So you’re in the market for a new laptop and considering a Dell. You’ve seen their ads everywhere and maybe owned one years ago. A lot has changed in the world of laptops recently, so you’re wondering if Dell is still a good choice. Should you buy a Dell laptop? Here’s the deal.
We’ve tested and reviewed the latest Dell laptops to see how they stack up against the competition. While Dell isn’t always on the cutting edge of design or performance, their laptops continue to offer solid value for the money. If you’re looking for an affordable, durable laptop for everyday tasks like browsing, productivity, and streaming, a Dell can absolutely get the job done. However, if high-powered performance or a premium design is important, you may want to consider other options.
Overview of Dell Laptops
Dell makes a range of laptops at different price points, so whether you’re on a budget or want a powerhouse machine, they have something for you.
Affordable and Practical
If you’re looking for an affordable, no-frills laptop for basic tasks like web browsing and productivity, check out the Inspiron line. The Inspiron 15 3000 starts around $350 and has a 15.6-inch screen, Intel Core i3 processor, 4-8GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of storage. For a little more portability, the Inspiron 14 5000 is a solid, thin-and-light option under $500.
Performance and Style
For a blend of performance and style, the XPS line is a great choice. The XPS 13 is a premium ultrabook with an aluminum chassis, nearly bezel-less display, and 8th or 10th gen Intel Core i5/i7 processors. Prices range from $900 up to $1,500 for a 4K touchscreen model. The XPS 15 is a larger version with dedicated graphics, ideal for video editing or gaming.
Workstations
If you need serious power for tasks like engineering, architecture, or video production, check out Dell’s Precision workstation laptops. They offer Intel Xeon processors, NVIDIA Quadro professional graphics, ECC memory, and blazing-fast storage options. Prices start around $1,500 and go up to $5,000+ for a fully loaded model.
In the end, Dell has a laptop for pretty much any need and budget. With frequent sales and coupon codes available, you can often score a good deal on a Dell laptop. So if you’re due for an upgrade, Dell is worth considering.
Dell Laptop Models and Options
When it comes to Dell laptops, you’ve got options. Lots of options. From budget-friendly Inspirons to powerful XPS models, there’s a Dell for every need and budget.
Inspiron
Dell’s Inspiron line is their affordable, everyday option. Models like the Inspiron 15 start around $500 and are great for basic tasks like web browsing, streaming media, and productivity. Battery life is decent at 8-10 hours, and you get useful ports like USB and HDMI.
- Inspiron 15: 15.6-inch screen, Intel i5 processor, 8-16GB RAM. A solid, budget-friendly choice for everyday needs.
XPS
If performance and premium design matter, look to the XPS line. Options like the XPS 13 and XPS 15 offer:
- XPS 13: 13.3-inch nearly bezel-less display, latest Intel processors, up to 16GB RAM. All-day battery life and a stunning design, starting around $1,000.
- XPS 15: Larger 15.6-inch display with optional 4K touchscreen, dedicated NVIDIA graphics, and a 97WHr battery for up to 20 hours of use per charge. Models start around $1,500 with an i7 CPU and 16GB RAM.
For power users and creative professionals, the XPS line is a fantastic choice with performance to spare. The premium craftsmanship and materials like aluminum and carbon fiber also make these laptops a joy to use.
2-in-1s
If you want maximum flexibility, Dell’s Inspiron and XPS 2-in-1 convertible laptops let you switch from laptop to tablet mode. Options like the Inspiron 14 2-in-1 and XPS 13 2-in-1 offer 360-degree hinges, touchscreens, and optional stylus support for drawing and note-taking. 2-in-1s start around $700.
With so many great options, you really can’t go wrong with a Dell. Whether you need an affordable Inspiron, a premium XPS, or a flexible 2-in-1, Dell has a laptop for you.
Dell Laptop Pricing and Value
Dell is known for offering laptops at competitive price points for budget-conscious consumers. Whether you’re looking for an affordable laptop for basic needs or a higher-end model for gaming or business, Dell likely has an option that will suit your needs without breaking the bank.
