Dell XPS 14 and XPS 16 with Core Ultra 7 355 Now Shipping Early at Lower Prices

Dell has surprised customers by releasing the Core Ultra 7 355 and Core Ultra 5 325 configurations for its XPS 14 and XPS 16 laptops a full week ahead of schedule, finally filling the gap left by the initial January launch that only included the top-tier Core Ultra X7 358H models. The new configurations start at $1,600 for the XPS 14 and $1,750 for the XPS 16, representing a significant $400 price reduction compared to their faster Core Ultra X7 358H counterparts.

The Core Ultra 7 355 sits below the flagship X7 358H in Intel's latest Panther Lake lineup, offering a more accessible entry point for users who want the latest XPS design without paying for maximum performance. Both models retain the option for OLED displays, ensuring that buyers don't have to compromise on screen quality when choosing the more affordable configurations.

However, there's an important caveat for power users: configurations with 32GB of RAM or more are locked to the Core Ultra X7 358H processor. This means that buyers seeking maximum memory capacity will still need to opt for the higher-end model, potentially negating some of the cost savings for those who need both high memory and the latest chassis design.

Dell has also announced that the enthusiast-level Core Ultra X9 388H configuration is still coming soon, though the company hasn't provided a specific release date. According to NotebookCheck's analysis, the performance jump from the Core Ultra 7 355 to the Core Ultra X7 358H is more substantial than the leap from the X7 358H to the upcoming X9 388H. This suggests that the X9 configuration may appeal primarily to a niche audience of power users rather than the broader XPS customer base.

The early release of these configurations addresses a significant gap in Dell's XPS lineup that had frustrated potential buyers since January. Those who were willing to wait for more affordable options can now configure their dream XPS laptop without the premium price tag of the top-tier processor.

NotebookCheck notes that a review of the Core Ultra 7 355 Dell XPS 14 configuration is expected in the coming days, which should provide detailed performance benchmarks and real-world usage insights for these newly available models. This review will be particularly valuable for understanding how the Core Ultra 7 355 performs in everyday tasks compared to its more powerful siblings.

The pricing strategy positions the Core Ultra 7 355 models as compelling options for creative professionals, students, and general users who want the premium XPS experience without the highest-end processing power. The $400 savings could be significant for many buyers, potentially making the XPS line accessible to a broader audience while still maintaining the brand's reputation for quality and design.

For those considering an upgrade or purchase, the timing is particularly favorable given the early release. The combination of the latest Panther Lake processors, optional OLED displays, and the iconic XPS design at a more accessible price point makes these configurations worth serious consideration, especially for users who don't require the absolute maximum performance that the X7 358H or upcoming X9 388H models provide.

As the laptop market continues to evolve with Intel's latest processor generation, Dell's strategy of offering multiple performance tiers within the XPS lineup demonstrates an understanding of diverse customer needs and budget constraints. The early release of these configurations suggests strong demand and potentially higher-than-expected inventory levels for the Core Ultra 7 355 and Core Ultra 5 325 chips.