Dell vs HP Laptops: How to Choose the Best Laptop Brand
Choosing the right laptop is a big decision that affects our work, play, and everything in between. Two of the biggest names in the laptop world are Dell and HP. Both have strong reputations and loyal fans, offering many different models to suit various needs. But with so many choices, how do you decide which is better for you?
In this article, we’ll compare Dell and HP laptops, looking at what each brand does well and where they might fall short. Whether you care most about speed, design, or getting the most for your money, we’ll give you the information you need to make a smart choice.
So, which laptop brand will be your perfect match? Keep reading to find out.
Dell vs HP: Business Laptops
- $699
- 13.4 inches
- 512 GB SSD
- 12th Gen Intel Core i7
- 720p camera, up to 12 hours of battery, 30-day Office trial, two Thunderbolt ports
- $1449
- 14 inches
- 512 GB SSD
- Intel Core Ultra 5
- 2-in-1 design, Wi-Fi 6E, rechargeable pen, built-in security features
The Dell XPS 13 is a budget-friendly, business-oriented, lightweight option with excellent battery life, ideal for professionals needing reliability on the go. Our HP pick, while more expensive, offers a versatile design and advanced features for anyone seeking premium performance and flexibility.
Dell vs HP: Laptops for School
- $499
- 16 inches
- 512 GB
- AMD Ryzen 5
- Large touchscreen display, long battery life (up to 14 hours), backlit keyboard, manual camera privacy shutter
- $569
- 15.6 inches
- 256 GB SSD
- IntelĀ® Core i7
- Durable chassis, FHD display, 16 GB of RAM
These laptops offer an ideal amount of storage space for all your schoolwork needs. With 16 GB of RAM, both models are equipped to handle low to medium memory-intensive applications effortlessly. Choosing Dell means your assignments remain accessible from morning through late-night study sessions, while HP’s laptop provides the added benefit of charging from zero to 50% in under an hour, ensuring you stay productive on the go.
Tip: Are you studying engineering? Check out this list of laptops we picked out just for you.
Dell vs HP: Laptops for Creativity
- $1449
- 15.6 inches
- 1 TB
- 13th Generation Intel Core i7
- High-resolution OLED display, powerful performance for creative applications, up to 16 hours of battery life
- $999
- 15.6 inches
- 512 GB SSD
- Intel Core Ultra 5
- Powerful processor for demanding tasks, 2-in-1 design, full-size backlit keyboard, Adobe 1 month trial
Creatives need something unique. With all the software options out there, you need a laptop that can support your big files and do so all day even if you’re drawing inspiration while in a coffee shop. Dell’s XPS 15 laptop is equipped with a big battery that can do just that. Our pick from HP is more affordable and offers a month of Photoshop and other classics from Adobe.
Dell vs HP: Gaming Laptops
- $1499
- 15.6 inches
- 2 TB SSD
- 13th Gen Intel Core i7
- Powerful NVIDIA graphics card for smooth gaming, upgradable RAM (to 32 GB), good thermals
- $1179
- 16 inches
- 512 GB SSD
- Intel Core i7
- High-resolution display with fast refresh rate, powerful performance for demanding games, excellent cooling system
These laptops were chosen for their strong hardware, which is much needed when it comes to gaming. We’ve decided on the Dell G15 for its massive 2 TB drive, and you can get twice as much RAM for your brand-new games if you decide to upgrade. The HP Omen will keep your device cool even during the longest gaming marathons, and for a lower price, too.
Tip: If you’re on the road a lot, a gaming tablet might be a better option.
Dell vs HP: Budget Laptops
- $299
- 15.6 inches
- 256 GB SSD
- 12th Generation Intel Core i3
- Decent performance for everyday tasks, reliable battery life
- $499
- 15.6 inches
- 128 GB SSD
- AMD Athlon Silver 7120U
- Several configurations to choose from, 720p HD camera with noise reduction, Wi-Fi 6 compatible
Laptops don’t have to be expensive. While this price point does mean you’ll have to do without the faster hardware, both of these laptops are still really great for everyday use. Play online games, use social media websites, send email, check the weather, back up your photos and videos, etc. If you don’t have a special use case, you can’t go wrong with either one.
How to Choose Between Dell and HP Laptops
Choosing between Dell and HP laptops comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Dell might be the better choice if you prioritize performance, build quality, and reliable customer service. But HP could be more appealing if you’re looking for stylish designs, good value for money, and solid all-around performance.
Components
Dell and HP offer a variety of options, but they each have their strengths. Dell is known for providing robust and reliable hardware, often using Intel processors and NVIDIA graphics cards, especially in their higher-end models like the XPS series. Dell also tends to offer more customization options for internal components, allowing you to upgrade RAM, storage, and other features to suit your needs.
Conversely, HP often focuses on offering a balanced mix of performance and value. Their Spectre and Envy lines, for example, come with powerful processors and high-quality displays, often at a slightly lower price point than comparable Dell models. HP also has a reputation for excellent battery life, which can be a crucial factor if you’re frequently on the go.
Design and Customization
Dell and HP have distinct styles. XPS, Alienware, and other series of Dell laptops are known for their sleek, minimalist design and high build quality. Dell also puts a strong emphasis on premium materials like aluminum and carbon fiber, which give their laptops a sturdy, professional feel. Dell also offers a good degree of customization in terms of hardware specifications, so you can tailor their laptops to your specific needs.
HP laptops often feature more varied and stylish designs. One example is the Spectre series, known for its ultra-thin profile and elegant aesthetics, often incorporating luxurious materials like machined aluminum and gem-cut edges. HP also offers a wide range of customization options, but they tend to focus more on the visual and tactile aspects like color choices and unique finishes. This makes HP a great choice if you’re looking for a laptop that stands out visually.
Price
Price is a major factor when choosing between Dell and HP laptops. Dell laptops tend to be priced slightly higher than HP laptops, especially in the premium segment. Dell’s higher-end models come with a premium price tag but also offer top-tier performance and build quality. For budget-conscious buyers, Dell’s Inspiron series provides solid performance at a more affordable price.
Generally, HP offers more competitive pricing across their range. Their mid-range and budget laptops, such as the Pavilion and Envy series, provide good value for money, offering decent performance and features without breaking the bank. HP’s pricing strategy makes it a strong contender if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution that doesn’t compromise too much on quality or performance.
Customer Service
Customer service is another important aspect to consider. Dell has a strong reputation for providing reliable customer support. They offer a variety of service plans, including on-site repair services and extended warranties. The company’s support is often praised for its efficiency and responsiveness, which can be a significant advantage if you run into issues with your laptop.
HP also offers solid customer service, with various support plans and warranty options. However, from what we’ve seen, user experiences with HP’s customer service can be more mixed. While many customers report positive experiences, some have encountered longer wait times and less satisfactory resolutions. It’s worth considering these factors, especially if dependable customer support is a priority for you.