Dual active fans with vapor chamber (silent mode optimized)
Dual-fan vapor chamber cooling
Color Options
Space Black, Silver
Platinum, Graphite, Sky Blue
Security
Apple Secure Enclave, Touch ID
Windows Hello facial + fingerprint recognition
Performance (Benchmark)
Geekbench 6 Multi-Core ≈ 20,000 (M4 Max)
Geekbench 6 Multi-Core ≈ 15,000 (Ultra 9)
AI Features
On-device AI acceleration via Neural Engine (38 TOPS)
Intel AI Boost NPU (34 TOPS)
Price (Base Model)
$1,999 (14”)
$1,899 (14”)
Price (High-End Model)
$3,999 (16” M4 Max 128GB RAM / 8TB SSD)
$3,499 (16” RTX 4070 / 64GB RAM / 4TB SSD)
Repairability
Difficult – proprietary parts
Moderate – user-replaceable SSD and RAM
Warranty
1 year (AppleCare+ optional)
1 year (Dell Premium Support optional 3 years)
🏁 Overall Rating (out of 10)
MacBook Pro: Performance 9.5 – Display 9.8 – System 10 – Battery 10 – Value 8.5
Dell XPS: Performance 9.8 – Display 9.9 – System 8.5 – Battery 8 – Value 9
People's opinions
Review by SmartTechNerd 📰
The 2025 MacBook Pro and Dell XPS continue to set high standards in the premium laptop segment, offering a mix of performance, design, and portability. While both devices target professionals and power users, they each take a slightly different approach to meet user needs.
Design & Build Quality
The MacBook Pro features a sleek aluminum unibody, available in 14" and 16" models, paired with Apple’s Magic Keyboard. It weighs approximately 3.5 lbs, offering a solid yet elegant feel. The Dell XPS, on the other hand, combines aluminum and carbon fiber in its chassis, available in 13", 15", and 17" sizes, featuring the iconic InfinityEdge display, starting at 2.8 lbs. Both laptops deliver a premium build, so the choice largely depends on personal preference.
Display
Apple pushes the envelope with its Liquid Retina XDR display, supporting 120Hz ProMotion and up to 1,600 nits brightness, providing excellent HDR performance ideal for creative professionals. The Dell XPS counters with 4K OLED options and touchscreen capability, although its brightness peaks at 500 nits. Creatives will likely prefer the MacBook Pro for superior visual fidelity, while the XPS offers flexibility for general use and multimedia.
Performance
Under the hood, the MacBook Pro packs Apple M3 Pro or M3 Max chips, configurable with up to 64GB RAM and 8TB SSD, optimized for video editing, design, and other creative workflows. The Dell XPS features Intel Core i9 processors with NVIDIA RTX 40 series GPUs, up to 64GB DDR5 RAM, making it ideal for gaming, 3D rendering, and multitasking. Performance is largely tied to user preference between macOS and Windows environments.
Battery Life
Apple’s efficiency shines with up to 20 hours of battery life, leveraging the power of Apple Silicon. The Dell XPS offers up to 12 hours on FHD+ displays, but this drops with OLED or 4K configurations. Users who prioritize longevity on a single charge will find the MacBook Pro more appealing.
Operating System
The MacBook Pro runs macOS Sonoma, ensuring seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem. Meanwhile, the Dell XPS runs Windows 11, offering broad software compatibility and customization options. The OS choice will depend entirely on user preference.
Price
Pricing varies widely: the MacBook Pro starts at $1,999 with high-end models exceeding $6,000, while the Dell XPS begins at $1,399, with premium configurations surpassing $4,000. For budget-conscious buyers, the XPS provides a more affordable entry point.
Final Verdict
Choose MacBook Pro if you value display quality, extended battery life, and a cohesive Apple ecosystem experience. Opt for Dell XPS if you want a more customizable machine, superior gaming performance, and a lower starting price. Both laptops remain excellent choices for 2025, but your ideal pick hinges on usage priorities and operating system preference.
The 2025 MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5) and the Dell XPS 13 Plus continue to compete in the ultraportable laptop category, each targeting professionals and students who need power in a compact form factor. While both are sleek and capable, they differ significantly in hardware, battery life, and overall user experience.
