Dell has upgraded its premium 15-inch with Intel's second-generation Core Series processors and Nvidia GeForce GT 500 series graphics, which promise even better performance. We had a chance to test out a high-end $1,488 configuration of the XPS 15, complete with a 2-GHz quad-core Core i7, 8GB of RAM, a 1080p screen, and Nvidia GT540M graphics. These specs promise--and deliver--remarkable processing and media prowess.

Display size : 15.6 inches 1366 x 768
Display type : Glossy LCD with LED Backlight
Processor class Intel Core i5 2410M 2300 MHz
Number of Cores : 2
Cache size : 3 MB
Integrated Graphics Chipset : Intel HD Core i5
Discreet Graphics Chipset : Nvidia GeForce GT 525M
Graphics Memory : 1024 MB
Installed memory : 4 GB Upto 8 GB DDR3 1333 MHz
Total HD Size : 500 GB 7200 RPM
Ethernet Type : 10/100/1000 Mbps 802.11 n/b/g
Weight (min) : 6.2 pounds
Weight (with accessories) : 7.6 lbs
Width: 15 inches
Depth : 10 inches
Height : 1.5 inches
Operating system : Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium

The CPU is a 2.3GHz i5-2410M heading above the CPU, 2.3 GHz Core i7-2820QM, costs $ 500 extra. RAM can be upgraded to 8 GB of the base of 4 GB for $ 120. A choice of 256 GB SSD is available for $ 600. GPU options are limited: either the Nvidia GeForce GT 525 million, or GT 540M, with double the memory, for an extra $ 100. TV tuner will cost $ 50.

The Dell XPS L502X is a well-balanced desktop replacement laptop that will happily deal with everyday tasks and keep the family entertained.

The Dell XPS L502X 2-megapixel integrated webcam, however, is quite nice as is, with Dell’s Webcam Center software offering easy and intuitive controls (setup with the preinstalled Skype software was a breeze). The audio system consists of two 4-watt JBL speakers and a 12-watt subwoofer, plus Waves MaxxAudio 3 audio-enhancement technology. You also get two headphone jacks (unusual in a notebook), one of which supports SPDIF (direct digital) output, alongside the microphone-in jack. I wasn’t able to try out the notebook’s support for 3D content, but Dell says that if you get the Dell XPS 15 L502X optional Blu-ray drive, it can stream a 3D movie to a 3D-enabled HDTV (over an HDMI connection).