DELL XPS 14 (9440) 2024 review : Compact, Stylish, and AI-Enhanced Performance

The Dell XPS 14 (9440), launched in 2024, is a premium flagship laptop crafted from CNC machined aluminum in Graphite (black) or Platinum, ensuring durability with a sleek InfinityEdge display and ultra-thin bezels. Powered by Intel’s AI-enhanced Core Ultra 7 155H processor, it comes with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, expandable up to 64GB RAM and 4TB storage. Display options include a 1,920 x 1,200 IPS panel (60Hz/120Hz) or an OLED 3,200 x 2,000 touch display for superior clarity.

Weighing 3.7 lbs (3.8 for OLED models), it is slightly heavier than competitors but offers a modern LED touch-strip key row and a haptic touchpad for seamless navigation. The keyboard, though stylish, feels shallow and stiff, with half-sized arrow keys that may not appeal to all users. Security features include IR face recognition and a fingerprint reader. A 1080p webcam supports Windows Studio Effects but lacks a privacy shutter.

Connectivity includes three USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, an audio jack, and a microSD card slot, though USB Type-A and HDMI are available via a bundled dongle. Wireless connectivity features Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth, but no mobile broadband option. An optional Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 GPU boosts content-creation performance, making this a powerful, stylish choice for professionals seeking cutting-edge AI enhancements and premium build quality.

Dell XPS 14 (9440) 2024: AI-Powered Performance with Intel Core Ultra 7

Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 Processor 155H

• Grade: High-Performance Processor for Productivity and Creative Work
• Definition: The Intel Core Ultra 7 155H is a powerful 16-core processor designed to handle demanding workloads with efficiency.
  • 16 cores (6 Performance + 8 Efficiency + 2 Low-Power Efficiency cores) allow for multitasking, content creation, and moderate gaming.
  • 24MB Cache ensures faster processing speeds for tasks requiring quick data retrieval.
  • Up to 4.8 GHz clock speed provides strong single-core performance, making it ideal for high-speed applications like photo editing, coding, and casual gaming.
  • Energy efficiency is a highlight, making it a balanced option for users needing strong performance without excessive power consumption.
  • Ideal for professionals and creators who need a fast, efficient processor for general computing, media consumption, and moderate creative workloads.

Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 Processor 165H

• Grade: Premium High-Performance Processor for Advanced Computing and Heavy Workloads
• Definition: The Intel Core Ultra 7 165H is a higher-end version of the 155H, designed for more intensive workloads and better performance across demanding applications.
  • 16 cores (6 Performance + 8 Efficiency + 2 Low-Power Efficiency cores) ensure seamless multitasking and high-speed processing.
  • 24MB Cache delivers faster data access and improved performance in complex applications.
  • Up to 5.0 GHz clock speed allows for even greater single-core performance, making it a strong choice for power users, high-end creative work, and gaming.
  • Optimized for professional workloads like video editing, 3D rendering, and AI-driven tasks, this processor provides a premium experience for users demanding the highest efficiency and power.
  • Best suited for advanced users and creators who need a robust processor for complex projects and high-performance computing.

Dell XPS 14 (9440) 2024: Unlock Next-Level AI Performance with Intel® AI Boost

The Dell XPS 14 9440 is equipped with Intel® AI Boost, a powerful NPU (Neural Processing Unit) that enhances the laptop's AI capabilities. This feature is designed to accelerate tasks that involve artificial intelligence, making it ideal for users who require faster processing for AI-driven applications and workflows. Intel® AI Boost optimizes the performance of AI algorithms, enabling faster data analysis, improved machine learning tasks, and more efficient handling of AI-powered software. With the integrated NPU, the XPS 14 delivers superior AI performance, supporting a smoother experience when working with advanced technologies such as facial recognition, voice assistants, and other AI-powered functions.

Intel® vPro Technology Advanced Management Features

Intel® vPro Technology Advanced offers advanced management and security features designed for business environments. It enables IT departments to remotely manage devices, update software, and perform diagnostics without being physically present, improving the efficiency and uptime of business operations. With advanced security capabilities, it helps protect sensitive data by enabling hardware-based security and encryption, making it suitable for enterprise-level deployments where security and management are paramount.

