Dell XPS 16 (9640) vs HP Pavilion 15
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Dell XPS 16 (9640) | HP Pavilion 15 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance index | 3,800 | 1,700 | +123.5% |
| Battery life (h) | 12 | 8 | +50.0% |
| Weight (kg) | 2.13 | 1.74 | — |
| RAM / storage | 32GB / 1024GB | 8GB / 512GB | — |
| Price (USD) | $2,399 | $599 | +300.5% |
- Dell XPS 16 (9640) is about 124% faster. Dell XPS 16 (9640) lasts longer on battery (12h).
- HP Pavilion 15 is the more portable at 1.74 kg.
Verdict: XPS 16 (9640) or Pavilion 15?
Dell XPS 16 (9640) advantages
- Performance (+55%)
- Battery life (+33%)
- Screen size (+4%)
HP Pavilion 15 advantages
- Portability (+18%)
- Affordability (+75%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Dell XPS 16 (9640) if you need maximum performance for demanding work or gaming.
- Choose the HP Pavilion 15 if you carry it around all day.
- Choose the Dell XPS 16 (9640) if long unplugged battery life is essential.
Value for money
HP Pavilion 15 delivers more performance per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Dell XPS 16 (9640) vs HP Pavilion 15: 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.
HP Pavilion 15 — HP budget laptop (2024) with the Intel Core i5-1335U, 8GB RAM, a 15.6-inch display, 1.74 kg weight and about 8 h battery life; from $599.
Dell XPS 16 (9640) vs HP Pavilion 15: Dell XPS 16 (9640) is the faster laptop. Dell XPS 16 (9640) is about 124% faster. Dell XPS 16 (9640) lasts longer on battery (12h). HP Pavilion 15 is the more portable at 1.74 kg.
Performance
The Dell XPS 16 (9640) is the faster machine on our normalized index (3,800 vs 1,700), 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 HP Pavilion 15 is easier to carry at 1.74 kg, and the Dell XPS 16 (9640) lasts longer unplugged (about 12 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 HP Pavilion 15?
These two are closely matched — the right pick comes down to which specific strengths you value and the price you actually pay. Dell XPS 16 (9640) is about 124% faster. Dell XPS 16 (9640) lasts longer on battery (12h).
What is the main difference between the Dell XPS 16 (9640) and the HP Pavilion 15?
Dell XPS 16 (9640) is about 124% faster. Dell XPS 16 (9640) lasts longer on battery (12h). HP Pavilion 15 is the more portable at 1.74 kg.
Which is better value?
HP Pavilion 15 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 need maximum performance for demanding work or gaming. Choose the HP Pavilion 15 if you carry it around all day.
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.