Dell XPS 14z Review: One Sleek 14-inch Laptop Discussion

[Charles P. Jefferies]

This all metal notebook puts a 14-inch screen in a 13.3-inch chassis and is packed with the latest technology including a backlit keyboard. We take a closer look at this impressive alternative to the Apple MacBook Pro.

Read the full content of this Article: Dell XPS 14z Review: One Sleek 14-inch Laptop

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[psygn]

While I applaud Dell for not making a complete MBP clone, I feel they did a disservice to the laptop with their seemingly grab-bag approach to the keyboard area. The sharp, futurist type on bloated keys, the complicated lattice design on the sides, and the silver, coil-like hinge do not bode well with each other aesthetically, and the fancy interior does not compliment the simple, timeless look of the exterior very well, either.

[IKAS V]

Another great review Mr. Jefferies.
Dell had the right idea but failed with the screen and fan noise issues.
When are laptop makers going to start listening to the people that buy these things and actually start using premium parts if they want to start selling premuim laptops. Another area that has me scratching my head is the design, it just looks off, I think it may be the keyboard it looks smaller than it probably is due to the large spaces between the keyboard and the sides.
I dont know Dell

[Charles P. Jefferies]

Thanks for your comments; I agree with both of you.

#1 fail is the screen. It's the same one used on bargain basement 14" notebooks.

#2 is the keyboard. It actually feels OK but the layout is horrendous (there is plenty of space to make the keys I mentioned in the article dedicated .....); and they did the same thing with the 15z when has even more space for them.

#3 - 1 year warranty? Really?

#4 - fan noise. Using a bigger fan would have solved the fan noise issue (most likely)

If I was the QA manager for notebook companies, so far I would have failed 90% that pass through my hands.

[cknobman]

For that price and such a POS waste of a graphics card I would rather have the Asus Zenbook. That ultrabook pretty much outclasses this dell in every category with the exception of graphics (but that is not saying much).

[Mitlov]

Good review. Absolutely a swing and a miss on Dell's part. A poor-quality 720p screen, with no upgrade option, on a model carrying the "XPS" name? Really?

Sounds like the Vaio SA, with a matte 900p screen and a nice keyboard, had the 14z thoroughly beaten before the 14z was even introduced.

[chen]

I agree with the conclusion. For the price tag of $1000+, xps 14z should have a better screen otherwise it is not going to compare well with some other budget alternatives like Acer TimelineX 4830TG.

[flatsix911]

Well done review ... will this be the next Adamo?