戴尔XPS 15 (L521X) 笔记本测评
Those familiar with Dell know that the XPS moniker represents Dell’s premium notebook line. The primary features of pricy XPS notebooks are their high performance and stylish design. Recent members of the XPS family also boast a slim design.
The Dell XPS 15 is one of the most popular models of this series and we have reviewed numerous previous models from the series. With sufficient reason, Dell has given the XPS 15 a major overhaul and equipped it with brand new Ivy Bridge processors.
While the starting price of the new XPS 15 is considerably high at 1300 Euro (~$1625), the base configuration includes an Intel Core i5-3210M, Nvidia GeForce GT 630M, and Full HD display. Our test model is quite a bit more expensive at 1650 Euro (~$2060) but also adds a Blu-ray drive and a 1 TB physical hard drive with a 32 GB SSD cache to the 15.6-inch case. The Core i7-3612QM and GeForce GT 640M also provide additional performance.
While Dell would never make such a claim, the XPS 15’s clearest rival is the Apple MacBook Pro 15 which was also recently refreshed. While the latter is even more expensive, it has proven to be the standard for build quality. In this review, we will consider not only the Dell XPS 15 in its own right but also what promises to be a thrilling duel between the two luxury-class notebooks.
那些熟悉与戴尔知道，戴尔的XPS绰号代表优质的笔记本电脑产品线。价格昂贵的XPS笔记本电脑的主要特点是其较高的性能和时尚的外观设计。最近的XPS家族的成员，还拥有了超薄设计。
戴尔XPS 15是这个系列最畅销的车型之一，我们已审阅了很多以前的型号的系列。有足够的理由，戴尔的XPS15大修，它配备了全新的Ivy Bridge处理器。
新的XPS 15的起拍价为1300欧元（〜$1625）是相当高的，基本配置包括一个英特尔酷睿i5-3210M，NVIDIA GeForce®（精视™）GT 630M，和全高清显示器。我们的测试模型是相当多的成本在1650欧元（〜$2060），而且还增加了蓝光驱动器和一个1 TB的物理硬盘驱动器与一个32 GB SSD缓存，15.6英寸的情况下。酷睿i7-3612QM和GeForce GT640M还提供额外的性能。
虽然戴尔从来没有提出这样的要求，XPS 15的明显的竞争对手是苹果MacBook Pro 15，最近也刷新。而后者则是更昂贵，它已被证明是构建质量标准。在本文中，我们会考虑的不仅是戴尔XPS 15在自己的权利，但也什么承诺，是一场惊心动魄的对决两者之间的豪华级笔记本电脑。
Case
Dell spent tremendous effort to improve the already-excellent case of the preceding XPS 15. The display lid and lateral enclosures of the base unit are now manufactured from a solid block of aluminum, a design aspect that has long been used by Apple in its MacBook Pro. This provides not only pleasant aesthetics but also grants additional stability.
When the notebook is opened, the interior’s black, soft-touch surfaces provide an appropriate contrast to the matte silver exterior. These surfaces, as well as the underside, use a silicone coating that results in a pleasantly soft touch that remains significantly cooler than bare aluminum. Despite extensive use of this lightweight metal, the notebook’s total weight is just under 2.7 kilograms (5.9 pounds). Hence the current model is slightly lighter than the 2011 model, which weighed 2.96 kilograms (6.51 pounds), but not amongst the lightest in class.
This extensive use of aluminum also shows in stability. While the notebook has a thickness of only 2.3 centimeters (0.9 inches), we observed a level of stability that can only be considered the new standard. Both specific pressure and attempts to flex and bend the case were unsuccessful as the case resisted deformation. In doing so, it also generated no unpleasant creaking noises. The display lid proved to be extremely durable and its precise hinges also impressed with their smooth operation, easy one-handed opening, and firm grip on the display which barely moved even under strong vibration. A scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass surface protects the sensitive display surface.
In terms of workmanship, our comments for the smaller XPS 13 are also valid for the larger XPS 15 without exception. We found virtually nothing to criticize. All materials, transitions, and edges were virtually flawless and we considered the XPS 15 to be on par with the current generation of Apple MacBooks. In terms of the case, it is entirely a matter of personal taste when determining the superior case between these two 15-inch notebooks.
戴尔花了巨大的努力，以改善已经很好的情况下，前面的XPS 15。制造了坚实的铝块，设计方面，一直采用苹果在其MacBook Pro的基本单元的显示屏盖和侧外壳。这不仅提供了宜人的美学，但也给予额外的稳定性。
当笔记本打开时，内部的黑色，触感柔软的表面提供了一个合适的对比度，以银白色磨砂的外观。这些表面，以及底面，使用聚硅氧烷涂层，导致宜人的柔软的触感，仍然显着温度比裸铝。尽管进行了广泛的使用这款轻巧的金属，笔记本电脑的总重量不到2.7公斤（5.9磅）。因此，目前的模式是稍轻于2011年的模型，重2.96千克（6.51磅），但在课堂当中最轻的。
这种广泛使用的铝也显示了稳定。虽然笔记本电脑的厚度只有2.3厘米（0.9英寸），我们观察到了一定程度的稳定，只能被认为是新的标准。两个特定的压力和弯曲，弯曲的情况下尝试均告失败的情况下抵抗变形。在这样做时，它也没有产生任何不愉快的吱吱作响的噪声。显示屏盖被证明是非常耐用，其精确的铰链平稳运行，方便单手打开，并牢牢地握在显示屏上几乎没有变化，即使在强烈的震动，也留下深刻的印象。一个康宁公司的Gorilla防刮玻璃表面保护敏感的显示表面。
在做工方面，无一例外较大的XPS 15，我们的小XPS 13的评论也有效。我们发现几乎没有任何批评。所有的材料，过渡和边缘几乎完美无瑕，我们认为，XPS 15是目前这一代的苹果的MacBook看齐。在条款的情况下，这完全是个人品味的问题时，确定优越的情况下，这两个15英寸的笔记本电脑。
Connectivity
What types of connectivity would one expect from a 1300 Euro (~$1625) notebook? The XPS 15 provides three USB 3.0 ports with one featuring PowerShare to charge USB devices when the notebook is turned off. However, the inclusion of USB 3.0 receives few bonus points as most notebooks already include this as standard. Additionally, the XPS 15 includes a modern mini-DisplayPort connection that can offer high-resolution output to 27- and 30-inch monitors. Smaller displays and home theater TVs can be connected using HDMI. The older, analog VGA port was removed in this revision cycle.
