Introduction
The Dell XPS 15 (2020) model 9500 arrives with a sleek redesign and powerful hardware. It aims to fix outdated elements from previous models while preserving what users love about the XPS series. However, despite its fresh look and performance upgrades, some long-standing issues remain. In this review, we explore what’s new, what works well, and what continues to hold the XPS 15 back from perfection.
What’s New in the 2020 Design
Edge-to-edge 16:10 InfinityEdge Display
The updated display offers more screen real estate in the same compact chassis. With ultra-thin bezels and a 16:10 aspect ratio, it enhances productivity and viewing experience.
Refined Build Quality
The 2020 model introduces a modern, slim chassis built with premium materials like aluminum and carbon fiber. It feels just as durable and sophisticated as previous versions, but noticeably sleeker.
Improved Keyboard and Speakers
Dell expanded the keyboard layout and enhanced key travel. The upward-facing stereo speakers offer clearer, fuller sound than prior generations.
According to The Verge, this is the complete redesign many XPS fans have waited for.
Performance and Battery Life
Powered by 10th Gen Intel Core i7 and i9 processors, paired with up to 64GB of RAM and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti GPU, the XPS 15 (2020) delivers high-end performance suitable for content creation, photo editing, and multitasking.
Battery life averages around 8 to 9 hours for video playback or light productivity tasks. While it’s better than some Windows laptops in the same category, it falls short compared to the MacBook Pro.
Thermal and Noise Issues
Despite its impressive power, the XPS 15 struggles with heat management. The laptop tends to get warm, especially under load. Heat is noticeable around the keyboard and bottom panel, leading to thermal throttling during heavy tasks like video editing.
Fans frequently ramp up even during moderate use. Though not unbearable, fan noise is a recurring complaint among users.
A Reddit user commented, “It’s a great laptop for winter—the left side warms your hand even when browsing.”
Quality Control and Software Bugs
Some early buyers reported inconsistent build quality and recurring software bugs:
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Audio distortion and crackling
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Unresponsive or jittery trackpads
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Wi-Fi disconnections and sleep-wake glitches
Dell released firmware updates to resolve many of these issues, but not all units perform flawlessly. Users on Dell forums and Reddit shared mixed experiences, suggesting these problems may vary by batch.
Display, Ports, and Additional Features
The 15.6-inch 4K UHD+ touch display option is among the best in its class. It offers excellent brightness, contrast, and color accuracy—ideal for photographers, designers, and creatives.
In terms of connectivity, the laptop includes:
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Three USB-C ports (two with Thunderbolt 3 support)
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SD card reader
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Headphone jack
While USB-C is the future, some users miss having standard USB-A ports. Fortunately, Dell includes a USB-C to USB-A dongle in the box.
Summary: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning 4K InfinityEdge display | Runs hot under load |
| Premium build and sleek design | Fan noise is noticeable |
| Powerful CPU and GPU options | Trackpad and audio issues reported |
| Great speakers and keyboard | Battery life could be better |
Video Review
For an in-depth visual perspective, you can watch this trusted hands-on review:
Dell XPS 15 9500 – 30-Day Experience
YouTube Link
Conclusion
The Dell XPS 15 (2020) is a beautiful machine that blends power, design, and functionality. Its refreshed aesthetics and improved display make it a strong contender for creatives and professionals. However, thermal challenges, fan noise, and minor bugs hold it back from being a flawless machine.
If you can handle occasional heat and are looking for a stylish Windows-based MacBook Pro alternative, the XPS 15 is still one of the best 15-inch laptops available today.
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