Dell XPS - widespread killer n/w card problems?

Sessen Ryu

I've got my heart set on a Dell XPS 9380 13, - unfortunately it comes with that Killer wi-fi card, which historically has had loads of issues (connectivity continually dropping out),... - I am trying to make sense of the current situation in regards to the latest model (9380), and whether the problem is more widespread with previous modesl 9370 and below), or whether it's with all models?

Just wondering if anyone had any knowledge of this, - as it's basically the difference between me spending £1,300 on one or not?

Many thanks.

techquest

Are you sure it has the Killer card

This is a note on the Dell site re product variations

Bluedug

I have just purchased an xps 13 9380 (couple of weeks) so too early to say for certain but no issues so far and a lovely laptop.

I can have a look at the config later when back home (if I can work out how to do it).

Edit: from the invoice does appear to have the card in question.

Killer 1435 802.11ac 2x2 and Bluetooth 4.1
Killer 1435 Driver

techquest

Type System Information into search
then go to components and expand
then network and expand
then Adapter

techquest

I've got an XPS 15 9530. It's been one of the best products I've ever owned.

Sessen Ryu

Thanks all.  The refurbished machine I am interested in does (unfortunately?) have the killer card.

Great to hear good feedback on these laptops, - I have seen videos of swapping the card, however, that's a bit of a nawse after spending good money on a machne, so would rather not go that route.

techquest

Yes you can change out the card but I would just go with what you would have and see what happens. You might just have a good one.

Sessen Ryu

So the situation with these Killer network cards is a pot-luck affair... they are not all consistently bad... - the machihne does come with a Dell warranty, but I have read many reports from Dell not recognising that it's a fault and not helping

techquest

If you have a warranty with Dell and that card goes faulty then Dell will have to replace the card. If they refused then they would be liable to action against them. I did have a problem with the touchpad at one time and an engineer came out and replaced it under their warranty. They don't tend to mess around as they know they would be open to scrutiny. I really don't think you should be worrying over the network card and you will have a warranty as you have said.

bigbfan

I have a 9380 and have the killer wireless card and Im not having any issues.

What is the documented problems with the card - as someone has mentioned previously Dells support is great when they are called to resolve issues, so not a issue as such..