Dell Inspiron 15 3520 Touchscreen Laptop Review

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 Touchscreen Laptop presents a compelling blend of functionality and modern design, catering to users seeking a balance between performance and affordability. With its 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB RAM, and 1TB SSD, it promises seamless multitasking and ample storage. The 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen enhances usability, while the lift-hinge design adds a practical touch. However, its absence of Wi-Fi 6 raises questions about its long-term connectivity relevance. For those evaluating its suitability, understanding its strengths and limitations is essential to determine if it aligns with their needs.

Key Takeaways

• 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen with anti-glare technology and Intel UHD Graphics for vibrant visuals and responsive touch functionality.
• Powered by Intel Core i5-1235U processor with 16GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD for smooth multitasking and fast performance.
• Lift-hinge design improves ergonomics, airflow, and thermal performance, paired with a full-size keyboard for comfortable typing.
• 3-cell, 41Wh battery offers up to 7 hours of usage, with Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth for reliable connectivity.
• Durable build with military-grade testing, competitive pricing, and a 1-year warranty for professional and personal use.

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Powered by an Intel Core i5-1235U processor with 10 cores, 12 threads, and a maximum clock speed of 4.4GHz, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 delivers robust performance for demanding tasks. The laptop excels in multitasking, handling complex programs, and 8K streaming with ease. Its thermal management system, featuring adaptive algorithms and accelerometers, guarantees smooth and cool operation even under heavy workloads. The AI-powered Windows 11 Pro enhances task handling, improving efficiency by 42% on average. Despite its powerful performance, the device maintains a balance with its battery life, offering up to 7 hours of usage, making it suitable for on-the-go productivity. The combination of advanced thermal management and efficient power consumption secures sustained performance without compromising user experience. The Intel Iris Xe Graphics provide satisfactory performance for casual gaming and expedited video editing, further enhancing the laptop's versatility.

Features and Benefits

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is equipped with an Intel Core i5-1235U processor, delivering robust performance for multitasking and demanding applications. Its 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen display offers crisp visuals and responsive touch functionality, enhanced by anti-glare technology for comfortable viewing. The 16GB DDR4 RAM guarantees seamless multitasking, while the lift-hinge design improves ergonomic comfort and airflow during extended use. The laptop also supports external GPU connectivity, allowing users to enhance graphics performance for gaming or demanding visual tasks.

Intel Core I5-1235u Processor Performance

Featuring an Intel Core i5-1235U processor with 10 cores and 12 threads, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 delivers robust performance for demanding tasks, including 8K streaming and resource-intensive creative applications. With a base clock of 1.3GHz and a turbo boost up to 4.4GHz, this processor guarantees smooth multitasking and efficient handling of complex workflows. The 12th Gen Intel architecture enhances processor efficiency, balancing power consumption and performance. Advanced thermal management, supported by adaptive algorithms and accelerometers, maintains ideal operating temperatures, preventing throttling during extended use. Users benefit from consistent performance, whether editing high-resolution media or running multiple applications simultaneously. Combined with AI-powered optimizations in Windows 11 Pro, the i5-1235U guarantees a responsive and reliable computing experience, making it ideal for professionals and creatives alike.

5.6-inch FHD Touch Screen Display

Complementing its powerful processing capabilities, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 boasts a 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) Touch Screen display, designed to deliver sharp visuals and intuitive interaction. The anti-glare LED Backlit WVA panel guarantees excellent screen clarity, even in brightly lit environments, while the TUV Rheinland certification reduces blue light emissions for prolonged comfort. The touch sensitivity is highly responsive, enabling seamless navigation and precise input for creative tasks or everyday use. Paired with Intel UHD Graphics, the display renders vibrant colors and crisp details, enhancing productivity and entertainment experiences. Dell ComfortView further minimizes eye strain, making it ideal for extended usage. This combination of touch functionality and visual fidelity secures a versatile and immersive user experience, whether for work or leisure.

6GB DDR4 RAM for Multitasking

With 16GB of DDR4 RAM, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 guarantees seamless multitasking, enabling users to effortlessly switch between demanding applications, browser tabs, and streaming services without performance bottlenecks. The memory capacity provides smooth operation even when running resource-intensive tasks like video editing, graphic design, or multitab browsing. The DDR4 technology enhances ram speed, delivering faster data transfer rates and improved efficiency compared to older DDR3 modules. This allows for quicker access to frequently used applications and reduces latency during heavy workloads. Users can expect a responsive experience, whether handling large datasets or managing multiple virtual desktops. The 16GB configuration is ideal for professionals and power users who require consistent performance without slowdowns, making it a reliable choice for productivity and entertainment.

Lift-Hinge Design for Ergonomic Comfort

The lift-hinge design of the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 enhances ergonomic comfort by elevating the keyboard to a more natural typing angle, reducing strain on the wrists and promoting better posture during extended use. This lift hinge ergonomics feature guarantees a more comfortable and efficient workflow, particularly for users who spend long hours typing or working on creative tasks. The hinge durability testing confirms its robust construction, capable of withstanding repeated opening and closing cycles without compromising stability. This design not only improves user experience but also aids in better airflow, contributing to the laptop's adaptive thermal performance. Combined with the full-size keyboard and 10-key numeric pad, the lift-hinge design makes the Inspiron 15 3520 a practical choice for productivity and comfort.

