48 PCWorld JUNE 2020REVIEWS DELL XPS 13 9300
there is no USB-A port. If you retain any
legacy USB-A devices or just need more
connectivity, it’s time to buy a USB-C hub
(go.pcworld.com/husb).
Networking: Killer Wi-Fi 6 AX1650,
Bluetooth 5
Size and weight: 11.6 x 7.8 x 0.27
inches, 2.9 pounds without AC adapter
Upgradability: “Upgrades” on
modern ultraportable laptops are always
very limited, but Dell keeps it down to
earth with a standard M.2 slot for the Intel
SSD inside of it. This may seem like no big
deal, but the XPS 13 2-in-1 7390 soldered
its SSD. Dell’s reason (like Apple’s) is to
save space and make the laptop thinner,
but many have roasted the company for
the move.KEYBOARD, TRACKPAD
AND WEBCAM
One of the better moves Dell takes with the
XPS 13 9300 is to stick with a traditional dome
keyboard. Although its cousin the XPS 13
2-in-1 (go.pcworld.com/dl73) is slightly
thinner because of its MAGLev 2 low-travel
keyboard, it’s a controversial feature.
Keyboard feel is subjective, but let’s just say
our fingers prefer more travel in our
keyboards.
The keys are about 0.75mm wider than
the keys from the previous XPS 13 7390’s.
They also seem to be a little flatter. Overall, we
think it’s an improvement. The trackpad is
glass-smooth and supports Microsoft’s
Precision touchpad drivers. We essentially
have no complaints here.
How the world has
changed around
webcams. Once valued
as much for the features
that hid them, such as
physical shutters and
hardware cut-off circuits
to maintain privacy, we
now clutch webcams to
our chests like solid-
gold bars.
So yes, webcam
performance suddenly
matters again. Most
models you’ll find use
the 720p resolution,Ports on the XPS 13 9300 are pretty easy. Each side features a Thunderbolt
3 port. The left side has a microSD reader. The right side adds an analog
combo audio jack.