MacBook Air vs. Dell XPS 13: The Best Ultrabook for 2024?

In the ever-evolving landscape of premium ultrabooks, two titans continue to dominate the conversation: Apple's MacBook Air and Dell's XPS 13. As we navigate through 2024, both manufacturers have refined their flagship ultraportables to unprecedented levels of performance, design excellence, and overall value. For professionals, students, and everyday users seeking the perfect balance of power and portability, choosing between these industry leaders has never been more challenging—or more consequential.

The ultrabook market has matured significantly, with both Apple and Dell pushing the boundaries of what's possible in increasingly thin and light form factors. Today's buyer faces a complex decision that extends far beyond mere specifications—it's about ecosystem integration, long-term value, and finding the device that truly enhances your specific workflow.

This comprehensive analysis dives deep into every aspect of these premium machines, from their cutting-edge processors to their display technologies, battery performance, and overall user experience. Whether you're team macOS or team Windows, by the end of this article, you'll have all the information needed to make an informed decision on which ultrabook deserves your investment in 2024.

Design and Build Quality

MacBook Air: Refining Perfection

The MacBook Air's design language continues to exemplify Apple's minimalist philosophy. The 2024 model maintains the flat-edged chassis introduced with the M-series transition, available in space gray, silver, starlight, and midnight finishes. The all-aluminum unibody construction results in a device that feels remarkably solid despite weighing just 2.7 pounds for the 13-inch model and 3.0 pounds for the 15-inch variant.

What sets the MacBook Air apart is its absolute precision in manufacturing. Every edge, port, and surface demonstrates Apple's legendary attention to detail. The premium ultrabook design is complemented by a fanless architecture that enables completely silent operation—a significant advantage for those who value distraction-free environments.

Dell XPS 13: Redefining Windows Ultraportables

Dell's XPS 13 has long been the gold standard for Windows ultrabooks, and the 2024 iteration further refines its winning formula. The device features a CNC-machined aluminum chassis with carbon fiber or glass fiber composite palm rests, creating a distinctively premium feel while maintaining structural integrity.

At just 2.6 pounds and measuring 0.55 inches at its thickest point, the XPS 13 is marginally more portable than its Apple counterpart. Dell's compact laptop design maximizes screen real estate with its virtually borderless InfinityEdge display, resulting in a footprint smaller than many competitors despite offering a 13.4-inch screen.

The Verdict on Design

Both devices represent the pinnacle of ultrabook engineering, with differences coming down to subjective preferences rather than objective advantages. The MacBook Air offers unmatched build consistency and silent operation, while the XPS 13 delivers slightly more screen-to-body ratio and marginally lighter weight. For design-conscious professionals, either choice represents the cutting edge of portable computing aesthetics.

Display Technology

MacBook Air: Liquid Retina Excellence

The MacBook Air features Apple's Liquid Retina display, offering 2560×1664 resolution on the 13.6-inch model and 2880×1864 resolution on the 15.3-inch variant. With P3 wide color gamut support, these displays reproduce 1 billion colors with exceptional accuracy—critical for creative professionals.

Apple's True Tone technology automatically adjusts white balance based on ambient lighting conditions, reducing eye strain during extended use. Maximum brightness reaches 500 nits, providing adequate visibility even in challenging lighting environments. What the Air lacks is ProMotion technology (variable refresh rate up to 120Hz), which remains exclusive to the MacBook Pro line.

Dell XPS 13: OLED Innovation

Dell offers multiple display options for the XPS 13, but the standout is undoubtedly the 3.5K (3456×2160) OLED touch display. This panel delivers true blacks and infinite contrast ratio, advantages inherent to OLED technology that LCD alternatives simply cannot match.

The XPS also offers options for FHD+ (1920×1200) non-touch and touch-enabled displays, as well as a 4K UHD+ (3840×2400) configuration. All variants feature Dell's ComfortView Plus technology, which reduces blue light emissions without compromising color accuracy. Touch capabilities across most options provide flexibility that Apple doesn't currently offer in the Air lineup.