Apart from the above, the XPS 15 only offers standard connections – Gigabit LAN, Kensington lock slot, headphone and microphone jacks, and a 3-in-1 card reader. All of these interfaces can be found in cheaper notebooks as well. For some time, Apple has been equipping its notebooks with the high-speed Thunderbolt interface which is currently future-proof with transfer rates of up to 10 GB/s. The corresponding peripherals are still prohibitively expensive.
The port layout has been designed for right-handed users as most of the connectors are located on the left side. This leaves the work area for right-handed users effectively clear of cables. In our opinion, positioning ports on the back would have been even better. However, we can praise the large spacing between individual USB ports. Even bulky USB memory sticks did not block adjacent ports and the only problem we might foresee requiring an extension cable is a large DVB-T receiver.
从1300欧元（〜$1625）笔记本电脑，什么类型的连接？ XPS 15提供了3个USB 3.0端口，一个具有PowerShare的USB设备充电的笔记本电脑关闭时。然而，包括USB 3.0接收几个红点已经包括了大多数的笔记本电脑作为标准。此外，XPS 15包括一个现代化的迷你的DisplayPort连接，可以提供高分辨率输出，27 - 和30英寸显示器。更小的显示器，家庭影院电视可以使用HDMI连接。删除旧的，模拟VGA端口，在本次修订周期。
除上述者外，仅适用于XPS 15提供标准连接 - 千兆网卡，Kensington锁插槽，耳机和麦克风插孔，3合1卡阅读器。所有这些接口中可以找到更便宜的笔记本电脑，以及。一段时间以来，苹果已经装备的笔记本电脑，这是目前面向未来的传输速率可达10 GB/ s的高速Thunderbolt接口。相应的外围设备仍然过于昂贵。
的端口布局惯用右手的用户已被设计为作为大多数连接器位于左侧。这使得右手习惯的用户有效地清除电缆的工作区。在我们看来，定位端口的背面会是更好的。但是，我们可以赞美大间距之间的USB端口。即使是笨重的USB记忆棒并没有阻止相邻的端口和要求的延长线是一个大的DVB-T接收器，唯一的问题，我们可能预见。
Communication
The claims of high-end for notebooks are never simply limited to fast CPUs and graphics card but also apply to the small details such as Wi-Fi adapter. The premium Dell XPS 15 uses the correspondingly premium Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6235 adapter in all models in the XPS series. This same module is found in the Sony Vaio SV-S13A1Z9E/S. Thanks to its 2x2 multi-stream technology and support for 802.11a/b/g/n wireless standards, transfer rates of 300 Mbit/s are possible in both the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands. One special feature of the mini PCIe card is support for Intel Wireless Display (WiDi) technology which allows the XPS 15 to connect to an external TV or display wirelessly if one purchases an external receiver. In addition to Wi-Fi, the XPS 15 features Bluetooth 4.0 support but no integrated WWAN – such as UMTS, HSPA, and LTE – is installed.
The built-in 1.3-megapixel webcam and array microphone make video chats possible and with good sound quality but rather average video quality. Naturally, the small camera sensor became very blurry in low light scenarios but does not perform worse than most competitors. We liked the clear and articular sound much more.
Accessories
The XPS 15 comes in a stylish cardboard box which unfortunately contains few accessories. Beside the notebook, built-in battery, and power supply, we only received a driver CD and a few brochures.
The pre-installed software package offered a little more. Among other things, Dell included CyberLink PowerDVD 9.6 which can be used to play movies using the Blu-Ray drive. There is also the typical trial version of McAfee Security Center and an extensive collection of Dell tools and utilities. The XPS 15 includes a 2-year license for 2 GB of storage from DataSafe Online, an online backup service
Maintenance
Tech-savvy users can conceivably replace every component of the XPS 15 without fear of voiding the warranty. The included Owner’s Manual includes detailed instructions describing all necessary steps for maintenance. However, amateurs are advised not to open the device. Doing so requires the proper tools, including a T5 screwdriver. Dell is worthy of praise for providing such detailed maintenance instructions.
Warranty
Dell typically provides a 1-year warranty with options for extensions at various premiums. The prices of 140 and 280 Euro (~$175 and ~$350) for extensions to 2- and 3-year on-site service and software phone support are identical across all models of the XPS 15 series.