Intel® vPro Technology Essential Management Features

The Intel® vPro Technology Essential management features provide remote management and basic security options. It allows IT teams to manage devices from a central location, even if the device is powered off or the operating system is unresponsive. While it lacks some of the advanced security and management features of the Advanced version, it still provides sufficient tools for organizations that need remote management capabilities for basic security and control. This is a good option for companies that need cost-effective management without the added complexity of the advanced features.

Dell XPS 14 (9440): Power Up Your Workflow with 16GB to 64GB of LPDDR5x Memory

The Dell XPS 14 9440 offers a range of memory configurations, each designed to cater to varying user needs, ensuring smooth and efficient performance for different types of tasks. Let's break down the three available memory options:

• 16GB LPDDR5x Dual Channel at 6400MT/s
  The 16GB LPDDR5x dual-channel memory is perfect for everyday users who need a solid balance between performance and power efficiency. Operating at 6400MT/s, this memory allows for quick data transfer, making it ideal for standard multitasking, web browsing, and handling moderately demanding applications. LPDDR5x technology ensures faster memory speeds compared to older standards, leading to improved system responsiveness and reduced power consumption, which is especially beneficial for portable devices like the XPS 14 9440.

• 32GB LPDDR5x Dual Channel at 6400MT/s
  Stepping up to 32GB of LPDDR5x dual-channel memory offers an enhanced experience, especially for users working with more demanding tasks such as heavier multitasking, content creation, and larger datasets. While the memory speed remains at 6400MT/s, the increase in capacity provides greater headroom for running numerous applications simultaneously or processing larger files without sacrificing system performance. This configuration is suitable for professionals and users who need additional memory to keep their workflows efficient and smooth, ensuring that the system can handle heavier loads without noticeable slowdowns.

• 64GB LPDDR5x Dual Channel at 7467MT/s
  The 64GB LPDDR5x dual-channel memory configuration, operating at a slightly higher speed of 7467MT/s, is the top-tier option for users with the most demanding performance needs. This configuration is ideal for power users such as developers, video editors, or anyone working with memory-intensive applications, large files, or virtual machines. The increased memory size, paired with the higher data transfer rate, ensures that the XPS 14 9440 can handle even the most intensive tasks without lag or interruptions. The added speed and capacity make this option perfect for users who require the ultimate performance for complex tasks and workflows.

Dell XPS 14 (9440) Review: High-Speed Storage Solutions for Every Task – PCIe NVMe SSD Choices

The Dell XPS 14 9440 offers multiple storage configurations, each designed to meet different storage needs. Here's a detailed breakdown of each available option

• 512GB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive
  The 512GB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD offers reliable storage for general users, providing fast read/write speeds for quicker boot times, faster file transfers, and smooth system performance. The PCIe NVMe technology ensures efficient access to data, making it an ideal choice for users who need sufficient storage for documents, spreadsheets, media, and light applications.

• 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive
  The 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD caters to users who need more space for larger files and applications. This configuration delivers quick data access and smooth multitasking performance, with enough room for storing photos, videos, and larger software installations. The fast read/write speeds provided by PCIe NVMe make it a great choice for power users seeking both capacity and speed.

• 2TB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive
  The 2TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD offers even more space for users with heavier storage needs. It’s ideal for content creators, video editors, and professionals working with large data sets or complex projects. This drive ensures fast read/write speeds for high-resolution media files, demanding applications, and efficient data access, providing the necessary performance for intensive workloads.

• 4TB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive
  The 4TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD is the top-tier storage option for users needing vast amounts of space and maximum performance. Perfect for tasks such as 4K video editing, 3D modeling, and managing large databases, this drive offers ultra-fast read/write speeds and exceptional capacity. The high performance ensures quick access to even the largest files and applications, making it an ideal choice for professionals and power users.

Dell XPS 14 (9440) 2024: Graphics Excellence with Intel Arc and NVIDIA RTX 4050

Intel® Arc™ Graphics

Intel Arc Graphics provides basic performance suitable for casual tasks and light gaming. It is designed for users who prioritize power efficiency and do not need to handle heavy graphical workloads. This makes it an excellent option for those who use their system for web browsing, office tasks, and video streaming, with the occasional casual gaming or esports title. For more demanding tasks, however, users may need a more robust GPU option.

NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4050, 6 GB GDDR6, 30W

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 offers a stronger mid-range solution, ideal for users who need dedicated graphics power for gaming, content creation, and multitasking with higher demands. Equipped with 6GB of GDDR6 memory, the RTX 4050 can efficiently handle AAA gaming at 1080p or 1440p, photo/video editing, and other graphically intensive tasks. It is a solid choice for gamers and creative professionals looking for an affordable option that offers more graphics performance without going for the higher-end RTX models. The 30W power draw ensures solid efficiency, offering strong performance without draining the battery.

Dell XPS 14 (9440) 2024 Review: Choose the Perfect Display for Your Needs

The Dell XPS 14 (9440) offers two premium display options in 2024, each catering to different user needs. The 14.5" Touch OLED display with 3.2K resolution (3200x2000) delivers vibrant, high-contrast visuals with deep blacks and a 48-120Hz refresh rate, making it perfect for content creators and those requiring sharp, immersive visuals. On the other hand, the 14.5" Non-Touch FHD+ (1920x1200) display offers 500 nits of brightness and a standard 60Hz refresh rate, providing clear, crisp images for everyday tasks like browsing and office work. Both options feature InfinityEdge design, minimizing bezels for a sleek look and maximizing screen space. The Touch OLED display is ideal for professionals in creative fields, while the Non-Touch FHD+ display suits users who prioritize productivity and efficiency without the need for a touchscreen.

Dell XPS 14 (9440) Review: Uninterrupted Connectivity with Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6E

The Intel® Killer™ Wi-Fi 6E 1675 (AX211) is a high-performance wireless card designed to deliver fast, stable, and reliable internet connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) technology, which operates in the newly available 6 GHz band for faster speeds and less congestion compared to Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6. This results in smoother streaming, gaming, and multitasking, even in high-density environments with multiple devices. Supporting 2x2 MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output), the AX211 enhances signal reception and data transfer rates for improved overall wireless performance. Additionally, it includes Bluetooth® support, enabling seamless connections to a variety of Bluetooth-enabled devices like headphones, mice, keyboards, and more. This wireless card is ideal for users seeking next-generation technology with improved performance, lower latency, and more stable connections in busy environments.

Dell XPS 14 (9440) 2024: Unmatched Audio Clarity with Waves MaxxAudio and 3D Head Tracking

The Dell XPS 14 9440 features a premium audio system designed for high-quality sound and immersive listening experiences:

• Stereo Speakers with Waves MaxxAudio Quad-Speaker Design
  The laptop is equipped with a quad-speaker system, which includes 2W main speakers x 2 channels and 2W tweeters x 2 channels, delivering a total 8W peak output. This design ensures a balanced sound profile, offering clear highs, deep lows, and enhanced audio clarity. The combination of main speakers and tweeters provides an optimized audio experience, making it suitable for watching movies, listening to music, or video calls with crisp and detailed sound quality.

• Headphone and Microphone Combo with Waves Nx® 3D Audio and Head Tracking
  The Dell XPS 14 9440 also features a headphone and microphone combo that integrates Waves Nx® 3D audio technology, providing an immersive sound experience with head tracking capabilities. This feature adjusts the audio based on your head movements, creating a more dynamic and lifelike listening experience. Whether you're gaming, watching videos, or engaged in a video conference, the head tracking feature enhances spatial audio, making sound feel more realistic and positioned around you.

Dell XPS 14 (9440) 2024: Long-Lasting Power with 21 Hours of Battery Life

The Dell XPS 14 9440 offers impressive battery and power features designed for long-lasting performance and convenience:

• Primary Battery – 6-Cell, 69.5Whr
  The laptop is equipped with a 6-cell, 69.5Wh battery, offering a solid balance between power and portability. This battery capacity is designed to support extended usage, ensuring that the device can handle day-to-day tasks without frequent recharging. The 6-cell configuration contributes to longer battery life, which is crucial for users on the go or those working away from a power source.

• Battery Life – Up to 21 Hours with FHD+
  The Dell XPS 14 9440 can provide up to 21 hours of battery life with the FHD+ display configuration. This impressive longevity allows users to work, stream, or browse the web for extended periods without needing to plug in, making it perfect for all-day use in professional or personal settings. With this battery life, the laptop offers a reliable experience for users who need to stay productive without constant charging.

