Dell Inspiron 15 I15-156B 15.6-Inch Notebook PC - Pacific Blue Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I wish I would have done a more comprehensive search of user feedback on the web rather than the professional reviews of this computer. Sure it's a good bargain, it seems fast and works ok but the piece that I missed was the overwhelming number of users who reported sticking keys. Guess what 18 days of using my computer keys began to not work. I was so upset, called Dell and they wanted me to replace the parts. They were happy to "walk me through" the process.....WHAT?! I have an 18 day old non working computer and Dell wants me to do the repairs??? I balked and then they agreed that since it was within 30 days they would send a tech out. Oh, the techs don't work evenings or weekends, and I don't have a flexible schedule.....so we set up an appointment at lunch, and the tech doesn't show, only to call me to tell me he is on his way at the point I have to be back at work.
It gets better. I am livid at this point, what a waste of money. I froze the charge since it was all so new. I call back Dell again and tell them that I froze the charge and want to send the computer back. Turns out I only had 21 days from PURCHACE to send it back. Doesn't matter I've only had the computer in my possession for 18 days; it was too late since I was over the 21 days. I could cry. On a limited budget I get a computer with keys that don't work and service techs that don't show up. By the way, the last Dell rep threatened to screw my credit up if I didn't pay.....got to love that....
Buyers beware. It's all so wrong on a number of levels.


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Dell Inspiron i1764-6075OBK 1764 17.3-Inch Laptop (Obsidian Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)UPDATE:::: 3+ Weeks since I got this.... More bulky softwares(even ones that run during start up) / games / videos have gone in, but the performance is absolutely the same. Audio capabilities of this laptop is simply stunning.... I have a HDTV and a Sony Home theater system. When I connect this laptop to the TV and listen to MP3 songs, the audio output is just amazing.... Made me feel like dancing to the rhythm.... I am comparing this with a 2 year old Gateway laptop that I own (does not have a HDMI connectivity, so use VGA Cables instead... So I understand that I'm not comparing apples with apples :-), but still.... ). I don't use this laptop primarily for gaming... But I did try playing Tales of the Monkey Island in complete high settings, and the video and audio were awesome. Connect it to your HDTV and enhance the experience.....
I went and got this from a BestBuy store near my place.... I actually got to compare it with the core i3 laptops.... I restarted all the systems and then tried opening the programs at the same time and clocked them.... I5 has a way more superior load time as compared to the i3 and Core 2 duo systems. Note that BB has the same softwares installed on all of its laptops (as long as the OS is the same).
I loved the large screen... My requirement was a laptop to be a desktop replacement that would mostly be moved just within my home... So the weight of this product didn't bother me much. If your main requirement is mobility, DO NOT go for this laptop... It can be quite heavy....
After hearing loads of negative reviews about Win 7, I didn't expect too much out of it... However, I am beginning to like it a lot... It has some cool features that I find real user friendly.... Specially the shortcut tray on the top of your screen.... Its so customizable and handy... U don't have to minimize your open windows to access it... just take the pointer to the top portion of the screen and hold for a second or two, and it shows up... No more clumsy icons on the desktop.....
Aero theme on Windows 7 looks pretty stunning too.... Note that this takes a lot of memory though... The configuration on this system has no problems handling it.... I have loaded my system with loads of softwares and still the boot time is amazingly fast... Shutdown is even better....
Battery life is pretty good for a laptop with such huge screen size....
One last thing is this: Function keys are by default set to be used with the "Fn" key only.... For example pressing the F1 key on your keyboard would open up the chose monitor option and not help on a particular software..... In order to do that you will have to press the "Fn" + the F1 key... I felt this to be an annoyance, as I use Alt + F4 to close windows. This wouldn't work as F4 is assigned as a Mute button and the laptop mutes the sound instead....
However, I recently realized that this functionality could be changed by going into the BIOS. Just meddle around the various tabs and you should be able to find that option.... Once you change that to default to Function keys and not Multimedia keys.... everything would be perfect (at least it was for me :) )
Good luck with any laptop that you decide to buy....

