The Dell XPS 13 7390 2-in-1 was once considered a benchmark for premium ultrabooks. Even in 2026, it remains a recognizable device thanks to its exceptional industrial design and compact form factor. However, with aging hardware and evolving user expectations, its value today depends heavily on pricing—and maintenance, especially battery health.
This review takes a practical, engineering-focused look at the device while highlighting an often-overlooked aspect: battery replacement as a way to extend its usable life.
Product Positioning: What This Laptop Really Is
Released in 2019, the XPS 13 7390 2-in-1 belongs to the category of high-end convertible ultrabooks. It prioritizes portability, design, and display quality over raw performance.
Built on Intel’s 10nm Ice Lake platform, it was never intended to compete with performance-focused machines. Instead, it targeted professionals, students, and users needing a lightweight productivity device.
Industrial Design: Still Impressive in 2026
The chassis combines CNC-machined aluminum with carbon fiber, resulting in a rigid yet lightweight build. At just 1.33 kg and under 13.1 mm thick, it remains competitive even by modern standards.
The 360-degree hinge enables tablet mode, adding flexibility for media consumption and note-taking.
Assessment:
Even today, the design holds up remarkably well and remains one of the device’s strongest selling points.
Display: A Key Strength with Trade-offs
The 13.4-inch 16:10 display was ahead of its time. Options included:
- FHD+ (1920×1200)
- 4K UHD+ (3840×2400)
The InfinityEdge design delivers ultra-thin bezels and excellent color reproduction, making it suitable for creative work.
However, the 4K variant significantly impacts battery life. Users consistently report drastically shorter runtime compared to the FHD model.
Performance: Clearly Dated
Equipped with Intel Core i5-1035G1 or i7-1065G7 processors and Iris Plus integrated graphics, the performance profile is modest by 2026 standards.
Real-world usage:
- Office tasks: smooth
- Light Photoshop: acceptable
- Gaming: not suitable
The vapor chamber cooling system is more advanced than traditional heat pipes, but the ultra-thin chassis limits sustained performance, leading to thermal throttling under load.
Connectivity: A Major Limitation
The device includes only two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports.
Missing:
- USB-A
- HDMI
In practice, this means most users will require a dongle or docking station, which reduces portability advantages.
Keyboard and Input: Controversial Design
The MagLev keyboard is one of the most debated aspects of this laptop. It features extremely shallow key travel and a firm typing feel.
While some users adapt, many find it uncomfortable for extended typing sessions.
Battery Life: The Critical Weak Point
Battery performance varies significantly by display configuration:
- FHD model: 8–10 hours
- 4K model: 4–6 hours
Over time, degradation further reduces these numbers. Many users report real-world battery life dropping below usable levels after several years.
At this stage, upgrading the entire laptop is not always necessary. A high-quality Dell XPS 13 7390 battery can restore mobility and extend the device’s lifespan.
For users planning to keep the device longer, investing in an XPS 13 7390 2-in-1 battery replacement is a practical and cost-effective solution.
Battery Replacement Guide (Practical Overview)
Replacing the battery is feasible, though not beginner-level.
Difficulty: Moderate
Recommended for: Users with basic disassembly experience
Tools required:
- Torx T5 screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
- Plastic pry tool
- Tweezers
Steps summary:
- Remove bottom cover (T5 screws)
- Disconnect battery cable (critical first step)
- Unscrew and remove battery
- Install new battery and reconnect
- Test before reassembly
Compared to smartphones, the process is relatively straightforward. However, care must be taken to avoid damaging connectors or stripping screws.
Using a reliable Dell laptop battery replacement ensures compatibility and stable performance.
Common Issues Reported by Users
Long-term user feedback highlights several recurring problems:
- Coil whine (audible electronic noise)
- WiFi instability in early units
- Docking station compatibility issues
- Thermal buildup under load
These issues do not affect all units but are worth considering when buying second-hand.
Comparison with Modern Ultrabooks
| Category | XPS 13 7390 | Modern Ultrabooks (2025–2026) |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | 10th Gen Intel | 13th–15th Gen / ARM |
| Battery | متوسط | Significantly improved |
| Ports | Limited | More diverse |
| AI Features | None | Integrated AI acceleration |
The generational gap is clear. Performance, efficiency, and features have all advanced significantly.
Final Verdict: Is It Still Worth Buying?
The Dell XPS 13 7390 2-in-1 is no longer a cutting-edge device, but it remains viable under specific conditions.
Worth buying if:
- Priced affordably on the second-hand market
- Used for office work, study, or light tasks
Not recommended if:
- You need high performance
- You want a long-term primary machine
- You rely on modern connectivity and AI features
Practical Advice for Buyers
If you already own this laptop, replacing the battery is the most effective way to extend its usability. A fresh Dell XPS 13 7390 battery can significantly improve daily experience without the cost of a new device.
If you are buying used, prioritize:
- FHD display version (better battery life)
- Units with recently replaced batteries or budget for an XPS 13 7390 2-in-1 battery replacement
Ultimately, this device represents a balance between premium design and aging hardware. With a reliable Dell laptop battery replacement, it can still serve effectively in 2026 for light productivity scenarios.