通讯
高端笔记本电脑的索赔从来没有简单地限于快速的CPU和显卡，但也适用于小的细节，如Wi-Fi适配器。溢价戴尔XPS 15使用相应的溢价英特尔®迅驰®高级-N 6235在XPS系列中的所有型号的适配器。同一个模块中发现索尼的Vaio SV-S13A1Z9E / S由于其2x2的多码流技术，支持802.11a/b/g/n无线标准，传输速率为300 Mbit / s的可能在2.4和5 GHz频段。迷你PCIe卡的一大特点是支持英特尔无线显示技术（WiDi技术）技术，使XPS 15连接到一个外部电视或显示无线如果一个购买外部接收器。此外，XPS 15的功能蓝牙4.0的支持，但没有集成WWAN - 如UMTS，HSPA和LTE - 安装到Wi-Fi。
内置的130万像素的摄像头和阵列式麦克风，视频聊天和良好的音质，但视频质量，而平均。当然，小相机传感器变得非常模糊，在光线不足的情况下，但不执行比大多数竞争对手更糟糕。我们喜欢更明确和关节的声音。
饰品
XPS 15采用了时尚的纸板箱，不幸的是包含几个配件。除了笔记本电脑，内置电池，电源，我们只收到一张驱动光盘和一些小册子。
预装的软件包提供多一点。除其他事项外，戴尔还包括讯连科技PowerDVD 9.6，可用于播放电影使用的蓝光驱动器。也是典型的试用版，McAfee安全中心，收集了大量的戴尔工具和实用程序。 XPS 15包括2年的2 GB的存储空间DataSafe在线备份，在线备份服务许可证
保养
可以想象，技术娴熟的用户可以更换的每一个组成部分的XPS 15，而不必担心保修失效。包括用户手册，包括一切必要步骤，维护的详细说明。然而，业余爱好者建议不要打开设备。这样就需要适当的工具，包括T5螺丝刀。戴尔提供如此详细的维护说明，是值得赞扬的。
保
戴尔提供的通常是1年保修，在不同的保费扩展的选项。的价格为140欧元和280欧元（约175元及〜350美元）扩展到2 - 3年现场服务和软件电话支持的XPS 15系列的所有型号是相同的。
Input Devices
Keyboard
Our sample XPS 15 uses a fairly compact chiclet keyboard without a dedicated numeric keypad. The notebook uses the American English keyboard layout and reminded us of the XPS 13. The 15 x 15 mm (0.59 x 0.59 inch) keys have a slightly concave surface and the smooth plastic surface has a nice grip. A three-way adjustable backlight (maximum, medium, and off) automatically activates when one types, allowing a user to write in the dark. This further enhances the already-elegant overall impression of the keyboard.
In terms of typing, we found the keys’ pressure point, stiffness, and accurate response to be excellent. We also detected no rattling or flexing even during vigorous tapping. As is typical for many notebooks, keystroke seemed a bit short but we became accustomed to this after a short period of time. Gamers may complain about the somewhat small arrow keys which use the same form factor as other competitors, including the MacBook Pro 15.
Touchpad
Compared to the XPS 13, Dell chose a slightly larger touchpad for the 15-inch version. This touchpad has dimensions of 10.0 x 7.2 centimeters (3.94 x 2.83 inches) and its smooth input surface feels velvety soft, matching the surrounding wrist rest. With dry hands, the surface is also exceptional with its low friction. Both the entire touchpad and individual functions and multi-touch gestures can be disabled using a pre-installed driver panel.
Not everyone will be happy with the built-in mouse buttons. This design requires an acclimation period for users who are not familiar with it. In terms of workmanship, virtually no negative comments can be said about the touchpad. Haptics and the crisp click sound both appeared to be of the highest quality.
键盘
我们的样品XPS15采用的是相当紧凑的独立式Chiclet键盘，没有一个专门的数字小键盘。笔记本采用了美国英语键盘布局，并提醒我们的XPS 13。 15×15毫米（0.59×0.59英寸）键有一个微微下凹的表面和光滑的塑料表面有一个很好的抓地力。三路背光可调（最大，中等和关闭）会自动启动一个类型，允许用户在黑暗中写字。这进一步增强的键盘已经优雅的整体印象。
在打字方面，我们发现的关键压力点，刚度，是优秀的，准确的响应。我们还没有发现剑拔弩张，即使在剧烈的窃听或弯曲。许多笔记本电脑是典型的，按键显得有点短，但我们就成了习惯了这种在很短的一段时间。玩家可能会抱怨有点小箭头键使用相同的外形尺寸，其他的竞争对手，包括MacBook Pro15。
触摸板
戴尔XPS 13相比，选择了一个稍微大一点的触控板，15英寸的版本。触摸板的尺寸为10.0×7.2厘米（3.94×2.83英寸）的，其流畅的输入的表面天鹅绒般柔软的感觉，匹配周围的腕托。干手器，也是一个例外，其低摩擦表面。整个触控板功能和个人功能和多点触摸手势可以使用预装的驱动器面板禁用。
不是每个人都会很高兴的内置鼠标按钮。这种设计需要一个适应期，对于不熟悉它的用户。在做工方面，几乎可以说没有负面意见的触摸板。触觉和清脆的咔嗒声似乎是最优质的。
Display
When we tested the first Dell XPS 15 in 2010, we were impressed by its excellent display. Core technical data has not changed since then. This XPS 15 still uses the 15.6-inch 1920x1080 display, yielding a high pixel density of 141 dpi. This pixel density falls between the standard density display and the Apple MacBook Pro 15 with Retina display which has an enormous 221 dpi.
Dell advertises a brightness of 350 cd/m2 for the XPS 15, a claim we could not confirm in our measurements. We measured an average of “only” 320 cd/m2 for the LED-backlit display of our test model. We used quotation marks around the only as this brightness is still extremely bright and can only be achieved by a handful of notebooks. On battery power, the brightness was reduced by approximately 10 percent. We would subjectively describe the brightness distribution of the display as being very even, an impression we confirmed in testing with a good illumination level of 90 percent.
