By Administrator Introduction
The Dell XPS fifteen 9550, a name that evokes a certain nostalgia for laptop enthusiasts, once represented the pinnacle of portable computing. Its sleek design, powerful internals, and near bezel-less display made it a desirable device for professionals, creatives, and students alike. But how does this iconic laptop hold up in today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape? This article delves deep into the Dell XPS fifteen 9550, examining its features, performance, common issues, and overall value proposition for those considering a purchase or simply curious about its place in laptop history.
This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview for several audiences. Potential buyers seeking an affordable used laptop might find this helpful, as might enthusiasts looking to understand the evolution of the Dell XPS line. We also hope this guide assists anyone trying to repair or upgrade their existing XPS fifteen 9550. Understanding the machine’s strengths and weaknesses is crucial for making informed decisions in any of these situations.
The Dell XPS fifteen 9550 holds a significant position because it showcased the direction Dell was taking with its premium laptops. It introduced features, like the InfinityEdge display, that became hallmarks of the XPS series, setting a new standard for design and functionality. It was more than just a laptop; it was a statement.
Design and Build Quality: A Timeless Aesthetic
The Dell XPS fifteen 9550 immediately impresses with its refined design. The silver aluminum chassis exudes a premium feel, while the carbon fiber palm rest provides a comfortable and surprisingly durable surface for extended use. This combination of materials not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the laptop’s overall structural integrity.
The laptop’s dimensions and weight, while not the absolute lightest compared to today’s ultrabooks, were remarkably compact for a fifteen-inch machine at the time of its release. This portability was a key selling point, allowing users to easily transport it between home, office, and school.
A Closer Look at the Ports
The port selection on the Dell XPS fifteen 9550 is a mixed bag by modern standards. It includes USB Type-A ports, an HDMI port, an SD card reader, and a headphone jack. While these ports cover many essential connectivity needs, the absence of USB Type-C (beyond Thunderbolt, which was less ubiquitous then) is a notable limitation. The placement of the ports is generally practical, though some users might find the SD card reader’s location slightly inconvenient. Whether the port selection is adequate depends heavily on individual workflows. Users who rely on newer peripherals might need to invest in dongles and adapters.
Keyboard and Trackpad: User Experience Essentials
The keyboard on the Dell XPS fifteen 9550 offers a decent typing experience. The keys provide adequate travel and tactile feedback, though some users might find the key spacing slightly cramped. The layout is generally standard, but it’s worth noting that keyboard preferences are highly subjective. The trackpad is reasonably sized and responsive, supporting multi-finger gestures for enhanced navigation. The trackpad surface is smooth and accurate, making it suitable for everyday tasks.
Regarding durability, the Dell XPS fifteen 9550 is generally well-built and can withstand moderate wear and tear. However, like any laptop, it’s susceptible to scratches and dents if not handled with care. The aluminum chassis is more resistant to damage than plastic alternatives, and the carbon fiber palm rest is surprisingly resilient.
Display: The InfinityEdge Innovation
The Dell XPS fifteen 9550 was offered with various display options, catering to different user preferences and budgets. The base model featured a full high definition display, while higher-end configurations included a four thousand ultra high definition panel. Both touch and non-touch options were available.
The display quality is a major highlight of the Dell XPS fifteen 9550. The screens are generally bright, with good contrast ratios and accurate color reproduction. The four thousand ultra high definition option, in particular, offers exceptional sharpness and detail, making it ideal for creative tasks and multimedia consumption. Color accuracy is generally good, covering a significant portion of the sRGB color gamut, making it suitable for photo and video editing. Viewing angles are also wide, ensuring that the image remains clear and consistent even when viewed from off-center positions.
The InfinityEdge display, a signature feature of the Dell XPS line, is a standout element of the fifteen 9550. The near bezel-less design maximizes the screen real estate within a compact form factor, creating a more immersive viewing experience. This innovation was groundbreaking at the time and continues to influence laptop design today.
While the display quality is generally excellent, some users have reported issues such as backlight bleed or screen flickering. These problems were not universally prevalent, but it’s worth being aware of them if considering a used model.
Performance and Specifications: Powering Productivity
The Dell XPS fifteen 9550 was available with a range of sixth-generation Intel Core i5 and i7 processor options. The i5 models offered solid performance for everyday tasks, while the i7 configurations provided extra horsepower for demanding applications. Choosing the right processor depended on the intended use case, with content creators and power users benefiting most from the i7 models.
The laptop features an NVIDIA GeForce GTX nine sixty M graphics card. While not a high-end gaming GPU by today’s standards, it was capable of handling many games at medium settings. The GPU also provided a performance boost for applications that benefited from graphics acceleration, such as video editing software. The limitations for modern gaming should be considered, as newer titles might require significantly reduced settings or may not be playable at all.
