Dell Inspiron 15 3520 Laptop Review Is This High-Performance FHD Laptop Worth It

Description

A Versatile Laptop for Work and Play

I’ve had the chance to use the Dell Inspiron 3520 15.6″ FHD Laptop with its Intel Core i7-1255U Processor, and let me just say, it’s a solid piece of tech. From its sleek black design to its impressive performance specs, there’s a lot packed into this lightweight machine. While it does have its quirks, it’s been a reliable companion for daily tasks and entertainment alike. Here’s my take on it.

Design and Build Quality

The black finish on this laptop gives it a professional and understated look. It’s not flashy, which is perfect if you’re someone like me who prefers a more minimalistic style. At 3.65 pounds, it’s light enough to carry around without breaking your back, yet it feels sturdy enough to handle daily wear and tear. The 14.11 x 9.27 x 0.83-inch dimensions make it slim, which is a big win when slipping it into a backpack.

One thing I noticed, though, is that while the build is solid, the plastic chassis can feel a bit too standard. It’s not flimsy, but it doesn’t scream premium either. The hinge mechanism is smooth, and the keyboard layout has a nice tactile feel, though I wouldn’t call it the most ergonomic I’ve used.

Performance and Speed

The Intel Core i7-1255U processor is a beast. With 10 cores, 12 threads, and a max turbo frequency of 4.7 GHz, this laptop handles everything I throw at it. Whether I’m juggling multiple browser tabs, editing photos, or streaming videos, it doesn’t miss a beat. Pair that with 32GB of DDR4 RAM, and you’ve got a system that’s ready for multitasking. I’ve tested it with some heavier software, and it ran smoothly without any noticeable lag.

The 1TB SSD ensures lightning-fast boot times and quick file transfers. I’ve transferred large video files in no time, which is a blessing for someone who’s always moving projects around. However, the lack of a dedicated GPU might disappoint gamers or those into heavy 3D rendering. The Intel Iris Xe Graphics are decent for light gaming or basic creative work, but it’s not meant for anything overly demanding.

Display Quality

The 15.6-inch FHD display with its 1920 x 1080 resolution is sharp and vibrant. Watching movies or working on presentations is enjoyable thanks to its anti-glare coating and narrow bezels, which make the screen feel larger than it is. The 250 nits brightness is okay for indoor use, but I did find it struggling a bit in brightly lit environments or outdoors. It’s not a dealbreaker for me, but something to keep in mind if you work in varying lighting conditions.

Connectivity and Ports

Connectivity is one of this laptop’s strong suits. With Wi-Fi 6, I’ve experienced faster internet speeds and more stable connections compared to older laptops I’ve used. Pairing devices via Bluetooth 5 has also been seamless, whether it’s headphones or a wireless mouse.

The USB ports (two USB 3.2 Gen 1, one USB 2.0) are well-placed and functional, although I wish there was an additional USB-C option for future-proofing. The HDMI 1.4 port works fine for connecting to external monitors, and the SD card slot is a savior for photographers like me. The inclusion of a headphone and microphone combo port is always appreciated.

Key Benefits

• Powerful Performance: Thanks to the Intel Core i7 processor and 32GB RAM, multitasking is a breeze.
• Ample Storage Space: With a 1TB SSD, there’s no need to worry about running out of room for files, photos, or videos.
• Lightweight and Portable: At just 3.65 pounds, it’s easy to carry around.
• Wi-Fi 6 Connectivity: Ensures faster and more reliable internet speeds.

Critiques

• No USB-C Port: A glaring omission in today’s tech landscape.
• Basic Build Material: The plastic chassis feels a bit too ordinary for the price point.
• Limited Brightness: The 250 nits display struggles under bright light or outdoor use.

Competing Products

When comparing this laptop to similar options, the HP Pavilion 15 and Lenovo IdeaPad 5 come to mind. The HP Pavilion offers similar specs but often includes a dedicated graphics card, which could be a selling point for gamers. However, it tends to be bulkier and less portable. On the other hand, the Lenovo IdeaPad 5 is known for its better build quality and USB-C functionality, though it might fall short in terms of raw processing power compared to the Inspiron 3520.

What sets the Dell Inspiron 3520 apart is its balanced performance and affordability. It combines powerful specs with a lightweight design, making it ideal for professionals and students alike.

Cost Efficiency

When I look at the features this laptop offers, I’d say it’s a good balance of performance and price. The Intel i7 processor, 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD are specs you’d expect from pricier models, yet this laptop remains relatively budget-friendly. Sure, there are some trade-offs like the lack of USB-C and average brightness, but for the price range, it still delivers solid value for money.

If you’re a professional needing a reliable workhorse, a student looking for a durable laptop, or someone who enjoys light gaming and streaming, this device is worth considering. It’s proof that you don’t need to break the bank for a dependable machine.

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