Dell XPS 13 2021 Review: Best Windows Laptop with OLED Display
The Dell XPS 13 (2021) continues to dominate the premium ultrabook market, setting a high benchmark for Windows laptops. With the introduction of an OLED display option, Dell has taken an already exceptional device and pushed it even further into flagship territory. Combining sleek design, powerful performance, and cutting-edge display technology, the XPS 13 (9310) remains one of the best choices for professionals, students, and creatives alike.
In this SEO-optimized article, we explore why the Dell XPS 13 (2021) stands out, what makes the OLED variant special, and whether it truly deserves the title of the best Windows laptop.
Premium Design That Defines Excellence
The Dell XPS 13 (2021) retains its iconic design language—minimalist, compact, and premium. Built with CNC-machined aluminum and a carbon fiber or woven glass fiber interior, the laptop feels both sturdy and elegant.
One of its standout features is the InfinityEdge display, which offers ultra-thin bezels and a screen-to-body ratio of around 90% . This allows Dell to fit a 13.4-inch display into a chassis typically reserved for smaller laptops, making it highly portable.
Weighing just around 1.2 kg, the XPS 13 is ideal for users who need a powerful machine on the go. Whether you are working remotely, traveling, or studying, portability is a major advantage.
Stunning OLED Display: A Game Changer
The biggest highlight of the 2021 model is the 3.5K OLED touchscreen (3456 x 2160). This display elevates the visual experience to a whole new level.
Key OLED Advantages:
- Deep blacks and infinite contrast
- Vibrant and accurate colors
- Excellent for content consumption and creative work
Experts praise the OLED panel for delivering “vibrant colors and deep blacks” that make media look incredibly immersive . Whether you’re watching movies, editing photos, or designing graphics, the OLED screen provides unmatched clarity and richness.
Additionally, the 16:10 aspect ratio gives more vertical space, improving productivity by reducing scrolling .
However, it’s important to note that OLED comes with trade-offs. Battery life tends to be shorter compared to the Full HD+ model, and brightness levels are slightly lower at around 400 nits .
Powerful Performance with Intel 11th Gen
Under the hood, the Dell XPS 13 (2021) is powered by Intel 11th Gen Tiger Lake processors, ranging from Core i3 to Core i7 . These processors bring significant improvements in speed, efficiency, and integrated graphics.
Performance Highlights:
- Up to Intel Core i7-1195G7
- Integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics
- Up to 32GB RAM
- Up to 2TB SSD storage
This configuration ensures smooth multitasking, fast boot times, and reliable performance for everyday tasks and even moderate creative workloads.
Benchmarks and reviews consistently show that the XPS 13 delivers fast and responsive performance, making it suitable for productivity, coding, and light video editing .
Keyboard, Touchpad, and Build Quality
Dell has refined the typing experience on the XPS 13. The keyboard offers:
- Comfortable key travel
- Solid tactile feedback
- Backlit keys for low-light environments
The touchpad is large, precise, and responsive, supporting Windows Precision drivers for smooth navigation.
The overall build quality is exceptional, with a rigid chassis and premium materials that reinforce Dell’s reputation for durability and craftsmanship.
Battery Life: The OLED Trade-Off
Battery life is one of the few compromises in the OLED version. While the Full HD+ model can last significantly longer, the OLED variant typically delivers around 7–8 hours of usage under normal conditions .
OLED panels consume more power, especially when displaying bright content. As a result:
- Heavy users may need to recharge during the day
- Dark mode can help extend battery life
For users prioritizing battery longevity, the FHD+ option remains a better choice.
Connectivity and Ports
The Dell XPS 13 (2021) keeps things minimal when it comes to ports:
- 2x Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C)
- microSD card reader
- 3.5mm headphone jack
While this setup supports modern accessories and fast data transfer, the lack of USB-A ports may require adapters. This minimalist approach aligns with its ultra-thin design but may not suit everyone.
Webcam and Audio
The XPS 13 features a 720p webcam, which is adequate for video calls but not exceptional. Many reviewers consider it one of the weaker aspects of the device .
On the other hand, the audio quality is impressive for a laptop of its size. The speakers deliver clear sound with decent volume, making it suitable for media consumption and virtual meetings.
Who Should Buy the Dell XPS 13 (2021)?
This laptop is ideal for:
- Professionals needing a portable powerhouse
- Students looking for a premium ultrabook
- Creatives who benefit from OLED display quality
- Anyone seeking a high-end Windows experience
However, it may not be the best choice for:
- Gamers (due to integrated graphics)
- Users needing extensive port options
- Those prioritizing long battery life above all else
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stunning OLED display
- Premium design and build quality
- Lightweight and portable
- Strong performance with Intel 11th Gen CPUs
- Excellent keyboard and trackpad
Cons:
- Limited ports
- Average webcam
- Reduced battery life with OLED
- Premium price point
Final Verdict: Still the Best Windows Ultrabook?
The Dell XPS 13 (2021) with OLED is a near-perfect ultrabook. It combines elegant design, powerful hardware, and one of the best displays available on any laptop.
While it does have minor drawbacks—particularly battery life and port selection—the overall package remains incredibly compelling. The OLED screen alone is enough to set it apart from competitors, offering a visual experience that few laptops can match.
For users who value display quality, portability, and premium design, the Dell XPS 13 (2021) is still one of the best Windows laptops available today.