Overview
The Dell XPS 16 (9640) is the 2024 generation of Dell’s premium 16-inch Windows laptop. It combines Intel Core Ultra processors with a minimalist aluminum chassis, an optional high-resolution OLED touchscreen, and configurations with Nvidia GeForce RTX graphics. It occupies the space between a general-purpose premium notebook and a creator laptop: suitable for demanding everyday work and media production, but not designed to deliver the highest possible graphics performance for its size or price.
Its defining features are also its most divisive. The keyboard has closely spaced, oversized keycaps, the function row uses illuminated capacitive controls, and the haptic touchpad sits beneath an uninterrupted glass palm rest without a visible outline. Reviewers generally appreciate the materials, speakers, and OLED image quality, while questioning whether these interface choices improve everyday usability. The standard IPS display and optional OLED panel also produce meaningfully different buying propositions, so an advertised XPS 16 price is not enough to identify what you are getting.
Who it's for
The XPS 16 makes most sense for buyers who want a polished Windows laptop for photography, office work, programming, and occasional video editing, and who value display quality and construction over maximum performance per dollar. An RTX-equipped version can accelerate supported creative applications and handle gaming, but GPU selection and power limits matter more than the graphics badge alone. Buyers whose work depends on sustained rendering should compare application-specific benchmarks against thicker creator laptops.
It is less convincing for frequent travelers, competitive gamers, or anyone who regularly uses physical function keys without looking. Its size and weight make it better suited to moving between rooms or commuting with a substantial bag than constant handheld travel. If you mostly browse, write, and join video calls, a smaller premium laptop may provide comparable practical usefulness for less money. Trying the keyboard, touchpad, and touch controls in person is especially worthwhile before committing.
Things to know before buying
Compare listings by the 9640 model number, processor, graphics, memory, storage, and display—not simply the XPS 16 name. Memory is soldered, so choose enough at purchase; the SSD is serviceable. Connectivity centers on USB-C, alongside a microSD reader and headphone jack. Plan for adapters or a dock if you need USB-A, HDMI, or wired Ethernet, and check the exact port capabilities of the configuration you select.
Battery results depend heavily on the panel, workload, brightness, and graphics configuration; OLED review results should not be treated as promises for every version. Likewise, a discounted base model is not equivalent to a heavily upgraded review unit. For US purchases, compare the final configuration price, warranty coverage, return policy, and whether stock is genuinely new rather than refurbished or open-box. Older inventory can offer value, but only when its price remains competitive with newer alternatives.