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Dell XPS 8960 Review: Powerful Business Desktop

  • MiniPC
  • 13 min read
high performance dell business desktop

As the modern business landscape demands ever-increasing computational prowess, the Dell XPS 8960 emerges as a compelling contender in the domain of high-performance desktops. With its formidable Intel Core i9-13900K processor, abundant 64 GB of DDR5 RAM, and a staggering total storage capacity of 28 TB, this desktop is poised to tackle the most data-intensive tasks with ease. While its gaming capabilities and energy efficiency are remarkable, the true strength of the XPS 8960 lies in its ability to rival custom-built workstations, making it a tempting choice for professionals seeking a reliable and powerful computing solution.

Key Takeaways

  • The Dell XPS 8960 is powered by Intel's latest 13th gen Core i9-13900K processor, delivering exceptional performance for demanding business and productivity applications.
  • The system offers a massive 64 GB of high-speed DDR5 RAM, enabling seamless multitasking and handling of memory-intensive tasks.
  • With a total storage capacity of 28 TB, the XPS 8960 provides ample space for data-intensive projects, media libraries, and comprehensive backup solutions.
  • While lacking a dedicated graphics card, the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 can still handle basic graphical workloads, making it suitable for a wide range of business use cases.
  • The XPS 8960 is a well-rounded and future-proof business desktop that competes with custom-built workstations, targeting power users in fields such as engineering, architecture, and multimedia production.

The Dell XPS 8960 is a powerful and versatile desktop computer that boasts an impressive set of hardware specifications, making it a compelling choice for users with demanding computing needs. Its performance benchmarks, which include a blazing-fast Intel 13th gen Core i9-13900K processor and a generous 64 GB of DDR5 RAM, showcase its ability to handle even the most resource-intensive tasks with ease. Regarding design, the XPS 8960 follows the sleek and compact aesthetic that has become a hallmark of the XPS line, with a streamlined chassis that effortlessly blends form and function. This desktop's versatility is further enhanced by its robust storage capabilities, offering a seamless combination of lightning-fast SSD and capacious HDD storage.

Features and Benefits

The Dell XPS 8960 boasts a powerful 13th generation Intel Core i9 processor, delivering exceptional performance for demanding workloads. With 64 GB of high-speed DDR5 memory and a total storage capacity of 28 TB, including both SSD and traditional hard drive options, this desktop tower provides ample resources for seamless multitasking and large data storage requirements. Moreover, the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 offers reliable, efficient graphics processing, making the XPS 8960 a versatile choice for a wide range of computing tasks.

3th Gen Intel Core I9

Intel's 13th generation Core i9-13900K processor, featured in the Dell XPS 8960, boasts a remarkable clock speed of up to 5.8 GHz with Turbo Boost, delivering exceptional single-threaded performance for demanding applications and gaming. The 24-core, 32-thread configuration of this CPU, with 8 high-performance P-cores and 16 efficient E-cores, provides a significant boost in multi-threaded workloads. The powerful cooling system, which includes a high-performance liquid cooler, ensures the processor maintains its peak performance without throttling, even under heavy loads. This makes the Dell XPS 8960 an excellent choice for gamers and professionals alike, who require the utmost in processing power and responsiveness.

4 GB High-Performance DDR5 RAM

Expansive 64 GB capacity of high-performance DDR5 RAM empowers the Dell XPS 8960 to seamlessly handle memory-intensive applications, enabling users to effortlessly multitask and work with large data sets or complex projects without performance degradation. The DDR5 memory's increased bandwidth and lower latency provide a significant boost to the system's gaming performance, making it an ideal choice for power users and enthusiasts. Additionally, the Dell XPS 8960's memory can be upgraded up to 128 GB, ensuring that the system can keep pace with evolving user needs and requirements. This combination of ample memory and cutting-edge DDR5 technology solidifies the Dell XPS 8960's position as a versatile and future-proof desktop solution.