Display
The MacBook Pro 14-inch comes with a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, boasting a 1964×3024 resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. In comparison, the Dell XPS 13 Plus offers a 13.4-inch display with 1920×1200 resolution, though its refresh rate is not specified. For creatives or users prioritizing sharp visuals, the MacBook Pro clearly stands out.
Performance
Under the hood, the MacBook Pro is powered by the Apple M5 chip, paired with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD, making it ideal for multitasking, media editing, and professional workflows. The Dell XPS 13 Plus features an Intel Core i7 (12th Gen), with RAM and storage unspecified. While still capable for Windows users, it may lag behind in raw performance compared to Apple’s latest silicon.
Battery & Build
Apple delivers an impressive 24 hours of battery life with a 72.4 WHr battery, weighing 1.55 kg. The Dell XPS 13 Plus features an aluminum build, but battery life and weight details are not listed. Portability and endurance clearly favor the MacBook Pro in this comparison.
Operating System
The MacBook Pro runs macOS, offering smooth integration within Apple’s ecosystem. The Dell XPS 13 Plus runs Windows 11, providing broad software compatibility and flexibility, especially for users who prefer Windows.
Ports & Features
The MacBook Pro includes USB 4.0 (Type-C), HDMI, SDXC card reader, headphone jack, and a fingerprint sensor. The Dell XPS 13 Plus confirms USB ports and a fingerprint sensor, but other ports are unspecified.
Camera & Audio
The MacBook Pro features a 12MP webcam, stereo speakers, and an internal microphone. The Dell XPS 13 Plus offers a standard webcam, dual speakers, and an internal mic. Both are sufficient for video calls and casual media, but Apple’s higher-resolution webcam may appeal more to professionals.
Release Dates
The MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5) launched on October 15, 2025, making it the newer option. The Dell XPS 13 Plus debuted on January 5, 2022, still relevant but slightly dated.
🏁 Summary
The MacBook Pro 14-inch offers newer hardware, longer battery life, and a higher-resolution display, making it ideal for professionals and creatives. The Dell XPS 13 Plus remains competitive, especially for Windows enthusiasts who value portability and a familiar ecosystem.
The 2025 MacBook Pro and Dell XPS continue to define the premium laptop market, each excelling in different areas depending on user priorities. Both laptops offer impressive design, performance, and versatility, but they cater to distinct audiences.
Performance
The MacBook Pro is powered by Apple’s M1 chip, delivering exceptional performance for creative tasks such as video editing, programming, and graphic design. The Dell XPS utilizes Intel Core i5/i7/i9 processors with optional NVIDIA or AMD GPUs, offering strong versatility across productivity and gaming workloads. While both are capable, the MacBook Pro often edges out for demanding creative applications.
Design & Portability
Apple’s MacBook Pro boasts a sleek aluminum unibody with a premium tactile feel, whereas the Dell XPS features a slim profile with its near-borderless InfinityEdge display. In terms of elegance and durability, the MacBook Pro has the upper hand, but both remain highly portable and stylish.
Display
The MacBook Pro offers a Retina display with high color accuracy and brightness, ideal for designers and visual professionals. The Dell XPS delivers an immersive InfinityEdge display, providing an engaging viewing experience. The choice here depends on whether users prioritize precise colors or a more cinematic experience.
Operating System
macOS on the MacBook Pro ensures seamless Apple ecosystem integration and robust security, while Windows on the Dell XPS provides broad software compatibility and customization. Users who value smooth ecosystem integration will prefer the MacBook Pro.
Gaming
Gaming performance favors the Dell XPS, thanks to dedicated NVIDIA GPUs and Windows support. The MacBook Pro is limited to light gaming due to integrated graphics and macOS constraints, making the XPS the better choice for gamers.
Connectivity
The Dell XPS offers a wider array of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, and SD card slots, providing versatility for peripherals. The MacBook Pro relies on USB-C/Thunderbolt only, offering faster transfer speeds but fewer connectivity options.
Battery Life
Apple’s efficient M1 chip enables the MacBook Pro to achieve longer battery life, whereas the Dell XPS delivers decent endurance but falls short in comparison.
