Dell has reversed its decision to retire the iconic XPS laptop line, announcing new XPS 14 and 16 models at CES 2026 after a year of criticism over its rebranding efforts. The company admitted the previous naming scheme confused consumers and hurt sales. A thinner, lighter XPS 13 is planned for later in the year.
Last year, Dell overhauled its PC branding by eliminating names like XPS and Inspiron, replacing them with terms such as "Premium" for high-end models. This move, intended to simplify the lineup, instead led to confusion, especially with the introduction of Dell Pro and Pro Max lines aimed at enterprise users. Dell's PC market share declined in 2025, prompting the company to acknowledge the error.
At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, Dell's COO Jeff Clarke announced the return of XPS as its flagship consumer brand. "We’re getting back to our roots," Clarke said, emphasizing a focus on "great products win." The new XPS laptops will feature the XPS logo prominently on the lid, distinct from general Dell branding, while Alienware handles gaming and Dell Pro targets businesses.
The redesigned XPS 14 and 16 address past complaints. They replace capacitive function keys with traditional physical ones and add etched lines around the haptic touchpad for better usability. Weights have been reduced: the XPS 14 is about 3 pounds, down from 3.8 pounds in the prior Premium model, and the XPS 16 weighs 3.65 to 3.75 pounds, a significant drop from over 5 pounds.
Powered by Intel's Core Ultra Series 3 processors (from Core Ultra 5 325 to X9 388H) with improved Intel Arc graphics offering up to 50% faster performance, the laptops include variable refresh rate displays—1Hz to 120Hz on IPS panels and 20Hz to 120Hz on OLED options. A new 900ED battery cell design promises up to 27 hours of video streaming. Keyboards are removable, and USB ports modular for easier repairs.
The XPS 14 starts at $1,650 and the XPS 16 at $1,850, available from January 6. Dell plans its broadest PC portfolio in 2026, including an upcoming XPS 13 that will be its thinnest and lightest yet, at a lower price point.
