1 reviews

Dell Inspiron 17 (2009)

$500.00 Released July, 2009

The Pros:Large screen is great for use as a primary computer - provides a suitable alternative for users without a home desktop PC. Good battery life considering screen size and processing power - 10+ hours available on a single charge. I5 processor is markedly faster than i3/dual-core counterparts - especially noticeable during boot-up.

The Cons:"Fn" key layout may frustrate longtime "Alt" users - adds an extra step to accessing the function commands and is not compatible with all applications. Fairly heavy - not recommended for primarily mobile environments as it may cause joint and muscle pain over time. Seemingly prone to software compatibility issues - security/office software, primer drivers and other basic programs may cause freezing and crashing.

The Dell Inspiron 17 is a mainstream notebook computer released in July 2009. The mid 2009 refresh of this notebook reduces the overall thickness, includes a more efficient LED-backlit widescreen display at a higher resolution (1600 x 900) and increases the processor speed with dual core CPUs.

Where to Buy

Loading latest prices from ProductWiki...

Online Deals at PriceGrabber.com

The base model is kept to a competitively low $499 by featuring a 2GHz Pentium Dual Core, 2GB of memory, 150GB of hard drive space, integrated graphics and Windows Home Basic. Users with a higher budget can upgrade their Dell Inspiron 17 to a faster 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo CPU, 4GB of memory, up to 500GB of storage, a Blu-ray drive and faster ATI HD 4330 graphics. Users can choose between 4, 6 or 9 cell battery options as well.

Features

Processor: Intel Pentium Dual Core (2GHz) / Intel Core 2 Duo (2.4GHz)
Operating System: Windows Vista Home Basic x64 / Windows Vista Ultimate x64
Chipset & graphics: Intel GM 45, Intel GMA X4500HD or 256MB ATI HD 4330 video
Display: Glossy 17.3" High Definition (900p) WLED display
Audio: 2 x 2w integrated stereo speakers, audio in/out
Storage: up to 500GB 5400RPM hard drive
Battery: 4, 6 or 9-cell
Blu-ray Disc drive or combo DVD writer
Network: WLAN 802.11g, 10/100 LAN (RJ45), 802.11g /n (optional), 3G card, Bluetooth (optional)
Optional 1.3MP Integrated Webcam
3 x USB ports
VGA Port

User Reviews (1)

Add Pros & Cons

ProScore

Pros

1

Large screen is great for use as a primary computer - provides a suitable alternative for users without a home desktop PC
1

Good battery life considering screen size and processing power - 10+ hours available on a single charge
1

i5 processor is markedly faster than i3/dual-core counterparts - especially noticeable during boot-up
1

HD LED display is very bright - sufficiently lights screen at less than 50% brightness for maximal energy conservation

Cons

1

"Fn" key layout may frustrate longtime "Alt" users - adds an extra step to accessing the function commands and is not compatible with all applications
1

Fairly heavy - not recommended for primarily mobile environments as it may cause joint and muscle pain over time
1

Seemingly prone to software compatibility issues - security/office software, primer drivers and other basic programs may cause freezing and crashing