The Display Decision

For color accuracy and overall balance, the MacBook Air's Liquid Retina display excels. However, content consumption and creative work benefit significantly from the XPS 13's OLED option, which delivers superior contrast and vivid colors. The choice ultimately hinges on specific use cases: professional content creation might favor Apple's color accuracy, while multimedia enthusiasts will appreciate Dell's OLED brilliance.

Performance and Processing Power

MacBook Air: Apple Silicon Dominance

The 2024 MacBook Air comes equipped with Apple's latest M3 chip, representing the third generation of Apple's custom silicon. This 3nm processor delivers exceptional performance while maintaining the Air's fanless design—a remarkable engineering achievement.

The M3 chip offers an 8-core CPU (4 performance cores, 4 efficiency cores) and up to a 10-core GPU. This configuration yields impressive benchmark results, particularly in single-core performance where Apple continues to lead the industry. For tasks like photo editing, video encoding, and general productivity, the MacBook Air delivers performance previously associated with much more power-hungry systems.

The unified memory architecture further enhances performance, with configurations ranging from 8GB to 24GB. This approach eliminates the traditional bottleneck between CPU, GPU, and RAM, resulting in more efficient data handling across the system.

Dell XPS 13: Intel's Latest and Greatest

Dell's XPS 13 leverages Intel's 13th-generation Core processors, with options ranging from the Core i5-1335U to the flagship Core i7-1355U. These chips utilize Intel's hybrid architecture, combining performance and efficiency cores similar to Apple's approach.

While the Intel processors deliver strong multi-threaded performance, they typically consume more power than Apple's silicon for comparable workloads. The XPS 13 compensates with an advanced cooling system that allows sustained performance during intensive tasks.

Memory options range from 8GB to 32GB of LPDDR5, offering potentially more headroom for memory-intensive applications compared to the MacBook Air's 24GB maximum. However, the traditional memory architecture doesn't provide the same bandwidth benefits as Apple's unified approach.

Real-World Performance Considerations

For most everyday tasks—web browsing, document editing, and media consumption—both systems deliver exceptional responsiveness. The performance gap becomes apparent in specialized workloads:

• Video editing: Apple's M3 excels in Final Cut Pro but performs comparably to the XPS in Adobe Premiere
• Software development: Both platforms handle coding tasks efficiently, though specialized tools may favor one ecosystem
• Gaming: Neither device is primarily gaming-focused, but the XPS 13 offers better compatibility with Windows-based games

The MacBook Air maintains its performance advantage in battery-powered scenarios, where Apple's efficiency becomes particularly evident. For power users on the go, this efficiency translates to consistent performance regardless of outlet availability.

Operating System and Software Ecosystem

macOS: Integration and Optimization

The MacBook Air runs macOS Sequoia (the latest iteration as of 2024), delivering Apple's signature integration between hardware and software. This tight coupling results in exceptional efficiency and enables features like Handoff and Universal Control for seamless interaction with other Apple devices.

For creative professionals, macOS offers exclusive applications like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro that have been fully optimized for Apple Silicon. The system's UNIX foundation also makes it particularly appealing for software development, especially for web and iOS application creation.

The App Store ecosystem continues to grow, though professional software is often purchased outside Apple's marketplace. Software updates typically deliver 5+ years of support, ensuring longevity for your investment.

Windows 11: Flexibility and Familiarity

Dell's XPS 13 ships with Windows 11, Microsoft's most refined operating system to date. The OS offers unmatched software compatibility, supporting virtually every professional application across industries. For many corporate environments, Windows remains the default standard, simplifying integration with existing systems.

Recent improvements to Windows include enhanced virtual desktops, snap layouts for improved multitasking, and better touch optimization—all beneficial for productivity on the XPS 13. Microsoft's continuous improvement model ensures regular feature updates throughout the year.

The broader Windows ecosystem includes advantages like Game Pass for gamers and deep integration with Microsoft 365 for business users. However, this flexibility sometimes comes at the cost of the optimization that Apple achieves through its controlled environment.