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Dell Inspiron 17: Big Screen PortabilityStay connected wherever you roam with the Dell Inspiron 1764 laptop in black, which features a bright, vivid 17.3-inch LCD screen and long-lasting 6-cell battery. Weighing just under 7 pounds, it's a great choice for both work and play with the screen's high-definition resolution and included DVD drive (which can also burn dual-layer DVD and CD media). And with the included HDMI port, you can connect your laptop to a compatible HDTV or external monitor for uncompressed high-def video and audio.
Pre-installed with the Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium operating system (64-bit version), you'll be able to easily create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. Windows 7 is the easiest, fastest, and most engaging version of Windows yet. Better ways to find and manage files, like Jump Lists and improved taskbar previews, help you speed through everyday tasks. Windows 7 is designed for faster and more reliable performance, so your PC just works the way you want it to.

Key Features
17.3-inch TrueLife widescreen display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels (native 720p for high-definition viewing). It also provides TrueLife high-gloss/anti-reflective technology, which features a sharp contrast finish that's well suited to immersive 3D games and watching videos.
2.26 GHz Intel Core i5-430M dual-core processor for smart performance with a speed boost (2.53 GHz with Turbo Boost Technology; 3 MB L3 cache). Intel's Turbo Boost technology maximizes speed for demanding applications, dynamically accelerating performance to match your workload--providing more performance when you need it the most. It also comes equipped with Intel HD Graphics--an advanced video engine that delivers smooth, high-quality HD video playback, and advanced 3D capabilities, providing an ideal graphics solution for everyday computing.
500 GB SATA hard drive (5400 RPM)
4 GB of installed DDR3 RAM (1066 MHz
Integrated Intel HD graphics
8x multi-format DVD drive supports reading/writing of CD-R/RW, DVD±R, DVD±RW, DVD±R DL, and DVD-RAM
1.3-megapixel webcam with facial recognition software automatically secures your computer when you're away. This software adapts to your changing looks so you can expect faster login times. Also, there's no need to remember numerous passwords for password-protected Web sites.
Dell Video Chat helps you stay in touch with family and friends using video chat, record and send video email, or even make PC-to-PC phone calls around the world. The application also supports four-way calling, making virtual family reunions a reality.
Built-in stereo speakers with standard headphone and microphone jacks
Wireless-N Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n) for ultra-fast connectivity to home and business networks.
Fast Ethernet (10/100)
7-in-1 memory card reader compatible with Secure Digital (SD), Hi-Capacity Secure Digital (SDHC), Hi-Density Secure Digital (SDHD), Multi Media Card (MMC), Memory Stick (MS), Memory Stick PRO (MS Pro), and xD Picture Card (xD) media
Three USB 2.0 ports
HDMI high-definition audio/video output allows a single cable to transmit uncompressed high-definition video and surround sound-quality audio to your digital TV or compatible external monitor.
VGA video output
Dell Dock: Enjoy a cleaner desktop with this application organizer. Installed software applications on your PC are automatically sorted into user-friendly categories placing your most frequently used programs front and center.
Dell Remote Access enables you to easily access photos, music, movies and more on your home system using another Internet-connected computer. No more waiting until you get home to get the files you need.
Dell DataSafe Online optional online backup service (additional charges applicable) offers data protection by enabling you to back up data to a safe, remote storage site using a broadband connection. Dell DataSafe Online is designed to be easy, flexible and secure. After setup, it will automatically back up data and help protect against software, hardware and catastrophic failure.
Windows 7 Home Premium makes it easy to create a home network and share all of your favorite photos, videos, and music. And you can watch shows for free when and where you want with Internet TV on Windows Media Center. Get the best entertainment experience with Windows 7 Home Premium.
Get more features with Windows Anytime Upgrade. It's the best way to add features to Windows 7, takes as few as ten minutes, requires no software or downloads, and you'll keep your existing programs, files, and settings. Windows will walk you through the simple upgrade process.
Pre-loaded software includes Microsoft Works SE 9.0 for word processing and spreadsheet work. Enjoy a 60-day trial version of Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007.
6-cell battery
Dimensions: 16.54 x 10.87 x 1.42 inches (WxDxH)
Weight: 6.35 pounds

What's in the Box This package includes the Dell Inspiron 17 (i1764-6075OBK), rechargeable battery, AC adapter, and printed documentation. It's backed by a 1-year limited warranty with mail-in service (after remote diagnosis) and 24/7 phone support.
The centrally located, easy-to-use Dell Support Center application offers provides personalized support resources. Conveniently located on your PC's desktop with quick links to service, support and system resources. You'll be able to keep your system up-to-date and running efficiently through automated fixes for common configuration issues.

