The logo of Sharp Corp is seen reflected on Apple Inc's MacBook Pro at an electronics store in Tokyo
The logo of Sharp Corp is seen reflected on Apple Inc's MacBook Pro at an electronics store in Tokyo in this January 15, 2013 file photo. Apple Inc suppliers will begin mass producing displays as early as May 2014 for the next iPhone, expected to be launched this autumn, with a 4.7-inch screen likely to be produced first while a 5.5-inch version could be delayed, supply chain sources said. Japan Display Inc, Sharp Corp and South Korea's LG Display Co Ltd have all been tapped to make the screens, said the sources, who asked not to be identified. Reuters

Apple’s MacBook Air is a tough laptop to beat as users prize it for showing off beauty and brawn in one shell. Lately, however, worthy rivals have been surfacing and one that readily gives the Air a good fight is the Windows 8.1-powered Dell XPS 13.

The XPS 13 has the chops to convince PC shoppers, even the hardcore Apple fans, to give it a second look and actually take it for a drive test. In a review, Business Insider did just that and the news site outlined seven of the key reasons Dell’s latest ultraportable PC is a definitive persuasive toy.

Premium Build And Gorgeous Design

Dominant to the XPS 13 external material is brushed aluminium that gives the device the premium look and feel that is the MacBook signature. Not only that the build was focused on form alone, functions were also given emphasis that using the XPS 13 makes for a very comfortable experience.

And when the lid gets lifted, the device reveals a screen that virtually has no bezels around it. Thanks to the Infinity Display from Dell, the XPS boasts of a 13-inch screen that is beautifully crammed in a very slim profile that device can be mistaken for an 11-inch notebook, Business Insider said.

The review added that the Dell XPS 13 sports a carbon fibre keyboard deck that only enhances the upscale features already packed with the device.

Multiple Configurations

Buyers can pick from the numerous XPS 13 variants that fit their liking and budget. The basic model is powered by Intel’s Core i3 processing chip while the top of the line relies on the Core i5 chip. The storage option is from 128 GB to 256 GB of solid state drive (SSD) while display resolution starts at the already impressive 1080p screen. The highest in the chain has an amazing 3200 x 1800 screen resolution.

Depending on user’s preference, the XPS is offered in touch and non-touch editions with the first option expectedly having a higher sticker price.

Portable

The Dell XPS 13 is stuffed with the above specs but its maker made sure that current MacBook Air users will be convinced that it is indeed a worthwhile alternative. Portability was never compromised in this laptop.

Powerful Still

The same is true with might as the XPS 13 is a monster mobile computing power. The proof per Business Insider: “Apps usually launched within two to three seconds.” This power also means generally smooth computing experience.

Superfast Start

Powering on the laptop right out of the box will only require 12 seconds for the entire boot process to complete, and Dell credits the Intel chip that the XPS 13 comes installed with.

Extended Operation Time

Used extensively and the display setting cranked up to the highest level, Business Insider reported that Dell delivered as promised – many hours of unplugged entertainment and productivity. That’s around nine hours of enjoyment before running to the nearest power outlet.

Cheaper Than The Mac

The best part about the XPS Dell 13 is the finest model, but that is stripped of the touch screen option, will mean a saving of up to $200 should users decide to pick it over the 13-inch MacBook Air. Or buyers can pay a relatively affordable mark of $800 and take home a unit that has an Intel Core i3 chip, paired with 4 GB of RAM, and 128 GB SSD.

For comments or feedback on the article, please contact the writer at: r.pineda@ibtimes.com.au.