The pros and cons of Dell XPS 15 2-in-1

This is a hybrid machine that surprisingly doesn’t feel like a hybrid machine. Dell has added plenty of nice touches to it, from its weight, which is slightly below 2kgs, to its depth at 0.63 inches. I dare say that it is the sveltest machine in the XPS family.

Underneath the cover, you have a choice of either an 8th Generation Intel Core i5-8305G Processor, or you can break the bank and go for the 8th Generation Intel Core i7-8705G Processor. That can be backed by a choice of either 8GB or 16GB RAM, though the i5 based machine is only available with an 8GB configuration.

HYBRID

To the surprise of many, Dell opted to bring in Radeon RX Vega MGL Graphics with 4GB HMB2 Graphics Memory across the entire line, with clearly no options, but it isn’t that bad.

For storage, this machine is only available with Solid State Drives (SSD) starting from 256GB and 512GB for the entire line, while the 4K version has a 1TB version.

Speaking of displays, there are two versions, a 15.6 inch Full HD display with touch, or the same with 4K support.

For peripheral connectivity, you have a very good selection of 2 USB Type C 3.1 ports as well as 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports.

Now that may leave many wondering where the HDMI port is, reverse compatible USB ports and more. Well, when you buy this, Dell throws in a convertor that supports VGA, HDMI, USB 3.0 and Ethernet.

As a hybrid, it turns into a tablet very easily, but it really isn’t meant to be used as a tablet on the long term. The real feature for the tablet is when you set it into tent mode and watch content on its absolutely gorgeous display. Dell has outdone themselves in that department.

SHORTCOMINGS

The 75 watt battery does not inspire confidence, but it still runs quite well for a battery that small. The keyboard is the first real major sore point for this machine. Dell has experimented with a new low-travel keyboard, and that will be a pain to adjust to when you use this. It is way too sensitive for its own good, and needs to be tapped lightly.

Then, the 720p webcam is another major sore point on this machine – it is at the bottom of the screen to favour the design. It works, but, you have to adjust how it sits, otherwise everyone will see your ‘boogers’.

RUNS WELL

Despite all these shortcomings, it runs well, very solidly for a hybrid, does not burn your lap when running at load over a long period and really feels premium with its aluminium chassis and carbon fibre casing.

This is every bit a premium machine, and Dell has priced it as such. The base machine starts at a tear-jerking Sh130,000. Consider this a long-term investment that will give you a solid five years if you can take care of it.