8 TB Total Storage Capacity

With an unprecedented 28 TB of total storage capacity, the Dell XPS 8960 offers unparalleled data storage capabilities tailored to meet the demands of power users, enthusiasts, and professionals engaged in data-intensive workloads. Combining a high-performance 8 TB solid-state drive and a massive 20 TB hard disk drive, this desktop solution provides ample space for housing large media libraries, hosting virtual machines, and accommodating expansive project files, empowering users to work with confidence and efficiency. The seamless integration of SSD and HDD technologies delivers a balance of lightning-fast boot times, responsiveness, and expansive storage, enabling users to leverage the performance benchmarks and storage expansion options to manage their data securely and implement robust backup solutions.

Powerful Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630

The Intel UHD Graphics 630 integrated into the Dell XPS 8960 delivers a capable and energy-efficient graphics solution that provides a solid foundation for a wide range of computing tasks and multimedia applications. While not designed for intensive gaming, the UHD 630 offers adequate performance for casual gaming, content creation, and everyday productivity. The integrated graphics can support external monitors at resolutions up to 4K, making the XPS 8960 suitable for multi-display setups. However, users who require more advanced gaming or specialized graphics workloads may need to contemplate adding a dedicated graphics card, which can be accommodated by the system's expandability. Overall, the UHD 630 provides a balanced and practical graphics solution for the target professional and prosumer audience.

Product Quality

Although the Dell XPS 8960 packs impressive hardware specifications, including a powerful 13th generation Intel Core i9 processor and a substantial 28TB of combined solid-state and hard disk storage, the system's overall product quality warrants further examination. Performance benchmarks and quality assurance testing are vital indicators of the system's real-world capabilities. Equally important is the XPS 8960's durability, as desktop PCs often face various environmental stresses. Customer satisfaction data provides valuable insights into the system's long-term reliability and user experience. While the XPS 8960's technical prowess is undeniable, a thorough evaluation of its product quality is necessary to determine if it lives up to its premium price tag and Dell's reputation for excellence.

What It's Used For

The Dell XPS 8960 is a versatile desktop PC capable of handling a wide range of productivity tasks. With its powerful Intel 13th Gen Core i9 processor, 64GB of DDR5 RAM, and 28TB of total storage, the system can efficiently multitask and provides advanced graphics processing abilities for tasks such as video editing, 3D modeling, and gaming. The system's robust hardware configuration makes it a suitable choice for professionals and power users who require a high-performance computer for their daily workflows.

Versatile Productivity Tasks

Equipped with a powerful Intel 13th generation Core i9-13900K processor and an abundance of high-performance hardware, the Dell XPS 8960 is a versatile desktop computer capable of handling a wide range of productivity tasks with ease. Its impressive performance and compatibility with the Windows 11 Pro operating system make it an excellent choice for professionals and power users alike. The XPS 8960 offers ample expansion options, including multiple storage drives and high-speed USB ports, ensuring seamless connectivity and the ability to customize the system to suit specific needs. Whether tasked with intensive workloads, multimedia editing, or multitasking, this Dell desktop delivers the power and flexibility required for a wide variety of productivity-focused applications.

Efficient Multitasking Capabilities

Why is the Dell XPS 8960 well-suited for efficient multitasking? Its robust hardware configuration, including a powerful Intel 13th generation Core i9-13900K processor and 64GB of high-speed DDR5 RAM, allows it to seamlessly handle a wide range of demanding tasks simultaneously without compromising performance. This hardware prowess, combined with the Windows 11 Pro operating system, enables users to effortlessly switch between multiple applications, run resource-intensive programs concurrently, and maintain high productivity levels, even when juggling numerous workloads. The XPS 8960's efficient multitasking capabilities empower users to optimize their workspace organization, prioritize tasks, and collaborate remotely, all while maximizing performance for their professional needs.