Price & Value
The MacBook Pro comes with premium pricing, while the Dell XPS offers a broader range of models and more budget-friendly options, catering to different financial needs.
🏁 Final Verdict
The MacBook Pro is best suited for creatives, users seeking long battery life, and those deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem. The Dell XPS excels for gamers, Windows enthusiasts, and users prioritizing customization and value, making it a versatile alternative.
The 2025 Apple and Dell laptop lineups continue to compete at the top of the premium and professional laptop market. Both brands offer unique strengths, catering to different user priorities such as design, performance, affordability, and ecosystem integration.
Overall Ratings
Apple leads slightly with a 4.5/5 rating, praised for its premium design, top-tier performance, and seamless ecosystem. Dell follows closely with a 4.4/5 rating, noted for its diverse range, strong customer support, and customizable options.
Key Feature Comparison
Apple laptops are known for sleek designs, optimized macOS, Retina displays, long battery life, and tight ecosystem integration. Dell, on the other hand, offers a broad product range from Inspiron to XPS series, featuring business-friendly builds, durability, good warranties, and customizable models.
Affordability
Apple models are generally more expensive with limited options and high-end specifications. Dell provides a wider selection ranging from budget-friendly to premium laptops, making it more accessible for different budgets.
Reputation
Apple is celebrated for innovation, quality, and seamless user experience. Dell is praised for its flexibility, customer service, and strong performance across various price tiers.
Battery Life
Apple laptops offer long endurance, with the MacBook Air reaching up to 18 hours and the MacBook Pro around 10 hours. Dell varies by model, with the XPS 13 up to 12 hours and Inspiron 15 around 6 hours.
Display
Apple Retina displays provide high color accuracy and contrast, though they lack touchscreen functionality. Dell’s high-resolution InfinityEdge displays often include touch and Dolby Vision support, appealing to users who prioritize immersive visuals.
🏁 Conclusion
Apple is best for users who value design, creative performance, and seamless ecosystem integration. Dell is ideal for those seeking variety, affordability, and customization. Both brands continue to innovate, leaving the choice largely dependent on whether you prioritize style and ecosystem (Apple) or flexibility and value (Dell).
The 2025 MacBook Pro and Dell XPS remain top contenders in the premium laptop market, each excelling in different areas depending on user priorities. Both devices are designed for professionals, but they target slightly different needs—creative work vs. gaming and multitasking.
Design & Build Quality
The MacBook Pro features a sleek aluminum unibody with a minimalist aesthetic, excellent thermal management, and a lightweight yet durable design. The Dell XPS combines an aluminum chassis with a carbon-fiber interior and a futuristic InfinityEdge display, available in 13", 15", and 17" sizes. Both laptops deliver premium build quality, so the choice comes down to personal style preference.
Performance
Apple’s MacBook Pro is equipped with M2 Pro or M2 Max chips, up to 64GB unified memory, and up to 8TB SSD, optimized for creative workflows such as video editing, design, and coding. The Dell XPS offers Intel Core i7/i9 processors with optional NVIDIA RTX GPUs, up to 64GB RAM, and up to 2TB SSD, making it excellent for gaming, multitasking, and productivity. Creatives may prefer the MacBook Pro, while gamers and multitaskers might lean toward the XPS.
Display Quality
The MacBook Pro comes with a Liquid Retina XDR display with mini-LED, 1600 nits brightness, P3 color gamut, and HDR support. The Dell XPS provides a 4K OLED option with touchscreen capability, delivering vibrant colors and deep blacks. Both displays excel in their respective areas: HDR and color accuracy for MacBook Pro, 4K and touch functionality for Dell XPS.
Operating System
The MacBook Pro runs macOS, ensuring seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, ideal for creatives. The Dell XPS uses Windows 11, offering flexibility, wide software compatibility, and peripheral support. The best choice depends on user preference and ecosystem alignment.
Battery Life
Apple’s efficiency shines with up to 18–20 hours of battery life thanks to the M2 chips. The Dell XPS provides 8–12 hours depending on configuration, with OLED and 4K models consuming more power. Users prioritizing long battery life will favor the MacBook Pro.
Price & Value
The MacBook Pro starts around $1,999, reflecting premium pricing and long-term durability. The Dell XPS begins at approximately $1,299, offering a more affordable and customizable option. Budget-conscious buyers may find better value in the Dell XPS.