当我们测试第一的戴尔XPS 15在2010年，我们留下了深刻的印象，其出色的显示效果。从那时起核心技术的数据并没有改变。本XPS 15采用15.6英寸1920×1080显示屏，产生了高像素密度为141 dpi的分辨率。这个像素密度降低标准之间的密度显示，苹果MacBook Pro 15采用Retina显示它有一个巨大的221 dpi的。
戴尔XPS 15，我们无法确认我们的测量要求发布的亮度为350 cd/m2的。我们测出的平均“只有”320 cd/m2的LED背光显示屏，我们的测试模型。我们用引号括起来的唯一，因为这仍然是非常明亮的亮度，并且只能由少数的笔记本电脑来实现。电池供电，减少了约10％的亮度。我们主观描述的显示亮度分布是非常均匀的，一个印象，我们在测试中具有良好的照明水平的90％确认。
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Brightness Distribution: 90 %
Center on Battery: 309 cd/m²
Contrast: 523:1 (Black: 0.65 cd/m²)55.6% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
63.7% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
56.1% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
The display’s strong backlight was supported by an impressive, rich black level of 0.65 cd/m2. This yields an excellent 523:1 contrast ratio which represents the current upper-class of notebook displays. Some very high quality IPS displays, such as the one found in the Asus UX32VD, are capable of 1000:1 contrast ratios. Nonetheless, the AUO B156HFT TN display of our XPS 15 performed respectably well.
Unfortunately, the Dell XPS 15 is only offered with a WLED backlight and not a B+RG-LED backlight. As a result, the extremely large color space of previous models is now significantly less. The display of the current model only matched entry models in this regard and neither the AdobeRGB or sRGB spaces were completely covered. This restricts the notebook from being used in professional image editing. However, this is a limitation that is largely irrelevant for most users and thus should not be overstated.
一个令人印象深刻的，丰富的黑电平为0.65 cd/m2的显示器的背光强烈的支持。这将产生一个很好的523:1的对比度，代表了当今上流社会的笔记本电脑显示器。一些非常高品质的IPS显示器，如一个在华硕UX32VD发现，能够1000:1的对比度。然而，友达B156HFT的TN显示执行我们的XPS 15体面。
不幸的是，戴尔XPS 15只提供一个WLED背光，而不是一个B + RG-LED背光源。其结果是，以前的模型是非常大的色彩空间现在显着少。显示当前模型匹配的入门车型在这方面并没有使用AdobeRGB或sRGB空间完全覆盖。这限制了笔记本电脑被用于专业图像编辑。然而，这是一个限制，对于大多数用户来说是无关紧要的，因此不应被夸大了。
While the glossy Gorilla Glass surface provided a subjectively higher contrast and vibrant colors indoors, it became an unpleasant obstacle outdoors. We could not completely avoid annoying reflections and, despite the strong backlight, screen readability deteriorated significantly, especially in direct sunlight. On the other hand, the XPS can be easily used in the shade, even with the slightly reduced backlight on battery power.
有光泽的Gorilla玻璃表面提供了一个主观更高的对比度和鲜艳的色彩在室内，它成为了一个不愉快的障碍户外。我们不能完全避免恼人的反射，尽管强劲的背光源，屏幕的可读性变差显着，尤其是在阳光直射的地方。另一方面，XPS可以很容易地在阴凉处，甚至略有降低背光电池电量。
Although viewing angle stability is not one of the strengths of TN technology, this particular display achieved good results in this category. When viewed from the side, the display contents remained mostly unchanged over a wide arc provided the user does not deviate too much in the vertical axis. For better performance, the manufacturer would have to use an IPS or VA panel which would further increase the total price.
虽然视角稳定的TN技术的优势之一，这种特殊的显示取得了良好的效果，在这个类别。当从侧面观察时，显示的内容大体持平，在很宽的弧线用户不太多偏离垂直轴。为了获得更好的性能，制造商将不得不使用IPS或VA面板，这将进一步增加的总价格。
Performance
The Dell XPS 15 can be configured using one of four different 22-nanometer Ivy Bridge processors. Business customers can choose the Core i5-3320M or i7-3520M. For personal computing needs, the XPS 15 can be configured to use either the Core i5-3210M or the only quad-core available, the Intel Core i7-3612QM. All four processors have a lower 35-Watt TDP, a strength considering the new, slimmer case.
Our test model included the fast Core i7-3612QM processor which utilizes four cores operating at a clock speed of 2.1 GHz. This CPU can boost its clock speed dynamically using Turbo Boost 2.0 technology. The maximum speeds for various core operations are 2.8 GHz, 3.0 GHz, and 3.1 GHz for four-core, two-core, and single-core operation respectively. The processor also supports Hyper-Threading technology which enables the parallel processing of up to eight threads in this quad-core processor. More details regarding the features of the Core i7-3612QM can be found here and extensive benchmark results can be found in our online database.
Like in its predecessor, dynamic graphics switching in the new XPS 15 is performed by Nvidia Optimus. When idle, the notebook uses the processor-integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 for video playback and other less-demanding tasks. While the HD Graphics 4000 is not particularly fast or powerful, it is extremely energy efficient. For complex 3D gaming, the dedicated Nvidia GeForce GT 640M takes over and provides significantly greater performance.
In addition to the 1 TB physical disk, Dell installed a 32 GB SSD as a cache drive to achieve a compromise between speed and space. The 8 GB DDR3-1600 RAM is evenly split across two Samsung modules.
