Quick Answer: The Dell 14 Plus and Dell 16 Plus are available in Canada in configurations that meet Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC requirements. Both can run compatible AI features locally, preserving CPU performance and battery life even under heavier workloads.

With artificial intelligence exploding in popularity, many new laptops are branded as “AI PCs,” which basically means they’re built with a specialized engine called an NPU designed to complete tasks more efficiently, improving your workflow and helping your PC run more smoothly. But just because a laptop claims to be AI-ready doesn’t mean it can handle all of the complex tasks or demanding workloads enabled by the latest artificial intelligence. 

Dell’s AI-ready laptops were built to meet Microsoft’s strict Copilot+ designation standards, matching or exceeding the hardware requirements for Windows 11 computers to run the most advanced AI tasks locally. 

Here’s an overview of what true AI-readiness looks like plus a comparison of the Dell 14 Plus and Dell 16 Plus so you can find the best laptop for your AI needs.

What does it actually mean for a Dell work laptop to be “AI-ready”?

An AI-ready Dell laptop uses dedicated hardware called a neural processing unit (NPU) to run certain AI features directly on the laptop instead of relying on the cloud. If you regularly use your laptop for work, the NPU leads to faster, more efficient performance. 

And because the NPU handles these tasks instead of relying entirely on the central processing unit (CPU), the laptop can continue running other programs without draining the battery. On-device processing may also improve privacy and allow some AI features to work without an internet connection. 

Just because a laptop is AI-ready, however, doesn’t automatically mean it qualifies as a Copilot+ PC. A standard AI-ready laptop may have a weaker NPU, while a designated Copilot+ PC has:

• An NPU capable of at least 40 trillion operations per second (TOPS)
• minimum of 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. 

So if you want a Dell laptop that’s built for Microsoft’s more advanced AI features, look for the Copilot+ PC designation instead of just something labeled an “AI PC.”

Which Dell laptops in Canada meet the strict Copilot+ standard?

The Dell 14 Plus and Dell 16 Plus are both available in Canada and in configurations that meet Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC requirements. Both laptops run the Windows 11 operating system with Intel Core Ultra processors, and include the hardware needed to run compatible AI features locally, but there are some important differences between the two.

The most obvious difference between the Dell 14 Plus and Dell 16 Plus is size. The 14-inch model is lighter and easier to carry, while the 16-inch model has more screen space for viewing documents and multitasking. Available processors, memory and storage options can also vary, so make sure you understand the specifications before buying. 

Dell 16 Plus vs. Dell 14 Plus: Which AI PC is right for your workload?

Both laptops support Copilot+ features, so the best Dell laptop largely depends on whether you prefer a larger screen or more portability.

Choose the Dell 16 Plus if you regularly have multiple browsers or windows open or just prefer a larger display. The Dell 14 Plus may be the better option if you frequently transport your laptop between home and other locations. Exact pricing and configurations can change, so check Dell Canada’s website for the most current information. 

Do I really need an NPU with 40+ TOPS for everyday business tasks?

Yes, if you use on-device AI features like coding assistance, audio and video transcription, image generation or advanced document summarizing. Content creators, software developers and anyone integrating agentic AI into their workflows will benefit from a dedicated, high-performance NPU.

On the other hand, a 40+ TOPS NPU is overkill for activities like checking email and browsing the internet since these tasks rely more on the laptop’s CPU and internet connection. For lighter AI workloads, you can also use cloud-based tools like ChatGPT or the standard Microsoft Copilot without a powerful NPU.

In summary, if your work is limited to standard office tasks, you probably don’t need to upgrade solely for the NPU. But it could be worth it if you plan to use more on-device AI tools in the coming years. 

FAQ

What is an NPU and why does it matter for a work laptop?

A neural processing unit (NPU) is a specialized engine designed to handle AI and machine learning tasks more efficiently. By moving these workloads away from the laptop’s main processor, an NPU can support on-device AI features while preserving performance and battery life. 

What does Copilot+ certified mean for Dell laptops?

Copilot+ PC is Microsoft’s designation for Windows computers that meet its hardware requirements for on-device AI. To meet these requirements, the NPU must be capable of at least 40 TOPS, and have at least 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Available Copilot+ features can vary depending on the device, location and software update. 

Can I run AI features without a 40+ TOPS NPU?

Yes, you can run cloud-based AI tools like ChatGPT and the standard web version of Microsoft Copilot without a 40+ TOPS NPU, assuming you have internet access. A 40+ TOPS NPU is required to run compatible AI features directly on the device.

Why is 16GB of RAM the minimum for these Dell AI laptops?

Microsoft requires Copilot+ PCs to have at least 16GB of RAM because AI features require significant memory to process information and run simultaneously. More RAM will also help a laptop maintain its performance during intensive AI workloads.

How much does the Dell 16 Plus AI laptop cost in Canada?

The starting price for a Dell 16 Plus model is CAD $2,349.99. Pricing can change, so check Dell Canada’s website for the most current pricing.

Is the Dell 14 Plus available in Canada?

Yes, the Dell 14 Plus is available in Canada, including configurations that meet Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC requirements. The starting price is CAD $2,249.99.