Best Reviewed
Laptops
- Desktop-replacement laptop Dell XPS 15z *Est. $1000
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- Best gaming laptop Alienware M17x *Est. $1500
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Desktop-replacement laptop
- Stylish aluminum design
- Excellent performance
- Thinner and lighter than previous versions
- No Blu-ray option
- Noisy cooling fans
Reviewers say the Dell XPS 15z is one of the best 15-inch laptops on the market. It earns numerous recommendations for its speedy performance, thin design and bright display. The Dell XPS 15z is outfitted in sleek aluminum, and it is significantly thinner and lighter than previous laptops in this series. In fact, Dell bills it as the thinnest 15-inch laptop available. Reviewers are big fans of the HD display, which has bright, rich colors. Powerful speakers and a roomy touchpad are also pluses.
Performance is excellent for nearly any task, according to reviews. The optional Core i7 processor is a worthwhile upgrade, as with it the Dell XPS 15z powers through demanding photo- and video-editing tasks with ease. Even 3D gaming is a possibility, although you may need to lower the settings to play the most demanding titles. However, reviewers are disappointed that the Dell doesn't offer a Blu-ray drive -- even as an upgrade -- which is a common feature on laptops in this price range. We also saw a few complaints that the cooling fans are loud. If you need a laptop specifically for 3D gaming, the Alienware M17x (*Est. $1,500 and up) is a better bet.
The Dell XPS 15z comes in several configurations at Dell.com, but the base model ships with a second-generation Intel Core i5-2410M processor, 6 GB of RAM, 500 GB hard drive and Nvidia GeForce GT 525M graphics with Optimus switching technology. Other features include built-in Bluetooth 3.0, a CD/DVD burner and an 8-cell battery.
There is no shortage of reviews on the Dell XPS 15z laptop, though nearly all evaluate the laptop with upgrades including a Core i7 processor. Sources include PCMag.com, Laptop Magazine, PC World, HotHardware.com and Engadget.com. These reviewers put the Dell through its paces and assign an overall rating. We also found good reviews at NotebookCheck.net and TrustedReviews.com.
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Our Sources
The Dell XPS 15z scores an Editors' Choice award from PCMag.com. Cisco Cheng says it offers a "killer combination of high design and lower price," and he thinks it's a good Windows alternative to the MacBook Pro.
Review: Dell XPS 15z, Cisco Cheng, May 23, 2011
2. Laptop MagazineDetails/Subscribe
The Dell XPS 15z earns a 4-star rating (out of 5) from Laptop Magazine. Michael Prospero opines that the XPS 15z is one of the top choices among 15-inch Windows laptops. However, he has a few complaints about the keyboard. High heat during gaming is another concern.
Review: Dell XPS 15z Review, Michael A. Prospero, May 23, 2011
The Dell XPS 15z scores an Editor's Choice award from HotHardware.com. Ray Willington says performance is excellent and will suit nearly everyone except for serious gamers. "Dell has done just about everything right with this one," he says.
Review: Dell's XPS 15z Ultra Slim Notebook Review, Ray Willington, June 20, 2011
NotebookCheck.net has an incredibly detailed review of the Dell XPS 15z, which culminates in a good rating for the Dell laptop. The fans are noisy, but J. Simon Leitner says the overall design is impressive, as is battery life.
Review: Review Dell XPS 15z Notebook, J. Simon Leitner, June 2, 2011
The Dell XPS 15z is given a 4.5-star rating (out of 5) from PC World. Jason Cross says the Dell XPS 15z is "one of the best laptops Dell has made in a long time." In particular, he is a fan of the updated design, although he thinks the display suffers from oversaturated colors. PC World, like the rest, evaluates a fully upgraded system, but Jason Cross adds that the base version with the addition of the optional HD display hits the sweet spot in terms of value versus performance.
Review: Dell XPS 15z, Jason Cross, July 1, 2011
6. Engadget.com
Engadget.com gives the Dell XPS 15z an overall rating of 8 out of 10. Sean Hollister says the desktop replacement has incredible multitasking performance, and the display looks great for watching movies or videos. However, battery life is poor.
Review: Dell XPS 15z Review, Sean Hollister, May 23, 2011
7. PC Pro
Britain's PC Pro gives the Dell XPS 15z a high overall rating and a Recommended award. Like most reviewers, David Bayon likes the updated design, roomy touchpad and comfortable keyboard. He has few complaints other than the price.
Review: Dell XPS 15z Review, David Bayon, July 27, 2011
"The Dell XPS 15z is the MacBook Pro of the Windows world," says Britain's TrustedReviews.com. High points include a stylish aluminum design, gorgeous display and speedy performance, but the fans are loud and there's no Blu-ray drive. A score of 8 (out of 10) is solid, but not good enough to earn the site's Recommended award.
Review: Dell XPS 15z Review, Ardjuna Seghers, July 1, 2011
9. About.com
Christine McKee at About.com recommends the Dell XPS 15z for frequent travelers who don't want to sacrifice power for portability. Although she would like to see a Blu-ray option, the laptop earns a positive review overall. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)
Review: Dell XPS 15z 15.6-inch Thin and Light Laptop PC, Christine McKee, May 25, 2011
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