使用四种不同的22纳米Ivy Bridge处理器，可配置的戴尔XPS 15。企业客户可以选择酷睿i5-3320M或i7-3520M。对于个人电脑的需求，XPS 15可以被配置为使用酷睿i5-3210M或唯一的四核，英特尔酷睿i7-3612QM。所有四款处理器低35瓦的TDP，有实力考虑新的，更轻薄的情况下。
我们的测试模型，包括快速的酷睿i7-3612QM处理器，该处理器采用了在时钟速度为2.1 GHz的四核。该CPU可以动态地提高其时钟速度，使用睿频加速2.0技术。各种核心业务的最大速度为2.8 GHz，3.0 GHz的，和3.1 GHz的四核心，双核心，单核心业务分别。该处理器还支持超线程技术，可以并行处理多达8个线程四核处理器。更多细节功能的酷睿i7-3612QM可以在这里找到和广泛的基准测试结果中可以找到我们的在线数据库。
喜欢它的前身，在新的XPS 15的动态显卡切换是由NVIDIA®（英伟达™）Optimus。空闲时，笔记本使用的处理器，集成Intel HD Graphics4000的视频播放和其他不太苛刻的任务。虽然高清显卡4000是不是特别快，功能强大的，它是非常节能的。对于复杂的3D游戏，专用的NVIDIA GeForce GT640M，并提供显着更高的性能。
除1 TB的物理磁盘，戴尔安装了32 GB SSD作为缓存驱动器，实现速度和空间之间的一种折衷。 8 GB DDR3-1600 RAM均匀地分割为两个三星的模块。
Processor
Although the Intel Core i7-3612QM has a clock speed that is a few hundred MHz lower than the 45-Watt Ivy Bridge quad-core processors, it nonetheless provides impressive performance on a high-end level. In both single- and multi-threaded benchmarks, we were able to observe the corresponding maximum Turbo Boost speeds which led to correspondingly good results. Our test candidate reached 5.59 points in the Cinebench R11.5 64-bit multi-core test, corresponding roughly to the Sandy Bridge-based Core i7-2720QM. Full performance was available even on battery power.
Anyone choosing the basic dual-core Core i5-3210 should expect a performance decrease of approximately 50 percent while single-core performance should be nearly identical. The additional performance of newer Ivy Bridge processors is only minimal compared to those of last year’s XPS 15. The primary advantage is the reduced power consumption of the Core i7-3612QM.
虽然英特尔酷睿i7-3612QM低于45瓦的Ivy Bridge的四核心处理器，是几百MHz的时钟速度，但它提供了令人印象深刻的性能在高端水平。在这两种单和多线程基准测试，我们能够观察到的对应的最大Turbo Boost的速度，从而导致相应的好成绩。在CINEBENCH R11.564位多核心测试中，基于Sandy Bridge酷睿i7-2720QM大约相当于我们的考生达到了5.59点。即使在电池电量完全性能。
应该期望任何人都选择了基本的双核酷睿i5-3210性能下降约50％，而单核性能几乎相同。新的Ivy Bridge处理器只有极少量的额外的性能，相比去年的XPS 15。的主要优点是降低功耗的酷睿i7-3612QM。
Storage Devices
Storage devices often present a difficult decision. Even after recent price reductions, fast SSDs are still at least ten times more expensive than conventional physical hard disks in the 2.5-inch format. One solution to this problem is to use a physical hard drive for storage and add a smaller SSD as a flash memory cache for frequently used programs.
For the XPS 15, Dell has chosen this option. Depending on the configuration, a 500, 750, or 1000 GB hard disk is combined with a small 32 GB SSD to serve as the storage solution. By comparison, the 2200 Euro (~$2750) top-of-the-line model relies solely on a 512 GB SSD. Our test model uses the 5400 RPM Western Digital Scorpio Blue hard drive with an 8 MB cache supported by a Samsung PM830 mSATA SSD. In Windows, the user only sees a shared disk with 1000 GB of storage space. The SSD cache drive is inaccessible to the user and is automatically managed independently of additional software.
Because of this hybridization, it is difficult to isolate the performance of the individual components of the storage solution. Benchmark tools such as HD Tune and CrystalDiskMark primarily show the physical disk’s performance, but tests using small 4K files show the potential of the SSD cache. In usage, we observed that the XPS 15 achieved noticeably faster program starts for programs such as Windows Media Player and Internet Explorer. On the other hand, boot times were not subjectively faster.
存储设备往往会出现一个艰难的决定。即使在最近的价格削减，快速的固态硬盘仍然至少10倍以上的价格比传统的物理硬盘2.5英寸的格式。这个问题的一个解决方案是使用一个物理硬盘驱动器用于存储和闪存高速缓存中经常使用的程序添加一个较小的SSD。
戴尔XPS 15，选择此选项。根据不同的配置，500，750，或1000 GB硬盘，再加上一个小的32 GB SSD作为存储解决方案。相比较而言，2200欧元（〜$2750）顶级的线模型完全依赖于一个512 GB的SSD。我们的测试模型，采用5400转西数天蝎蓝硬盘驱动器与一个8 MB高速缓存，支持由三星PM830的mSATA SSD。在Windows中，用户只能看到1000 GB的存储空间的共享磁盘。 SSD缓存驱动器是无法给用户，并自动管理，独立的附加软件。
由于这种杂交，是难以分离的各个组成部分的存储溶液的性能。基准测试工具，如HD Tune和CrystalDiskMark的主要显示物理磁盘的性能，但是使用小的4K文件的测试表明，潜在的SSD高速缓存。在使用中，我们发现，XPS 15取得了显着更快的程序启动的程序，如Windows媒体播放器和Internet Explorer。另一方面，启动时间不主观更快。
System Performance
As usual, we test overall system performance using the Futuremark PCMark series which largely assesses CPU and disk performance. In PCMark 7, the XPS 15 achieved a score of 4009 points which surpasses some notebooks that use a full-fledged SSD solution.
This reflects the SSD cache’s influence on system response times in everyday use. The fast Core i7-3612QM also demonstrated its power as even demanding applications like HD video transcoding using CUDA and QuickSync was completed without a long wait.
