on your wrist watch etc. Plam rest's magnesium alloy with sillicone coating feels very comforable but does 'blot' with oils from your hands and needs wiping every day or two. Shame they didn't use the same coating as on the Latitude E640x.

Keyboard
My biggest gripe. Although better than most Ultrabooks, it's still no match for my Latitude E6400's or for that matter, the ProBook I use at work. The keys feel very shallow and a little stiff - sometimes you end up not pressing it at all and other times you press it twice, resulting in a few typos. I'm still getting used to it 2 months later!

Hard disk
You must swap the HDD for an SSD, but don't expect blistering boot speeds - this thing is slower booting than a 3 year old Latitude with 2 year old Intel SSD (I'm using Samsung 830 SSD which out performs the Intel in the Latitude). Application launch time is fast though.

Conclusion
To rate its suitability for development work very much depends on what you've used previously. For example, if you're coming from a consumer range laptop (eg: old XPS, HP Paviliion, Inspiron etc) it will be a huge step up in quality and will be a dream machine.

If like me and you're coming from Latitude, EliteBook or ThinkPad; while you will appreciate the more stylish looks the keyboard may get on your nerves a little, and hamper productivity.

Personally, if I could wind the clock back I'd have bought a Latitude E6430 or a Thinkpad X1 Carbon instead but as I say, I have particularly high (and very fussy) standards, so most people would be more than happy with the XPS 14.

Hope this helps.

 

I had a 15" Series 9 - returned it for the XPS 14. Two reasons. (1) The SSD was SanDisk U100 and although it booted in 9 seconds as you say, it was DOG SLOW opening applications, almost 7,200 rpm HDD kind of slow. The ones fitted with Samsung SSDs are fine - but they seem to be quite rare, and more typically only fitted on the 256GB models. (2) The keyboard was awful. Honestly, typing even a short email was a real chore. Imagine drawing some buttons on a slab of wood and tapping it with your fingers - that's what it was like to type on. No key travel and no feedback. Pure evil. Other than that, build quality was excellent and it looked very nice - but at a cost.

 

Cowboy, did you ever try the XPS 13? I can't remember. Every time I see one I'm reminded of how much I like the small footprint of that little guy.

 

Howdy everyone. I'm currently working my way through the world of 14"-15" machines -- most recently, Samsung NP700Z5C, Sony SVS1511, and Asus N56VZ -- and next in line is the XPS 14. I've managed to read the latter 20 pages of this thread (I'll finish this weekend!) -- in the meantime, I have a question:

It seems that the battery is the primary organ under the palmrest...



Anyway, I've discovered I have really sensitive palms, and so I'm wondering how cool the palmrest area is on the XPS 14? With the CPU, GPU, and HDD on the other side, I'm hoping the palmrest is cool...REALLY cool (during normal use, at least). The keyboard and other areas (e.g., underside) are less of a concern.

Can a few owners please offer their impressions? The temp readings from notebookcheck are not encouraging, but I haven't found those data to be so reliable.

-Matt

 

No, seriously considered it but the 1366x768 screen and maximum of 4GB RAM were deal breakers for me.


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However, refresh is due in September with 1600x900 and Ivy Bridge...


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I wanted the XPS13, but not w/o Ivy Bridge. If a refresh is coming soon, I'm returning my XPS14 for refund!

 

Double Post.

 

I've had my XPS-14 for about 3 weeks now, and using it extensively both plugged in and not plugged in, and haven't noticed the palm rests getting warm at all. This thing just seems to last hours and hours without a charge.

 

Thanks! I noticed that Amazon has them listed again (they were listed as "3-5 weeks" for a bit). Very tempted to grab one this weekend. Unfortunately, there's a new Gigabyte U2442 owner here, so I may wait a bit to see what his thoughts are.

-Matt

 

Spot on review.

At this form factor I'd probably go with the X1 Carbon as well, except they pair their fastes cpu offering with only 4GB.

