Dell Vostro 3520 Laptop Review: 120Hz Display & Intel Core i5-1235U | Tech Blog
Dell Vostro 3520 Laptop Review
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Dell Vostro 3520 laptop is a compelling option for budget-conscious users seeking a blend of performance and portability. With its 15.6-inch FHD WVA 120Hz display, Intel Core i5-1235U processor, and Intel Iris Xe Graphics, the Vostro 3520 aims to deliver a smooth user experience for everyday tasks and light gaming. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, pros and cons, and ultimately determine if it lives up to the expectations.
Features
The Dell Vostro 3520 boasts a range of features designed to enhance productivity and entertainment:
- 15.6-inch FHD WVA 120Hz Display: The Vostro 3520’s 120Hz display delivers a smoother visual experience compared to traditional 60Hz displays. It’s ideal for browsing the web, watching videos, and even light gaming, offering a responsive and immersive viewing experience.
- Intel Core i5-1235U Processor: Powered by the latest 12th generation Intel Core i5-1235U processor, the Vostro 3520 delivers efficient performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing.
- 4GB RAM: While the 4GB RAM configuration may be sufficient for basic tasks, users who intend to multitask or run resource-intensive applications might find it limiting. Upgrading the RAM could significantly enhance the overall performance.
- 256GB SSD: The 256GB SSD provides ample storage for operating systems, applications, and essential files. The fast boot times and quick data access offered by the SSD contribute to a responsive user experience.
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics: The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics enables smooth visuals for light gaming and multimedia content. While it’s not designed for demanding games, it can handle casual gaming and video editing tasks with ease.
Performance
In our performance tests, the Dell Vostro 3520 delivered a solid experience for everyday tasks. The Intel Core i5-1235U processor handled web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing without any noticeable lag. The 120Hz display provided a smooth visual experience, making browsing and multitasking more enjoyable. The SSD ensured fast boot times and quick application loading, contributing to a responsive user experience.
However, the 4GB RAM configuration could be a bottleneck for users who intend to multitask or run resource-intensive applications. We observed some slowdown when multiple applications were running concurrently. Upgrading the RAM to 8GB or 16GB would significantly improve the overall performance and allow for smoother multitasking.
In terms of gaming, the Intel Iris Xe Graphics delivered playable frame rates for casual games at lower settings. However, demanding games might require lower settings or might not run smoothly. For casual gamers, the Vostro 3520 offers an acceptable gaming experience, but dedicated gamers might be better served by a laptop with a dedicated graphics card.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Smooth 120Hz display for a better visual experience.
- Efficient Intel Core i5-1235U processor for everyday tasks.
- Fast SSD for quick boot times and data access.
- Affordable price point for a budget-friendly option.
Cons:
- Limited 4GB RAM may hinder performance for multitasking.
- Integrated graphics may not be sufficient for demanding games.
Final Verdict
The Dell Vostro 3520 laptop is a solid option for users seeking a budget-friendly laptop with a smooth display and decent performance for everyday tasks. Its 120Hz display, Intel Core i5-1235U processor, and fast SSD deliver a responsive and enjoyable user experience. However, the limited RAM configuration might be a drawback for users who intend to multitask or run resource-intensive applications. If you’re looking for a laptop for casual gaming, the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics will suffice, but dedicated gamers should look elsewhere. Overall, the Dell Vostro 3520 is a good value for money, offering a balance of features and performance at an affordable price.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Display | 15.6″ FHD WVA 120Hz |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-1235U |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 256GB SSD |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| Keyboard | English |
| Operating System | FreeDOS |