像往常一样，我们使用Futuremark的PCMark系列的主要评估CPU和磁盘性能测试系统的整体性能。在PCMark7，XPS 15的比分取得了4009点，超过一些笔记本电脑使用一个完整的SSD解决方案。
这反映在日常使用SSD缓存的系统响应时间的影响。快速的酷睿i7-3612QM还展示了其权力，甚至要求苛刻的应用，如高清视频转码，使用CUDA和QuickSync完成了，不用漫长的等待。
| PCMark Vantage Result | 9545 points | |
| PCMark 7 Score | 4009 points | |
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Graphics Card
The XPS 15 features the Nvidia GeForce GT 640M which, like the slightly faster GeForce GT 650M and GTX 660M, is based on the GK107 chip from the latest Kepler architecture. The GPU, made by TSMC in a 28-nanometer fabrication process, contains 384 shader ALUs with a base clock speed of 645 MHz, exceeding Nvidia’s reference design of 625 MHz. Additionally, the GPU can reach speeds of up to 709 MHz using its dynamic overclocking mode.
While other notebooks such as the Acer Aspire M3 use slower GDDR3, the XPS 15 features 2 GB of the faster GDDR5 VRAM. Combined with a 128-bit memory interface, the graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 64 GB/s which most of all benefits performance during anti-aliasing.
Despite these optimal features, the XPS 15 scored unexpectedly poor results in our benchmark tests. Upon further review, we found that the GeForce GT 640M was not to blame. Rather, the simultaneous workload in our CPU and GPU caused the Core i7-3612QM to throttle down to a mere 1.2 GHz. The graphics-oriented 3DMark was not affected by this situation and the XPS delivered an excellent score of 1948 points. In the more processor-intensive 3DMark05 and 3DMark06, the score was considerably reduced. Please note the comments regarding BIOS version A04 below.
XPS 15采用了NVIDIA GeForce GT640M的一样，速度稍快的GeForce GT650M和GTX660M，是基于从最新的开普勒架构GK107芯片。由TSMC的28纳米制造工艺，GPU，包含384着色器ALU的基本时钟频率为645 MHz，速度超过625 MHz的NVIDIA®（英伟达™）的参考设计。此外，GPU的速度可以达到高达709 MHz，使用它的动态超频模式。
而其他的笔记本电脑，如宏碁Aspire M3使用较慢的GDDR3，XPS 15提供2 GB的速度更快的GDDR5 VRAM。结合一个128位内存接口，该显卡拥有64 GB/ s的内存带宽，大多数的好处表现在抗混叠。
XPS 15的尽管这些最佳功能，在我们的基准测试中取得了意想不到的效果差。经进一步审查，我们发现，在GeForce GT640M不怪。相反，同时在我们的CPU和GPU的工作量造成踩下油门，仅1.2 GHz的酷睿i7-3612QM。面向图形的3DMark这种情况并没有受到影响，XPS1948年发表了优异的成绩。在更多的处理器密集的3DMark05和3DMark06，比分被大大降低。请注意BIOS版本A04下面的评论。
| 3DMark 03 Standard | 31151 points | |
| 3DMark 05 Standard | 15726 points | |
| 3DMark 06 Standard Score | 10272 points | |
| 3DMark Vantage P Result | 7425 points | |
| 3DMark 11 Performance | 1948 points | |
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Gaming Performance
We observed a problematic and drastic CPU throttling that occurred even in the latest 3D games. Depending on the game being tested, the reduced processor clock often reduced frame rates and playability.
In Anno 2070 for example, there was virtually no discernible difference in performance when compared to other notebooks with the same graphics card. Even at only 1.2 GHz, the Core i7-3612QM was fast enough such that the GeForce GT 640M was the limiting factor. The game was smooth using high details at a resolution of 1366x768. In Alan Wake and Battlefield 3, the negative impact of throttling was minimal as well but performance was only sufficient for medium details.
In Diablo 3 and F1 2011, we found a different situation. Both games showed high CPU limits, especially at low resolutions. This placed the XPS 15 behind even the Acer Aspire Timeline Ultra M3 despite its nominally-slower Core i7-2637M ULV processor. When higher settings were used, the XPS 15 was able to gain ground on the Aspire Timeline Ultra M3 and was able to surpass the Acer at 1920x1080.
Nonetheless, this behavior represents a significant limitation and resulted in unplayable frame rates during more demanding scenes. Further details on the possible causes of this limitation are described below in the Temperature section.
我们观察到的问题和最新的3D游戏，即使在发生剧烈的CPU节流。根据被测试的游戏，降低处理器时钟往往降低帧速率和可玩性。
例如，在2070年安诺几乎没有明显的差异，在性能上相比其他笔记本电脑相同的图形卡。即使在只有1.2GHz的酷睿i7-3612QM是速度不够快，这样的GeForce GT640M的限制因素。本场比赛是顺利使用高细节的分辨率为1366×768。心灵杀手战地3，节流的负面影响是最小的很好，但中的细节表现足够。
在“暗黑破坏神3和F1 2011中，我们发现了一个不同的情况。这两场比赛表现出较高的CPU限制，尤其是在低决议。这将XPS 15落后甚至是宏碁Aspire Timeline超M3，尽管它名义上较慢的酷睿i7-2637M ULV处理器。当使用较高的设置，XPS 15是能够获得地面上的Aspire时间轴超M3和是能够超越宏碁在1920×1080。
然而，这种行为是一个重要的限制，导致无法播放的帧速率，在更严格的场景。此限制的可能原因的更多细节在下面描述的温度部分。
| low | med. | high | ultra | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 2011 (2011) | 61 (Throttling) | 42 (Throttling) | 36 (Throttling) | 24 (Throttling) |
| Battlefield 3 (2011) | 50 (Throttling) | 37 (Throttling) | 29 (Throttling) | 14 (Throttling) |
| Anno 2070 (2011) | 124.2 | 50.7 | 31.8 | 15.1 |
| Alan Wake (2012) | 51.4 | 31.1 | 13.5 | |
| Diablo III (2012) | 71.1 | 63 () | 59 () | 51 () |
Emissions
System Noise
While the fan was typically inactive when the notebook was idle or carrying out simple tasks such as word processing, the XPS 15 was not completely silent. This was due to the hard disk whose faint noise of 32.0 dB(A) was detectable from a few centimeters away. During more demanding tasks, the fan occasionally activated and reached a still-quiet and non-disturbing noise level of 33.6 dB(A).