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Dell Inspiron Mini iM1012-571OBK 10.1-Inch Netbook (Obsidian Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Dell's Mini 1012 is simply a breath of fresh air in an ever-cramping netbook market. Dell continues moving forward with it's innovative features making this netbook the most-comfortable, most-useful netbook around. Its media handling features have a bit to be desired, but it makes out okay in that department too.===== It's Comfortable =====
This thing is a dream to use. Most netbooks are unusable to me. What stings me most with netbooks is the keyboard. Most netbooks' have either tiny keyboards, or their keyboards just aren't typing-friendly. I'm used to the low-profile, "chiclet-style" scissor-switch keyboards that are (or at least used to be) most common in older laptops, and in fact I love them. I'm referring to the type of keys that are flat and flush with the palm rest, and have a little flange or lip on the edges (where the space is between the keys).
To see exactly what I mean, check out the close ups photos of another Dell Mini (on the right side of this page: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00361G10S?tag=a52-20&ie=UTF8#productDescription). Such a design makes them spill-resistant, but also makes typing a breeze, as they won't inflict wrist strain due to tall keys or keys that require more force to press. So, this thing is certainly a dream to use. ===== It's Innovative =====
The touch pad is small, yet clever, allowing you to press down on the bottom-left/bottom-right corners of the pad to left-click/right-click (respectively), rather than wasting space by implementing separate buttons. This keeps the overall size of the netbook more compact than other brands. The Mini 1012 was smudge free, thanks to their use of an oil-resistant softly-textured palm-rest. The touch pad is also very touchable, as its texture and finish is matte, rather than glossy, making it much more conducive to swiping your fingers across than most of the other netbooks I laid fingers on.
Most brands of netbooks had touch pads that were glossy, making your skin shear and resist the dragging of your finger during swipe gestures (moving the mouse, scrolling, drag+drop, etc). I find that feeling to be as annoying as fingernails on a chalkboard! The other netbooks were also noticeably covered in oily smudges and finger grease, both inside the track pad and also on the wrist rest. Instant turn off for me on anything but the Dell! ===== It's Brilliant =====
The display is crisp and bright, and it isn't too shabby outside either, though I recommend using full brightness when being used outdoors. My only complaint about the screen is its native resolution is a bit low for my tastes, which I hope isn't just a personal preference. I'd rather see more on the screen than to see things big and close up. However, this is par for netbooks anyway. You should look into this Sony (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001PII4HW?tag=a52-20&ie=UTF8) if you absolutely must have a higher definition display while maintaining the small form factor of a netbook.===== It's More than Capable =====
This Dell Mini 1012 does more than just writing and surfing the Web (tip: keep your browser tabs to a minimum and not install too many Firefox extensions). Media plays decently as well, including Web videos, Flash sites and Flash games. Just don't run several other programs at once, and you should be perfectly fine. The 3-in-1 memory card reader is an added bonus, great for storing photos while on vacation--a life-saver when traveling. The webcam quality is sub-par compared to most full-sized notebooks, but still a decent quality for netbook webcams I suppose.
In the past, Dell has been known for using Windows XP on their netbooks, but those days are over. With Windows 7 being much more ideal, as the OS is optimized for the netbook, this latest generation Dell Mini outperforms its XP-based predecessors in several areas, including usability, responsiveness, and of course look and feel. ===== It's Media Friendly =====
The 9:16 ratio widescreen 10.1" display is great for watching widescreen movies on the go, with one very important exception: you must have an external DVD (or Blu-Ray) drive. I recommend this Samsung (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002C1BBU8?tag=a52-20&ie=UTF8) which sports a sexy look, on par with the Dell 's own appeal, without sacrificing functionality. Video playback is generally smooth and very few hiccups in playback have been experienced. ===== Processor and Battery =====
The Dell Mini 1012 features the Intel Atom N450, a 64-bit single-core processor supporting 2GB max of DDR2-667 RAM. It does support Hyper Threading though, meaning minor multitasking is possible (you probably shouldn't do more than two things at once). Try not to run more than two apps simultaneously for best performance and battery life. Intel Speedstep Technology is also built in, helping you save battery life. I averaged about 8-9 hours using the 56WHr 6 cell battery. This is definitely a gigantic leap in battery life over most netbooks we've tested to date.===== Praise =====
* Keyboard design - 92% full-size!
* Touch pad design - genius usability features
* Wrist rest - comfortable, remains clean & streak-free
* 3 USB ports (2-left/1-right) - handy for using a USB mouse
* 9:16 ratio display - great for movies (see above for DVD solution)
* Wireless N support for faster and farther-reaching WiFi reception
* Windows 7 - optimized for netbook performance===== Dissapointments =====
* 1024x600 resolution - would have preferred at least 1280x720
* 5400 RPM hard drive - would have liked a faster Solid State Disk (even if smaller)===== Bottom Line =====
All in all, my list of disappointments with Dell's Mini series continues to shrink with each new model, keeping Dell well-positioned atop my list of favorite netbooks. I think you'll soon find it on your favorites list as well.
I certainly hope you've found this review to be helpful! :)