🏁 Final Verdict
Choose MacBook Pro if you are a creative professional seeking top-tier performance, long battery life, and seamless Apple ecosystem integration. Opt for Dell XPS if you want flexibility, gaming capability, and a more budget-friendly option. Both laptops are excellent, and the ideal choice depends on your workflow and specific needs.
The September 2025 lineup of MacBook Air and MacBook Pro highlights Apple’s focus on balancing performance, portability, and efficiency. While both laptops leverage Apple Silicon, they cater to different user priorities—from everyday tasks to professional workflows.
MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: Core Differences
The MacBook Air is available in 13" and 15" sizes, featuring baseline Apple Silicon (currently M4) and prioritizing efficiency and battery life. New features include a 12MP Center Stage webcam and a Sky Blue color option. Previous generations include M2 and M3 chips.
The MacBook Pro comes in 14" and 16" sizes, offering M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips for high-performance workflows. It features a brighter HDR display (up to 1600 nits), active cooling, and more ports, including HDMI, SD card reader, and additional Thunderbolt ports.
Apple Silicon Breakdown
M4: 10-core CPU & GPU, efficient and suitable for most users.
M4 Pro: Up to 14-core CPU & 20-core GPU, better for demanding tasks.
M4 Max: 16-core CPU & 40-core GPU, ideal for intensive creative work.
Pricing Highlights
MacBook Air M4: Starts at $799 for 13" (256GB/16GB), 15" with 512GB/24GB at $1,399.
MacBook Air M3: Older models provide savings (e.g., 15", 512GB/24GB for $1,199).
MacBook Pro M4: 14" base model at $1,412; M4 Max 16" with 1TB/48GB at $3,552.
Battery & Portability
The MacBook Air is thinner, lighter, and offers excellent battery life, making it ideal for daily portability. The MacBook Pro is heavier but delivers up to 24 hours of video playback, catering to professionals who need sustained performance.
🏁 Final Takeaway
Choose the MacBook Air for everyday use, portability, and value. The MacBook Pro is the better choice for professionals requiring top-tier performance, expansive connectivity, and a premium HDR display. With no M5 expected until spring 2026, both models remain a smart investment.
Excellent performance with Apple M5/M4 Pro/Max chips, ideal for creative tasks like video editing, design, programming, and rendering.
Stunning display (Liquid Retina XDR, HDR, mini-LED) with superb color accuracy and high brightness.
Very long battery life, up to 20–24 hours in moderate usage.
macOS is smooth, highly integrated with other Apple devices, excellent user experience.
Sleek design, high build quality, relatively lightweight for its performance level.
Cons:
Very expensive, even base models are high-priced compared to competitors.
Limited upgrade options (RAM and SSD mostly fixed).
Gaming performance is limited due to lack of a strong dedicated GPU and macOS gaming restrictions.
Fewer ports, mainly USB-C/Thunderbolt, may require adapters.
Dell XPS 2025
Pros:
Excellent performance with Intel i7/i9 and optional NVIDIA GPUs, great for gaming and heavy multitasking.
More customization options (RAM, SSD, GPU).
Lower starting price, more accessible for different budgets.
More versatile ports including USB-A, USB-C, SD card slot, and others.
Very good display (4K OLED, some models touchscreen), immersive viewing experience.
Cons:
Shorter battery life, usually 8–12 hours; 4K or OLED models consume more quickly.
Windows OS, while flexible, isn’t as smooth as macOS in daily use or ecosystem integration.
Design is excellent but doesn’t feel as premium as Apple.
Some models are slightly heavier than the MacBook Pro.
Final Recommendation
If you are a creative professional, designer, video editor, or value system stability and smooth performance, the MacBook Pro is the better choice. Its long battery life, amazing display, and seamless ecosystem justify the higher price.
If you are a gamer, Windows user needing flexibility and customization, or have a tighter budget, the Dell XPS is the better option. It provides very strong performance, more ports, and better value for money, though it is less seamless and integrated than MacBook Pro.
In short:
MacBook Pro = Best for creativity and sustained performance.
Dell XPS = Best for flexibility, gaming, and value.