Ecosystem Considerations

Your existing tech ecosystem will heavily influence this decision:

• iPhone/iPad users will benefit significantly from the continuity features of the MacBook Air
• Android/Windows users will find the XPS 13 integrates more seamlessly with their current devices
• Professional software requirements may dictate your choice, as certain specialized applications remain exclusive to one platform

The learning curve should also factor into your decision. Switching between operating systems involves an adjustment period that may temporarily impact productivity.

Battery Life and Efficiency

MacBook Air: All-Day and Beyond

Apple's silicon delivers industry-leading energy efficiency, with the 2024 MacBook Air rated for up to 18 hours of web browsing or 22 hours of video playback. This exceptional battery life results from both hardware and software optimization.

Real-world testing consistently shows the MacBook Air exceeding 12 hours of mixed-use on a single charge, even with demanding applications. This longevity fundamentally changes how users interact with their devices, reducing the constant search for power outlets during workdays.

The Air's efficiency extends to heat management as well. The fanless design maintains comfortable operating temperatures for most tasks while eliminating noise—a significant quality-of-life improvement for noise-sensitive environments.

Dell XPS 13: Respectable Endurance

Dell rates the XPS 13 for up to 12 hours of battery life, though actual results vary significantly based on configuration—particularly display choice. The power-hungry 3.5K OLED panel can reduce battery life by 30% compared to the FHD+ option.

Under typical workloads, the XPS 13 with an FHD+ display delivers 8-10 hours of real-world use. While respectable among Windows ultrabooks, this falls noticeably short of the MacBook Air's endurance. The XPS does support faster charging, recouping approximately 80% battery capacity in one hour.

Power Management Realities

Battery performance extends beyond raw longevity to include how these devices handle low-power states and background tasks:

• MacBook Air excels at power-efficient standby, losing minimal charge when closed
• XPS 13 offers more granular power management controls for advanced users
• Both devices implement smart charging algorithms to preserve battery health over time

For frequent travelers or all-day workers without consistent access to power, the MacBook Air's substantial battery advantage may be decisive. However, if your usage pattern includes regular access to outlets, the XPS 13's battery performance remains adequate for most scenarios.

Ports and Connectivity

MacBook Air: Minimalist Approach

The 2024 MacBook Air features a streamlined port selection, centering on Thunderbolt/USB 4 connectivity. The standard configuration includes:

• Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports with charging, DisplayPort, and data transfer capabilities
• 3.5mm headphone jack with advanced support for high-impedance headphones
• MagSafe 3 charging port (preserving both Thunderbolt ports for peripherals while charging)

This selection emphasizes versatility through the Thunderbolt ecosystem, though it necessitates dongles or hubs for users with legacy peripherals. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring fast and reliable connections to networks and peripherals.

Dell XPS 13: Practical Expansion

Dell takes a similarly minimalist but slightly more varied approach with the XPS 13's port selection:

• Two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports with charging and DisplayPort capabilities
• MicroSD card reader
• 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack

The inclusion of a microSD reader addresses a common need among photographers and content creators, though the omission of USB-A ports follows the industry trend toward USB-C standardization. The XPS 13 matches the MacBook Air with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connectivity.

Adapters and Expansion Realities

Both laptops embrace the dongle life to some degree, requiring adapters for:

• External displays (beyond a single Thunderbolt monitor)
• USB-A peripherals
• Ethernet connectivity
• Full-size SD card reading (MacBook Air only)

For users with extensive peripheral needs, this limitation should factor into the total cost of ownership, as quality hubs typically add $50-150 to the effective price.

Keyboard, Trackpad, and Input Experience

MacBook Air: Refined Precision

The MacBook Air features Apple's Magic Keyboard with a scissor mechanism, delivering 1mm of key travel with exceptional stability. The full-size keyboard includes a function row with dedicated keys for Spotlight search, Dictation, and Do Not Disturb mode.

Apple's trackpad remains the gold standard in the industry, with a spacious glass surface supporting Force Touch technology. This enables pressure-sensitive inputs and haptic feedback that simulates clicking without physical movement. The precise cursor control and comprehensive gesture support significantly enhance navigation efficiency.

