My only issue with the xps13 is that it is limited to 8GB of ram.

xps13 does not have a retina screen.

i don't think i could buy a non HiDPI device anymore.

It has the option of a 3200x1800 screen.

Apparently the HD display comes with a huge price in battery life: http://www.cnet.com/products/dell-xps-13-2015-review/

I think if you look at the numbers, they are pretty fine.

The full HD (1080p) version is considered the low-res and according to Anandtech it lasts 15 hours of normal use, while the higher end model with a 3200x1800 screen lasts 10 hours of normal use (according to Anandtech), and 7 hours of video playback according to the CNet review.

Anandtech review: http://www.anandtech.com/show/6849/dell-xps-13-q1-2013-ultra...

Where did you see this? I tried adding it to my cart and I don't see the option. And I don't see it in their 'configuration' description.

Don't buy from Dell. Buy it from the Microsoft Store: http://www.microsoftstore.com/store/msusa/en_US/pdp/Dell-XPS...

Benefits of MS Store:

1) It's signature edition PC which means it's a pure copy of Windows 8.1. No trialware, no bloat, or any other crap. Even if you end up dual-booting into Ubuntu or Elementary OS, it's nice to have a clean copy of Windows.

2) You can take it into a local Microsoft Store if you have any issues, no need to deal with Dell's often horrid phone support.

3) You can buy Microsoft Complete Care for $130 which includes 3 years accidental warranty. If you break it, they replace it in the store with a brand new model instantly. I've seen them often simply replace it with an "equivalent or better" machine if the item is no longer available as well.

That's an absolutely terrible idea if you intend to run Linux on it. If you select the Ubuntu version and it's preloaded with Ubuntu at factory then Dell knows that it's worth working (and paying for) Linux support. If you take a Windows version and load Linux later then Dell things you are a Windows user and won't care about Linux support.

This is one of the biggest issues with Lenovo even though lots of Linux people run them.

The mystery of Dell's website. Go back to Google and search again. Dell gives you different options (and prices) depending on how you enter and navigate the web site. It's a maze of wonderful discovery!

Usability at its finest!

Dell uses targeted discount links. People post on 'deal' forums. The lower prices available on Google search results are special offers that people posted. They won't be accessible through the standard menu.

It's Dells model: coupons, discounts, offers, combo offers and all.

ossreality [dead]:

I can't imagine more than 10% of people ever even see these additional configuration. (just like this comment!)

So meta! Way to work that hellban, 'ossreality!