The new Dell XPS 13 9300 is a great subnotebook, but which components make sense?

We recently reviewed the entry-level version of the brand-new Dell XPS 13 9300 for 1500 Euros. This unit uses a modern Core i5 processor from Intel, 8 GB RAM, and 512 GB PCIe-SSD storage. The base model also gets the very good matte IPS screen (1920 x 1200 pixels, 16:10). All models include fast Wi-Fi 6, a fingerprint scanner as well as very good stereo speakers.

Many users should be very happy with this model, but Dell's online store is pretty limited if you want to change components, so you should think about your requirements. The matte IPS screen, for example, is currently only available with the smaller Core i5 and 8 GB RAM f you want a black chassis. If you want 16 GB RAM, you also have to pay the premium for the Core i7 CPU and most models feature the FullHD touchscreen (glossy) or the UHD touchscreen (glossy). The high-resolution screen should also consume much more power and therefore affect the battery runtime.

Regarding the CPU performance, the smaller Core i5 should be plenty powerful for most users. An upgrade to the Core i7 should not really improve the CPU performance, since the Core i5 is already quite far away from its potential performance capabilities and even behind the previous XPS 13 9380 with the older Core i5. However, the Core i7 might still be interesting for some users thanks to the faster integrated graphics unit. The ideal combination for us would be the matte panel with the i7 and 16 GB RAM, but there is currently only a white model with these specs for about 1800 Euros.

We will try to review the other models of the new XPS 13 soon, until then we recommend our comprehensive review of the entry-level unit. Great: Dell also offers configurations with Linux.

• Review Dell XPS 13 9300 (Core i5, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, matte FHD panel)