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- Best overall: Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4
- Best budget: Dell XPS 13 9340 with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
- Best premium: Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V
- Best for a large Mac screen: Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4
- Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 is the strongest all-around choice for everyday work, study and travel, with 16GB unified memory.
- Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V suits Windows buyers who want a compact premium laptop and a high-resolution display option.
- Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 offers a larger 15.3-inch screen without giving up the Air's thin, fanless design.
- Compare screen size, operating system, ports and memory configuration before choosing a Black Friday 2026 laptop.
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 is the best starting point for most buyers comparing the MacBook Air M4 vs Dell XPS 13 Black Friday 2026, while the Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V is a strong Windows alternative. Both families put portability first, but macOS, Windows, display options and configuration choices separate them.
We researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to select seven laptops for different budgets and workloads. The guide covers compact MacBook Air and XPS 13 options alongside a few alternatives, so you can match screen size, memory and software needs before choosing. My pick for most people is the 13-inch MacBook Air; choose an XPS 13 when Windows compatibility or its display options matter more.
How We Picked
- Compared processor, memory, screen size and battery specifications across the listed configurations.
- Prioritized portable laptops suited to study, office work, browsing, video calls and travel.
- Reviewed published product information, customer reviews and owner feedback for recurring strengths and limitations.
- Included macOS and Windows choices, plus alternatives that give shoppers a useful point of comparison.
- Favored clear configuration details so buyers can confirm the exact screen, processor and memory before purchase.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Display | Processor | Memory |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 | Everyday work, school and travel | 13.6-inch | 10-core M4 CPU | 16GB unified memory |
| Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 | A larger screen without a Pro laptop | 15.3-inch | 10-core M4 CPU | 16GB unified memory |
| Dell XPS 13 9345 with Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100 | Windows users prioritizing efficiency | 13.4-inch | 12-core Snapdragon X Elite | Up to 64GB |
| Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V | Premium Windows portability | 13.4-inch | 8-core Intel Core Ultra 7 | 16GB |
| Dell XPS 13 9340 with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H | Conventional Intel Windows applications | 13.4-inch | 16-core Intel Core Ultra 7 | Up to 64GB |
| Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 13.8-inch with Snapdragon X Plus X1P-64-100 | Touchscreen Windows productivity | 13.8-inch | 10-core Snapdragon X Plus | 16GB |
| ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H | OLED viewing and Windows multitasking | 14-inch OLED | 16-core Intel Core Ultra 7 | 16GB configuration available |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1 · Top pick
Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 is the best overall laptop for students and everyday users, with a 10-core CPU and 16GB unified memory in its base configuration.
Best for: Everyday work, school and travel
- Display
- 13.6-inch
- Processor
- 10-core M4 CPU
- Memory
- 16GB unified memory
- Battery claim
- Up to 18 hours
- Light, compact aluminum design
- Fanless operation
- Strong Apple ecosystem integration
- Limited built-in port selection
Is the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 is a sensible Black Friday 2026 choice for portable everyday computing, with a 10-core CPU, 16GB unified memory and a 13.6-inch display. Check the memory and storage configuration before choosing.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2
Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 is the best large-screen MacBook for home and office users, pairing a 15.3-inch display with a 10-core CPU.
Best for: A larger screen without a Pro laptop
- Display
- 15.3-inch
- Processor
- 10-core M4 CPU
- Graphics
- 10-core GPU
- Battery claim
- Up to 18 hours
- Roomier screen for split-screen work
- Fanless design
- Full-size keyboard and large trackpad
- Larger footprint than the 13-inch model
Is the Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 a good Black Friday 2026 laptop?
Yes. The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 makes sense for buyers who value screen space for documents, browsing and media. The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4's 15.3-inch display and 10-core CPU offer a larger-screen alternative to compact XPS 13 laptops.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3
Dell XPS 13 9345 with Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100
The Dell XPS 13 9345 with Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100 is the best XPS 13 for battery-focused Windows users, featuring a 12-core processor.
Best for: Windows users prioritizing efficiency
- Display
- 13.4-inch
- Processor
- 12-core Snapdragon X Elite
- Battery
- 55Wh
- Memory options
- Up to 64GB
- Slim premium chassis
- Efficient ARM-based processor
- Multiple display configurations
- Some Windows applications need compatibility checks
Is the Dell XPS 13 9345 with Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Dell XPS 13 9345 with Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100 is a compelling Windows ultraportable when its ARM software compatibility suits your workload. The Dell XPS 13 9345 with Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100's 12-core processor and 13.4-inch display support work and travel in a compact design.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4
Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V
The Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V is the best premium compact Windows pick for frequent travelers, with an 8-core processor and a 13.4-inch screen.
