Should I Buy a Dell XPS 15 9560 for My Computer Engineering/Science Degree? Here Are Better Alternatives

Deciding on the right laptop can significantly impact your academic performance and future career in computer engineering or science. While the Dell XPS 15 9560 is a high-end choice, it may not be the best investment for your specific needs. Let’s explore the pros and cons, as well as some more affordable and feature-rich alternatives.

The Pros of the Dell XPS 15 9560

The Dell XPS 15 9560 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a premium laptop. Here are some of its advantages:

High Performance: Equipped with powerful processors and great graphics capabilities, making it suitable for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and coding. Beautiful Display: It offers a beautiful OLED or 4K UHD display, providing excellent visuals for data visualization and coding. Professional Build Quality: The XPS 15 9560 is known for its durable and stylish design, which is perfect for both casual and professional use. Excellent Cooling: The laptop is well-cooled, ensuring that it can handle long periods of intensive work without overheating.

The Cons of the Dell XPS 15 9560

Despite its advantages, the Dell XPS 15 9560 is not without its downsides:

Precise Camera Location: The so-called “chin cam” is mounted too low, making video calls and self-coding sessions less than ideal. No Cat5 Port: You’ll need to buy a USB-C to Ethernet adapter, which is inconvenient and expensive. Flaky Wi-Fi: The wireless connectivity has been a persistent issue, leading to connectivity problems and frequent disconnections.

To address these issues, you might consider upgrading the Wi-Fi card, but this can be a costly and frustrating experience. Furthermore, the XPS 15 9560 may be overkill for many students, and purchasing a more affordable device might make more sense.

Alternatives to Consider

Here are some budget-friendly laptops that offer great performance and features:

1. Dell Precision Line

The Dell Precision line is designed specifically for power users and professionals, including engineers and software developers. While it’s more expensive, it provides top-of-the-line performance and is highly customizable.

2. Lenovo ThinkPad

Lenovo ThinkPads are well-regarded in the market for their reliability and build quality. They offer a good balance between performance and affordability. Models like the ThinkPad X1 Carbon are highly recommended for their long battery life, robust build, and excellent keyboard.

3. HP Envy/EliteBook Series

HP’s Envy and EliteBook series offer great value for money. The Envy is aimed at consumers, providing excellent performance for everyday use and a decent range of ports and peripherals. The EliteBook series is geared towards professionals and offers enterprise-level features and security.

4. Dell Inspiron/Latitude Series

For beginners or those on a tighter budget, the Dell Inspiron or Latitude 15 series can be excellent options. They provide good performance at a lower price point, with features like fast processors, ample RAM, and reliable hardware.

Conclusion

While the Dell XPS 15 9560 is a great laptop overall, it may not be the best choice for a computer engineering or science degree. A more affordable and flexible option like the Dell Precision line, Lenovo ThinkPad, HP Envy, or Dell Inspiron/Latitude series can offer the same or better value. Focus on your specific needs and budget, and don’t get too obsessed with the latest and greatest technology. Your money might be better spent on accessories like a good monitor and printer to enhance your learning experience.