Dell adds 14in and 15in XPS models to ultrabook line-up

Dell has given its existing XPS 13 ultrabook a pair of larger siblings with the launch of the XPS 14 and XPS 15, offering buyers the option to purchase more capable models, although many will question whether the systems qualify as ultrabooks at all.

Available from today, the XPS 14 and XPS 15 share much of the same design build quality as the XPS 13, but offer customers a choice of form factors to suit their needs.

According to Dell, the XPS 14 provides long battery life and connectivity for those who need to get online wherever they are, while the XPS 15 delivers graphics performance and a brilliant display for multimedia creation and entertainment.

However, with the XPS 14 starting at a weight of 2.1kg and the XPS 15 from 2.6kg, it is difficult to see how the new models fit with Intel's vision for the ultrabook as a sleek and lightweight answer to Apple's MacBook Air and the many tablet devices flooding the market.

Both models are constructed from machined aluminium, feature edge-to-edge Corning Gorilla Glass to protect the display, and are based on Intel's third generation Core i5 and Core i7 processors, plus USB 3.0 ports.

The XPS 14 is 20.7mm thick and fits its 14in HD+ screen into a compact 13in form factor, Dell said. It is claimed to offer all day usability, with up to 11 hours of battery life.

This model can be configured with choice of disk drives, including a 512GB SSD, up to 8GB memory and an optional Nvidia GeForce GT 630M discrete graphics adapter.

Mobile connectivity is provided via an optional integrated mobile broadband module in addition to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Meanwhile, the XPS 15 (pictured above) comes with Nvidia graphics as standard to drive its 15.6in display, with a choice of GT 630M or GT 640M, and also includes a slot-loading DVD-RW or Blu-ray drive.

Drive options include a 1TB hard drive or 512GB SSD, with 6GB memory expandable up to 16GB.

Pricing for the Dell XPS 14 start at £1,049, while the XPS 15 starts at £1,149 including VAT and delivery.