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Dell 14S Review: Solid if Unspectacular Mainstream Laptop
Dell's new 14S laptop positions itself as a midrange alternative to the high-end XPS series, starting at $1,400. It offers some attractive features like a 14-inch OLED display but falls short in resolution and weight compared to the competition. The review highlights performance benchmarks that are competitive but not leading, leaving buyers to weigh their options against lighter, better-priced alternatives like the XPS 13 and the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x. Ultimately, the Dell 14S serves as a reminder of how improvement in design and functionality can enhance user experience in a crowded market.
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Published 17 Sept 2026, 12:21 UTC9 min read
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Brief
NewsBite reading:Dell 14S Review: A Solid Yet Unremarkable Mainstream Laptop
TL;DR
- Dell 14S starts at $1,400 with several configurations available.
- Competes closely with Dell's XPS 13, which is cheaper with better resolution.
- Though it matches performance of XPS 14, the Dell 14S is heavier at 3.3 pounds.
- Battery life achieved 23.5 hours on testing, but less than competitors.
- Display options include OLED, though resolution is lower than preferred.
Interesting facts
- The XPS 13 is found to be more cost-effective at a lower price with better specs.
- Dell 14S offers a choice of various Panther Lake processors but limited storage and RAM options.
What changed
The introduction of the Dell 14S repositions Dell's offerings by providing a midrange option but introduces apparent drawbacks in display resolution and weight compared to similar competitors.