Dell XPS 16 (9640) vs Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max)
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Dell XPS 16 (9640) | Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance index | 3,800 | 5,600 | -32.1% |
| Battery life (h) | 12 | 20 | -40.0% |
| Weight (kg) | 2.13 | 2.16 | — |
| RAM / storage | 32GB / 1024GB | 36GB / 1024GB | — |
| Price (USD) | $2,399 | $3,499 | -31.4% |
- Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) is about 32% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) lasts longer on battery (20h).
- Dell XPS 16 (9640) is the more portable at 2.13 kg.
Verdict: XPS 16 (9640) or MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max)?
Dell XPS 16 (9640) advantages
- Affordability (+31%)
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) advantages
- Performance (+32%)
- Battery life (+40%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Dell XPS 16 (9640) if you want the best value.
- Choose the Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) if you need maximum performance for demanding work or gaming.
Value for money
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) delivers more performance per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Dell XPS 16 (9640) vs Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max): which should you choose?
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 16 (M3 Max) — Apple pro laptop (2023) with the Apple M3 Max, 36GB RAM, a 16.2-inch display, 2.16 kg weight and about 20 h battery life; from $3,499.
Dell XPS 16 (9640) vs Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max): Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) is the faster laptop. Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) is about 32% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) lasts longer on battery (20h). Dell XPS 16 (9640) is the more portable at 2.13 kg.
Performance
The Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) is the faster machine on our normalized index (5,600 vs 3,800), thanks to its Apple M3 Max. 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 16 (9640) is easier to carry at 2.13 kg, and the Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) lasts longer unplugged (about 20 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 16 (9640) better than the Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max)?
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) takes the overall edge, though Dell XPS 16 (9640) wins in specific areas worth weighing. Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) is about 32% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) lasts longer on battery (20h).
What is the main difference between the Dell XPS 16 (9640) and the Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max)?
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) is about 32% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) lasts longer on battery (20h). Dell XPS 16 (9640) is the more portable at 2.13 kg.
Which is better value?
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) 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 16 (9640) if you want the best value. Choose the Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Max) 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.