Touch ID integration in the power button provides secure authentication for device unlocking, password autofill, and Apple Pay transactions.

Dell XPS 13: Premium Windows Input

The XPS 13 features an edge-to-edge keyboard with 1.3mm of key travel, offering slightly deeper tactile feedback than the MacBook Air. The backlit keys provide good visibility in dim environments, though light bleed can be noticeable around key edges.

Dell's precision trackpad offers reliable tracking and gesture support, though it physically clicks rather than using haptic feedback. While smaller than Apple's offering, it provides ample space for navigation and multi-touch gestures. The glass surface texture strikes a good balance between smoothness and tactile feedback.

Windows Hello authentication comes via an infrared camera in the top bezel, enabling facial recognition for secure login—generally faster than Touch ID but occasionally less reliable in challenging lighting conditions.

Input Experience Comparison

Daily typing experience on both devices ranks among the best in the ultrabook category, with preferences largely subjective. The MacBook Air offers a slightly firmer typing experience with precise key stability, while the XPS 13 provides deeper travel that some users find more comfortable for extended sessions.

For productivity-focused users, the trackpad difference is more significant. Apple's implementation remains unmatched in precision and gesture integration, providing a meaningful advantage for tasks requiring extensive cursor control.

Webcam and Microphones

MacBook Air: Conferencing Excellence

The MacBook Air features a 1080p FaceTime HD camera that delivers significantly better image quality than previous generations. In typical indoor lighting, the camera produces clear, well-balanced images with good dynamic range. Apple's image signal processor enhances video quality through computational photography techniques, reducing noise and optimizing for various lighting conditions.

Audio capture comes via a three-microphone array with directional beamforming, effectively isolating your voice from background noise during calls. This setup delivers clear audio even in challenging acoustic environments, making the Air an excellent video conferencing tool.

Dell XPS 13: Improved Visual Communication

Dell has significantly upgraded the XPS 13's webcam to a 720p unit with improved low-light performance compared to previous generations. While not quite matching the MacBook Air's image quality, it provides adequate clarity for professional video calls in good lighting conditions.

Dual-array microphones with Waves MaxxAudio Pro processing help reduce background noise, though they don't quite match the clarity and isolation of Apple's three-microphone system. For regular conference calls, the difference is minimal, but podcast recording or other audio-sensitive applications may benefit from the MacBook's superior audio capture.

The Remote Work Reality

For the remote worker or frequent video caller, both systems provide competent conferencing capabilities, with Apple maintaining a notable edge in overall quality. Third-party webcams can address this gap for the XPS 13, though they add cost and consume a valuable port.

Value and Configuration Options

MacBook Air: Premium Pricing, Premium Experience

The 2024 MacBook Air starts at $999 for the base 13-inch model with an M3 chip, 8GB unified memory, and 256GB storage. Upgrading to 16GB memory adds $200, while storage upgrades follow Apple's traditionally steep pricing:

• 512GB: +$200
• 1TB: +$400
• 2TB: +$800

The 15-inch model starts at $1,299 with identical base specifications. The total ownership cost should include consideration of AppleCare+ ($199 for three years), as Apple repairs can be expensive out of warranty.

Apple's devices typically retain resale value exceptionally well, offsetting some of the premium initial cost for users who upgrade regularly. The long-term value proposition improves when considering the 5+ years of software support and generally excellent durability.

Dell XPS 13: Flexible Configurations

Dell's XPS 13 has a more variable pricing structure, starting at $999 for an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, and FHD+ non-touch display. Upgrading to the 3.5K OLED display adds $300, while memory and storage upgrades are more reasonably priced than Apple's:

• 16GB RAM: +$100
• 32GB RAM: +$300
• 512GB SSD: +$100
• 1TB SSD: +$200

Dell frequently offers significant discounts through its website, potentially reducing prices by 10-20% during promotional periods. However, Windows laptops typically depreciate faster than MacBooks, affecting long-term value calculations.

