Dell Inspiron 15 3520 Laptop Review: Affordable Workhorse with Ubuntu

Dell Inspiron 15 3520 Laptop Review

Looking for a reliable and affordable laptop that can handle everyday tasks and light productivity? The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 might be a good option for you. This 15.6-inch laptop packs an Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, making it a capable machine for web browsing, document editing, and casual gaming. But with a price tag that’s very competitive, does it deliver on performance and usability? Let’s find out.

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 stands out as a budget-friendly laptop option designed for everyday tasks. While it lacks the high-end specs of its more expensive counterparts, it still offers a decent performance and a comfortable user experience. Running on Ubuntu Linux, it caters to users who prefer a more customizable and open-source environment.

Features

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 boasts several features that contribute to its everyday usability:

  • 15.6″ FHD Anti-Glare Display: The display delivers sharp visuals, making it suitable for watching movies, browsing the web, and working on documents. The anti-glare coating helps reduce eye strain, making it comfortable for prolonged use.
  • Intel Core i3-1215U Processor: This efficient processor ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks, allowing you to multitask seamlessly.
  • 8GB RAM: The ample RAM ensures smooth multitasking and prevents lagging, allowing you to open multiple tabs and programs without experiencing slowdowns.
  • 256GB SSD: The SSD provides faster boot times and application loading compared to traditional HDDs, enhancing the overall user experience.
  • Intel UHD Graphics: The integrated graphics handle everyday tasks and light gaming well, making it suitable for casual gaming sessions.
  • ENG-ARB Keyboard: The keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience with good key travel and responsiveness.
  • Ubuntu Operating System: The laptop comes pre-installed with Ubuntu Linux, offering a user-friendly and customizable desktop experience.

Performance

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 delivers a solid performance for everyday tasks. It handles web browsing, document editing, and light multitasking smoothly. However, don’t expect high-end gaming performance. While you can play casual games on lower settings, demanding games might struggle. For users seeking more power, you might consider upgrading to a model with a more powerful processor and dedicated graphics.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Affordable price point
  • Solid performance for everyday tasks
  • Comfortable keyboard
  • Lightweight and portable design
  • Runs on Ubuntu Linux, offering a customizable and open-source environment

Cons:

  • Not suitable for demanding tasks or high-end gaming
  • Limited storage space (256GB SSD)
  • Average battery life
  • Build quality feels slightly plasticy

Final Verdict

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is a great option for users looking for an affordable and reliable laptop for everyday tasks. It’s a well-rounded machine that offers a solid performance, a comfortable keyboard, and a good display. While it may not be the most powerful laptop on the market, it excels in its affordability and everyday usability. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly laptop that can handle your daily tasks, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is worth considering.

Specifications

Feature Specification
Display 15.6″ FHD (1920 x 1080) Anti-Glare Narrow Border Display
Processor Intel Core i3-1215U
RAM 8GB DDR4
Storage 256GB SSD
Graphics Intel UHD Graphics
Operating System Ubuntu
Keyboard ENG-ARB Keyboard
Color Carbon Black