Hardware Reviews

The Dell Latitude 3520

Gaming with The Dell Latitude 3520

The Dell Latitude 3520 is a popular choice among business users and professionals due to its reliability, performance, and security features. We have written review of the Dell Latitude 3520 15-inch Intel Core i5 based on common aspects to consider.  Gaming with The Dell Latitude 3520 provides surprisingly good results.

This model is no longer available however similar products to the Dell Latitude 3540 are similar and have higher specifications meaning they could also be used as entry-level gaming Laptops. Take a look at these options below:

What is also interesting about this model is that it has worked exceptionally well for my youngest son Leo or video games. It is his most used gaming system. He has a choice between the PlayStation 5, and the Nintendo switch. The Dell Latitude 3250 is extremely well equipped to run Roblox and Steam Games alike. Let’s take a brief look at the system features below.

Features and Benefits

1. **Performance**:  The performance all round is very fast the laptop is equipped with Intel Core i5 processors, the Latitude 3520 delivers solid performance for everyday computing tasks. The Core i5 processors provide sufficient power for office productivity, multitasking, and light content creation.

2. **Design and Build Quality**: The Latitude 3520 features a sturdy and professional design typical of Dell’s Latitude series. Its build quality is robust, making it suitable for frequent travel and daily use in various work environments.

3. **Display**: The 15-inch display offers ample screen real estate for multitasking and productivity. However, some users may find the resolution and colour accuracy to be adequate but not exceptional, especially if they require high-resolution displays for graphics-intensive tasks.

4. **Portability**: While the Latitude 3520 is not the lightest laptop in its class, it strikes a good balance between portability and performance. It’s designed to be portable enough for business users who need to work on-the-go without sacrificing durability or battery life.

5. **Connectivity**: The Latitude 3520 comes with a variety of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet, and a headphone jack, providing users with flexibility and compatibility with various peripherals and accessories.

6. **Security Features**: Dell’s Latitude series is known for its robust security features, including TPM (Trusted Platform Module) for hardware-based encryption, optional fingerprint readers, and Dell’s comprehensive security software suite for data protection and threat prevention.

7. **Battery Life**: Battery life is typically decent for a business-oriented laptop, providing enough power to last through a full workday under moderate usage scenarios. However, actual battery life may vary based on usage patterns and configuration options.

8. **Keyboard and Touchpad**: The Latitude 3520 features a comfortable keyboard with good key travel and spacing, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. The touchpad is responsive and supports multi-touch gestures, enhancing overall usability.

9. **Upgradeability and Maintenance**: Dell Latitude laptops are known for their ease of maintenance and upgradeability. Users can easily access internal components such as RAM and storage for upgrades or replacements, which can help extend the lifespan of the device.

We did add another 8GB of RAM to our unit to give it extra graphics capability. We used Crucial RAM which comes highly recommended. 

Game Systems

This robust 15 inch Laptop handles  Roblox and Steam games work extremely well as my son has been playing with it for over two years now and it performs daily. 

In summary, the Dell Latitude 3520 15-inch Intel Core i5 offers a reliable, secure, and performance-driven computing experience tailored for business users and professionals. While it may not have the most cutting-edge features or design elements, its solid build quality, respectable performance, and comprehensive security features make it a compelling choice for those seeking a dependable workhorse laptop. Gaming with The Dell Latitude 3520 is something that you should definitely consider if you are just starting out.

If you are interested in other Laptops we’ve tested click here. Keep on the lookout for more helpful and insightful gaming posts from Jumpstar Gaming. We have more updates coming soon!

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Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Entry Level Gaming Laptop

Choosing a gaming laptop for your kids is not easy especially if you are on a limited budget. 

My two young sons were really interested in all kinds of computer games from an early age. This is the case with most children who have access to a smartphone these days.

Our journey with gaming essentially started with the kids playing on our phones and then purchasing the Nintendo Switch which is a fantastic gaming unit. However soon the allure of PC-based computer games became more attractive to them. 

When my oldest was 10 we decided to get him a laptop that he would be able to used for several years for both school work and playing computer games. 

This is where our journey started on finding out exactly what kind of laptop kids will be able to play games on. 

