Dell revives the iconic XPS laptop, but is it a comeback or a controversy?
Dell's XPS laptops are making a surprise return, just a year after the company replaced them with the 'Dell Premium' range. This unexpected move has sparked excitement and intrigue among tech enthusiasts. The new XPS 14 and XPS 16 models boast impressive specs, including thinner designs and exceptional battery life. But here's where it gets interesting: Dell is bringing back the physical function row, a feature that had previously divided opinions.
The XPS comeback was announced at CES 2026, with select configurations available for purchase soon after. The XPS 14 and XPS 16 will retail at $1,649.99 and $1,849.99, respectively, with more variants to follow. Dell's blog post highlights the XPS's legacy as their premium laptop benchmark, promising a complete redesign, improved performance, and stunning displays.
But why the sudden rebranding? Dell's decision to rename its laptop lineup in 2025, moving away from well-known labels like XPS and Inspiron, was met with confusion and criticism. Many compared it to Apple's naming structure, which Dell refuted. However, customer loyalty to the XPS name persisted, with ongoing search interest even after its discontinuation. This, among other factors, led to Dell's rebranding reversal.
The XPS revival reshuffles Dell's entire lineup. The 'Dell' line remains for mainstream models, while XPS takes the place of 'Dell Premium' for high-end consumer laptops. Dell Pro is retained for commercial PCs, with new sub-tiers for specific use cases. The controversial Dell Pro Max name is now history.
The new XPS design is a direct response to feedback. The XPS logo on the lid is a nod to fans' requests, and the physical function row addresses a divisive feature of the previous models. The XPS 14 and XPS 16 also feature removable keyboards with deeper keys and an etched glass touchpad for better usability. These laptops are thinner and lighter than ever, with the XPS 14 weighing just 3 pounds and the XPS 16 starting at 3.65 pounds.
Performance-wise, the XPS 14 and XPS 16 pack a punch. They can be configured with up to an Intel Core Ultra X7 processor, Intel Arc graphics, 64GB RAM, and 4GB SSD storage. The optional 2.8K OLED touchscreen, previously exclusive to XPS 13, offers a variable refresh rate, while the base 2K LCD display boasts over 27 hours of Netflix streaming and 40 hours of local video playback on a single charge.
The XPS 14 and XPS 16 also feature an 8MP camera, modular Thunderbolt 4/USB-C ports, and a headphone jack. Dell's commitment to innovation is evident in these new models. The company plans to expand the XPS line further, starting with the highly anticipated XPS 13, promising their thinnest and lightest XPS laptop yet.
But is this revival a step forward or a controversial move? Dell's decision to bring back the XPS brand and address customer feedback is commendable. However, the sudden rebranding and subsequent reversal may leave some wondering about the company's long-term strategy. What do you think? Is Dell's XPS revival a welcome change or a confusing twist? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
