Dell officially revived its iconic XPS series at CES 2026 with the launch of two premium ultrabooks: the Dell XPS 14 (model DA14260) and the Dell XPS 16 (model DA16260). These models mark a significant turnaround for Dell after retiring the XPS brand in 2025 in favor of generic naming. The comeback answers strong user demand for the signature design and performance the XPS line is known for.
The new XPS laptops feature a complete redesign balancing classic minimalist aesthetics with the latest 2026 technology. Both devices are powered by Intel’s latest Panther Lake processors and offer stunning OLED 3.2K displays with a 120Hz refresh rate. This relaunch targets creative professionals, executives, and tech enthusiasts who prioritize premium build quality and cutting-edge hardware.
Why Dell Reversed Course on XPS
Dell initially replaced its established sub-brands such as XPS, Precision, and Alienware with generic model numbers in 2025. However, backlash from creative communities and loyal users made Dell realize the XPS name retains strong brand equity and symbolizes balanced performance and premium design. Therefore, Dell now reinstates the XPS brand as a premium flagship while continuing its new naming for business and entry-level lines. This move is also designed to directly compete with Apple’s MacBook Pro and Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 series.
Design: Practical and Premium
Instead of following recent trends of extreme aesthetics, Dell took a more conservative and ergonomic design approach for the XPS 14 and 16. Key improvements include a return to a physical scissor-switch keyboard for better tactile feedback and a larger haptic touchpad with distinct physical markings to minimize mistypes during intense typing sessions.
Both models feature CNC-machined aluminum chassis with Gorilla Glass on top panels and optional OLED screen protection, maintaining durability with a lightweight form factor. The XPS 14 weighs approximately 1.52 kg, while the XPS 16 tips the scales at about 1.98 kg. Notably, the lightest versions omit the discrete GPU and have smaller batteries for a thinner profile.
Powerful Intel Panther Lake Processors
The XPS 14 and 16 are among the first laptops to include Intel’s Panther Lake processors. They come in energy-efficient (U-series) or high-performance (HX-series) options:
- U-series: Intel Core Ultra 5 325 and Intel Core Ultra 7 355, both offering 8 cores optimized for power saving.
- HX-series: Intel Core Ultra X7 358H and Ultra X9 388H, featuring Intel ARC graphics for improved GPU rendering, AI acceleration, and power efficiency.
Memory options reach up to 64GB LPDDRX onboard RAM and PCIe Gen5 SSD storage up to 4TB, boasting read/write speeds of up to 12,000 MB/s. Dell also introduced a dynamic performance mode that optimizes power distribution between CPU, GPU, and display for smooth multitasking and gaming.
Display Excellence: IPS and OLED Options
Dell provides two premium screen technologies:
| Model | Resolution | Technology | Refresh Rate | Brightness (nits) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XPS 14/16 (IPS) | 2880×1800 (2.8K) | IPS WUXGA+ | 60Hz | Up to 500 |
| XPS 14/16 (OLED) | 3200×2000 (3.2K) | OLED Tandem | 120Hz | Up to 600 (HDR 1000) |
The OLED Tandem technology uses dual emission layers to deliver brighter images with lower power draw, an innovation previously reserved for flagship smartphones. Both displays support 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, Delta E under 2, and HDR standards including Dolby Vision and HDR10+, ideal for video editing, graphic design, and media consumption.
Connectivity: More Ports, Less Hassle
Responding to user feedback, Dell upgraded the port selection for enhanced practicality:
- 2x Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports
- 1x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 port
- 1x HDMI 2.1 port
- 1x SD card reader (UHS-II)
- 3.5mm audio jack
Wireless connectivity is equally robust with support for Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Bluetooth 5.4, and optional LTE/5G depending on region. This simplifies daily usage by reducing dependence on bulky dongles.
Pricing and Availability
Starting at $2,050, the Dell XPS 14 and 16 are competitively priced against MacBook Pro 14" M4 and Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 models. They offer Windows 11 Pro flexibility, optional OLED displays, and a full suite of ports as key differentiators.
The XPS 2026 series launched in the U.S. and Canada on January 6, 2026, with global availability expected between February and March 2026.
This comeback exemplifies Dell’s commitment to blending timeless design with high-end performance. The refreshed XPS 14 and XPS 16 stand as a compelling choice for those seeking a premium laptop ready for creative workloads, multimedia, and professional use in 2026 and beyond.
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