Dell XPS 13: iFixit demonstrates its reparability

iFixit has very simply reverse engineer the 2015 model of the Dell XPS 13, discovering one of the best on the market today ultrabooks. Disassembly revealed many modular components, allowing Dell to ship a 13.3-inch screen in a similar form factor to a netbook.

But in addition to dismantling, the group may have found a little secret. Inside the LCD aluminum case, iFixit discovered a quick release tab, they suspect to be a feature that removes IGZO display with a minimum of effort. But since Dell did not mention this tongue in its maintenance manual, the mystery remains unsolved.

On the downside, the XPS has random access memory (RAM) welded, which means that there is no possibility to upgrade it after purchasing the device. But Dell may have decided to weld the memory because it reduces the electrical resistance between the RAM and the notebook, increasing the autonomy of the computer.

Other negative points against the XPS comprise an amount “moderate” adhesive, and it can be difficult to achieve the speakers. iFixit noted that if the adhesive was not applied in large quantities, it was nevertheless very sticky, making its removal more difficult than expected. To remove the speakers, it is necessary to remove the battery first.

Other factors that contribute to the final score of seven out of ten include line maintenance guide and components easily accessible after removing the bottom case.

For those who are wondering internal storage XPS, it uses a SDD Samsung PM851 in M.2 format. The PM851 is energy efficient, yet offers excellent performance with AES 256. The motherboard features a fifth-generation Intel Core processor.

Regarding the market for ultrabooks XPS remains one of the most prolific in the iFixit database. Due to the limited internal space, manufacturers tend to overload the frame with components and apply generous amounts of adhesive. The only ultrabook to have a higher score is the Asus Zenbook, which got a score of 8 out of 10 on the scale of repairability of the site. In comparison, the MacBook Air has had a 4/10 score.

The Dell XPS 13 is available now for a price starting at 1,379 euros.

Dell XPS 13: iFixit demonstrates its reparability