Dell has just turned the page on a defining chapter in its history, announcing a sweeping rebrand that retires the iconic XPS line in favor of a fresh, premium portfolio.
This news is more than just a name change if you’ve been a longtime Dell fan or are a tech-savvy professional looking for the next big thing in laptops; it’s a sign of the direction that personal computing is taking, with Dell at the forefront.
For years, Dell’s XPS series was synonymous with cutting-edge design and performance. But at CES 2025, Dell revealed a streamlined approach, consolidating its sprawling lineup into three clear categories: Dell, Dell Pro, and Dell Pro Max.
The new “Dell Premium” line now stands where XPS once reigned, offering a straightforward path for buyers seeking the highest-end ultraportables and sleek desktops.
This shift isn’t just about branding. Dell’s leadership, including Michael Dell himself, emphasized that the rebrand aims to simplify choices for customers and reflect the company’s focus on AI-powered productivity.
The new tiers—Base, Plus, and Premium—replace the old, sometimes confusing, model numbers, making it easier to compare features and performance across the range.
Dell Premium: A reimagined legacy of the XPS
So, what does Dell Premium bring to the table? In short: everything you loved about XPS, and then some. The new Pro and Premium laptops are crafted from 90% recycled magnesium, making them exceptionally light and durable—just 2.36 lbs for the 13-inch model and 2.52 lbs for the 14-inch.
The design language is unmistakably modern, with a focus on sustainability and portability.
Key highlights include:
- AI at the Core: Powered by Intel Core Ultra 200V series processors with integrated AI capabilities, these laptops promise smarter performance and longer battery life—up to 21.2 hours on the 14-inch Premium model.
- Display Innovation: The Premium line offers displays up to QHD+ resolution, a 16:10 aspect ratio, and, coming soon, a cutting-edge Tandem OLED panel that’s both lighter and more power-efficient than traditional OLEDs.
- Collaboration Ready: An 8MP IR camera with HDR, an optional collaboration touchpad, and enhanced speakers make video calls and teamwork seamless.
- Security & Manageability: With features like TPM 2.0, Intel ME Verification, and optional hardware authentication, Dell Premium laptops are designed for enterprise-grade security.
How does Dell Premium compare?
Let’s break down how Dell Premium stacks up against its XPS predecessor and the competition:
| Feature | Dell XPS (Previous) | Dell Premium (New) | Apple MacBook Pro (M3) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chassis Material | Aluminum, Carbon Fiber | 90% Recycled Magnesium | Aluminum |
| Weight (13″/14″) | 2.6 lbs / 3.0 lbs | 2.36 lbs / 2.52 lbs | 3.0 lbs (14″) |
| Display | 4K OLED, InfinityEdge | QHD+ / Tandem OLED | Liquid Retina XDR |
| AI Features | Limited | Integrated (Intel Ultra) | Apple Silicon Neural Engine |
| Battery Life | Up to 14 hours | Up to 21.2 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Security | Windows Hello, TPM | TPM 2.0, Intel ME, HW Auth | Touch ID, Secure Enclave |
As someone who’s used XPS laptops for years, the news initially felt bittersweet. The XPS 13 was my go-to for travel, thanks to its featherweight build and robust performance. But after previewing the new Dell Premium models at CES, it’s clear this isn’t just a rebrand—it’s a thoughtful evolution.
The magnesium chassis feels even lighter in hand, and the AI-driven features (like real-time noise suppression and smart battery management) genuinely improve day-to-day productivity.
The new Tandem OLED display is stunning, with inky blacks and vibrant colors that rival anything I’ve seen on a MacBook.
Dell’s decision to sunset XPS and unify its lineup under the Premium banner is more than a marketing move. It’s about future-proofing the brand and its users in an era where AI, sustainability, and seamless collaboration are non-negotiable.
The new naming makes it easier for buyers to choose the right device without decoding cryptic model numbers, and the hardware itself is built for the demands of modern work and creativity.
Final words
The Dell Premium line isn’t just replacing XPS—it’s redefining what a premium laptop can be. With a lighter, greener design, AI-powered performance, and features tailored for the hybrid work era, Dell is making a clear statement: the future of computing is here, and it’s smarter, simpler, and more sustainable than ever.
