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Dell's latest system gets off to a solid start thanks to decent construction and capable core components, but mediocrity in other areas means that it can't surpass its more specialist rivals. In short, the Inspiron is only suitable as a solid all-rounder.
We liked
The Dell looks decent and has reasonable build quality and accessibility, and it's backed up by decent hardware on the inside. Its Core i7 processor has enough grunt for work and play, and it's bolstered by a mid-range AMD graphics chip that allows for modern games to be played at reasonable quality levels.
As with most Dell laptops, the Dell Inspiron 15 5000 is versatile elsewhere. Our $968 (about £620, AU$1,255) model can be cut down to just $510 (about £329, AU$659) if you drop down to a Core i3 processor, integrated graphics, and lesser storage and memory configurations.
We disliked
In many important areas the Inspiron is merely mediocre. Its keyboard doesn't have the firmness and travel to encourage serious typing, and the screen lacks the resolution, contrast and colour accuracy for anything beyond casual use.
Battery life is middling, and its rivals remain tempting – the Lenovo offers business features for similar cash and has a 1080p screen, and the Asus is a proper convertible with better battery life.
Final verdict
The Dell Inspiron 15 5000 is a good all-around laptop for web browsing, light work and casual gaming, with reasonable aesthetics and build quality alongside decent components. Other systems offer better prospects for mos specialist tasks, though, so only opt for this laptop if you need a jack-of-all-trades device.
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