If you’re looking for a premium Windows laptop that combines stunning visuals, excellent performance, and exceptional portability, the Dell XPS 13 (2021) with its optional OLED display remains one of the finest ultrabooks ever released. Even years after its launch, it continues to impress professionals, students, and content creators who value a high-quality display in a compact design.
A Gorgeous OLED Display
The biggest upgrade to the 2021 Dell XPS 13 is its optional 13.4-inch 3.5K OLED touchscreen with a resolution of 3456 × 2160. Unlike traditional LCD panels, OLED technology allows each pixel to produce its own light, delivering:
- Deep, true blacks
- Rich and vibrant colors
- Outstanding contrast
- HDR support
- Excellent viewing angles
Whether you’re editing photos, streaming movies, or browsing the web, the OLED display makes every image look incredibly sharp and lifelike. Reviewers praised it as one of the best laptop displays available at the time.
Premium Design That Still Turns Heads
Dell kept the sleek aluminum chassis and carbon fiber palm rest that made the XPS series famous. At just 2.8 pounds (1.27 kg) and under 15 mm thick, the XPS 13 is easy to carry without sacrificing durability.
The nearly bezel-free InfinityEdge display gives the laptop a modern appearance while maximizing screen space in a compact body.
Strong Everyday Performance
Powered by Intel’s 11th Generation Tiger Lake processors, the Dell XPS 13 delivers excellent performance for everyday productivity.
Typical configurations include:
- Intel Core i5 or Core i7 processor
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- 8 GB to 32 GB LPDDR4x RAM
- Up to 2 TB PCIe SSD storage
The laptop easily handles:
- Microsoft Office
- Web browsing with multiple tabs
- Programming
- Graphic design
- Light video editing
- Remote work and online meetings
While it’s not designed for heavy gaming, Intel Iris Xe graphics can comfortably run many casual and older games.
Comfortable Keyboard and Precision Touchpad
Dell continues to offer one of the best keyboards in the Windows ultrabook market. The keys provide satisfying travel and responsiveness, making long typing sessions comfortable.
The large precision touchpad is smooth, accurate, and supports Windows Precision drivers for reliable gesture controls.
Battery Life
One compromise of choosing the OLED model is battery life.
Because OLED displays consume more power than Full HD LCD panels, users can expect around 6 to 9 hours of mixed usage depending on brightness and workload. Those who prioritize longer battery life may prefer the Full HD+ version, but many users find the superior display quality worth the trade-off.
Connectivity
The Dell XPS 13 keeps its minimalist approach to ports, offering:
- Two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports
- MicroSD card reader
- 3.5 mm headphone jack
While Thunderbolt 4 provides fast charging, external display support, and high-speed data transfer, some users may need a USB-C hub for older USB-A accessories.
Pros
- Stunning 3.5K OLED touchscreen
- Premium aluminum build quality
- Lightweight and portable
- Excellent keyboard and touchpad
- Fast Intel 11th Gen performance
- Bright, vibrant display with HDR support
Cons
- OLED model has shorter battery life than the Full HD version
- Limited ports
- Premium price at launch
- Not intended for serious gaming
Final Verdict
The Dell XPS 13 (2021) with its OLED display set a new standard for premium Windows ultrabooks. Its breathtaking screen, elegant design, reliable performance, and compact form factor made it one of the best Windows laptops of its generation.
Although newer models have since been released, the 2021 OLED version remains an excellent choice for anyone who values display quality above all else. If you spend hours writing, editing photos, watching videos, or simply appreciate a beautiful screen, the Dell XPS 13 (2021) continues to be a laptop that delivers an exceptional everyday experience.
