Dell XPS 13 9345 vs Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5)

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

The Dell XPS 13 9345 and Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) are closely matched at 54 and 54/100. The Dell XPS 13 9345 edges ahead on Storage and Design & Weight, while the Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) leads on Processor and Integrated Graphics — pick the one whose strengths match what you'll actually use.

  • Performance is scored from the laptop's CPU and GPU; few laptops have a published whole-system benchmark.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Key takeaways

  • Dell XPS 13 9345 and Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) are closely matched overall (within 1 points).
  • Dell XPS 13 9345 stands out on Display Refresh rate: 120 Hz (100% more), Storage Socket type: M.2, Display type: IPS.
  • Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) counters with Processor model: Apple M5, Integrated graphics model: Apple M5 GPU, Memory Technology: Unified.
Dell XPS 13 9345 and Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) are closely matched
Dell XPS 13 9345
54
Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5)
54
Where Dell XPS 13 9345 stands out
  • Display Refresh rate: 120 Hz (100% more)
  • Storage Socket type: M.2
  • Display type: IPS
Where Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) stands out
  • Processor model: Apple M5
  • Integrated graphics model: Apple M5 GPU
  • Memory Technology: Unified

Watch-outs

Compromises to know before you buy

Dell XPS 13 9345

  • RAM is soldered — you can't upgrade it later, so buy enough now.
  • No HDMI — you'll need a dongle for projectors/TVs.
  • No SD card reader.
  • No USB-A ports — older accessories need an adapter.

Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5)

  • RAM is soldered — you can't upgrade it later, so buy enough now.
  • Storage isn't user-upgradeable.
  • 60 Hz panel — less smooth than 120 Hz+ rivals.
  • No HDMI — you'll need a dongle for projectors/TVs.

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Dell XPS 13 9345

The Dell XPS 13 9345 is an ultra-compact Windows laptop built for users who prioritize mobility and long battery life. Powered by the ARM-based Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor, this model features a 13.4-inch display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, available in both IPS and OLED configurations. It is designed as a CoPilot+ PC, utilizing a high-performance neural processing unit to handle localized artificial intelligence workloads.

Best for All-day productivity on the go without relying on a power chargerBest for Frequent travelers who need an exceptionally small and light travel companionBest for Early adopters utilizing local AI tools and CoPilot+ features
Pros
  • Highly efficient power consumption leading to longer battery life
  • Lower operating temperatures and quieter system fans under load
  • Extremely compact and lightweight chassis that maximizes portability
  • Dedicated 45 TOPs NPU for on-device artificial intelligence features
Cons
  • The ARM-based processor architecture may present software compatibility challenges with some legacy Windows applications

Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5)

The Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) is a mid-range macOS laptop built around Apple's M-series silicon and a 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display. Designed for everyday consumer use and light productivity, it operates completely silently using a fanless chassis. System configurations offer 16 GB to 32 GB of unified memory along with internal soldered storage ranging from 256 GB to 2 TB.

Best for Everyday consumer workflows benefiting from a larger screenBest for Noise-sensitive workspaces that require silent computing
Pros
  • Silent operation courtesy of a fanless design
  • Large 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display for enhanced workspace area
  • Unified memory support up to 32 GB for smooth daily multitasking
Cons
  • Soldered solid-state drive prevents user-initiated storage upgrades
  • Limited port selection restricts direct peripheral connections

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.

Dell XPS 13 9345

Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5)

Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Dell XPS 13 934522,879
Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5)26,767

Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.

Battery capacity

Larger cell — a hardware spec, not battery life

Dell XPS 13 934555 Wh
Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5)66.5 Wh

Capacity is the raw battery size. Real-world battery life depends just as much on the processor, software and display.

Physical Comparison

Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D

1.23 kg1.51 kg
Dell XPS 13 9345Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5)

Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) is 0.28 kg (23%) heavier than Dell XPS 13 9345.

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Dell XPS 13 9345 vs Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Dell XPS 13 9345 rates higher at 51/100 versus 47/100 for Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) — a 4-point lead. Dell XPS 13 9345 is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
Dell XPS 13 9345 and Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) are compared side by side above across every spec in the laptops category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 51/100 for Dell XPS 13 9345 and 47/100 for Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5).
If you want the higher-rated laptops option overall, Dell XPS 13 9345 (51/100) edges out Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) (47/100). But if Apple MacBook Air 15 (M5) is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.

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