When Apple introduced the MacBook Neo, it shifted expectations for value-oriented laptops. Its $599 entry point paired an aluminum shell with the refinement typical of MacBooks, creating a tough benchmark for Windows rivals. Though the price has climbed modestly, the model still delivers solid performance for the cost.

At Computex 2026, I encountered a potential counter. After reviewing multiple affordable Windows laptops at the event, I observed the segment moving past plastic builds and weak screens, and the Dell XPS 13 emerged as a standout prospect.

After extended time with the 8GB version, my early view has proven consistent. This is a notably compact Windows laptop with a solid aluminum construction, sharp touchscreen, and $699 launch price, dropping to $599 for qualifying students. The MacBook Neo continues to influence this segment, yet Dell has covered many important areas.

This XPS upholds its established character

The XPS line has long occupied the upper tier of Dell's offerings. The new XPS 13 extends that positioning to a lower price while retaining the clean, minimalist style of the series. Its CNC-aluminum chassis felt durable in testing. It lacks some of the refinement seen in the XPS 14 I reviewed recently, and minor flex appeared in the keyboard deck under pressure.

The hinge moved smoothly and remained stable. Portability stands out: at 1kg and 12.7mm thick, the XPS 13 proved lighter than the 13-inch M4 MacBook Air placed beside it. It also looked slimmer and simpler to manage one-handed. Both target mobile use, but Dell's smaller footprint aids commuting or fitting into smaller bags.

The side-by-side check focused on dimensions and build. The MacBook Neo serves as the closer match on price and capability. Dell's XPS 13 positions itself as a serious option, supplying a capable Windows machine from a seasoned PC maker.

Screen forms a core strength

Dell fitted the XPS 13 with a 13.4-inch 2.5K touchscreen supporting variable refresh rates from 30Hz to 120Hz. It appeared sharp in testing, with clear text and workable space for routine tasks despite the small chassis. Scrolling looked fluid, and touch input provides a feature Apple omits from MacBooks.

The anti-glare finish added practical value by cutting reflections under office lights or near windows. Budget models often skip this, so its presence improves usability across settings. Peak brightness reaches 500 nits, solid for the range. Full checks on color, contrast, and outdoor use require lab conditions, but the panel showed no signs of cheap construction. The display may be Dell's strongest point versus the MacBook Neo, delivering a larger panel, touch support, and up to 120Hz refresh in a highly portable body.

Understandable concessions appear at this price

The lower cost shows most in the keyboard and trackpad. The keyboard delivered a slightly soft feel during typing tests. It remains usable, yet falls short of the satisfaction found in a MacBook or XPS 14. Longer sessions will clarify if the action becomes tiring.

Dell returned to a standard trackpad rather than the seamless haptic style on recent XPS models. Tracking stayed accurate with comfortable space for the laptop's size, though the physical click felt stiff.

Neither issue concerned me greatly at this price. The base model includes an Intel Core 5 320 processor, 8GB memory, and 512GB SSD. Storage meets most needs, but the single-channel 8GB memory is the spec to monitor closely in a complete review.