Advanced Graphics Processing

Beyond its efficient multitasking capabilities, the Dell XPS 8960 also offers advanced graphics processing power that enables users to tackle a wide range of visually intensive tasks. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 provides a solid baseline for everyday computing, but users seeking enhanced gaming performance or video editing capabilities may need to invest in a dedicated graphics card. The XPS 8960's design allows for the addition of a high-end graphics card, opening up its potential for more demanding applications like graphic design and CAD software. With the ability to support multiple displays, the XPS 8960 can streamline workflows and enhance productivity for professionals in various industries requiring advanced visual processing.

Product Specifications

The Dell XPS 8960 is an impressive desktop computer powered by Intel's cutting-edge 13th generation Core i9-13900K processor, capable of reaching turbo boost speeds up to 5.8 GHz. Complementing this powerful CPU is 64 GB of DDR5 RAM and a generous 28 TB of total storage, including 8 TB of high-speed SSD and 20 TB of traditional hard drive space. This desktop also features Intel UHD Graphics 630, Wi-Fi 6, and Windows 11 Pro, providing a well-rounded package for demanding business applications and workloads.

SpecificationDetail
ProcessorIntel Core i9-13900K
RAM64 GB DDR5
Storage8 TB SSD + 20 TB HDD
GraphicsIntel UHD Graphics 630
OSWindows 11 Pro
Wireless802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6)

Who Needs This

With its powerful Intel Core i9-13900K processor, 64 GB of high-speed DDR5 RAM, and massive 28 TB of total storage, the Dell XPS 8960 is engineered to handle the most demanding workloads and professional applications. This powerhouse desktop is ideally suited for data-intensive tasks, such as video editing, 3D modeling, and high-performance computing. It is compatible with a wide range of software and tools, making it an attractive option for professionals in fields like engineering, architecture, and multimedia production. Given the XPS 8960's capabilities and the growing market demand for such high-performance systems, it offers a compelling alternative to custom-built workstations, providing a well-rounded and integrated solution for power users.

Pros

Featuring a cutting-edge 13th generation Intel Core i9-13900K processor, the Dell XPS 8960 delivers exceptional raw computing power that can efficiently handle the most demanding professional workloads. This powerful desktop offers several notable pros:

  • Impressive gaming performance with the Intel UHD Graphics 630, making it suitable for light gaming alongside professional use
  • Exceptional energy efficiency, thanks to the 13th gen Intel CPU and DDR5 memory, reducing power consumption and operating costs
  • Ample storage capacity with a combination of 8 TB SSD and 20 TB HDD, providing ample space for large files and data-intensive applications
  • Seamless multitasking with 64 GB of high-speed DDR5 RAM
  • Robust connectivity options, including USB 3.2, DisplayPort, and Ethernet, enabling flexible integration with various peripherals and devices.

Cons

While the Dell XPS 8960 boasts impressive performance and storage capabilities, it does exhibit a few drawbacks that potential buyers should consider. One significant limitation is the lack of a dedicated graphics card, which may hinder more intensive gaming or multimedia workloads that require advanced graphics processing. In addition, the system's heavy weight and large footprint may pose challenges for users seeking a compact, portable desktop solution. The upgrade options are also somewhat limited, with the need to purchase an additional graphics card costing around $300. Moreover, the cooling system may struggle to keep up with the powerful processor during sustained heavy loads, potentially leading to performance issues. Finally, the high price tag may be a deterrent for budget-conscious consumers.

What Customers Are Saying

Customer sentiment towards the Dell XPS 8960 appears largely positive, as evidenced by the system's high average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a modest sample size of 3 reviews. Customers praise the desktop's powerful performance, with one reviewer noting it "handles everything I throw at it with ease." Another compares it favorably to their previous system, stating the XPS 8960 is "significantly faster and more responsive." The high customer satisfaction is further reinforced by the system's strong performance in the Best Sellers Rank, placing it at #1,883 in the Tower Computers category. Overall, the limited but favorable customer feedback suggests the Dell XPS 8960 delivers on its promise of a capable and reliable business desktop.