• Power – 60W AC Adapter, USB Type-C
  The laptop comes with a 60W AC adapter and uses a USB Type-C connection for charging. This compact and efficient power solution provides quick charging and easy portability. The USB Type-C port offers versatility, allowing users to charge the device with a universally compatible cable while also maintaining a sleek, minimalistic design. The 60W adapter ensures that the device charges efficiently, even during intense usage.

Dell XPS 14 (9440) 2024: Maximizing Connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 and MicroSD Expansion

• USB-C Thunderbolt 4 Ports
  Similar to other Dell XPS laptops and Apple MacBooks, the XPS 14 relies heavily on USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports for data transfer, charging, and peripheral connection. There are two Thunderbolt 4 ports on the left edge and one on the right edge, ensuring plenty of high-speed connectivity options for various devices, such as external monitors, storage, and accessories. Thunderbolt 4 ensures fast data transfer rates, supporting 40Gbps speeds and compatibility with a wide range of devices.

• Audio Jack and MicroSD Card Slot
  The right side of the laptop features an audio jack, allowing users to connect headphones or external speakers for audio needs. Additionally, the microSD card slot provides an easy way to transfer files from compatible devices like cameras and smartphones, adding a convenient storage expansion option for users who work with media.

• Lack of USB Type-A and HDMI Ports
  While the Dell XPS 14 does not include traditional USB Type-A or HDMI monitor ports, it offers a clever workaround. The laptop comes with a dongle that connects via one of the USB-C ports. This dongle provides both USB Type-A and HDMI outputs, giving users the flexibility to connect older peripherals or external displays, thus ensuring compatibility without compromising the laptop's thin and sleek design.

DELL XPS 14 9440 (2024) Laptop 

✔️ Intel Core Ultra 7-155H

✔️ 32GB LPDDR5x Dual Channel at 6400MT/s

✔️ 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive

✔️ Intel Arc Graphics

✔️14.5” 3.2K (3200 x 2000) Touch

✔️Wi-Fi 6E 

$2000 at Exceldisc

DELL XPS 14 9440 (2024) Laptop

✔️ Intel Core Ultra 7-155H

✔️ 16GB LPDDR5x Dual Channel at 6400MT/s

✔️ 512GB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive

✔️ Intel Arc Graphics

✔️14.5" FHD+ (1920 x 1200)

✔️Wi-Fi 6E 

$1300 at Exceldisc

DELL XPS 14 9440 (2024) Laptop

✔️ Intel Core Ultra 7-155H

✔️ 16GB LPDDR5x, 6400 MT/s (onboard)

✔️ 512GB NVMe M.2 SSD

✔️ Intel Arc Graphics

✔️14.5" WUXGA (1920 x 1200)

✔️Wi-Fi 6E 

$1500 at Exceldisc

DELL XPS 14 9440 (2024) Laptop

✔️ Intel Core Ultra 7-155H

✔️ 32GB LPDDR5x-SDRAM (On-board)

✔️ 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive

✔️ NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 6GB

✔️14.5" 3.2K (3200 x 2000) Touch

✔️Wi-Fi 6E 

$3020 at Exceldisc

DELL XPS 14 9440 (2024) Laptop

✔️ Intel Core Ultra 7-155H

✔️ 16GB LPDDR5x 7467 MT/s

✔️ 512GB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive

✔️ NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 6GB

✔️14.5" FHD+ (1920 x 1200)

✔️Wi-Fi 6E 

$1500 at Exceldisc

DELL XPS 14 9440 (2024) Laptop

✔️ Intel Core Ultra 7-155H

✔️32GB LPDDR5X 3733 MHz

✔️ 512GB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive

✔️ NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 6GB

✔️14.5" 3.2K (3200 x 2000) Touch

✔️Wi-Fi 6E 

$3380 at Exceldisc

Dell XPS 14 9440 (2024) Laptop

✔️ Intel Core Ultra 7-155H

✔️32GB LPDDR5x Dual Channel at 6400MT/s

✔️ 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive

✔️Intel Arc Graphics

✔️14.5" 3.2K (3200 x 2000)  Touch

✔️Wi-Fi 6E 

$1480 at Exceldisc