Entry-level and mid-range models
Dell’s Inspiron line starts around $200-$500 and is a solid, dependable choice for everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming media, and productivity. The Inspiron 15 3000, for example, typically starts around $350 and offers an Intel i3 processor, 8GB of RAM and a 256GB solid-state drive—perfectly capable specs for most casual needs.
Dell’s XPS line, starting around $700-$1000, provides more power and premium features for people wanting an all-purpose laptop for personal and professional use. The XPS 13, Dell’s flagship ultrabook, is a portable powerhouse with an 8th-gen Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, 8-16GB RAM and a 256-512GB solid-state drive. It’s a great balance of performance and value.
Gaming and workstation models
If you’re a gamer or power user, Dell also offers dedicated gaming laptops and mobile workstations at a range of price points. The G series starts around $800 and is equipped with high-performance graphics cards, powerful processors, and fast refresh rate displays optimized for gaming. Dell’s Precision mobile workstations start around $1,500 and provide powerful components for graphics design, video editing, engineering applications, and more.
While you can certainly find cheaper options from lesser-known brands, Dell is a reputable company that provides good customer service and support. For the specs and overall value, Dell laptops are very competitively priced. Before you buy, be sure to check Dell’s weekly deals and coupons on their website to score the best price on the model that suits your needs.
Dell Laptop Performance and Specs
Dell is known for offering laptops with solid performance and specs for a range of needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for an ultraportable laptop for basic tasks, a powerful workstation for resource-intensive projects, or a gaming machine, Dell has options worth considering.
Processors
Dell laptops feature Intel Core i3, i5, i7 and i9 processors, as well as AMD Ryzen chips. More powerful processors like the i7 and i9 are better for multitasking, editing video and other CPU-intensive work. The i5 is a good mid-range option for most everyday needs like web browsing, productivity and casual gaming. Budget laptops typically have an i3 or AMD processor, which are fine for basic tasks but may feel limited for more demanding use.
Memory and storage
Most Dell laptops come with at least 8GB of RAM, which is enough for basic multitasking. For the best performance, consider 16GB or more of memory. SSD storage is faster than a traditional hard drive, so look for at least a 256GB SSD. Some Dell laptops offer both an SSD and a hard drive, giving you speed and lots of storage space.
Graphics
For visual tasks like photo and video editing, an NVIDIA or AMD dedicated graphics card with 2GB of VRAM or more is ideal. Casual gamers will want at least an NVIDIA GeForce GTX or RTX graphics card with 4 to 6GB of VRAM. Serious gamers should look for an RTX 2060 or better. Laptops with integrated Intel graphics are fine for basic needs but won’t handle graphics-intensive work.
Battery life
If you need a laptop for on-the-go use, look for one with an advertised battery life of at least 6 to 8 hours. Battery life can vary a lot based on screen brightness, power settings and how you’re using the laptop. For the best battery life, choose a model with power-efficient components like an i5 or Ryzen 5 processor.
Dell offers laptops for a wide range of needs and budgets. By focusing on key components like the processor, memory, storage, graphics card and battery, you can find a Dell laptop with performance and specs well-suited to what you need.
Dell Laptop Design Esthetics
Dell is known for their functional yet stylish laptop designs. If you’re considering a Dell laptop, you’ll appreciate their focus on thin, lightweight builds, premium materials and eye-catching esthetics.
Thin and Lightweight
Dell’s XPS and Inspiron lines feature remarkably thin chassis and lightweight builds, perfect for mobility. The XPS 13, for example, is just 0.58 inches thin and starts at 2.7 pounds. The Inspiron 14 5000 is also impressively svelte at 0.7 inches thin. These thin and lightweight designs make Dell laptops easy to carry in a bag or backpack and ideal for working on the go.
