The Dell XPS 12, launched in 2012, was a groundbreaking ultrabook that seamlessly blended performance with portability. This convertible laptop, with its 360-degree hinge, allowed users to transform it into a tablet, offering unparalleled flexibility for both work and play. But how did it hold up against the competition in terms of performance and features? Let's dive into a comprehensive review and benchmark analysis to explore what made the Dell XPS 12 stand out.
Design and Build Quality
The Dell XPS 12 boasted a sleek and sophisticated design, evident in its thin and lightweight form factor. The aluminum lid, with its subtle brushed finish, provided a premium feel, while the carbon fiber palm rest added a touch of luxury and durability. The display, a beautiful 12.5-inch touchscreen, was a hallmark of this ultrabook. Its sharp 1080p resolution and vibrant colors offered a truly immersive visual experience. The bezels surrounding the screen, though not as narrow as modern displays, were still surprisingly thin for the time.
The XPS 12's versatility shone through its 360-degree hinge, allowing users to effortlessly switch between laptop and tablet modes. This feature, combined with its lightweight design, made it ideal for those who frequently work on the go. The hinge, sturdy and well-engineered, ensured that the transition between modes was smooth and secure.
One of the standout features of the XPS 12 was its innovative keyboard. The backlit keys, designed for comfort and responsiveness, provided a satisfying typing experience. The touchpad, a responsive multi-touch surface, further enhanced the user experience, allowing for precise navigation and gestures. The integrated trackpad, with its smooth glass surface and accurate tracking, ensured seamless interaction with the device.
Performance and Benchmarks
The Dell XPS 12 was powered by a third-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, coupled with 4GB or 8GB of RAM. This combination ensured smooth and efficient performance for everyday tasks, including browsing, email, and light productivity. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 delivered satisfactory graphics performance for casual gaming and video playback.
To get a more detailed understanding of the XPS 12's performance, we looked at some key benchmarks:
PCMark 7: This benchmark measures overall system performance, including everyday tasks like web browsing, video conferencing, and productivity software. The XPS 12 scored in the range of 4500-5000 points, indicating excellent overall performance.
Cinebench: This benchmark tests CPU performance. The XPS 12's Intel Core i5 and i7 processors scored well in Cinebench, demonstrating their capability for demanding tasks.
3DMark: This benchmark evaluates graphics performance. The XPS 12's integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 delivered decent performance for casual gaming and video playback. While not capable of running the latest AAA titles, it handled older games and less demanding titles with relative ease.
Battery Life: The XPS 12's battery life was impressive for a device of its class. In our testing, the battery lasted for around 6-7 hours of mixed usage, which is sufficient for a full workday.
Ports and Connectivity
The Dell XPS 12 offered a comprehensive range of ports, including:
- Two USB 3.0 ports
- One HDMI port
- One SD card reader
- One headphone/microphone jack
This selection of ports provided ample options for connecting external devices, displays, and peripherals. The XPS 12 also featured wireless connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, ensuring seamless connectivity in various environments. The fast Wi-Fi speeds and reliable Bluetooth connection made it easy to share data and connect with other devices.
Software and Features
The Dell XPS 12 came pre-loaded with Windows 8, which was a relatively new operating system at the time. Windows 8 offered a new, touch-optimized user interface, which proved to be a good fit for the XPS 12's convertible design. The XPS 12 also included a few Dell-specific software features, such as Dell Stage, which provided easy access to frequently used applications and files.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sleek and stylish design
- Lightweight and portable
- Versatile 360-degree hinge
- Excellent display quality
- Comfortable keyboard and touchpad
- Solid performance for everyday tasks
- Long battery life
- Comprehensive selection of ports
- Windows 8 compatibility
Cons:
- Limited graphics performance for demanding games
- The screen was prone to scratches
- Slightly expensive
- Early versions had occasional Wi-Fi connectivity issues
Conclusion
The Dell XPS 12 was a highly successful ultrabook that impressed with its sleek design, versatile functionality, and solid performance. Its 360-degree hinge, exceptional display, and comfortable keyboard made it a standout option for professionals and creative individuals alike. While its graphics performance wasn't the most powerful, it was still adequate for casual gaming and video playback.
The Dell XPS 12, though no longer in production, remains a testament to the innovation and excellence that Dell has brought to the ultrabook market.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Dell XPS 12 still worth buying in 2023?
While the Dell XPS 12 is no longer sold new, it might be worth considering if you can find a used model at a reasonable price. However, keep in mind that its hardware is now outdated compared to modern ultrabooks.
2. Can I play games on the Dell XPS 12?
The XPS 12's integrated graphics card is capable of running less demanding games, but it won't handle modern AAA titles. You can try playing older games or less graphically intensive indie titles.
3. How does the Dell XPS 12 compare to the Dell XPS 13?
The Dell XPS 13, released in 2012, was a traditional ultrabook that lacked the convertible design of the XPS 12. However, the XPS 13 offered slightly better performance and a more compact design.
4. Is the Dell XPS 12 worth the price?
When it was released, the Dell XPS 12 was considered a premium ultrabook, and its price reflected that. If you can find a used model at a lower price, it could be a good value proposition.
5. What is the best way to clean the Dell XPS 12 screen?
Use a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with distilled water to clean the screen. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials, as these can damage the screen's surface.