Laptops: Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 chip) vs. Dell XPS 15 (2025 model)
Quick Verdict
The MacBook Pro excels in battery life and display technology, while the Dell XPS 15 offers more upgradeability and a wider range of configuration options.
- MacBook Pro offers potentially longer battery life and a Mini-LED display, while the Dell XPS 15 provides upgradeable RAM and a choice of IPS or OLED display.
- MacBook Pro uses Apple's proprietary M4 chip, while the Dell XPS 15 uses Intel processors and NVIDIA graphics.
- Dell XPS 15 offers upgradeable RAM and dual SSD slots, a feature not available on the MacBook Pro.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 chip) | Dell XPS 15 (2025 model) |
|---|---|---|
| Processor (CPU) | Apple M4 (10-core), configurable to M4 Pro (up to 14-core) or M4 Max (up to 16-core) | Up to Intel Core i9-13900H (13th gen H-series). Some models may feature Intel Core Ultra processors. |
| Graphics (GPU) | Integrated Apple M4 (10-core), configurable to M4 Pro (up to 20-core) or M4 Max (up to 40-core) | Options range from integrated Intel Iris Xe to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050, 4060, or 4070 |
| RAM (Max) | Up to 128GB (M4 Max with 16-core CPU) | 64GB |
| Storage (Max) | Up to 8TB SSD (M4 Max) | Up to 2TB SSD |
| Display Technology | Mini-LED backlit Liquid Retina XDR display | IPS or OLED |
| Battery Life (Typical) | Up to 24 hours claimed | Around 7-8 hours of light use |
| Weight | 3.4 pounds (1.55 kg) for M4 | Around 1.9 kg (4.2 lbs) |
| Operating System | macOS | Windows 11 Pro |
Overall Comparison
CPU: Apple M4 vs Intel; Display: Mini-LED vs OLED; Battery: MacBook Pro wins; RAM: Dell wins
Pros and Cons
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 chip)
Pros:
- High-performance M4 chip (configurable to M4 Pro/Max)
- Stunning Mini-LED backlit Liquid Retina XDR display
- Excellent battery life (up to 24 hours claimed)
- Comprehensive port selection (Thunderbolt, HDMI, SD card reader)
- Comfortable Magic Keyboard and Force Touch trackpad
- High-fidelity six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio
- Studio-quality three-mic array
- Seamless macOS integration
- Effective cooling system to prevent thermal throttling
Cons:
- RAM is not upgradeable after purchase
- Real-world battery life varies depending on usage
- Price can be high depending on configuration
Dell XPS 15 (2025 model)
Pros:
- Comfortable keyboard for extended typing sessions with good key travel
- Precision glass trackpad is smooth and responsive
- High-quality speakers tuned by Waves MaxxAudio
- Studio-quality microphones ensure clear voice transmission during conference calls
- Upgradeable RAM
- Dual SSD slots
- OLED panel covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, making it suitable for creative work
- Display delivers vibrant colors and sharp contrast
- Cooling system is well-optimized with dual fans and heat pipes to prevent overheating
- CNC-milled aluminum chassis with a woven carbon-fiber deck
- Keyboard deck barely flexes, providing a premium feel
Cons:
- Some models may lack HDMI or USB-A ports, requiring adapters
- Some thermal throttling may occur under sustained heavy workloads
- Gaming or heavy GPU tasks may reduce battery life to 1-2 hours
User Experiences and Feedback
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 chip)
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations
- The MacBook Pro uses a rearchitected thermal design to maintain performance while staying cool and quiet.
- The keyboard is considered comfortable for extended typing.
Dell XPS 15 (2025 model)
What Users Love
- Display delivers vibrant colors and sharp contrast.
- The keyboard is comfortable for extended typing sessions with good key travel.
- The precision glass trackpad is smooth and responsive, making navigation easy.
- The laptop features high-quality speakers tuned by Waves MaxxAudio, delivering clear and immersive sound.
- Studio-quality microphones ensure clear voice transmission during conference calls.
- The cooling system is well-optimized with dual fans and heat pipes to prevent overheating, ensuring sustained performance under heavy workloads.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- Expect 7-8 hours of light use and around 6.5 hours for video playback with the 86Wh battery.
- Battery life can reach up to 10 hours on a single charge, depending on usage and display resolution.