June 5, 2026, 3:35 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
With the MacBook Neo, Apple has recently brought fresh momentum to the mid-range notebook market. The device combines solid features with a relatively low entry price. Now, Dell is introducing the new XPS 13, a model priced similarly. At the same time, the Windows notebook offers more extensive features in some areas.
Dell is positioning the new XPS 13 significantly cheaper than previous devices in the XPS line. In the U.S., the price starts at $699. For students, the notebook is occasionally offered starting at $599. This places the device at the level of the MacBook Neo in the version with 8 GB of RAM and a 512-gigabyte SSD. The XPS series has so far been primarily in the premium segment.
Differences in Display and Ports
Looking at the technical specifications, there are some differences between the two devices. Dell equips the new XPS 13 with a 13.4-inch touchscreen display. The resolution is 2560×1600 pixels. Additionally, the display fully covers the DCI-P3 color space and supports a refresh rate of up to 120 hertz.
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In contrast, the MacBook Neo relies on a display with sRGB color space and 60 hertz. Dell also offers additional features in the rest of the equipment. These include a backlit keyboard and two USB-C ports with transfer rates of up to 10 Gbit/s.
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More Options in Configurations
According to Dell, the XPS 13 was not developed as a direct response to the MacBook Neo. Nevertheless, both devices in their basic configurations target a similar audience. Especially the respective entry-level models are closely aligned.
While Apple offers the MacBook Neo only in simpler versions, Dell plans several additional variants of the XPS 13. Models with more powerful Intel processors, up to 32 GB of RAM, and larger SSDs are planned. This is intended to make the notebook available in various configurations.
Availability in Germany Still Uncertain
When the new Dell XPS 13 will be released in Germany is currently unknown. The company has also not yet announced specific prices for the local market. It is also unclear whether Dell will offer similar educational discounts in Germany as in the U.S.