The Dell XPS fifteen 9550 supported a substantial amount of random access memory, allowing for smooth multitasking and efficient handling of large files. Various configurations were available, ensuring that users could choose the right amount of RAM to suit their needs.
Storage options included both solid state drives and hard disk drives. The SSDs offered significantly faster performance, resulting in quicker boot times and snappier application loading. The HDDs provided more storage capacity, but at the expense of speed. Ideally, an SSD was the preferred choice for the operating system and frequently used applications.
While modern benchmark scores are not directly comparable, the Dell XPS fifteen 9550 delivered solid performance for its time. The CPU handled productivity tasks with ease, and the GPU provided a decent gaming experience. Solid state drive read and write speeds were competitive, contributing to the laptop’s overall responsiveness.
In real-world use, the Dell XPS fifteen 9550 performed admirably. It excelled at tasks such as web browsing, office work, and multimedia consumption. It could also handle photo and video editing, albeit with some limitations depending on the complexity of the projects. Gaming performance was acceptable for older titles, but newer games required compromises in graphical settings.
Battery Life: Endurance on the Go
The Dell XPS fifteen 9550 was equipped with a battery designed to provide a reasonable amount of unplugged usage. The exact battery capacity varied depending on the configuration.
Battery life tests revealed that the Dell XPS fifteen 9550 could typically last for several hours on a single charge under moderate usage. Web browsing and video playback drained the battery at a faster rate, while lighter tasks allowed for longer runtimes.
Factors such as screen resolution, brightness, and CPU usage significantly impacted battery life. Lowering the brightness and closing unnecessary applications could help to extend the battery’s lifespan.
Audio and Webcam: Essential Communication Tools
The speakers on the Dell XPS fifteen 9550 provide adequate sound quality for casual listening. The volume is sufficient for most environments, but the bass response is somewhat lacking. The speaker placement is generally acceptable, but some users might prefer speakers that are positioned more directly towards the user.
The webcam on the Dell XPS fifteen 9550 offers decent image quality for video conferencing. The resolution is sufficient for most applications, but the image quality can be grainy in low-light conditions. The webcam is suitable for basic video calls and online meetings.
Common Issues and Problems: Addressing Potential Concerns
Overheating was a common concern with the Dell XPS fifteen 9550, particularly under heavy workloads. Ensuring adequate ventilation and avoiding prolonged use in hot environments could help to mitigate this issue.
Battery drain was another potential problem, with some users experiencing rapid battery depletion. Calibrating the battery and updating drivers could help to improve battery performance.
Driver issues were occasionally reported, particularly after operating system upgrades. Keeping drivers up to date and ensuring compatibility with the operating system was crucial for preventing problems.
Coil whine, a high-pitched noise emanating from the laptop’s internal components, was also reported by some users. This issue was generally harmless but could be annoying to sensitive ears.
Troubleshooting these common issues often involved updating drivers, recalibrating the battery, and ensuring proper ventilation. Consulting online forums and support resources could also provide valuable assistance.
Upgradability: Extending the Lifespan
Upgrading the random access memory on the Dell XPS fifteen 9550 is generally straightforward. The RAM slots are accessible, and users can easily install more memory to improve performance.
Replacing the solid state drive or hard disk drive is also possible. The laptop supports standard storage formats, allowing users to upgrade to larger or faster drives.
Other potential upgrades include replacing the Wi-Fi card. This can be done to improve wireless connectivity.
The XPS 15 9550 in Today’s Market: A Value Proposition?
Used Dell XPS fifteen 9550 laptops are readily available on online marketplaces. Their prices vary depending on the configuration, condition, and seller.
Whether it’s still worth buying depends on individual needs and priorities. The laptop offers a good balance of performance and portability for basic tasks, but it’s not suitable for demanding applications or modern gaming. Considering factors like battery life and reliability compared to newer laptops is crucial.
Alternatives include newer laptops with similar specifications or older models that offer better value for money. Considering refurbished or used models from other brands might also be a worthwhile option.
This laptop might still appeal to students on a tight budget or users who need a dedicated GPU for light creative work. However, it’s important to be aware of its limitations and potential issues before making a purchase.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation
The Dell XPS fifteen 9550 was a groundbreaking laptop that helped to shape the modern laptop landscape. Its sleek design, powerful performance, and innovative features made it a popular choice among professionals and enthusiasts. While it’s showing its age by today’s standards, it still offers a decent computing experience for basic tasks. Its legacy lies in its influence on subsequent XPS models and its contribution to the evolution of laptop design. The Dell XPS fifteen 9550 remains a testament to Dell’s commitment to innovation and its ability to create laptops that are both stylish and functional. It’s a reminder that even older technology can still hold value and offer a glimpse into the past.