Premium Materials
Many Dell laptops utilize premium, high-quality materials that look and feel luxurious. Magnesium alloy, carbon fiber and brushed aluminum are commonly used in higher-end models like the XPS line. The XPS 13 2-in-1, for example, has a machined aluminum chassis with a soft-touch carbon fiber palm rest. Dell’s precision touchpads are also noteworthy, made of glass for a smooth gliding experience.
Visually Striking
Dell laptops are designed to turn heads with their stylish, minimalist esthetic. Narrow bezels, like those on the XPS 13, maximize the screen and give Dell laptops a sleek silhouette. Backlit keyboards, available in white or amber, provide an ambient glow. Details like the Dell logo on the lid and slim vents along the sides demonstrate Dell’s eye for design.
Overall, you can expect a Dell laptop to have a stylish yet functional physical design with high-quality, premium materials, a lightweight and compact build for portability, and striking visual details. If a laptop that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to use sounds appealing, a Dell laptop is an excellent choice.
Dell Laptop Battery Life and Portability
Dell laptops are known for their solid battery life and portability, allowing you to work or play on the go without worrying about finding an outlet.
Battery Life
On average, you can expect 6 to 12 hours of battery life from a new Dell laptop depending on the model. The XPS and Inspiron lineups in particular offer options with batteries lasting 8 hours or more. The specific battery life will depend on the size of the battery, screen resolution, processor, and graphics card. If battery life is a top priority, look for models with a high-capacity battery, 1080p or lower screen resolution, and less powerful components which draw less energy.
For the ultimate in portability, consider a 2-in-1 Dell convertible laptop with a touchscreen. These flexible 2-in-1s give you the power of a laptop with the convenience of a tablet in one device. Models like the Dell Inspiron 13 5000 and Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 can be used as a laptop, tablet, tent or stand mode for up to 8-10 hours per charge.
Lightweight and Thin
Many Dell laptops are designed to be light enough to carry with you all day. Ultra-light options like the XPS 13 weigh just 2.7 pounds and measure a mere 0.6 inches thin. The Inspiron 14 5000 comes in at around 3 pounds for the base model. If you plan to travel frequently with your laptop or are a student, a lightweight, thin model may be worth the investment.
Dell’s focus on portability, endurance and flexibility makes their laptops ideal for people often on the move. From long battery life to versatile 2-in-1 designs, you have choices tailored for your needs. And when you find an outlet, Dell’s fast charge technology can recharge your battery up to 80% in just an hour so you’re quickly on your way again. Overall, Dell offers solid, dependable and portable laptop options to suit many needs and budgets.
Dell Laptop Durability and Reliability
Dell is known for making affordable yet durable laptops, and their products are built to last. If you’re looking for a laptop that can stand up to daily use and the occasional drop or spill without breaking the bank, a Dell is a great choice.
Long-lasting and rugged
Dell laptops are designed to handle the rigors of travel and daily use. Many Dell laptop models meet military-grade durability standards, so they can withstand drops, spills, and temperature extremes. Dell also offers accidental damage coverage for many laptops to protect against unforeseen accidents.
With solid state drives (SSDs) and sturdy chassis, Dell laptops can keep running for years. It’s not uncommon for a well-cared for Dell laptop to last 5-7 years or more. Dell’s higher-end business and gaming laptops are especially durable, built for intensive, prolonged use. If you need a laptop that can handle demanding tasks for hours a day, year after year, a Dell will fit the bill.
Dependable customer support
In the unlikely event your Dell laptop does need repair, Dell is known for their responsive customer support. You can access support 24/7 via phone, chat or email. Many issues can be diagnosed and solved remotely, but if hardware repair is needed, Dell will send a technician to your location or offer mail-in service. Dell even offers accidental damage coverage for many laptop models to cover the cost of repairs from drops, spills or other accidents.
Overall, with their sturdy, long-lasting designs and dependable support, Dell laptops are a reliable choice if you want a laptop you can count on for years to come. While no laptop will last forever, with proper care and maintenance, a Dell can provide many years of dependable service. If durability and reliability are priorities in your next laptop, Dell deserves strong consideration.
