The Dell XPS 14 is a newly released 14-inch laptop, positioned between the XPS 13 and XPS 16. It features several innovative but controversial elements, and while it’s a high-end machine, its performance is solid but not outstanding. In contrast, the Acer Swift X 14 offers superior performance at a more affordable price, making it a better option for most users.
Specs and Configurations
| Feature | Acer Swift X 14 SFX14-72G | Dell XPS 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 12.71″ x 8.98″ x 0.74-0.80″ | 12.6″ x 8.5″ x 0.71″ |
| Weight | 3.4 lbs | 3.8 lbs |
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 155H | Intel Core Ultra 7 155H |
| Graphics | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050/4070 | Intel Arc/Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 |
| RAM | 16GB, 32GB | 16GB, 32GB, 64GB |
| Display | 14.5″ 2.8K (2880 x 1800) OLED, 120Hz | 14.5″ FHD+ (1920 x 1200) IPS, 120Hz; 14.5″ 3.2K (3200 x 2000) OLED touch, 120Hz |
| Storage | 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD | 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB PCIe Gen4 SSD |
| Touch | Yes | Optional |
| Ports | 2 x USB-C with Thunderbolt 4, 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x 3.5mm audio jack, 1 x microSD card reader | 3 x USB-C with Thunderbolt 4, 1 x 3.5mm audio jack, 1 x microSD card reader |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Webcam | 1080p | 1080p with infrared camera for Windows Hello |
| OS | Windows 11 | Windows 11 |
| Battery | 76 watt-hours | 69.5 watt-hours |
| Price | $1,400+ | $1,699+ |
| Rating | 4 out of 5 stars | 3.5 out of 5 stars |
The Acer Swift X 14 provides better value with configurations starting at $1,400, whereas the Dell XPS 14 starts at $1,699. Matching the Acer’s high-end specs, the Dell XPS 14 can cost up to $3,699.
Design
The Dell XPS 14 is an ultramodern laptop with a zero-lattice keyboard, hidden haptic touchpad, and LED touch function keys. These features are polarizing and may not appeal to all users. On the other hand, the Acer Swift X 14 has a more traditional, slightly bulkier design but still provides a robust build quality.
Both laptops are crafted from aluminum, ensuring durability with no flex in the chassis or lid. The XPS 14 is smaller due to thinner display bezels and feels denser due to its weight.
Keyboard and touchpad experiences vary, with the XPS 14 featuring a haptic touchpad and the Swift X 14 a mechanical one. Connectivity options favor the Swift X 14 with more ports, while both offer identical wireless connectivity and similar 1080p webcams with additional features for enhanced user experience.
Performance
Both laptops utilize the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H chipset, but the Swift X 14 includes the option for a more powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, providing a significant performance boost. Benchmarks show the Swift X 14 outperforms the XPS 14, making it better suited for demanding productivity tasks, creative work, and gaming.
Display and Audio
Both laptops feature 14.5-inch OLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates. The XPS 14 offers a higher resolution option (3.2K), but the Swift X 14’s OLED display is brighter and has a wider color gamut, making it slightly better for visual tasks.
The XPS 14’s audio system is superior, with a four-speaker setup providing louder and clearer sound compared to the Swift X 14’s two-speaker system.
Portability
The XPS 14 is heavier but more compact due to thinner bezels. Battery life is better on the XPS 14, especially with the IPS display option, lasting significantly longer than the Swift X 14.
The Dell XPS 14 offers an ultramodern design and solid performance but at a higher price point, making it less attractive given the available configurations. The Acer Swift X 14, while more traditional in design, provides better performance and value, making it the superior choice for most users.