I have quite a technical background with hardware and software related to tech business so I knew a few things about where to start. 

After a lot of research and talking to technical salespeople in-store we decided on the Dell Inspiron 15 3000.

Performance and Productivity: Gaming Capabilities

At the heart of the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 lies the AMD Ryzen 5 processor, a capable chip designed to handle everyday computing tasks with ease. However, its prowess extends beyond productivity to cater to the gaming community. With the inclusion of integrated AMD Radeon graphics, this laptop transforms into a very good entry-level gaming machine.

For casual gamers exploring platforms like Steam and indulging in titles like Roblox, the Inspiron 15 3000 offers a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience. While it may not rival high-end gaming rigs, its graphics performance is more than adequate for playing popular titles at moderate settings. Whether you’re battling foes in online multiplayer games or embarking on epic adventures in single-player campaigns, the Inspiron 15 3000 keeps up admirably, delivering immersive gameplay without compromising on affordability.

With its blend of performance, affordability, and gaming capabilities, the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 series emerges as a versatile companion for users seeking a budget-friendly laptop that excels across various domains. From productivity to entertainment and gaming, it proves to be a well-rounded option that punches above its weight class, making it a compelling choice for a wide range of users.

RAM: 

The unit that we purchased came with 8GB of Ram we did extend the Ram on our unit using a 16 GB Crucial Ram Card. This has made a substantial difference to the how the pc reacts to games with high graphics requirements. 

GPU: 

In the realm of budget-friendly laptops, Dell has been a longstanding contender, consistently delivering reliable machines that cater to various user needs. The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 series, powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 chip, is no exception. Packed with features that strike a balance between performance and affordability, this laptop aims to be the go-to choice for users seeking a versatile computing companion without breaking the bank.

Design and Build Quality

The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 sports a sleek and modern design that belies its affordable price tag. The laptop’s chassis is constructed from durable materials that exude sturdiness while maintaining a relatively lightweight profile, making it ideal for users on the move. The matte finish helps repel fingerprints and smudges, keeping the laptop looking clean and professional at all times.

Display and Multimedia

Featuring a vibrant 15.6-inch LED-backlit display, the Inspiron 15 3000 delivers crisp visuals and vivid colours that make multimedia consumption a delight. Whether you’re streaming your favourite movies, browsing photos, or working on creative projects, the display offers ample brightness and clarity for an immersive viewing experience. The inclusion of AMD Radeon graphics further enhances the visual fidelity, allowing for smooth playback and light gaming.

Performance and Productivity

At the heart of the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 lies the AMD Ryzen 5 processor, a capable chip designed to handle everyday computing tasks with ease. Whether you’re multitasking between applications, editing documents, or surfing the web, the Ryzen 5 chip delivers responsive performance that keeps up with your workflow demands. With options for up to 8GB of RAM and speedy SSD storage, users can expect snappy responsiveness and quick boot times for improved productivity.

Connectivity and Expansion

Equipped with a comprehensive selection of ports and connectivity options, the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 ensures compatibility with a wide range of peripherals and accessories. From USB Type-A and Type-C ports to HDMI and SD card slots, users can connect external devices and expand their workspace as needed. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth connectivity further enhances the laptop’s versatility, enabling seamless wireless communication and networking.

Battery Life and Portability

One of the key considerations for any laptop is its battery life, and the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 doesn’t disappoint. With a robust battery that offers all-day longevity on a single charge, users can stay productive and entertained without constantly searching for power outlets. The laptop’s portable form factor and slim profile make it easy to carry around, whether you’re commuting to work, attending classes, or working from your favourite coffee shop.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 series with its AMD Ryzen 5 chip stands as a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking a reliable and feature-packed laptop. With its blend of performance, affordability, and versatility, it excels as a daily driver for productivity, entertainment, and everything in between. Whether you’re a student, professional, or casual user, the Inspiron 15 3000 delivers a solid computing experience that exceeds expectations without breaking the bank.

For those in search of a capable and budget-friendly laptop that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is undoubtedly worth considering.

At the time of writing this article the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is still available for purchase but  is EOL so end of life. Very similar models to this are being manufactured and can be found on the Dell Website and Purchased on Amazon.

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