Dell has reintroduced its XPS laptop line at CES 2026, unveiling redesigned 14-inch and 16-inch models. The XPS 14 will be available later this year pre-loaded with Ubuntu, marking a resurgence after the branding was retired last January during a marketing revamp.
The previous XPS branding was phased out, renaming the models to “Dell Premium.” However, the demand for the XPS name has led to its comeback, complete with significant design updates.
These new models are touted as the thinnest yet, measuring only 14.6mm and weighing 3 pounds (XPS 14) and 3.6 pounds (XPS 16). The XPS 14 even offers more screen space than Apple’s MacBook Air 13.
Dell has overhauled the thermal system, featuring larger and thinner fans that support the Intel Core Ultra Series CPUs with 12 Xe-core Arc iGPUs. Enhanced AI capabilities using the Intel AI Boost NPU promise up to a 57% performance improvement compared to the previous Dell 14 Premium model with a Core Ultra 7 255H processor.
A standout design feature on the new XPS models is the engraved logo on the back of the display, a detail fans had long requested. Additional changes include a physical function key row, improved key travel for better typing comfort, and enhancements around the glass touchpad for easier access. The laptops also feature modular USB-C ports and easily removable keyboards to simplify repairs.
In terms of display options, buyers can select between OLED and 2K LCDs, with the latter supporting variable refresh rates from 1 to 120Hz, promoting battery longevity—up to 27 hours under standard use and 40 hours of video playback on Windows 11 in optimal test conditions. However, users opting for the Ubuntu version should note that battery performance may differ from that of Windows counterparts.
Pricing for the new XPS models reflects their premium nature, with the XPS 14 starting at approximately $2050 and the XPS 16 at around $2200 for limited configurations. Both models come in a sleek Graphite color, with more affordable options anticipated to launch in February along with a new Shimmer color variant. A thinner XPS 13 is also set to debut in the spring.
As for the Ubuntu-powered XPS 14, Dell has confirmed that it will be available “later this year,” although details about specific features, such as whether it will include a replacement key for the CoPilot+ present in Windows models, remain undisclosed.
For further details, you can check the announcement on the Dell blog.