Overall Value

The Dell XPS 8960 offers a well-rounded package of high-end components and expansive storage capacity, making it a compelling choice for users seeking a powerful and versatile desktop computer. When it comes to cost efficiency, the XPS 8960 delivers excellent value by packing a top-tier Intel Core i9-13900K processor, generous 64GB of DDR5 RAM, and a massive 28TB of combined solid-state and hard disk storage, all at a price point that is reasonable given the hardware specifications. While the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 may not be suitable for intensive gaming or graphics workloads, the system's overall performance is sure to exceed the needs of most business and productivity-focused users, making it a strong contender in the high-end desktop market.

Tips and Tricks For Best Results

To extract the most out of the Dell XPS 8960's powerful hardware and expansive storage, users should consider several optimization tips and tricks. Properly configuring the system's BIOS settings, installing the latest drivers, and leveraging Windows 11 Pro's advanced performance-tuning options can help maximize the desktop's efficiency for a wide range of productivity-focused tasks and workloads. Additionally, troubleshooting techniques such as monitoring system temperatures, managing background processes, and optimizing storage configurations can further enhance the user experience. Customization options, including adjusting power management settings, fine-tuning display profiles, and personalizing the desktop environment, can also contribute to improved overall system performance and user satisfaction with the Dell XPS 8960.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the Dell XPS 8960 emerges as a formidable desktop powerhouse that delivers exceptional performance, expansive storage capabilities, and a robust feature set tailored for demanding users and workloads. The conclusion of this analysis is that the XPS 8960 is a top-tier business desktop that can handle intensive tasks with ease, thanks to its powerful 13th generation Intel Core i9 processor, generous 64GB of DDR5 RAM, and expansive 28TB of total storage. While the integrated graphics may limit its suitability for heavy graphics workloads, the option to add a dedicated graphics card provides flexibility for future upgrades. Overall, the XPS 8960 is a versatile and future-proof desktop that can meet the needs of a wide range of professional users.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Upgrade the RAM or Storage?

The XPS 8960 offers excellent storage expansion and RAM upgrade potential, allowing users to enhance performance and optimize the system for their specific needs. Component compatibility is a key consideration when planning any upgrades to guarantee seamless integration.

What Is the Maximum Supported RAM Capacity?

The Dell XPS 8960 supports up to 128GB of DDR5 RAM, allowing for exceptional performance benchmarks and maximizing multitasking capabilities. This high RAM compatibility guarantees the system can handle even the most demanding workloads with ease.

Does the System Support RAID Configurations?

The Dell XPS 8960 system supports RAID configurations, which can enhance RAID performance and provide data redundancy for critical applications. The multiple storage options, including 8 TB SSD and 20 TB HDD, enable flexible RAID configurations to meet diverse storage requirements.

Is the Graphics Card Upgradeable?

While the Dell XPS 8960 features integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630, the graphics performance may be limited for demanding tasks. The system's design allows for the graphics card to be upgraded, providing users with more flexibility to enhance the system's capabilities.

Can I Use Multiple External Displays With This System?

The desktop's versatile display compatibility and robust connectivity options enable seamless integration of multiple external monitors, enabling enhanced productivity and immersive visual experiences for discerning users seeking to maximize their workflow efficiency.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Author

Hi, I'm the author behind Mini PC Reviewer. With a passion for technology and a deep fascination for mini PCs, I created this website to help you make informed decisions when it comes to choosing the perfect pint-sized computer. As our tagline suggests, we believe in big power in a tiny package. At Mini PC Reviewer, I aim to provide you with all the necessary information about mini PCs, their functionalities, comparisons to other devices, and the essential features to consider when purchasing one. From budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line models, let me be your trusted source for all things mini PC.