The Dell Inspiron 3511 is a budget-friendly laptop that offers a good balance of performance, features, and battery life. It is powered by an 11th-generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. But is it really worth the hype? Let’s check out this comprehensive review!
Specifications
- Intel Core i5 Processor
- 15.6 in. Screen Size
- Maximum Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD
- Windows 11 Home
- Intel UHD Graphics
Processing Power
The laptop features the latest 11th-generation processors, which are more than capable of handling most entry-level tasks. There is minimal interruption in light to mid-level multitasking.
Combined with 8 GB of RAM, you can indulge in advanced photo and video editing or mid-range gaming. Even though there is no dedicated GPU, the Intel UHD Graphics offers decent performance levels within a pocket-friendly price range.
The processor speed ranges up to 4.2 GHz. Even with dozens of tabs open in the background, editing, saving, or retrieving a file takes negligible time. All in all, the Inspiron 15 is an amazing Dell laptop for entry- to mid-level users.
Setting up the device
The Dell Inspiron series is pretty easy to set up. You don’t have to be tech-savvy to get your laptop up and running. Simply enter your Microsoft account, and you’ll be connected to all of your precious files and data.
After successfully logging in to your Microsoft account, you’ll see the option of restoring data from your previous device or setting up the Inspiron 15 as a brand new device. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can select the option that suits you best.
Next, you’ll see the tab “Privacy Settings”. The most important things are “Location” and “Find My Device”. Generally, it’s recommended to keep the location settings off for safety purposes, but keep in mind that the “Find My Device” feature only works when the device has access to your real-time location.
For further customising your experience, enter what you’ll be using your Dell laptop for. For instance, students may click on “School” and professionals may select “Business”. If you want, you can also select multiple options. Depending on your input, the device will tailor the functionality to best fit your overall requirements.
Internet Speed Test
Internet speed tests help you check how fast Ethernet is working on your device. Simply go to https://www.speedtest.net/ and click on “Go” to perform a speed test on your laptop or PC.
When tested, I had a Spectrum internet connection that had a maximum speed of 400 Mbps. Being one of the best Dell laptops, the Inspiron 15 shows a speed of up to 337 Mbps. This makes it the ideal device for individuals who need to stay online at all times.
The web browsing and downloading speeds are lightning fast. I can open anything in an instance. There is no unnecessary wait, and the loading time is also exceptional.
Display Quality
The Inspiron 3511 has a 15.6-inch Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The display is not the brightest or most vibrant on the market, but it is still good enough for everyday use.
The touchscreen has impressive speed. When we tested the laptop, every programme opened within seconds. Nothing takes too long, and the touch is precise. Every command is followed accurately.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The keyboard of this laptop is extremely comfortable. Once you get the hang of it, you can easily reach your peak typing speed in no time. The Trackpad also has a huge size, enough for you to work without feeling restricted.
When you open the laptop, the keyboard gets slightly tilted due to the Echo-lift Hinge Technology. There are dual benefits to this feature. First, it reduces direct glare coming from the screen, so your eyes feel less stressed.
Second, the typing angle is optimal when the keyboard is slightly tilted. If you are someone who is always typing or crunching numbers, the Inspiron 15 is an ideal match for you!
Ports and Connectivity
The Dell Inspiron 15 packs a punch when it comes to ports and connectivity. There is a power adapter port, an HDMI port, and two USB-3 ports on the left side of the laptop. On the right side, there is an SD-card reader and a USB-2 port.
When you plug in the charger, the little light on the side will start blinking to show that the device is connected to power. This makes it easier for you to check if the charger is properly connected or not, even when the screen is turned off.
Unlike the USB, the SD card doesn’t stick outside. If you want to expand the memory of your device, the SD card will simply go into the port, keeping your data safe from external wear and tear. It also helps keep your SD card protected from data hacks and thefts.
Rest assured, you won’t need any extra connectors or adapters. Almost every kind of interface and connectivity requirement is addressed in the Inspiron 15’s revolutionary design.
Customer Reviews
To gain insights about a device, customer reviews are the most realistic way. On the Laptop Outlet page, this particular device has received 5 stars for value for money, performance, size and weight, and design, and 4 stars for battery life.Overall, the testimonials are mostly positive and encouraging. Other than the lack of USB-3 ports, there is nothing we would like to change about this Dell laptop.
Battery Life
The Inspiron 15 3511 features a lithium-ion battery with a runtime of 8 hours (30 minutes). The laptop gets recharged faster and has a higher power density for longer battery life in a lighter package. However, if you are streaming content at maximum brightness, the power will run out in 6 hours.
Upgradability
The Inspiron 15 (3511) is very easy to upgrade. With just a few tweaks here and there, you can upgrade multiple components of your laptop, like the HDD, SDD, and Wi-Fi capacity.
Simply power off the laptop and remove any static. Open the screws attached at the back of the laptop and push into the little space between the lid and the keyboard. If this is the first time you are opening a laptop, you may face a little resistance.
When you remove the battery, you’ll see different ports. You can replace the existing DDR4 memory or add another one. You can also do the same for replacing or upgrading the SSD storage.
In other words, if you can handle a little technicality, a simple YouTube DIY video is enough to upgrade your Inspiron 15.
Pricing
Compared to other Dell laptops, the Inspiron 15 is very reasonable. Considering the given specs, the device is surely worth every penny spent on it.
For anyone who wants to shop more and spend less, refurbished laptops are a great way! Laptop Outlet offers A-category refurbs of Inspiron 15, enabling you to a “like new” laptop at a fraction of the cost.
And the best part? For your peace of mind, the retailer also offers a 6-month warranty.
Pros
- Good performance
- Long battery life
- Backlit keyboard
- Large touchpad
- A decent selection of ports and connectivity options
- Windows 11 Home is pre-installed.
Cons
- The speakers are a bit tinny.
- The build quality is not the best.
My Take
Overall, the Dell Inspiron 3511 15.6″ FHD Laptop is a great budget-friendly laptop that offers a good balance of performance, features, and battery life. If you are looking for a Dell laptop for basic tasks and light gaming, the Inspiron 3511 is a great option. But if you want something more powerful for serious gaming or advanced photo or video editing, the Precision (T5DW8) and Dell XPS 13 (RFB-69Y48) are the best Dell laptops for you.
