Dell XPS 13.4 Snapdragon X Elite Tested: Is It Worth It in 2024?

The Dell XPS 13.4 with Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100 is a premium Copilot+PC designed for users who demand high performance without sacrificing portability. With a 13.4-inch WUXGA display, 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD, this renewed laptop targets professionals, creators, and power users who need a reliable machine for multitasking, content creation, and everyday productivity. In a market flooded with Intel and AMD alternatives, the Snapdragon X Elite stands out for its efficiency and AI-driven features, making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing battery life and future-proofing. This review dives into whether the XPS 13.4 delivers on its promises and if it’s the right fit for your workflow. The Dell XPS 13.4 maintains the brand’s signature design language with a sleek aluminum chassis and carbon fiber palm rest, offering a premium feel that rivals Apple’s MacBook Pro. The 13.4-inch form factor keeps it ultra-portable at just 2.6 lbs, while the backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader add convenience for frequent travelers. The WUXGA display delivers sharp visuals with vibrant colors and excellent brightness, though outdoor visibility may be limited compared to OLED competitors. Build quality remains top-tier, with minimal flex and a sturdy hinge that supports one-handed use. The grey colorway is understated yet professional, appealing to users who prefer a neutral aesthetic. Performance is where the Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100 shines, thanks to its 12-core CPU and Adreno GPU, which handle demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and AI workloads with ease. The 32GB RAM ensures seamless multitasking, even with dozens of browser tabs and resource-intensive applications open simultaneously. The 1TB SSD provides ample storage for large files and rapid boot times, though sequential read/write speeds may not match high-end PCIe Gen 5 drives. Connectivity is a highlight, with Wi-Fi 7 support for ultra-fast wireless speeds and Bluetooth 5.4 for reliable peripheral pairing. Compared to Intel Core Ultra and AMD Ryzen 7 alternatives, the X Elite excels in power efficiency, offering all-day battery life without throttling. However, software compatibility remains a concern for niche applications, though Windows 11 Home’s Copilot+ integration mitigates some of these issues. The WUXGA display delivers crisp 1920x1200 resolution with 500 nits of brightness and 100% sRGB coverage, making it ideal for photo editing and media consumption. Audio quality is clear but unremarkable, with dual downward-firing speakers that lack bass depth. Battery life is a standout feature, with real-world usage easily exceeding 12 hours on a single charge, outperforming most Intel-based ultrabooks. The fingerprint reader and Windows Hello support add security without sacrificing convenience, while the backlit keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience with good key travel. For users who prioritize portability, efficiency, and AI-driven features, the XPS 13.4 is a strong contender, though those requiring heavy GPU workloads may still prefer traditional x86 laptops. For professionals and creators who need a lightweight, high-performance laptop with long battery life and Copilot+ capabilities, the Dell XPS 13.4 with Snapdragon X Elite is a worthy investment. It’s ideal for remote workers, students, and content creators who value efficiency and portability over raw power. However, users relying on specialized software or heavy GPU tasks should consider alternatives. If you’re upgrading from an older laptop or seeking a future-proof device, this renewed XPS 13.4 delivers exceptional value.