How is Dell XPS 15 (9500) battery life?

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Just how long your laptop will last depends on the size of the battery, as well as the power draw of installed components. The new Dell XPS 15 comes rocking two battery capacities: 56Whr and 86Whr, the latter being better overall across all configurations. With the new Dell XPS 15, you're more likely to get near Dell's claim of 25 hours if you opt for the 86Whr battery option with a Full HD display and Intel Core i5 processor, while the optional 4K OLED panel and more power-hungry Core i9 processors will have a negative impact of up-time between charges.

If you primarily use your laptop for intensive system tasks like photo or video editing, this will also deal a severe blow to the estimated time until depletion. Those of you who are a little more light on use when mobile will be able to draw as much as possible from the integrated battery. You should be looking at around 12 hours with the smaller 56Whr battery and approximately 18 hours with the 86Whr power plant, which will be significantly reduced with the 4K displays.

Luckily, the new Dell XPS 15 supports USB charging, as well as the dedicated AC port. This allows you to top-up the laptop when you're running low with a compatible portable power bank.