System noise became significantly more noticeable at full load. Regardless of whether we were playing a game or running our Prime95 and Furmark stress test, the noise level peaked at approximately 45 dB(A). Subjectively, the XPS 15 did not seem particularly loud due to its constant and very low-frequency noise. Even over an extended period of time, we found this volume to be acceptable. Last year’s MacBook Pro 15 was at a similar level.
系统噪声
虽然风扇是典型的活动，当笔记本电脑处于闲置状态或进行简单的任务，如文字处理，XPS 15是不完全沉默。这是由于其微弱的噪音为32.0分贝（A）被检测出从几厘米远的硬盘。在更艰巨的任务，风扇偶尔激活，并达成了一个仍然安静，无干扰的噪声级为33.6分贝（A）。
在满负荷的系统噪音变得更加明显。不管我们是否在玩游戏或运行Prime95和Furmark的压力测试，噪音水平达到高峰，约45分贝（A）。主观上，XPS 15并未显得特别大声，由于其持续不断的和非常低频率的噪音。即使在较长的一段时间，我们发现，这个量是可以接受的。去年的MacBook Pro15在类似的水平。
Noise Level
| Idle |
| 32.1 / 33.6 / 33.6 dB(A) |
| HDD |
| 32.4 dB(A) |
| DVD |
| 38 / dB(A) |
| Load |
| 44.2 / 45.1 dB(A) |
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30 dB silent 40 dB(A) audible 50 dB(A) loud |
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min:  , med:  , max:  Voltcraft SL 320 (15 cm distance) | ||
Temperature
Now we come to the presumably most critical issue, the notebook’s temperatures. While the ambient temperatures of 24 to 27 degrees Celsius (75 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit) are perhaps less than ideal for a test, this is hardly a rare scenario for any mobile device.
While idle, the XPS 15’s case already reached a temperature of 36 degrees Celsius (97 degrees Fahrenheit). Under load, the case reached temperatures of over 40 and 45 degrees Celsius (104 and 113 degrees Fahrenheit) on the top and underside respectively. Even the soft-touch surfaces which were specially designed to help keep the surface cool did not noticeably help and certainly no one would want to touch the case near the heat exhaust vent in this scenario. Lap-top use would only be advisable during low-demand tasks. On the other hand, the wrist rest remained comparatively cool and the user need not worry about burning one’s fingers during longer gaming sessions.
现在我们就来大概是最关键的问题，笔记本电脑的温度。当环境温度为摄氏24至27度（华氏75至81度）也许不到一个测试的理想选择，这不是一个罕见的情况下，任何移动设备。
处于闲置状态时，XPS 15的情况下，已经达到了36摄氏度（97华氏度）的温度。负载下，的情况下达到的温度在摄氏40度和45度以上（华氏104度和113度）的顶部和底部分别。即使是触感柔软的表面而特别设计的，以帮助保持表面凉爽并没有明显的帮助，当然没有人会愿意在这种情况下附近的热排气口接触的情况下。立只会在低需求的任务是可取的。另一方面，腕托仍然比较冷，用户不必担心燃烧的手指在更长的游戏时间。
(-) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 48.1 °C / 119 F, compared to the average of 36.9 °C / 98 F, ranging from 21.1 to 71 °C for the class Multimedia.
(-) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 56.5 °C / 134 F, compared to the average of 39.2 °C / 103 F
(±) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 35.5 °C / 96 F, compared to the device average of 31.3 °C / 88 F.
(±) The palmrests and touchpad can get very hot to the touch with a maximum of 38.5 °C / 101.3 F.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.8 °C / 83.8 F (-9.7 °C / -17.5 F).
Throttling and BIOS Updates
We would like to take the opportunity to discuss the aforementioned throttling. In our testing, it seemed that the cooling system was simply unable to dissipate the generated heat quickly enough. After several hours of Battlefield 3, we observed processor temperatures between 95 and 97 degrees Celsius (203 and 207 degrees Fahrenheit) even though the CPU was constantly operating at a reduced speed of 1.2 GHz. Our stress test was able to reproducibly shut down the XPS 15 after five to fifteen minutes as the processor exceeded 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit). The graphics card also became very hot with a temperature of 91 degrees Celsius (196 degrees Fahrenheit) but managed to maintain its maximum clock speed.
At this point, it is difficult to say whether the cooling system was simply inadequately designed or if there might be other issues, such as a problem with the applied thermal paste and transfer pads. Both a pre-production model and a retail model demonstrated the same behavior so we are willing to rule out the possibility of a single defective unit. We are already in contact with Dell and will update the review when a solution emerges.
Update 07/24/2012: Just prior to completing our test, the manufacturer provided us with an updated BIOS (revision A05) which, unfortunately, only partially fixed the problem. While this revision eliminated both the stress test shutdown and CPU throttling, it also created new problems. During our tests in F1 2011, Battlefield 3, and Deus Ex, the graphics card sometimes reduced its speed to 270 MHz resulting in an even greater fps drop compared to the old BIOS. We would advise gamers to wait for further updates. We will continue to update this article regarding this issue as solutions emerge.
