Dell’s new XPS 15 2-in-1 has a ‘maglev’ keyboard

Dell is introducing a 15-inch version of its XPS 2-in-1, after debuting a 13-inch model last year, but this isn’t just a scaled-up version of the original; it’s a much more powerful computer with some unique tweaks.

Among the most interesting quirks is the laptop’s keyboard: though it looks and feels just like typical Dell keyboard, it’s built using a brand-new mechanism that relies on magnets. The keys are still physically held in place at their corners, but there are now magnets beneath them to provide feedback. By controlling the strength of their repulsion, Dell can create a deeper, clickier feeling for the keys than their 0.7mm travel would normally allow.

The new “maglev” keyboard felt perfectly normal, at least during my brief use of it. I wouldn’t say it’s among the best keyboards I’ve ever typed on, but I didn’t feel any issues related to key travel, either.

The other big deal here is performance. While the 13-inch model of the 2-in-1 uses Intel’s low-power processors (formerly known as Core M), this version goes way to the other side of the spectrum. It has a 65-watt chip that includes built-in graphics from AMD. The new chip is the first partnership between Intel and AMD in three decades and combines one of Intel’s high-power processors with a graphics solution under the well-respected Radeon brand. The result ought to be far superior performance over the 13-inch model and better graphics than you’d typically get off of an Intel processor.

The machine can be configured with an i5 or i7 processor, 8GB to 16GB of RAM, a 1080p or 4K touchscreen, and a 128GB to 1TB SSD. It includes four USB-C ports, two of which support Thunderbolt 3. There’s also a microSD card reader and a headphone jack. It also includes active stylus support, though you’ll have to buy one separately. The laptop starts at $1299.99 and is supposed to become available sometime this spring.

Dell is also announcing a few PC accessories today, including two new “Ultrathin” monitors. There’s a 23.8-inch 1080p model and a 27-inch quad HD model. More importantly, both support HDR, and they’re relatively affordable for HDR screens: $299.99 for the smaller one and $499.99 for the larger.

And finally, Dell is announcing a tiny portable Thunderbolt SSD. You can get it with 500GB of storage for $439, or 1TB of storage for $799.

Photography by Jacob Kastrenakes / The Verge