Best for: Premium Windows portability
- Display
- 13.4-inch
- Processor
- 8-core Intel Core Ultra 7 256V
- Memory
- 16GB
- Battery
- 55Wh
- Compact premium build
- Intel platform supports conventional Windows apps
- High-resolution display options
- Memory is not upgradeable
Is the Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V is a strong choice for buyers who want a small Windows laptop with a modern Intel processor. The Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V's 13.4-inch screen and 16GB memory suit mobile productivity.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
Dell XPS 13 9340 with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
The Dell XPS 13 9340 with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H is the best fit for Windows users seeking a familiar Intel XPS configuration, with a 16-core processor.
Best for: Conventional Intel Windows applications
- Display
- 13.4-inch
- Processor
- 16-core Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
- Memory options
- Up to 64GB
- Battery
- 55Wh
- Intel compatibility for Windows software
- Premium compact construction
- Several screen and memory configurations
- Configuration details vary by seller
Should I buy the Dell XPS 13 9340 with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Dell XPS 13 9340 with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H is worth considering when you want an Intel-based Windows laptop in a compact premium chassis. The Dell XPS 13 9340 with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H's 16-core processor supports demanding multitasking; verify the exact display and memory configuration.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 13.8-inch with Snapdragon X Plus X1P-64-100
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 13.8-inch with Snapdragon X Plus X1P-64-100 is the best alternative for Windows buyers who want a larger touch display, with a 13.8-inch screen.
Best for: Touchscreen Windows productivity
- Display
- 13.8-inch
- Refresh rate
- Up to 120Hz
- Processor
- 10-core Snapdragon X Plus
- Memory
- 16GB
- Responsive touchscreen
- Comfortable keyboard and trackpad
- Larger screen than many compact laptops
- ARM software compatibility deserves a check
Is the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 13.8-inch with Snapdragon X Plus X1P-64-100 a good Black Friday 2026 buy?
Yes. The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 13.8-inch with Snapdragon X Plus X1P-64-100 suits buyers who want a touchscreen Windows laptop with a 120Hz display option. Confirm application compatibility and the included memory before selecting a configuration.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H is the best display-focused alternative for media and multitasking, with a 14-inch OLED screen.
Best for: OLED viewing and Windows multitasking
- Display
- 14-inch OLED
- Resolution
- 2880 by 1800
- Refresh rate
- 120Hz
- Processor
- 16-core Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
- High-resolution OLED display
- More visible screen area than a 13-inch laptop
- Intel-based Windows software support
- OLED configuration can use more power than a basic LCD
Is the ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H is a strong alternative for Windows users who prioritize screen quality. The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H's 14-inch 2880 by 1800 OLED panel and 120Hz refresh rate suit media and multitasking.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Which is better, MacBook Air M4 or Dell XPS 13?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 is the better default for most everyday users, while the Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V is the stronger fit for shoppers committed to Windows. Both are compact laptops with 13-inch-class displays and modern processors, but they serve different software ecosystems.
Apple's laptop stands out for its fanless design, unified memory and close integration with iPhone and iPad. Dell's XPS 13 lineup gives Windows shoppers Intel and Snapdragon options, along with different display configurations. Choose Intel when Windows application compatibility is important; check Snapdragon app support for specialized software.
Neither name alone tells the full story. Compare the exact display, memory and storage in the seller's listing, then consider your existing apps and devices. The 15-inch MacBook Air is a better fit when a larger screen matters more than maximum portability.
Which MacBook Air M4 size should you choose?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 is the better travel choice, while the Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 gives you a 15.3-inch workspace. Both models share the M4 platform and a thin, fanless design, so screen size and portability drive the decision.
The 13-inch model takes less room in a backpack and works well for lectures, commuting and quick tasks on the move. The 15-inch model makes documents, spreadsheets and side-by-side windows easier to view without an external monitor. Screen space also helps when watching video or managing a busy desktop.
Consider the tasks you do away from a desk. Frequent travelers and students who carry a laptop all day get a practical advantage from the smaller model. Buyers who work mostly at home or in an office can benefit from the larger display.
Which Dell XPS 13 processor should you pick?
The Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V is the straightforward choice for familiar Windows compatibility, while the Dell XPS 13 9345 with Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100 targets efficient mobile computing. Processor choice should follow your apps, not just the core count.
