Dell XPS 15z aims to offer alternative to Apple MacBook range

Dell has introduced the XPS 15z laptop designed to cater to the business and multimedia needs of professional users.

With its aluminium finish, the 15z looks to be taking aim directly at the Apple MacBook range. The laptop comes with dimensions of 24.68x384.85x260.37mm and a weight of 2.51kg, leading Dell to tout its superior portability.

Key features include the 15in WLED display that is upgradeable to a full-HD, with a maximum resolution of 1,920x1,080. Customers can choose to power the device using an Intel Core i5 or i7 dual-core processor, and the 15z is capable of housing up to 8GB of DDR3 RAM.

Buyers can incorporate up to 750GB of internal storage, a sizeable repository for data-heavy business use. Connectivity, meanwhile, comes in the form of two USB 3.0 ports, a hybrid USB/eSATA input, HDMI output as well as the usual Ethernet and audio connections.

Additional features include built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity together with a DVD re-writer, 1.3-megapixel webcam and nine-in-one memory card reader.

Dell also claims that the laptop can provide up to eight hours of battery life. The 15z incorporates Nvidia's discrete graphics with Optimus technology, which automatically switches to power-saving integrated graphics under reduced workloads, helping the battery last longer, the manufacturer noted.

"[The XPS 15z] delivers all the must-have features, from next-generation Intel Core i processors for incredible performance to optional full HD screens that are up to 50 per cent brighter than standard displays," said Sam Burd, vice president of Dell's consumer and SMB product group.

Dell plans to continue adding similar devices to its portfolio later this year, he said.

Prices for the Dell XPS 15z start at £899 including VAT and shipping. Realistically, users looking to customise the device with high-end specifications are looking at a price tag upwards of £1,000.