Given your current setup and expectations, it sounds like you need a true desktop replacement with serious power, reliability, and expansion options. Based on what you’ve described, a strong contender would be the Lenovo ThinkPad P1 Gen 6 or the Dell Precision 7780.
But if you want a specific model that checks almost every box — the Lenovo ThinkPad P1 Gen 6 with Intel i9-13900H, 64GB RAM, 4TB SSD (with a second slot), and RTX 4070 graphics is an excellent pick. Here's why:
Performance: It's blazing fast, handles demanding tasks with ease, and supports dual NVMe SSDs — perfect for your current storage setup.
Build & Cooling: Great thermals, especially compared to the XPS series which often suffers in that department. Magnesium alloy chassis keeps it sturdy without being bulky.
Keyboard: Classic ThinkPad typing experience — tactile, accurate, and comfortable for long sessions (ideal since you type a lot).
Display: 16" WQXGA (2560x1600) with 100% sRGB — bright, sharp, and a good compromise from 17” while staying portable.
Ports: Includes multiple USB-C/Thunderbolt, HDMI, headphone jack, and SD card reader.
You’ll also get ISV certifications if you ever dabble in professional creative or CAD software — even if you're not gaming, this type of machine will run cool and stable under heavy loads.
If you’re leaning toward Dell again, the Precision 7780 (a business-grade cousin of the XPS 17) could be a better experience with much better thermals and pro-grade durability.