Intel is the safer direction for buyers who rely on niche Windows programs, older utilities or peripherals with specific drivers. Snapdragon X Elite offers an ARM-based platform, so confirm that the programs central to your work run properly before buying. Everyday web, document and video-call tasks are common laptop workloads, but specialist tools deserve extra checking.
The Dell XPS 13 9340 with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H is another option for shoppers who want an Intel XPS configuration. Compare memory, display and storage alongside the chip: seller configurations differ, and those details shape daily usability.
Is the Dell XPS 13 better for Windows than the MacBook Air?
The Dell XPS 13 is the better match for buyers who need Windows applications, while the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 suits people who prefer macOS and Apple device integration. Operating system compatibility is the clearest difference in this matchup.
An XPS 13 fits naturally into a Windows setup and offers Intel choices for conventional application support. Snapdragon X Elite models prioritize a different processor architecture, so verify software and accessory support before committing. The Apple MacBook Air offers a consistent macOS experience and a fanless design, but it does not run Windows applications natively in the same way as a Windows laptop.
Check school, employer or professional software requirements before comparing other features. If a required app supports only one platform, that requirement should decide the purchase. If your core apps run on both, compare display size, ports, battery needs and your current phone or tablet ecosystem.
What should you compare before Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 and Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V are easiest to compare by checking four details: operating system, memory, display and storage. Those specifications determine more than the product family name.
Start by checking whether the listing is for the 13-inch or 15-inch MacBook Air, or the exact XPS generation and processor. Confirm memory capacity and storage, since configurations are not interchangeable. Then compare the screen type and resolution; OLED and higher-resolution panels differ from standard LCD choices in appearance and power use.
Finally, review the ports and included accessories against your setup. A compact laptop can need an adapter for external displays, storage or wired connections. Skip it if the listed configuration lacks the memory, software compatibility or screen you need, even when the model name looks right.
Buying Guide
Choose the operating system first
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 runs macOS, while the Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V runs Windows. Start with school, work and personal app requirements. Check specialist software and device compatibility before weighing design or display features.
Match screen size to your routine
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 has a 15.3-inch display, compared with the 13.6-inch screen on the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4. Pick the smaller laptop for frequent carrying and the larger option for more comfortable split-screen work.
Confirm the memory and storage
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 starts with 16GB unified memory, while Dell XPS 13 configurations vary by model and seller. Read the full listing and select enough memory and storage for your apps, files and expected ownership period.
Check processor and app support
The Dell XPS 13 9345 with Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100 uses an ARM-based processor, while the Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V uses Intel. Verify required software, drivers and accessories work with the exact laptop before ordering.
Review ports and display details
The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA with Intel Core Ultra 7 155H offers a 14-inch OLED screen, while MacBook Air and XPS 13 configurations have distinct panel and port options. Confirm resolution, touch support, connectors and included adapters against your everyday setup.
FAQ
MacBook Air M4 vs Dell XPS 13: which is better for students?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 is a strong student pick for macOS users, with a 13.6-inch display and 16GB unified memory. The Dell XPS 13 suits students whose courses require Windows applications. Check required school software before choosing an operating system.
Is the MacBook Air M4 good for everyday work?
Yes. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 is well suited to everyday browsing, writing, video calls and office tasks, with a 10-core CPU and 16GB unified memory. Buyers who regularly need Windows-only software should choose a compatible Windows laptop instead.
Which Dell XPS 13 is best for battery life?
The Dell XPS 13 9345 with Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100 is the efficiency-focused XPS option in this guide, with a 55Wh battery. Actual runtime depends on display, configuration and workload, so compare the exact panel and usage claims for the listing.
Is the 15-inch MacBook Air M4 worth choosing over the 13-inch?
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 is worth choosing when its 15.3-inch screen helps with documents, split-screen work or media. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 is easier to carry and keeps the same M4 family appeal in a smaller body.
Should I buy a Snapdragon X Elite laptop or an Intel XPS 13?
The Dell XPS 13 9345 with Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100 suits buyers whose apps support ARM Windows, while the Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V favors familiar Intel compatibility. Check essential apps, drivers and accessories before deciding.
What is the best MacBook Air M4 alternative?
The Dell XPS 13 9350 with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V is the closest premium Windows alternative for compact-laptop shoppers. The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 13.8-inch with Snapdragon X Plus X1P-64-100 is another option for buyers who want a touchscreen and larger display.