A recent viral video comparing Apple’s MacBook Neo to a Windows gaming laptop has sparked a notable response from Microsoft. The video, which amassed 5.4 million views, featured a side-by-side comparison that many deemed unfair, as it juxtaposed the sleek MacBook Neo with an HP Victus gaming laptop, known for its structural flaws. In a swift counter, Microsoft showcased the new Dell XPS 13 in a quote-tweet, turning the tables on Apple’s marketing strategy just days after Apple raised the Neo’s price from 9 to 9.
Everything wrong with the viral MacBook Neo vs Windows laptop video
The original video, posted by user @Ahmadansari2233, highlighted various aspects such as thinness and port availability, but it did so in a manner that favored the MacBook Neo. The HP Victus, while a capable gaming machine, was clearly not designed to compete in the ultraportable category. This mismatch led to a skewed perception among viewers, many of whom may not have realized the differences in purpose and performance between the two devices.
Critics pointed out that a more appropriate comparison would have involved business-oriented laptops like the HP ProBook or EliteBook, rather than a gaming laptop that prioritizes graphics performance over build quality. The video’s viral success, despite its misleading nature, raised concerns that it could misinform potential buyers about the capabilities of the MacBook Neo, particularly regarding gaming and upgrade options.
Microsoft shuts the viral MacBook Neo video with the Dell XPS 13
In response, Microsoft’s video featuring the Dell XPS 13 in Sky blue opened with a sleek visual of the laptop booting into Windows 11. It showcased features such as a touchscreen and a robust build quality, directly highlighting aspects the MacBook Neo lacks. The video concluded with a clear message: “Touchscreen. Stunning display. Password-free sign-in. @Dell XPS 13. Just 9, 9 for students.” This strategic move not only positioned the XPS 13 as a superior alternative but also reinforced the value proposition for potential buyers.
The Dell XPS 13, priced similarly to the MacBook Neo, offers a compelling package with its Intel Core 5 320 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. Its 2.5K touch display and lightweight design further enhance its appeal, making it a strong contender in the ultraportable market.
Full Specifications of the Dell XPS 13
| Specification | Dell XPS 13 (2026, DX13260) |
|---|---|
| Display | 13.4-inch, 2560 x 1600 (2.5K), touch, 30-120Hz variable refresh rate, 500 nits, 100% DCI-P3, Dolby Vision, DisplayHDR 400 |
| Processor | Intel Core 5 320 (Wildcat Lake) at launch; Intel Core Ultra 7 355 (Panther Lake) arriving later in summer 2026 |
| RAM | 8GB or 16GB LPDDR5x (Core 5 models); up to 32GB LPDDR5x (Core Ultra models) |
| Storage | Up to 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD (Core 5 models); up to 1TB (Core Ultra models) |
| Graphics | Intel integrated graphics |
| Ports | 2x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 with DisplayPort and Power Delivery (Core 5 models); 2x Thunderbolt 4 (Core Ultra models) |
| Webcam | 1080p (2MP) FHD camera plus IR camera, Windows Hello face unlock |
| Audio | Quad-speaker design, 8W total peak output, Dolby Atmos |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 7 (Intel BE213 2×2) and Bluetooth 6.0 |
| Battery | 3-cell, 52Whr, up to 17 hours of video streaming |
| Charging | 65W USB-C AC adapter |
| Keyboard | Full-size backlit chiclet keyboard with 0.8mm key travel |
| Chassis | CNC-machined aluminum, dual-fan cooling |
| Weight | 2.2 lb (1 kg) |
| Dimensions | 12.7mm (H) x 296.9mm (W) x 200.66mm (D) |
| Colors | Sky, Storm |
| Operating system | Windows 11 Home / Windows 11 Pro |
| Starting price | 9 (students 16+), 9 (everyone else) |
Is Dell XPS 13 better than MacBook Neo?
In terms of specifications and features, the Dell XPS 13 outshines the MacBook Neo significantly. The inclusion of a touchscreen, superior display resolution, and biometric sign-in capabilities are just a few advantages that set it apart. Furthermore, the XPS 13 offers greater flexibility in RAM configurations, allowing users to upgrade beyond the Neo’s fixed 8GB limit.
While the MacBook Neo has its strengths, particularly in its fanless design, the overall package offered by the XPS 13 presents a more compelling option for consumers seeking a balance of performance, features, and price.
Windows 11’s reputation problem hasn’t gone anywhere
Despite the impressive hardware of the Dell XPS 13, Microsoft faces ongoing challenges with the perception of Windows 11. Users have expressed frustration over various issues, including performance and memory management. While Microsoft has made strides to address these concerns, the lingering reputation of Windows as a less reliable platform compared to macOS continues to affect consumer sentiment.
As Microsoft works to improve its software offerings, the success of the Dell XPS 13 may hinge not only on its hardware superiority but also on the public’s willingness to embrace Windows 11 as a viable alternative to Apple’s ecosystem.