Configuration Recommendations

For optimal performance in 2024 and beyond:

• MacBook Air: M3 chip, 16GB memory, 512GB storage ($1,399)
• Dell XPS 13: Core i7, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, 3.5K OLED display ($1,649 before discounts)

These configurations provide balanced performance and future-proofing for professional workflows without overinvesting in rarely-used capabilities.

Repairability and Longevity

MacBook Air: Sealed but Durable

Apple's integrated design philosophy results in limited user repairability. Memory and storage are soldered to the mainboard, preventing future upgrades. While Apple has improved battery accessibility through pull tabs in recent models, most repairs require professional service.

This sealed approach has trade-offs: it enables the exceptionally thin and rigid chassis but limits component-level upgrades. Apple's service network provides reliable repair options, though often at premium prices without AppleCare+ coverage.

The MacBook Air typically remains viable for 5-7 years before performance or battery limitations prompt replacement. macOS updates generally extend for 5+ years from release, ensuring software support throughout most devices' practical lifespan.

Dell XPS 13: Marginally More Repairable

The XPS 13 follows similar design principles to the MacBook Air, with soldered RAM and non-user-replaceable components. The SSD is technically replaceable, though accessing it requires significant disassembly. Dell's premium support options provide next-day, on-site service for those requiring minimal downtime.

Battery replacement requires professional service for both devices, with component availability typically extending 3-5 years after model discontinuation. Dell's standardized parts supply chain sometimes offers advantages for long-term serviceability compared to Apple's more proprietary approach.

Windows 11 should continue receiving updates throughout the practical lifespan of current XPS models, though driver support may become an issue for certain components after 4-5 years.

Environmental Impact

MacBook Air: Industry-Leading Sustainability

Apple has made significant sustainability strides with the MacBook Air, using:

• 100% recycled aluminum enclosure
• 100% recycled rare earth elements in magnets
• 35% or more recycled plastic in multiple components
• Arsenic-free display glass and mercury-free LED backlighting

The company aims for carbon neutrality across its entire business by 2030, with the Mac lineup already showing reduced emissions compared to previous generations. Energy efficiency in both manufacturing and operation contributes significantly to this goal.

Dell XPS 13: Responsible Design

Dell's sustainability efforts include:

• Partially recycled carbon fiber in the chassis
• Recyclable packaging from sustainable sources
• ENERGY STAR certification and EPEAT Gold registration
• Reduced hazardous materials beyond regulatory requirements

Dell's broader sustainability goals include making 100% of packaging from recycled or renewable materials by 2030 and achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Environmental Considerations

Both companies demonstrate commitment to reducing environmental impact, with Apple generally taking more aggressive and transparent approaches. For environmentally conscious consumers, both options represent reasonable choices, with Apple's more comprehensive recycling program potentially offering slight advantages at end-of-life.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your Ultrabook

The "best" ultrabook ultimately depends on your specific needs, ecosystem preferences, and budget considerations. Here's how to decide which device is right for you:

Choose the MacBook Air if:

• You value battery life and efficiency above all else
• You already use other Apple products like iPhone or iPad
• You need macOS-specific software or prefer its interface
• Silent operation is important for your work environment
• You prioritize trackpad quality and gesture control

Choose the Dell XPS 13 if:

• You require Windows for software compatibility or corporate policy
• Display quality is your primary concern (especially with the OLED option)
• You prefer the flexibility of the Windows ecosystem
• You need the microSD card slot for workflow efficiency
• You can take advantage of Dell's frequent discounts

Both the MacBook Air and Dell XPS 13 represent the pinnacle of ultrabook design in 2024, with differences that reflect their manufacturers' distinct philosophies rather than objective quality gaps. The ideal ultrabook choice ultimately depends on your personal workflow, ecosystem integration needs, and subjective preferences regarding operating systems.

For most users, the decision comes down to ecosystem alignment rather than hardware differences—the experience of using macOS versus Windows remains the fundamental distinction between these exceptional devices. Whichever you choose, both represent the cutting edge of what's possible in ultraportable computing.