GoKawiilDell's catalog of reliable, high-performing laptops has been a major force in the tech industry for over 40 years. So it's no surprise the brand has a loyal consumer base. Even though we're still in early 2026, the year has been momentous for the company. We saw the return of the XPS series and the introduction of Intel's Panther Lake series of chips to Dell machines.
We've gone hands-on on a wide range of Dell laptops, from the Dell 14 Plus to the Dell 16 Plus 2-in-1. Through testing, we put them in context with previous models to clarify where they stand -- and how they improve on -- battery life, performance, and overall value.
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What is the best Dell laptop right now?
Of all the Dell laptops we've tested, the Dell 16 Premium is our top pick for its versatility, performance, and innovative, bold design. This is a laptop with a clear identity and looks as great as it handles. Under the hood, you've got a powerful selection of hardware. It can house an up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and 32GB of RAM, as well as a brilliant 4K OLED display that's a treat to work with.
Also: The best 15-inch laptops of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed
In our March update, we added the new Dell XPS 14 as a top pick.
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The best Dell laptops of 2026
Show less View now at Dell View now at Best Buy Why we like it: At a glance, the Dell 16 Premium looks nearly identical to the old XPS 16, with its zero-lattice keyboard and LED capacitive touch panel. The design is complemented by a wonderfully vibrant 4K OLED touchscreen that covers the entire DCI-P3 color gamut and by velvety-smooth on-screen animations thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate. The Dell 16 Premium is a flagship device that carries the XPS name forward, offering extensive customization and strong hardware for a wide range of use cases. Who it's for: Creatives, professionals, and gamers will appreciate the power behind the Intel Core Ultra 9 258H processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070. It's a combo that easily tackles graphic design, animation, and video editing applications. Additionally, its three Thunderbolt 4 Gen-2 ports support DisplayPort 2.1 and power delivery, while the microSD v7.1 card slot makes it practical for pros. Review: Dell 16 Premium Who should look elsewhere: The combination of a brilliant display and powerful hardware will attract gamers and creators alike, but the invisible touchpad and LED touch function row are high-design elements that aren't for everyone. If you weren't a fan of the XPS, the Dell 16 Premium probably won't impress you. Dell XPS 16 tech specs: Display size: 16-inch | Display type: LED or OLED | Resolution: Up to 4K | RAM: 32GB-64GB | Storage: Up to 2TB SSD | CPU: Up to Intel Core Ultra 9 285H | Battery life: Up to 5 hours Pros Gorgeous display
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