The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is a budget-friendly laptop that promises to deliver a balance of performance and convenience. With a Full HD 120Hz display and an Intel Core i5-1235U processor, it's designed for users who need reliability without breaking the bank.

Priced at £463.84, this laptop has garnered a 4.1 out of 5 rating from 232 reviews. Let's dive into what makes the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 a popular choice among users.

Having used the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 for a few months, I've found it to be an excellent choice for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and office work. The setup was straightforward, and the laptop's speed is impressive for its price range.

However, there are some downsides. The keyboard, for instance, lacks backlighting and can feel a bit flimsy. Additionally, the battery life could be better, but the express charge capability is a nice compensating feature.

Display Quality and Visual Experience

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 features a Full HD (1920 x 1080) 120Hz display that provides crisp and clear visuals. This high refresh rate is particularly beneficial for smoother scrolling and reduced motion blur, making it ideal for watching videos and casual gaming. The three-sided narrow bezel design further enhances the viewing experience by providing more screen real estate without increasing the laptop's overall size.

Another key aspect of the display is the Comfort View technology, which reduces blue light emissions and helps prevent eye strain during extended use. This feature is especially useful for students and professionals who spend long hours in front of the screen. Overall, the display quality and visual experience are strong selling points for this laptop.

However, it's worth noting that some users have reported that the laptop's screen brightness could be improved, especially when used in brightly lit environments. Despite this minor drawback, the display remains one of the standout features of the Dell Inspiron 15 3520, offering a balanced mix of performance and visual comfort.

Performance and Speed

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Powered by an Intel Core i5-1235U processor, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 offers solid performance for everyday tasks such as web browsing, email, and office applications. The 10-core processor ensures that multitasking is smooth and efficient, allowing users to switch between applications without noticeable lag. This makes the laptop suitable for both personal and professional use.

The inclusion of 8GB DDR4 RAM with a clock speed of 2666 MHz further enhances the laptop's performance. This memory configuration is adequate for most general computing tasks, although power users may find it limiting for more demanding applications such as video editing or 3D rendering. Nonetheless, for typical day-to-day use, the performance is more than satisfactory.

One of the standout features is the dual drive SSD, which significantly speeds up boot times and application loading. Users have praised the laptop for its quick responsiveness, attributing it to the fast SSD storage. This feature not only enhances the overall user experience but also contributes to the laptop's efficiency and reliability.

Build Quality and Design

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 sports a sleek and modern design, with a carbon black finish that gives it a professional look. The laptop's build quality is generally well-received, with many users appreciating its sturdy construction. Weighing in at 1.85 kg, it is reasonably portable, making it a good choice for students and professionals who need a reliable laptop on the go.

One of the design highlights is the lift hinge, which elevates the keyboard slightly when the laptop is open. This ergonomic feature provides a more comfortable typing experience and improves airflow underneath the device, helping to keep it cool during extended use. The enlarged keyboard also adds to the overall comfort, making it easier to type for long periods of time.

However, some users have expressed concerns about the durability of the hinge mechanism, particularly its long-term reliability. While the innovative design is appreciated, only time will tell if it can withstand regular use without issues. Despite this potential drawback, the laptop's design and build quality are generally well-regarded.

Battery Life and Charging

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 comes with a long-lasting battery that supports extended use without frequent recharging. This is particularly beneficial for users who need to work on the go or in environments where access to power outlets is limited. The express charge capability is another notable feature, allowing the battery to charge quickly and minimize downtime.

However, user reviews indicate mixed experiences with battery life. While some users are satisfied with the longevity, others have noted that the battery drains faster than expected, especially during intensive tasks. This inconsistency suggests that battery performance may vary depending on usage patterns and settings.

Despite these mixed reviews, the overall battery performance is decent for a laptop in this price range. The express charge feature is a significant advantage, ensuring that users can quickly get back to work without waiting for hours for the battery to recharge fully.

Keyboard and Typing Experience

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 features an English-UK keyboard that aims to provide a comfortable typing experience. The enlarged keyboard design is intended to make it easier for users to type for extended periods of time without fatigue. Additionally, the lift hinge design elevates the keyboard, adding to the ergonomic benefits.

However, user feedback on the keyboard is mixed. While some users find the keyboard comfortable and easy to use, others have reported issues with key sensitivity and tactile feedback. Specific complaints include keys being too sensitive or not registering keystrokes properly, which can be frustrating for fast typists.

Despite these concerns, the overall typing experience is generally positive for casual use. The keyboard layout is intuitive, and the keys are spaced adequately, reducing the likelihood of typing errors. For users who prioritize a comfortable and ergonomic typing experience, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 offers a reasonably good solution.

