Dell is getting rid of its Precision PCs. Here’s what will replace them.

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At CES 2025, Dell introduced an extensive lineup of computers and monitors, along with a fresh naming scheme for their devices. With numerous new names being thrown around and AI-powered PCs aplenty, there’s plenty to take in. Leading the pack among Dell’s latest PC offerings are the new Dell Pro Max laptops and desktops.

The top-tier Dell Pro Max equipment showcases Dell’s peak performance, particularly in terms of speed, although some may argue that Dell and Dell Pro offer better value. These Dell Pro Max computers and monitors cater to both consumer and commercial markets, boasting premium specifications. For instance, this range encompasses PCs equipped with Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors, AMD Ryzen processors, and AMD Threadripper processors.

What is Dell Pro Max?

Before delving into the details of the freshly announced Dell Pro Max hardware, let’s first clarify what Dell Pro Max represents. Dell has recently revamped its consumer PC lineup, phasing out familiar names such as XPS, Latitude, and Precision (Alienware remains unchanged). Any device carrying the “Dell Pro Max” moniker is engineered for top-tier performance. These devices, falling under both consumer and commercial categories, are essentially the modern reincarnation of Dell’s old Precision branding.

As a tech enthusiast, I’d put it this way: In Dell’s product lineup, you’ll find three levels within Dell Pro Max – Base, Plus, and Premium. These tiers serve as a guide to the price point of any given device in a specific category. Interestingly, this tier structure is consistent across both the regular “Dell” and “Dell Pro” lines. So, knowing the category and tier of a device can give you quite a bit of insight into its features and value.

Other details about devices, such as screen size and form factor are included in names as well.

To apply the fresh branding and nomenclature to a physical device, I plan on dissecting the Dell Pro Max 14 into its components.

Dell Pro Max: Designed for maximum performance

14: Indicates the screen size of the device (14 inches)

The naming system is simple in terms of its guidelines, but I foresee potential confusion as more devices are released. For instance, distinguishing between a hypothetical Dell Pro Max 14 Base 2-in-1 and a Dell Pro 14 Premium 2-in-1 might take several minutes. Writing them out feels like calling plays in American football, which necessitate study to memorize.

Daniel Rubino, our Editor-in-Chief, provides a detailed analysis of the rebranding, explaining that Dell chose to update its consumer laptop names for two main reasons: to embrace the era of AI-centric PCs and to streamline their branding. In many cases, it was challenging for people to recall the distinct features of Dell’s product lines, such as Inspiron, Latitude, XPS, and Precision, without careful consideration. The new branding strategy offers a more straightforward approach by categorizing products clearly and providing tiers within each group.

The proposed alteration has sparked debate, and it remains uncertain how consumers will respond to it. Although most casual buyers of laptops might not discern every Dell label, I have encountered a good number who appreciate and grasp specific labels. For instance, many have a sense of what they’ll get when buying an XPS laptop. Will the brand recognition for XPS translate into interest or loyalty towards “Dell Premium,” which is similar to XPS? Will there be as much excitement for a Dell Premium 14 review as there was for our Dell XPS 14 review?

Dell Pro Max laptops

At CES 2025, Dell introduced two models from their Dell Pro Max lineup: the Dell Pro Max 14 and Dell Pro Max 16. Initially, these laptops will utilize Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors upon release. However, they will also support AMD Ryzen versions later in the year. The Dell Pro Max 14 and Dell Pro Max 16 will offer high-end configurations, featuring an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor coupled with NVIDIA RTX 500-level graphics. Additionally, the Dell Pro Max 14 boasts a maximum storage capacity of 2TB, while the larger Dell Pro Max 16 can be equipped with up to 4TB of storage.

16:10 aspect ratio displays, capable of QHD+ resolution, are found on both of the latest Dell Pro Max laptops. Each model boasts an 8-megapixel webcam positioned above its screen.

In terms of connectivity, the Dell Pro Max 14 and Dell Pro Max 16 have Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.

Dell Pro Max desktops

Dell didn’t reveal much detail concerning their Dell Pro Max desktop computers, yet there are some crucial details that have been disclosed. These machines will utilize Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors and incorporate NVIDIA RTX professional-grade graphics, though the specific model hasn’t been mentioned yet.

As an observer, I noticed that Dell’s Pro Max desktop series will provide customers with multiple form factor choices: micro, slim, and tower. This variety caters to those seeking top-tier devices, ensuring they can find a model that fits their specific needs perfectly.

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2025-01-06 23:28