Early Verdict: Dell XPS 14 2026 & XPS 16 2026
January 5, 2026
The Dell XPS series is making a strong comeback with the new XPS 14 and XPS 16 models for 2026. These laptops feature a complete redesign that delivers a more modern aesthetic and a less corporate feel than previous generations. While performance will ultimately determine their success, early impressions indicate that the XPS 14 and 16 look and feel better than ever.
Highlights
- Excellent redesign bringing a fresh look
- Elimination of virtual function keys
- Lightweight yet sturdy construction
Drawbacks
- No discrete graphics option at launch
- Trackpad could benefit from enhanced definition
- Limited configurations available initially
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CES 2026 Surprise: Return of the Dell XPS Line
The announcement of the XPS 14 and XPS 16 marks a significant moment at CES 2026. Last year, Dell restructured its laptop lineup into Dell, Dell Pro, and Dell Pro Max series, with various tiers—often stirring controversy. The comeback of the XPS line signifies Dell’s renewed focus on what made the series iconic.
The new models forgo a discrete GPU temporarily, placing trust in Intel’s latest chips for performance, particularly in creative and productivity tasks.
Price & Availability
Release Date: January 6, 2026
Starting Price: $1,649.99 for XPS 14 | $1,849.99 for XPS 16
Availability: Initially only in the US, with global rollout to follow
Dell plans to launch lower-priced configurations soon, along with broader availability in the UK and Australia—though specific dates and prices are still pending. Initial pricing may see slight increases due to RAM and component costs, but Dell's bulk purchasing power might help mitigate those increases.
Specifications
| Feature | Dell XPS 14 | Dell XPS 16 | |----------------------------|-----------------------------------|----------------------------------------| | Processor | Up to Intel Core Ultra X9 388H | Up to Intel Core Ultra X9 388H | | Graphics | Intel Arc Graphics / Intel Graphics | Intel Arc Graphics / Intel Graphics | | Memory | Up to 64GB LPDDR5x-9600 | Up to 64GB LPDDR5x-9600 | | Storage | Up to 4TB PCIe 5.0 | Up to 4TB PCIe 5.0 | | Display Options | 14" 2.8K OLED touch (2880 x 1800) | 16" 3.2K OLED touch (3200 x 2000) | | Webcam | 8MP / 4K HDR with Windows Hello | 8MP / 4K HDR with Windows Hello | | Battery | 70WHr | 70WHr | | Weight | 3.0 lbs / 1.36 kg | 3.65 lbs / 1.65 kg |
Design & Build
The new XPS models are notably thinner and lighter, featuring a more contemporary aesthetic that distances itself from traditional office laptops. The switch from their usual Dell logo to a more refined XPS logo on the lid emphasizes their premium, ultrabook identity.
Physical improvements include:
- Better weight and durability
- Return of physical function keys, replacing virtual ones
- Improved border definition around trackpads
The keyboard offers good key travel, but extended typing tests are needed for final judgment. The webcam has been upgraded to an 8MP 4K HDR unit, and the audio system houses hidden speakers for clearer sound, though comprehensive testing is pending.
Display & User Experience
The OLED screens produce vibrant colors and deep blacks, with the 16-inch model offering a more spacious viewing area. The lighting conditions during testing were not ideal for color verification, but overall, the displays meet high standards. The trackpad is more visible, improving accessibility, though some may still find it could be more defined.
Performance Outlook
While direct benchmarks are unavailable yet, the absence of a discrete GPU at launch may impact certain workloads, especially gaming or heavy creative tasks, compared to previous models equipped with Nvidia RTX graphics. However, the new Intel Panther Lake chips might surprise, offering competitive performance.
Final Thoughts
The return of the Dell XPS line after a brief rebranding hiatus is welcome news for fans and new users alike. The redesign, notably the reintroduction of physical function keys and a clearer trackpad, marks a significant upgrade. If Intel’s new chips deliver on performance, these models could be some of the best laptops in 2026.
Keep an eye on TechRadar for comprehensive coverage of CES 2026 and more hands-on reviews as new devices launch. For updates straight from the show floor, follow us on TikTok and WhatsApp.
John (He/Him)
Components Editor at TechRadar
Specializing in industry news, hardware reviews, and tech culture