Dell XPS 9320 Plus Laptop Tested: Is This Premium Ultrabook Worth It?

The Dell XPS 9320 Plus represents one of the most refined ultrabooks in the 13-inch segment, blending premium materials with cutting-edge performance in a compact form factor. Designed for professionals and power users who demand both portability and productivity, this refreshed 2022 model addresses common criticisms of previous generations while introducing Intel’s 12th Gen Core i5-1240P processor. With a 13.4-inch FHD+ display, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, it positions itself as a high-end alternative to Apple’s MacBook Air and Microsoft’s Surface Laptop line. This review breaks down whether the XPS 9320 Plus delivers on its promises of speed, build quality, and everyday usability without breaking the bank. Crafted from machined aluminum and carbon fiber, the XPS 9320 Plus maintains Dell’s signature aesthetic—sleek, minimalist, and understated. The silver-gray chassis feels solid yet surprisingly lightweight at just 2.65 pounds, making it ideal for frequent travelers or commuters. The 13.4-inch FHD+ (1920x1200) non-touch display offers a 16:10 aspect ratio, delivering sharper text and more vertical screen real estate than standard 16:9 panels. The keyboard is backlit with comfortable key travel, and the large precision touchpad supports Windows gestures seamlessly. Despite its compact size, the laptop includes a full-size USB-C port, Thunderbolt 4, a microSD reader, and a headphone jack, though the lack of an HDMI port may require a dongle for some users. The webcam is 720p, which is standard for this class but still lags behind newer 1080p offerings in competitors like the MacBook Air M2. Powered by Intel’s 12-core i5-1240P (up to 4.4GHz Turbo), the XPS 9320 Plus handles multitasking with ease, whether running multiple Chrome tabs, Adobe Lightroom, or light video editing. The 16GB LPDDR5 RAM ensures smooth performance even with demanding applications, while the 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD provides fast boot and load times. In real-world usage, the laptop stays cool under load, though the fan noise becomes noticeable during sustained CPU-intensive tasks. Compared to the MacBook Air M1, the XPS 9320 Plus offers more ports and a slightly larger display but falls short in battery efficiency and raw single-core performance. Against the HP Spectre x360 13, it wins in build quality but loses in convertible flexibility. Wireless performance is strong with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring stable connections for video calls and streaming. Value is where the XPS 9320 Plus shines. As a renewed model, it delivers near-new performance at a fraction of the original price, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want premium features. It’s ideal for students, remote workers, and professionals who prioritize portability and build quality over raw power or battery life. However, those needing long unplugged sessions or heavy creative workloads may find the battery life (around 8-10 hours of mixed use) limiting. The lack of a touchscreen and slightly dated webcam also hold it back from true flagship status. For anyone seeking a well-built, compact ultrabook with strong performance and a refined design, the Dell XPS 9320 Plus is a solid pick—especially at its renewed price point.