Apple MacBook Pro 14 M4 vs Dell XPS 14

Apple MacBook Pro 14 M4 wins — The Apple MacBook Pro 14 M4 wins overall with stronger performance and battery life per Notebookcheck and RTINGS reviews…

Scores: Apple MacBook Pro 14 M4 8.5/10 · Dell XPS 14 7.5/10

The Apple MacBook Pro 14 M4 wins overall with stronger performance and battery life per Notebookcheck and RTINGS reviews, beating the Dell XPS 14 by 4-6 hours in mixed use. The Dell XPS 14 provides better value and more ports for Windows workflows but trails in efficiency and build refinement. Choose based on OS preference and specific software needs.

Apple MacBook Pro 14 M4 lists at $1,599 while Dell XPS 14 lists at $1,399 — Dell XPS 14 undercuts Apple MacBook Pro 14 M4 by $200 (14%).

Spec-by-spec comparison

Apple MacBook Pro 14 M4Dell XPS 14
ProcessorApple M4Intel Core Ultra 7 258V
RAM16GB unified16GB LPDDR5X
Display14-inch Liquid Retina XDR 120Hz14-inch OLED 120Hz
BatteryUp to 22 hoursUp to 15 hours

Apple MacBook Pro 14 M4

What works

  • Exceptional battery life and thermal efficiency
  • Superior build quality with premium aluminum unibody
  • Optimized macOS performance for creative workflows

What doesn't

  • Limited port selection without adapters
  • Higher starting price than Windows alternatives

Dell XPS 14

What works

  • More ports including Thunderbolt 4 and SD card reader
  • Competitive pricing with strong Windows compatibility
  • Bright high-resolution OLED display option

What doesn't

  • Shorter battery life under heavy loads
  • Fan noise can be audible during sustained tasks

Bottom line

Our pick: Apple MacBook Pro 14 M4. It edges out the alternative on exceptional battery life and thermal efficiency. That said, Dell XPS 14 still wins on more ports including thunderbolt 4 and sd card reader — consider it if that single trade matters most for your use.

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