 

As I research the XPS 14 a little more I've come across an intriguing feature, missed by most of the expert/pro reviews but pointed out on theverge.com -- apparently there is a battery indicator hidden on the underside:



I searched the forum to see if it was already mentioned, but only came up with one post. Sorry if I'm the last guy here to figure it out! Kinda neat.

-Matt

 

But what is the point of putting it there? I mean, who the hell would ever turn a laptop around just to check its battery level?

 

I had the same thought! But remember: if it's running, you have the system tray and much more accurate estimates. IIRC and it's like the Gigabyte U2442, it's mainly for when the unit is closed/off, so you can check battery level "on the go". At least, that's my best guess!

Matt

 

Yep and before any fan boy's accuse Dell of copying Apple, Latitudes have had this on the battery itself for over a decade

 

OK, now I have to draw the line there! LOL Not on the observation, but the design: it's one thing to turn your SLEEPING computer over and say "Hey, how is my battery doing?" But all bets are off if it has to be removed.

I actually remember that feature on two of my old Dells. I loved it. Rarely used it (only to check if my backup battery was dead or fully charged), but I loved it.

EDIT: or...wait a second. I remember that I had to remove mine to check the status light, but they weren't Latitudes. Maybe those had an exposed light?

-Matt

 

This is probably just incidental exposed light from an LED on an internal component. Usually with the battery life indicators, you have to push a button for the lights to light up. They wouldn't put lights there that are on all the time!

 

There's a small button right next to the vents. When that button is pushed, those LEDs turn on. It's a battery life indicator.

 

I see the tiny button now, and it definitely appears to be a battery life indicator. Very stealthy!

 

I'd probably have a MBP if it weren't for the keyboard. Not bad to type on, but the keys for dual booting w/ Windows for work stuff are the killer. Just don't like the things I'd loose that exist on a Windows keyboard. The key/combos are awful. Otherwise, yea, spectacular hardware, especially w/ the MBP 13 coming in retina this fall/winter. That's gonna be one nice setup if you ask me.

Lovin' the XPS 14 though, very happy w/ it.

 

I think that's to prevent the Russians and space aliens from seeing how much battery power you have left while you are off peeing.

 

I mostly agree w/ all of Cowboy's points as well, but my differences are only opinions and YMMV.

Keyboard. I actually like this BETTER than my E6410. Obviously personal preference, but I find the shorter travel to be much faster for me. It did take longer than expected to get used to it, but I definitely like it better. Definitely a preference thing though. Nothing at all wrong the the Latitude keyboards, they rock.

Boot Time - totally agree on that, it's embarassingly slow when you consider my Latitude with and Intel 320 boots 10-15 seconds faster. Hopefully updates will correct this, but with sleep and this battery life, it's kinda become a non-issue for me.

Couple of other observations...

Touchpad - really like the XPS 14 touchpad. Far and away better than the one on my E6410, far and away. Had to jump back on the Latitude last night and I couldn't get off of that touchpad fast enough, man it's awful compared to this new larger coated one on the XPS.

WIFI - still not really sure what's up w/ it. I know it's a 2x2 antenna and chip, but it's way worse than the reception on my Latitude which is an intel 6300 (3x3). I'd swap them out, but don't want to give up bluetooth and too lazy to crack it open to see if there is somewhere else I can drop the BT card out of my Latitude in there. I doubt it. But definitely terrible reception compared to my old laptop.

While I'm on the WIFI subject, seem to have developed a similar problem as with my Latitude that it takes FOREVER on boot to connect either of them to my home network. Might be the pairing of these Intel cards w/ the dlink router I have (DIR-625). I really need to test this other places but just keep forgetting. But on a cold boot, it probably takes over 30 seconds, maybe as much as a minute to aquire my network and get the browser to load the first page.

 

Is the "Like" link working? That comment ^ definitely earned a "Like!" LOL

-Matt

 

Does the XPS14 have any trouble when using the mSATA slot for the primary drive and the regular SATA connector for a secondary drive?

Just making sure it doesn't because a similar HP model I was interested in does have this problem:
http://forum.notebookreview.com/hp-envy-hdx/666537-hp-envy-4t-sleekbook-14-review-4.html

 

You can boot off mSATA, without the issues mentioned above and you can switch to AHCI in the BIOS but do it before installing the OS.