Product Quality

Although the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is positioned as a mid-range laptop, its build quality and design reflect a commitment to durability and user-centric features. The chassis is constructed with robust materials, guaranteeing resistance to everyday wear and tear. Rigorous durability testing, including military-grade standards, validates its ability to withstand extreme conditions, enhancing long-term reliability. The slim, sleek design with a classic black finish not only adds aesthetic appeal but also reinforces structural integrity. The full-size keyboard and lift-hinge mechanism are engineered for consistent performance, even under heavy use. These elements, combined with adaptive thermals and advanced cooling algorithms, guarantee the laptop maintains peak performance without compromising build quality. The Intel Core i5-1155G7 processor ensures robust performance, making it ideal for multitasking and demanding applications. Overall, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 delivers a durable, user-friendly experience suitable for both professional and personal use.

What It's Used For

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 excels in multitasking and productivity, leveraging its 16GB DDR4 RAM and Intel Core i5-1235U processor to handle demanding workflows seamlessly. Its 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen and Intel UHD Graphics make it ideal for creative work and design, offering crisp visuals and responsive touch input. Additionally, the laptop's immersive audio, anti-glare display, and robust connectivity options enhance entertainment and streaming experiences, ensuring smooth playback and comfortable viewing. The improved cooling system ensures stable performance during intensive tasks, preventing overheating and maintaining efficiency.

Multitasking and Productivity

Equipped with a 10-core Intel Core i5-1235U processor and 16GB of DDR4 RAM, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 excels in multitasking and productivity, effortlessly handling demanding workflows such as simultaneous 8K streaming, creative software applications, and extensive browser tabs. The processor's 12 threads and up to 4.4GHz clock speed guarantee smooth performance, while the 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD accelerates data access and system responsiveness. Advanced thermal management, powered by adaptive algorithms and accelerometers, maintains ideal operating temperatures, preventing throttling during prolonged use. Battery efficiency is optimized for up to 7 hours, balancing performance and portability. The combination of robust hardware and AI-enhanced Windows 11 Pro guarantees seamless task switching and enhanced productivity, making it ideal for professionals and power users.

Creative Work and Design

With its 10-core Intel Core i5-1235U processor and Intel UHD Graphics, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is well-suited for creative work and design tasks, delivering the performance needed for graphic design, video editing, and 3D rendering. The 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen display, with its anti-glare LED backlit WVA panel, guarantees excellent color accuracy, making it ideal for graphic design projects. The TUV Rheinland-certified display reduces blue light emissions, while Dell ComfortView enhances viewing comfort during long creative sessions. The 16GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD provide ample memory and storage for handling large design files and multitasking seamlessly. The laptop's adaptive thermals and AI-powered Windows 11 Pro optimize performance, securing smooth operation even under heavy workloads, making it a reliable tool for creative professionals.

Entertainment and Streaming

Featuring a 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen display and Intel UHD Graphics, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 delivers vibrant visuals and smooth performance for entertainment and streaming. The anti-glare LED-backlit display guarantees crisp media playback, even in bright environments, while Intel UHD Graphics enhances streaming quality with sharp, detailed visuals. The 16GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD enable seamless multitasking and quick access to stored content, guaranteeing uninterrupted playback of high-resolution videos. MaxxAudio Pro stereo speakers provide immersive audio, complementing the laptop's visual capabilities. Wi-Fi 5 guarantees stable connectivity for high-definition streaming, while the TUV Rheinland-certified display reduces eye strain during extended viewing sessions. Whether streaming movies, shows, or music, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 offers a reliable and enjoyable entertainment experience.

Product Specifications

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 Touchscreen Laptop combines robust hardware with thoughtful design, delivering a versatile computing experience. Powered by an Intel Core i5-1235U processor with 10 cores and 12 threads, it guarantees seamless multitasking and efficient performance. The 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen display, paired with Intel UHD Graphics, offers crisp visuals, while Dell ComfortView reduces eye strain. With 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD, it provides ample storage and fast boot times. The laptop features a 3-cell, 41Wh battery capacity, offering up to 7 hours of usage. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth, and multiple USB ports. Backed by a 1-year warranty, it assures reliability and peace of mind. The AMD Ryzen 5 5500U in the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 ensures smooth performance for demanding tasks, making it a strong alternative for users seeking similar capabilities.

