Introduction

The Dell Vostro 3520 (#3520/ARB) arrived on my desk promising a blend of professional performance and everyday usability. With its 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1255U processor, ample RAM, and a speedy SSD, it certainly had high expectations to meet. Over the past few weeks, I’ve put this machine through its paces, tackling everything from demanding software projects to casual gaming and video streaming. This review details my experience, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of this intriguing laptop.

Features

The Vostro 3520 boasts a compelling set of features. The 15.6-inch FHD 120Hz display is a real standout, offering crisp visuals and incredibly smooth scrolling. The 16GB of DDR4 RAM ensures smooth multitasking, while the 512GB SSD provides lightning-fast boot times and application loading speeds. The inclusion of a 10-core Intel Core i7-1255U processor promises robust processing power for demanding tasks. Connectivity is also well-covered, with multiple USB ports, an HDMI port, and Ethernet.

The keyboard is comfortable for extended typing sessions, and the trackpad is responsive and accurate. The build quality feels solid, although the chassis does exhibit some flex under pressure.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Vostro 3520 delivers on its promises. The Intel Core i7-1255U handled multitasking effortlessly, allowing me to switch between multiple applications without any noticeable lag. Video editing and other demanding tasks were completed with impressive speed. The high refresh rate display adds a noticeable boost to the overall user experience, making everything feel smoother and more responsive.

Gaming performance, while not its primary strength, was surprisingly decent for integrated graphics. I managed to play some less demanding titles at acceptable frame rates. However, serious gaming would likely necessitate an external graphics card. Battery life was adequate for a workday, generally lasting around 6-7 hours on a single charge with moderate usage.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Powerful 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1255U processor
• 16GB RAM for smooth multitasking
• Fast 512GB SSD
• Beautiful 15.6-inch FHD 120Hz display
• Good connectivity options
• Comfortable keyboard and responsive trackpad

Cons:

• Chassis flex under pressure
• Integrated graphics limit gaming performance
• Battery life could be better for heavy users

Final Verdict

The Dell Vostro 3520 (#3520/ARB) is a solid all-rounder that offers excellent performance for its price point. The combination of a powerful processor, ample RAM, and a fast SSD makes it ideal for professionals and students alike. The 120Hz display is a welcome addition that elevates the overall user experience. While some minor compromises exist in build quality and battery life, these are easily outweighed by its strong performance and feature set. I would highly recommend the Dell Vostro 3520 to anyone looking for a reliable and capable laptop for everyday use and demanding tasks.