Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) vs Dell XPS 16 (9640)
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) | Dell XPS 16 (9640) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance index | 3,100 | 3,800 | -18.4% |
| Battery life (h) | 15 | 12 | +25.0% |
| Weight (kg) | 1.55 | 2.13 | — |
| RAM / storage | 8GB / 512GB | 32GB / 1024GB | — |
| Price (USD) | $1,599 | $2,399 | -33.3% |
- Dell XPS 16 (9640) is about 18% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) lasts longer on battery (15h).
- Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) is the more portable at 1.55 kg.
Verdict: MacBook Pro 14 (M3) or XPS 16 (9640)?
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) advantages
- Battery life (+20%)
- Portability (+27%)
- Affordability (+33%)
Dell XPS 16 (9640) advantages
- Performance (+18%)
- Screen size (+13%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) if long unplugged battery life is essential.
- Choose the Dell XPS 16 (9640) if you need maximum performance for demanding work or gaming.
- Choose the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) if you carry it around all day.
Value for money
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) delivers more performance per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) vs Dell XPS 16 (9640): which should you choose?
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) — Apple pro laptop (2023) with the Apple M3, 8GB RAM, a 14.2-inch display, 1.55 kg weight and about 15 h battery life; from $1,599.
Dell XPS 16 (9640) — Dell pro laptop (2024) with the Intel Core Ultra 9, 32GB RAM, a 16.3-inch display, 2.13 kg weight and about 12 h battery life; from $2,399.
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) vs Dell XPS 16 (9640): Dell XPS 16 (9640) is the faster laptop. Dell XPS 16 (9640) is about 18% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) lasts longer on battery (15h). Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) is the more portable at 1.55 kg.
Performance
The Dell XPS 16 (9640) is the faster machine on our normalized index (3,800 vs 3,100), thanks to its Intel Core Ultra 9. That gap matters most for video editing, compiling, 3D and gaming; for browsing and office work both feel quick.
Portability and battery
The Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) is easier to carry at 1.55 kg, and the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) lasts longer unplugged (about 15 h). For commuters and travellers these often matter more day-to-day than peak performance.
Configuration and value
These are base configurations — RAM, storage and display upgrades change both price and experience. Compare like-for-like specs and check current pricing before buying.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the laptop comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) better than the Dell XPS 16 (9640)?
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) takes the overall edge, though Dell XPS 16 (9640) wins in specific areas worth weighing. Dell XPS 16 (9640) is about 18% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) lasts longer on battery (15h).
What is the main difference between the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) and the Dell XPS 16 (9640)?
Dell XPS 16 (9640) is about 18% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) lasts longer on battery (15h). Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) is the more portable at 1.55 kg.
Which is better value?
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) delivers more performance per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3) if long unplugged battery life is essential. Choose the Dell XPS 16 (9640) if you need maximum performance for demanding work or gaming.
Methodology
Laptops are compared on a normalized performance index (combining CPU and, where relevant, GPU capability), rated battery life, weight, display size, memory and starting price. Configurations vary widely, so we use representative base specifications; verify the exact configuration and current price before purchase.