Who Needs This

For professionals and students seeking a balance of performance, portability, and versatility, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 Touchscreen Laptop is an ideal choice. Business professionals will appreciate the Intel Core i5-1235U processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM, which guarantee seamless multitasking and efficient handling of productivity tools. The 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen with anti-glare technology enhances collaboration and presentations, while the 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD provides ample storage for critical files. Students and learners benefit from the TUV Rheinland-certified display, which reduces eye strain during long study sessions, and the lightweight design assures easy portability between classes. With Wi-Fi 5 and a full array of ports, this laptop supports connectivity for both work and study environments, making it a practical solution for diverse user needs. Additionally, the laptop incorporates Energy Star 8.0 certification, ensuring energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

Pros

With its Intel Core i5-1235U processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 delivers robust performance for multitasking, handling demanding applications, and guaranteeing smooth operation even during resource-intensive tasks. The laptop excels in several key areas:

• Performance: The 10-core, 12-thread processor and 16GB RAM enable seamless multitasking and efficient handling of complex programs.
• Display: The 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen with anti-glare technology and TUV Rheinland certification provides crisp visuals and reduced eye strain.
• Battery Life: Up to 7 hours of usage supports productivity on the go.
• Port Selection: Includes 2x USB-A 3.2, 1x USB-A 2.0, HDMI 1.4, and an SD card reader for versatile connectivity.
• Storage: A 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD offers fast boot times and ample storage capacity.
• Cooling System: The innovative cooling system maintains ideal operating temperatures during intense tasks, ensuring consistent performance levels.

These features make it a reliable choice for both work and entertainment.

Cons

While the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 offers impressive performance and features, it is not without its drawbacks. Below are some notable cons that potential buyers should consider:

• Battery Life: Limited to up to 7 hours, which may fall short for users requiring extended unplugged usage.
• Thermal Performance: Under heavy workloads, the system can experience noticeable heat buildup, potentially affecting sustained performance.
• Display Brightness: The anti-glare screen, while effective, lacks sufficient brightness for ideal outdoor or brightly lit environments.
• Wi-Fi 5 Connectivity: Lacks Wi-Fi 6 support, which could limit future-proofing and faster wireless speeds.
• Weight: At 3.65 pounds, it is slightly heavier compared to some competitors in its class, impacting portability.
• Touchpad Sensitivity: Some users report touchpad sensitivity issues, leading to inadvertent cursor movements and affecting usability.

These factors may influence the overall user experience, particularly for those prioritizing mobility, connectivity, and thermal efficiency.

What Customers Are Saying

Although the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 has garnered generally positive feedback, customer reviews highlight a mix of praise and constructive criticism regarding its performance, design, and usability. Many users appreciate the Intel Core i5 processor and 16GB RAM for seamless multitasking and handling demanding applications, contributing to high customer satisfaction. The 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen and Intel UHD Graphics are praised for delivering crisp visuals, though some note the display could be brighter. User feedback also commends the 1TB SSD for fast boot times and ample storage. However, concerns about battery life, averaging 7 hours, and the lack of Wi-Fi 6 connectivity have been raised. The sleek design and comfortable keyboard are well-received, though a few users find the laptop slightly heavier than expected. The Intel Core i7-8650U processor in the Dell Latitude 7490 offers a performance benchmark for comparison, highlighting the Inspiron's competitive edge. Overall, the device balances performance and usability effectively.

Overall Value

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 offers a compelling balance of performance, features, and affordability, making it a strong contender in the mid-range laptop market. With its Intel Core i5-1235U processor, 16GB RAM, and 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD, it delivers robust multitasking and fast storage, ideal for productivity and entertainment. The 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen and Intel UHD Graphics provide crisp visuals, while Dell ComfortView guarantees comfortable viewing. Price comparison reveals it competes well against similar models, offering premium features at a competitive price point. The 1-year warranty coverage adds peace of mind, backed by military-grade durability testing. Its sleek design, long battery life, and extensive connectivity options further enhance its value, making it a practical choice for users seeking reliability and performance without breaking the budget. The Intel Iris Xe graphics ensure commendable gaming performance, adding versatility for both work and entertainment needs.

Tips and Tricks For Best Results

To maximize the performance and longevity of the Dell Inspiron 15 3520, users should fine-tune its settings and leverage its advanced features. For battery enhancement, enable power-saving modes in Windows 11 and adjust screen brightness using Dell ComfortView to reduce energy consumption. Regularly update drivers and firmware to guarantee peak system performance. Utilize the 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD for faster boot times and efficient multitasking, while keeping at least 20% of storage free for maximum speed. Schedule routine system maintenance, such as disk cleanup and defragmentation, to prevent performance degradation. Leverage the AI-powered Windows 11 Pro for enhanced task management and adaptive thermals to maintain smooth operation. These practices secure a seamless user experience and extend the laptop's lifespan.

Conclusion

With its robust Intel Core i5-1235U processor, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 delivers exceptional performance for multitasking, demanding applications, and high-resolution media consumption. The 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen, paired with Intel UHD Graphics, guarantees crisp visuals, while Dell ComfortView enhances the user experience by reducing eye strain. The laptop's design, featuring a full-size keyboard and lift-hinge mechanism, combines functionality with comfort. Future upgrades are supported by its expandable memory and storage options, securing longevity. Wi-Fi 5 and a versatile port selection further enhance connectivity. With up to 7 hours of battery life and military-grade durability, the Inspiron 15 3520 is a reliable choice for professionals and students alike, offering a seamless blend of performance and practicality.