Audio and Connectivity

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 comes equipped with integrated Intel UHD Graphics, providing sufficient graphical performance for everyday tasks and casual gaming. While it may not be suitable for high-end gaming or graphic-intensive applications, it handles basic multimedia tasks well. Users have praised the laptop for its ability to stream videos and handle light photo editing without issues.

In terms of audio, the laptop features built-in speakers and a headphone jack, offering multiple options for audio output. User reviews indicate that the audio quality is decent, with clear sound output for both media playback and video calls. However, the built-in speakers may lack the depth and richness that audiophiles seek, making external speakers or headphones a better option for an enhanced audio experience.

Connectivity options are robust, with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support ensuring seamless wireless connections. The laptop also includes multiple USB ports, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack, providing ample options for connecting peripherals and external devices. This versatility makes the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 a well-rounded choice for users who need a reliable laptop with good connectivity options.

Storage Options and Expandability

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 offers a 512 GB SSD, providing ample storage space for everyday use. The SSD not only enhances the laptop's speed and responsiveness but also ensures quicker boot times and faster file transfers. This makes it an excellent choice for users who require a reliable storage solution for their files and applications.

One of the standout features is the dual drive SSD configuration, which allows for even faster computing experiences. Users have noted the significant improvement in performance, particularly when multitasking or running resource-intensive applications. This feature sets the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 apart from other laptops in its price range, offering a more efficient and reliable storage solution.

While the laptop's storage capacity is adequate for most users, those who require additional space may find the lack of expandability a limitation. The laptop does not include options for easily upgrading the storage, which could be a drawback for users with extensive storage needs. Despite this, the existing 512 GB SSD should suffice for most general computing tasks.

Operating System and Software

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home, offering a modern and user-friendly operating system that is well-suited for both personal and professional use. Windows 11 brings a host of new features and improvements, including a redesigned Start menu, enhanced multitasking capabilities, and better integration with Microsoft services.

Users have generally found the transition to Windows 11 to be smooth, with the operating system providing a familiar yet refreshed experience. The setup process is straightforward, and customizing the system to fit individual preferences is relatively simple. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for users who may not be tech-savvy but still want a powerful and functional operating system.

However, some users have expressed frustration with pre-installed software and bloatware that come with the laptop. These additional programs can take up valuable storage space and may slow down the system if not managed properly. Despite this minor inconvenience, the overall software experience on the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is positive, with Windows 11 offering a robust and versatile platform for various computing tasks.

User Experience and Feedback

User feedback for the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is generally positive, with many praising its performance, design, and value for money. The laptop's speed and responsiveness are frequently highlighted, with users appreciating the efficiency of the Intel Core i5-1235U processor and the 512 GB SSD. The display quality and ergonomic design also receive positive mentions, making it a well-rounded choice for everyday use.

However, there are some areas where user experiences have been mixed. While many find the keyboard comfortable and easy to use, others have reported issues with key sensitivity and tactile feedback. Battery life also seems to be a point of contention, with some users satisfied with its longevity and others noting faster-than-expected drainage. These mixed reviews suggest that individual experiences may vary based on specific use cases and personal preferences.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall user experience with the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is favorable. The laptop offers a good balance of performance, design, and features at a competitive price point. For users seeking a reliable and efficient laptop for general computing tasks, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is a solid option that comes highly recommended by many of its users.

Value for Money

At a price of £463.84, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 offers excellent value for money, especially considering its specifications and features. The combination of an Intel Core i5-1235U processor, 8GB DDR4 RAM, and a 512 GB SSD provides a solid performance foundation for a wide range of tasks. This makes the laptop an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who do not want to compromise on essential features.

The build quality and design add to the overall value proposition, with the lift hinge and ergonomic keyboard enhancing user comfort. The Full HD 120Hz display is another highlight, providing a high-quality visual experience that is typically found in more expensive models. These features make the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 a well-rounded choice for both personal and professional use.

While there are some minor drawbacks, such as mixed feedback on the keyboard and battery life, the overall package is hard to beat at this price point. User reviews consistently mention the laptop's value for money, making it a recommended choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient laptop without breaking the bank.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is a solid option for those looking for a budget-friendly laptop that performs well for everyday tasks. Its Full HD display and decent speed make it a good value for money.

While it may not be suitable for heavy gaming or demanding applications, it excels in providing a smooth experience for general use. If you need a reliable laptop for light tasks, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is worth considering.

Questions & Answers:

Question: Does the laptop have a backlit keyboard?

Answer: No, the model with an i5 processor does not have a backlit keyboard.

Question: Is this laptop good for gaming?

Answer: No, this laptop is not suitable for heavy gaming. It is more suited for everyday tasks like browsing, emailing, and using office applications.

Question: How is the battery life of this laptop?

Answer: The battery life is decent, but some users have reported that it drains faster than expected. It also supports express charge capability.

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