However, a standard SSD will out perform an mSATA SSD.


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The mSATA drive I have is SATA-III doing up to 80000 IOPS (560MB/s read, 530MB/s write). That's just as fast as a 2.5" SSD. The mSATA slot is SATA-III, right?

 

How quick is the XPS14 to boot up and stuff?

My M1330 is pretty much down for the count but one thing that I did like was how quickly it booted up sometimes. Admittedly, I put in a 7200rpm drive into the thing, but booting in 30 seconds or so (on a good day) and the screen being on and ready to log on before I'd even lifted my screen from standby.

I believe the XPS14 comes with a hybrid of some kind? How fast is it/does anyone know how fast it'd be in comparison to a typical 7200rpm drive? I'll probably be installing a copy of 7 Ultimate instead of the Home license that you get; not sure how that works with the SSD element though.

I'm half tempted to get an XPS14 and just shove in my M1330's hard drive, if possible, though I do understand there will be some faffing around with Dell drivers.

Thinking about it, how are the viewing angles as well. On the M1330, you can be almost on the same plane as the screen and still see quite clearly what's on the screen, though some of the lighter colours may be less visible.

 

Hey, it sounds like you're at the shopping/research stage like me! If you're just getting started, I'd recommend viewing/reading the professional reviews, which will probably answer a lot of your questions (boot speed, viewing angles, keyboard/trackpad quality, etc.). Also, if you haven't seen the review at notebookcheck.net, that's a great resource too: Review Dell XPS 14 Ultrabook - Notebookcheck.net Reviews

On the topic of swapping out components, I noticed early in this thread that someone had posted a link to the user manuals (it's too bad the OP doesn't include a list of useful links -- OH HEY, I just realized it's CowboyCoder -- hmm, maybe we can fix that!). Anyway, here is the link again: Documentation

Note that the " Owner's Manual" is poorly-named. In fact, it's a technician's repair guide, with excellent tear-down diagrams and instructions for disassembly. SUPER helpful. OK, well I'm headed to the big city today to return my Asus N56, and see if I can find an XPS 14 to play with (Best Buy?). Hopefully it'll go well and I'll be an owner by the end of the week.

-Matt

 

CrystalMark 4k read/write is a more accurate real world benchmark than a large file read/write. For booting and app launch times a 2.5" SSD eg Samsung 830 will out perform an mSATA.


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This is what I got with my 240GB Mushkin Atlas in my XPS14 using CrystalDiskMark:

Read Speed:up to 560MB/sec
Write Speed:up to 530MB/sec
****Rated max read and write speeds are obtained
using ATTO 2.46 at queue depth 10 ***

Result With a Queue of 10
Read speed MAX: 556MB
Write speed MAX: 530MB

Result With a Queue of 4
Read speed MAX: 555MB
Write speed MAX: 527MB


Very close to my 256GB Samsung 830 and 240GB Intel 520 (both 2.5" SSDs). I don't see a difference in cold boot times and app. launch times b/w this Mushkin Atlas (mSATA) and my two other SSDs (2.5" SSDs).

 

Still finnicky about the supposed viewing angle problems. Reviews I've read and a few posters have basically boiled down to anything other than looking at the screen straight-on results in washing out. But in some of the reviews, the screen looks fine, to my eyes at least. Of course, this could just be reviewers being 10x more anal about minor issues than the average end user.

Could someone with both an M1330 and an XPS 14 be able to do a side-by-side comparison of viewing angles? It may be asking for much I looked on that notebook check website and they use a video in a lit area for the M1330 and a dark room for the XPS14, which doesn't make for a great comparison. I know it's a big ask, but it'd be really helpful.

I know that reviews are just that, but I don't remember the Dell M1330 having so many obviously negative reviews (from media outlets, not displeased users) despite its numerous reliability issues and I'd like to know I'm purchasing a laptop that will stand the test of time as well as my M1330.