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The Inspiron Mini 10 is an ultra-portable netbook offering brilliant industrial design, a six-cell battery with seriously long life, and an efficient Intel Atom processor. It's packed with features such as a 10.1-inch widescreen display, a Wireless-N card, 3-in-1 media card reader, a 250GB hard disk, and a gigabyte of memory.


Your new best friend.

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Dell Latitude D420 12" Laptop Core Duo 1.2Ghz 1GB RAM Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have had this D420 for 2 years and it has never failed me no matter what. I take it every day to college. And to get to my school, I commute in the crowded NY subway for 1 hour one-way! I also take it when I travel. So far it has been in London (UK), Moscow (Russia), and twice in Kiev (Ukraine).
This computer is very thin and weights only 3 lb. It has the magnesium-alloy frame and high-quality plastic outer shell. It is really rugged and rigid - no flex whatsoever. It has withstood the beating very well - there are practically no marks or scratches after 2 years.
My laptop came with Core Solo U1300 1.06GHz processor, 1.5GB of RAM, and Windows XP Pro. The system is very stable - never had any problems with it. I installed AVG antivirus, Windows Defender, and Win Patrol HIPS. With all this running, I am able to use MS Word 2007, MS Excel 2007, Firefox (several tabs open), and Media Player at the same time with relative ease. I usually surf Internet, watch YouTube or Hulu, and do light photo editing with XNView. With an external DVD drive, I watch movies and rip CDs. Also, I work with Word, PowerPoint, and Excel every day. I even do some occasional gaming (WarCraft 3 runs smoothly on medium/low settings!) But do not expect this laptop to be lightning-fast. And do not try to play Crysis! This computer takes its time at the start-up (nothing too big though) and when opening multiple apps.
The computer is very power-efficient. The battery lasts for several hours and easily gets me through my day in college. The wireless card works just fine. I use it to connect to my campus network. At my home, I use wired DSL modem via the network card - no problems here either. When I went to Russia and Ukraine, I used the built-in dial-up modem - worked like charm. There is a slot for a Cellular HSDPA modem - never used it. I like the SD Card slot - use it a lot. The speaker is really tiny, but I use external speakers or headphones for music. The keyboard is really comfortable. I have had something like a dozen laptops, and I think that d420 has one of the best keyboards I have seen so far. The touchpad is good too, though I usually use a wireless mouse.
To extend connectivity and avoid plugging and unplugging numerous cords every day, I bought a Dell Media Base with built-in DVDRW drive. Now my DSL modem, speakers, printer, and power cord are constantly connected to the Base and the d420 sits on top of it. This also allowed me to move all the cords to the back, so they do not get in the way.
Long story short: I am really happy with it - highly recommended. You can also find very good reviews of this laptop on notebookreview and notebookcheck.

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The Dell Latitude D420 is a 12.1in ultra-portable notebook designed to succeed both the Latitude X1 and the Latitude D410. In an effort to simplify its ultra mobile product line Dell has merged several traits from each of these two retired models to create the new D420. Specifically the D420 adopts the X1's wide-aspect screen and ultra-low voltage processor while maintaining the D410's aesthetic appeal and full-sized keyboard. In addition the D420 continues Dell's trend of not including an internal optical drive although external options are once again available.

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