我们想借此机会讨论上述限制。在我们的测试中，它的冷却系统似乎是根本无法产生的热量消散的速度不够快。经过几个小时的战地3中，我们观察到处理器的温度摄氏95度和97度之间（203和207华氏度），即使CPU不断在降低的速度为1.2 GHz的操作。我们的压力测试是可以再现关闭XPS 15后五到十五分钟的处理器超过100摄氏度（212华氏度）。显卡也变得非常炎热，温度在摄氏91度（华氏196度），但仍能保持其最大的时钟速度。
在这一点上，是很难说的冷却系统是否只是简单地设计不当，或是否有可能是其他的问题，如涂抹导热膏和转让垫一个问题。预生产模式和零售模式表现出同样的行为，所以我们愿意排除这种可能性的一个单一的缺陷。我们已经在接触戴尔的解决方案出现时，将更新的审查。
更新日期2012年7月24日之前完成我们的测试，制造商为我们提供了一个更新的BIOS（修订版A05），不幸的是，只是部分地解决了这一问题。虽然本次修订取消了压力测试关断和CPU节流，这也创造了新的问题。 2011年在F1，“战地3”在我们的测试过程中，杀出重围，显卡的速度有时会降低到270 MHz，从而在更大的FPS相比下降将老的BIOS。我们建议玩家等待进一步的更新。我们将继续更新这篇文章，关于这个问题的解决方案出现。
Speaker
As part of the case redesign, Dell chose to use different speakers for the XPS 15. The previously-used 20-Watt 2.1 JBL sound system was replaced by typical 4-Watt built-in stereo speakers with only one-fifth of the nominal power of the previous model.
What initially appears to be a massive downgrade still manages a quality that would surpass 95 percent of all other notebooks in practical use. We observed clear high-tones, strong mid-tones, and considerable depth. This allows the user to enjoy music and movies without the need for external speakers. The generous volume level was sufficient to fill medium-sized rooms without distortion or overdriving at maximum volume. Of course, Dell could further improve the output quality with the addition of an internal or external subwoofer.
It is also worth mentioning the different preset modes in the audio panel. We would like to recommend activating the “Waves MaxxAudio” and selecting the “Music” default.
Battery Life
Energy Consumption
We measured an idle power consumption of 9.6 to 15.5 Watts, in line with what one might expect based on the specifications of the XPS 15. Comparably equipped multimedia notebooks, such as the Asus N56VZ and Dell Inspiron 15R which uses an AMD graphics card, required roughly the same. It should be noted that the XPS 15 and the cited examples all make use of Optimus and Enduro technology.
Under full load, we measured power consumption levels of 48.5 Watts and 79.6 Watts in 3DMark06. Due to the aforementioned throttling, these results are only partially realistic for the built-in hardware, assuming that Dell solves the problematic slowdown in the future. The 90-Watt power supply is able to provide some overhead based on our measurements.
| Off / Standby | 0.1 / 0.6 Watt |
| Idle | 9.6 / 14.6 / 15.5 Watt |
| Load |
48.5 / 79.6 Watt |
   
| |
Key:
min: ,
med: ,
max: Voltcraft VC 940 | |
Battery Runtime
While the previous model could allowed the user to choose between a standard 6-cell battery and a more-efficient 9-cell, 90 Wh battery, the new XPS 15 has its battery permanently installed. With a rated 65 Wh capacity, it is not overly large but should reach acceptable runtimes due to the notebook’s modern power-saving features.
In the Battery Eater Reader’s Test, using minimum brightness, the “Power Saver” profile, and disabled wireless modules, we observed a runtime of 7 hours 41 minutes.
However, this runtime dropped to 4 hours 39 minutes when we performed the Wi-Fi surfing test which uses the “Power Saver” profile, a display brightness of approximately 150 cd/m2, and wireless modules enabled. The result demonstrates that the current model is slightly more efficient at partial load and is capable of running for approximately as long as last year’s MacBook Pro 15.
When we attempted to determine the worst-case runtime using the Battery Eater Classic Test, with maximum brightness, the “High Performance” profile, and all wireless modules enabled, the XPS 15 ran out of charge after 1 hour 20 minutes. The subsequent recharge required approximately 3 hours. We observed one practical feature – pressing a button displayed the battery’s current charge level on a small LED even when the notebook was turned off.
Verdict
Rarely has the evaluation of a notebook been as difficult as with the Dell XPS 15. On the one hand, the notebook demonstrated great performance in almost all categories. On the other hand, the thermal issues seriously cloud the notebook’s long-term viability. To clarify the picture, allow us to recall our review results.
Dell has always demonstrated case independence but also offers the same perfect manufacturing quality as the established Apple MacBook Pro. The use of aluminum and Gorilla Glass guarantee stability and longevity and the velvety soft-touch surfaces presents very elegant haptics. A notebook cannot be of significantly higher quality than the XPS 15.
In terms of input devices, connectivity, and the display, there is little room for criticism. While the display has lost some of its color space compared to the predecessor, this restriction will affect very few users. Everyone else will enjoy the display’s great contrast ratio and increase in brightness. Despite the glossy surface, one can work well with the XPS 15 outdoors as well. In this case, the regular battery runtime of 4 hours helps for daily use.
While we can say only positive things about application performance due to the powerful quad-core processor and SSD cache, the aforementioned throttling significantly hinders gaming. Titles with high CPU requirements perform at massively reduced levels and yet generate worrying levels of heat emission. While we observed a shutdown only during our stress test, we cannot rule out whether particularly demanding games in high outdoor temperatures might evoke the same response, especially if a layer of dust covers the heat sink and fans after long-term use. Fortunately Dell seems to have solved this problem with BIOS A05, but this revision also merely shifts the throttling from CPU to GPU.
As promised, we will continue to update this review as soon as a possible solution emerges. In the meantime, people primarily interested in game should focus on competing notebooks such as the Asus N56VZ and Apple MacBook Pro 15, of which the 2012 version has recently been tested as well. That said, the XPS 15 is not primarily designed for hardcore gamers who should seek purpose-built notebooks such as the Schenker XMG P502 and MSI GT60.
