Dell releases XPS 15Z

The Dell XPS 15Z has been designed to compete directly with the Macbook Pro. It features a 15 inch wide screen display with a 1366 x 768 resolution, although a 1080p option is also available. You can choose between either an Intel Core i5 or Core i7 CPU. Graphics wise it comes with an Nvidia GeForce GT 525M with 1GB graphics memory and for those who want a little bit more in the graphics department, a 2GB option is also available. There is also the option for up to 8GB of DDR3 memory. This all runs on the Intel HM67 Chipset. It weighs 5.54 pounds and is less than an inch thick, Dell say this is the thinnest 15 inch notebook for sale.

As well as all the key components, the XPS 15Z comes with a huge selection of peripherals. It boasts Bluetooth 3.0, Intel Centrino Advanced A/G/N Wi-Fi, Intel Wireless Display technology, HDMI v1.4, Mini DisplayPort, Gigabit Ethernet, three USB 3.0 ports and eSata. It also has a 9-in-1 memory card reader, a backlit keyboard which is also spill resistant and the trackpad also supports multi touch as well as gestures. All this squeezed into a shell sized at 24.68 x 384.85 x 260.37 mm.

This is a great competitor to the MacBook Pro and it should be interesting to see what Apple bring to the table next. As well as being competitive in the specifications, the price is also very good at £899.99 ($999.99) for the standard model whereas the equivalent MacBook Pro is £1,549 ($2,523.19).