Dell Laptop Customer Service and Tech Support
Dell is known for providing decent customer service and tech support for their laptops. As a Dell laptop owner, you have several options for getting help if you run into any issues.
Phone Support
Dell offers 24/7 phone support. Their support staff are knowledgeable about Dell laptops and can walk you through troubleshooting steps, help diagnose hardware or software problems, and arrange for necessary repairs. You may experience longer than average wait times, but Dell aims to resolve most issues during the initial call.
Online Chat
If you prefer to chat online, Dell has support staff available to chat live on their website. This can be a convenient option if you’re at your laptop already. The chat agents can provide similar assistance to phone support.
Self-Help Resources
Dell maintains an extensive knowledge base on their support site with how-to guides, troubleshooting articles, software and driver downloads, as well as a community forum where you can search for solutions or ask questions. These self-help resources cover common issues and can help resolve problems yourself, often faster than calling or chatting with an agent.
Onsite Support
For hardware issues that require a technician, Dell may dispatch an onsite tech to repair or replace components. Onsite support is available for laptops still under warranty. The tech will schedule an appointment, come to your location, diagnose the problem, perform necessary repairs or swap out parts to get your laptop working again.
Overall, Dell aims to provide satisfactory customer service and support for their laptops. Between phone support, online chat, a robust knowledge base and onsite technician dispatch, most issues with a Dell laptop can be resolved with minimal downtime. Their support has some room for improvement, but for a major brand, Dell does make an effort to stand by their products and help customers get back up and running.
FAQ: Answering Common Questions About Dell Laptops
So you’re considering buying a Dell laptop, but have some questions. We’ve got you covered. Here are answers to FAQs about Dell laptops.
Are Dell laptops good quality?
Dell is a reputable brand that produces budget-friendly yet well-made laptops. They’re a good choice if you want an affordable, dependable laptop for basic tasks like web browsing, streaming media, and productivity. While Dell’s higher-end laptops can handle more intensive computing needs, their more affordable models may lack advanced components for gaming or video editing. Overall though, Dell laptops offer good value and solid construction.
What are common problems with Dell laptops?
Some potential issues to be aware of with Dell laptops include:
- Overheating: Some models can run hot, especially if you’re doing processor-intensive tasks for long periods. Make sure there’s adequate ventilation and consider a cooling pad.
- Short battery life: Battery life can vary significantly between models. Check reviews to determine realistic battery expectations for the specific model you’re interested in.
- Bloatware: Dell laptops often come with preinstalled software that can slow down your system. Uninstall any programs you don’t need.
- WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity issues: Some users report problems with wireless connectivity, though updating drivers usually resolves this.
- Fan noise: The fans on some Dell laptops can be loud when the system is under load. Choose a model with efficient cooling if fan noise is a concern.
What is Dell’s warranty and support like?
Dell provides warranty and support options for their laptops that include:
- 1-year limited hardware warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship. Can be extended up to 4 years.
- Premium support: 24/7 phone support, software setup and installation, virus removal, and more. Fees apply.
- Accidental damage coverage: For drops, spills and other accidents. Optional add-on for a fee.
- Onsite service: For hardware repairs, a technician will come to you. Optional for a fee.
Dell’s standard warranty provides decent coverage, though premium options offer more comprehensive support. Customer service receives mixed reviews, so upgrades may be worth it for help with software or other issues.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Dell makes some solid, affordable laptop options that should meet the needs of most casual users and students. Are they the flashiest, most powerful laptops out there? No. But if you’re looking for a dependable, mainstream laptop for everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming media, and productivity, Dell delivers good value. Their tech support and warranty options provide some nice peace of mind too in case anything goes wrong. At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with a Dell laptop. They may not be the hippest brand, but they get the job done. The real question is, are you ready to join Team Dell? If so, go ahead and take the plunge – you have some great laptop options to choose from. Enjoy!