 |
| Dell's new 16-inch laptop also includes a built-in numberpad. |
After unveiling the Pro 5 Series 16 back in March, Dell has quietly started rolling out the laptop globally. The new Dell Pro 5 Series 16 (model P516260) is now available for purchase across the US, UK, Canada, and several Eurozone countries, with Australian customers having to jump through an extra hoop – phone orders only.
But if you were hoping for the AMD processor options Dell teased during the initial announcement, prepare for a letdown. Unlike its predecessor, the Pro 16 PC16255 (which you can still grab for $899.99 on Amazon – more on that in a bit), the Pro 5 Series 16 ships exclusively with Intel’s Panther Lake family. You’re looking at eight processor choices ranging from the Core Ultra 5 332 vPro up to the Core Ultra X7 368H. No AMD in sight. At least not yet.
Customization Galore – If Your Wallet Can Handle It
Dell isn’t skimping on configurability. The Pro 5 Series 16 lets you mix and match:
- Memory: Choose between traditional DDR5 or the newer LPCAMM2 RAM (which saves space and improves repairability)
- Storage: PCIe Gen 4 or Gen 5 options
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7
- Batteries: 45 Wh, 57 Wh, or 70 Wh – the same trio found on the 14-inch model
Dell claims a starting weight of 1.82 kg, but that’s almost certainly with the smallest 45 Wh battery. Step up to the larger packs and you’ll likely feel the difference.
Displays: Bright But Not Exactly Vibrant
The screen options here are a mixed bag. You can configure the P516260 with either a 1200p or 1600p (2.5K) IPS panel, both rated between 400 and 500 nits peak brightness in SDR. That’s plenty bright for indoor use and even some outdoor scenarios.
Here’s the catch: some of these panels cover just 62.5% of the sRGB color space. For anyone doing photo editing or color-critical work, that’s a non-starter. And while 120 Hz variable refresh rate (VRR) options exist, Dell isn’t offering OLED technology on this model at all. It’s a curious omission for a laptop starting at over $2,300.
Pricing That Starts High and Climbs Fast
Speaking of price: Dell lists the Pro 5 Series 16 starting at 2,232 and £1,947.47 – a small but welcome surprise.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly Dell 16-inch laptop, the earlier Pro 16 PC16255 is still a solid choice. You can find it on Amazon for just $899.99 – check the current price here. That’s less than half the cost of the new Pro 5 Series, though you’ll be giving up the latest Intel Panther Lake chips and some of the newer connectivity options.
But if you want the latest and greatest – or just want to max out a work laptop on the company dime – be prepared for some serious sticker shock. Spec the Pro 5 Series 16 with a Core Ultra X7 368H processor and 64 GB of LPCAMM2 RAM, and the price balloons to $4,877 before you’ve even touched storage, display, or battery upgrades.
Availability – Easy Everywhere Except Australia
The Pro 5 Series 16 is live on Dell’s websites in:
- United States – direct configurator link
- Canada – shop here
- France – configuration available
- Germany – order here
- Ireland – view options
- UK – shop now
Australia gets the short end of the stick: Dell is only offering the Pro 5 Series 16 over the phone. No online ordering. You’ll have to call Dell’s Australian sales line directly. Meanwhile, customers in the Eurozone and Canada can order online like everyone else.
Is It Worth the Premium?
That’s the million-dollar question – or in this case, the nearly-$5,000 question. The Pro 5 Series 16 brings Intel’s new Panther Lake platform, LPCAMM2 memory for future-proofing, and a solid build (typical Dell Pro series quality). But the lack of AMD options, mediocre color gamut on some panels, and eye-watering high-end prices make it a tough sell for anyone other than business buyers who need vPro features.
For consumers and most prosumers, the previous-generation Pro 16 PC16255 at $899.99 (over on Amazon) is arguably the smarter buy – unless you absolutely need Panther Lake or LPCAMM2 RAM.
Dell hasn’t said if or when AMD configurations will arrive. For now, the Pro 5 Series 16 is an Intel-only affair. Check Dell’s website for full specs and regional availability.
