Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 review
The Dell Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 ranks as the #300 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 75. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #46-ranked features among 193 laptops. Consider the Dell Pro 14 Plus or Dell XPS 13 9345, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 is an average laptop that checks most boxes without excelling in any area. The keyboard is good, but the chassis rigidity is lacking. The speakers are disappointing and downfiring, producing a lackluster sound. However, the battery life is exceptional, delivering up to 8 hours and 48 minutes of use. At $850 as spec or on sale for $699, it's a competent laptop that won't break the bank. While not outstanding, its affordability makes it a decent buy, especially for those seeking an everyday machine without high expectations.
Build
The Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1's build is a mixed bag. The keyboard switches are fantastic, but the chassis rigidity is lacking, particularly on the left-hand side where it can become quite floppy. This affects typing quality when holding down keys like shift or F/R/E, making it more prone to errors. The trackpad also clicks awkwardly due to this design flaw. In contrast, the speakers are underwhelming, with poor bass and treble, even compared to a phone's sound system. However, the webcam has improved significantly, providing clear images with minimal noise. Overall, while some aspects of the build are fine, others fall short of expectations. You might want to check out Dell Pro Rugged 13, featuring an upgraded build for a superior experience.
Display
The Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1's display is a mixed bag. While it's not the worst I've seen, it's certainly not impressive. The colors are somewhat accurate, but the brightness could be better. In bright environments, the screen can appear washed out. That being said, for casual use like browsing or streaming, it gets the job done. However, if you're a graphic designer or someone who requires precise color accuracy, this display may not meet your needs. Overall, it's an average display that won't disappoint but also won't impress. Take a look at Dell Pro 14 - its improved display sets a new standard.
Performance
The Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 delivers decent performance for its price point. In Rocket League at 1200p high quality settings, the laptop managed to run the game smoothly without any major issues. However, it's not a powerhouse, and intense tasks may take some time to process. The NPU handles AI-related tasks efficiently, but gaming performance is just average. Overall, the laptop's performance is competent, but not exceptional. It gets the job done, but doesn't excel in any particular area. A good option for those looking for a budget-friendly 2-in-1 with basic computing needs. If you're after top-notch performance, consider Dell XPS 13 9310.
Battery and Charging
The Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1's battery life is a standout feature, lasting up to 8 hours and 48 minutes on a single charge. The 64Wh battery provides impressive longevity, making it suitable for daily use. Charging time is also reasonable, allowing users to quickly top up their device when needed. Overall, the battery performance is competent and makes this laptop a great value for its price.
Connectivity
The Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 offers decent connectivity options. It features Wi-Fi 7, which delivers impressive speeds. The laptop also has USB-A and USB-C ports, as well as an SD card slot. However, the placement of these ports is somewhat awkward, making it difficult to use them comfortably. Overall, the connectivity options are adequate for most users' needs. Give Dell Pro 14 a try—it’s designed to provide an unparalleled connectivity.
Features
The Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 boasts a range of features, including a 1080p webcam with a flippy flip switch for discretion, an NPU for AI capabilities, and Wi-Fi 7 speeds. The laptop also features an 8-hour battery life, a heat pipe, and one fan for cooling, as well as a compact design with two Phillips head screws to access the interior. Get your hands on Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 if you're looking for better features.
Support and Maintenance
The Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 is an adequate laptop that won't disappoint but won't impress either. Its battery life is exceptional, lasting up to 8 hours and 48 minutes, making it a great choice for those who need a reliable machine on-the-go. However, its performance is just fine, not outstanding in any aspect. The chassis could be sturdier, the speakers are lacking, and the keyboard's rigidity is subpar. Overall, it's a competent laptop that may suffice for basic tasks, but don't expect greatness from it.
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