Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 vs Dell XPS 13 (9340)
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 | Dell XPS 13 (9340) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance index | 2,600 | 2,600 | +0.0% |
| Battery life (h) | 15 | 13 | +15.4% |
| Weight (kg) | 1.09 | 1.19 | — |
| RAM / storage | 16GB / 512GB | 16GB / 512GB | — |
| Price (USD) | $1,699 | $1,299 | +30.8% |
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 is about 0% faster. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 lasts longer on battery (15h).
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 is the more portable at 1.09 kg.
Verdict: ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 or XPS 13 (9340)?
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 advantages
- Battery life (+13%)
- Portability (+8%)
- Screen size (+4%)
Dell XPS 13 (9340) advantages
- Affordability (+24%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 if long unplugged battery life is essential.
- Choose the Dell XPS 13 (9340) if you want the best value.
- Choose the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 if you carry it around all day.
Value for money
Dell XPS 13 (9340) delivers more performance per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 vs Dell XPS 13 (9340): which should you choose?
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 — Lenovo ultrabook laptop (2024) with the Intel Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, a 14-inch display, 1.09 kg weight and about 15 h battery life; from $1,699.
Dell XPS 13 (9340) — Dell ultrabook laptop (2024) with the Intel Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, a 13.4-inch display, 1.19 kg weight and about 13 h battery life; from $1,299.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 vs Dell XPS 13 (9340): Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 is the faster laptop. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 is about 0% faster. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 lasts longer on battery (15h). Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 is the more portable at 1.09 kg.
Performance
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 is the faster machine on our normalized index (2,600 vs 2,600), thanks to its Intel Core Ultra 7. That gap matters most for video editing, compiling, 3D and gaming; for browsing and office work both feel quick.
Portability and battery
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 is easier to carry at 1.09 kg, and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 lasts longer unplugged (about 15 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 Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 better than the Dell XPS 13 (9340)?
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 takes the overall edge, though Dell XPS 13 (9340) wins in specific areas worth weighing. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 is about 0% faster. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 lasts longer on battery (15h).
What is the main difference between the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 and the Dell XPS 13 (9340)?
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 is about 0% faster. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 lasts longer on battery (15h). Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 is the more portable at 1.09 kg.
Which is better value?
Dell XPS 13 (9340) delivers more performance per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 if long unplugged battery life is essential. Choose the Dell XPS 13 (9340) if you want the best value.
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.