Main points
- The Dell Inspiron 3520 settles for a TN panel with a resolution of 1366 x 768, resulting in a noticeable difference in image quality.
- The HP 15s-fq5111tu claims a battery life of up to 7 hours on a single charge, while the Dell Inspiron 3520 promises up to 9 hours.
- The HP 15s-fq5111tu comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home, while the Dell Inspiron 3520 runs on Windows 11 Home in S mode.
In the realm of budget-friendly laptops, two formidable contenders emerge: the HP 15s-fq5111tu and the Dell Inspiron 3520. Both machines promise a blend of affordability and functionality, but which one reigns supreme? Let’s delve into their specifications, features, and performance to uncover the victor.
Design and Build Quality
The HP 15s-fq5111tu sports a sleek silver chassis with a brushed metal finish, exuding a touch of sophistication. The Dell Inspiron 3520, on the other hand, opts for a more traditional black plastic design, prioritizing durability over aesthetics. Both laptops feature a 15.6-inch display, providing ample screen real estate for work and entertainment.
Display and Performance
The HP 15s-fq5111tu boasts a Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals. The Dell Inspiron 3520 settles for a TN panel with a resolution of 1366 x 768, resulting in a noticeable difference in image quality.
Under the hood, the HP 15s-fq5111tu is powered by an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, paired with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of NVMe SSD storage. This combination ensures smooth multitasking and speedy performance for everyday tasks. The Dell Inspiron 3520 employs an Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 128GB SSD, which may struggle with more demanding workloads.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The HP 15s-fq5111tu claims a battery life of up to 7 hours on a single charge, while the Dell Inspiron 3520 promises up to 9 hours. Both laptops provide a decent array of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth, and multiple USB ports. However, the HP 15s-fq5111tu offers a slight edge with its inclusion of a Thunderbolt 4 port.
Operating System and Features
The HP 15s-fq5111tu comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home, while the Dell Inspiron 3520 runs on Windows 11 Home in S mode. S mode limits the device to apps from the Microsoft Store, but it can be disabled if desired. Both laptops feature a webcam, microphone, and speakers for video conferencing and multimedia playback.
Verdict: The Winner Emerges
After a thorough comparison, the HP 15s-fq5111tu emerges as the superior choice. Its higher-quality display, faster performance, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity make it a more compelling option for those seeking a well-rounded budget-friendly laptop. While the Dell Inspiron 3520 offers a longer battery life, its weaker hardware and lower-resolution display make it less suitable for demanding users.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which laptop has a better graphics card?
A: Neither laptop features a dedicated graphics card.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM and storage in both laptops?
A: Yes, both laptops allow for RAM and storage upgrades.
Q: Which laptop is more portable?
A: The HP 15s-fq5111tu and Dell Inspiron 3520 have similar weight and dimensions, making them equally portable.
Q: Can I use both laptops for gaming?
A: While both laptops can handle casual games, they are not suitable for demanding gaming experiences.
Q: Which laptop has a better warranty?
A: Both laptops come with a one-year limited warranty.