In case you missed it, Dell just launched its new $599–$699 XPS 13 laptop to target the affordable Windows laptop market and, presumably, to serve as a retort to Apple's $699 MacBook Neo (512GB, Touch ID). It's a move that should be applauded, given the depressing state of modern PC pricing, backed up by the comparatively positive reaction we had to the XPS 13 at Computex.
In a nutshell, the new Dell XPS 13 (DX13260) is lighter than the MacBook Neo (2.2 vs. 2.7 lbs) and includes extra niceties, such as a touchscreen and backlit keyboard. Memory capacity is the same for both, and we already addressed the debate over whether 8GB is "enough" for Windows 11. Overall, it's admirable to see a new laptop launch at the price it was targeting from the start.
However, the jovial celebrations seem limited to the United States, as another dollars-to-pounds miscalculation somewhat dashes the prospects for me and others in the United Kingdom. Worse still, Apple doesn't seem to struggle with this as much, so the XPS 13, starting at £899 (£749.17 without tax), almost immediately strips it of some appeal on this side of the Atlantic.
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That $699 MacBook Neo listing for U.S. residents, naturally, excludes tax, which is something we aren't able to do in the U.K. Instead, our regional variant lists the Neo for £699 with 20% VAT included. That means Apple's budget laptop is implied to be worth a mythical, tax-free £582.50. Comparing that to Dell's taxless £749.17 for the XPS 13 has me sighing into my cup of tea.
So, while Apple adds a premium to MacBook Neo sales here, Dell is asking for around an extra £166–£200. Do we even get anything from either brand for that extra cash? Well, yes, our Consumer Rights Act helps protect our purchases, but there's still a glaring discrepancy with the XPS 13. Mercifully, Dell at least offers a student-discounted price of £699, but that's still £100 more than Apple's.
In a year where I already complained that there are too many Windows laptops, this transgression certainly doesn't help me make budget recommendations on Dell's behalf at home. My family asks for my advice on PC purchases every few years, and I've always been able to help them find a reasonably priced option with minimal gripes about our brutal pricing, but it's getting worse over here.
To clarify: the new XPS 13 is still a phenomenal deal for most in the United States, and you should absolutely consider buying one if your PC needs are relatively pedestrian, sticking to daily web browsing and standard productivity apps. For my fellow Brits, aim for the student discount if you can get it. Otherwise, consider holding off for deals — Amazon Prime Day approaches.
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