Dell XPS 13 (9340) vs Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3)
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Dell XPS 13 (9340) | Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance index | 2,600 | 2,900 | -10.3% |
| Battery life (h) | 13 | 18 | -27.8% |
| Weight (kg) | 1.19 | 1.24 | — |
| RAM / storage | 16GB / 512GB | 8GB / 256GB | — |
| Price (USD) | $1,299 | $1,099 | +18.2% |
- Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) is about 10% faster. Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) lasts longer on battery (18h).
- Dell XPS 13 (9340) is the more portable at 1.19 kg.
Verdict: XPS 13 (9340) or MacBook Air 13 (M3)?
Dell XPS 13 (9340) advantages
- Portability (+4%)
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) advantages
- Performance (+10%)
- Battery life (+28%)
- Affordability (+15%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Dell XPS 13 (9340) if you carry it around all day.
- Choose the Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) if you need maximum performance for demanding work or gaming.
Value for money
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) delivers more performance per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Dell XPS 13 (9340) vs Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3): which should you choose?
Dell XPS 13 (9340) — Dell ultrabook laptop (2024) with the Intel Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, a 13.4-inch display, 1.19 kg weight and about 13 h battery life; from $1,299.
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) — Apple ultrabook laptop (2024) with the Apple M3, 8GB RAM, a 13.6-inch display, 1.24 kg weight and about 18 h battery life; from $1,099.
Dell XPS 13 (9340) vs Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3): Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) is the faster laptop. Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) is about 10% faster. Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) lasts longer on battery (18h). Dell XPS 13 (9340) is the more portable at 1.19 kg.
Performance
The Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) is the faster machine on our normalized index (2,900 vs 2,600), thanks to its Apple M3. That gap matters most for video editing, compiling, 3D and gaming; for browsing and office work both feel quick.
Portability and battery
The Dell XPS 13 (9340) is easier to carry at 1.19 kg, and the Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) lasts longer unplugged (about 18 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 Dell XPS 13 (9340) better than the Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3)?
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) takes the overall edge, though Dell XPS 13 (9340) wins in specific areas worth weighing. Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) is about 10% faster. Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) lasts longer on battery (18h).
What is the main difference between the Dell XPS 13 (9340) and the Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3)?
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) is about 10% faster. Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) lasts longer on battery (18h). Dell XPS 13 (9340) is the more portable at 1.19 kg.
Which is better value?
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) delivers more performance per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Dell XPS 13 (9340) if you carry it around all day. Choose the Apple MacBook Air 13 (M3) 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.