Dell Inspiron 15 3511 (2021)

Dell Inspiron 15 3511 (2021)

Manufacturer	Dell
Product family	Inspiron
Release date	2021 (2021)
Discontinued	No
Operating system	Windows 11 Home Windows 11 Pro Windows 11 Pro - Academic Ubuntu 20.04
CPU	Intel Core i3-1115G4 Intel Core i3-1125G4 Intel Core i5-1135G7 Intel Core i7-1165G7 Intel Core i3-1005G1 Intel Core i5-1035G1 Intel Pentium 7505 Intel Celeron 6305
Memory	4 GB, 8 GB, 12 GB, 16 GB DDR4-2666/3200 MHz
Memory slots	2 user accessible
Storage	1 TB, 2 TB 5400 RPM HDD 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB PCIe NVMe SSD
Storage slots	2 user accessible
Removable storage	1 SD-card slot
Display	Screen size: 15.6 inch Panel type: TN or IPS Coating: Anti-glare Resolution: 1366 x 768 or 1920 x 1080 Refresh rate: 60 Hz Brightness: 220 Nits NTSC: 45 % Touchscreen: Optional
Graphics	Intel UHD Graphics Intel Iris Xe Graphics Nvidia GeForce MX350 2 GB GDDR5
Sound	2 x 2 W stereo speakers
Camera	720p at 30 fps HD camera
Touchpad	Clickpad (11.5 x 8 cm)
Connectivity	Qualcomm QCA9377 Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.1 Intel 9462 Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 Intel AX201 Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1 Realtek RTL8821CE Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
Dimensions	H: 0.68 inches (1.7 cm) (front), 0.74 inches (1.9 cm) (rear) W: 14.11 inches (35.8 cm) D: 9.27 inches (23.5 cm)
Mass	3.82 pounds (1.73 kg)
Battery	3-cell, 41 Wh or 4-cell, 54 Wh lithium-polymer
Keyboard	Non-backlit or backlit
Chassis	Color: Carbon Materials: Plastic
Number pad	Yes
Fingerprint reader	No
Facial recognition	No
Predecessor	Dell Inspiron 15 3501
Website	Dell

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 (2021) is a budget-friendly laptop designed for everyday use, offering a range of configurations to suit different needs. It features Intel's 10th and 11th generation processors, integrated and discrete graphics options, and various memory and storage configurations. The laptop is aimed at users seeking a balance between performance and affordability.

Primary Hardware

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Processor

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 can be configured with the following processors:

• Intel Core i3-1115G4 with 2 cores, 4 threads, 6 MB cache, and a max frequency of 4.1 GHz.
• Intel Core i3-1125G4 with 4 cores, 8 threads, 8 MB cache, and a max frequency of 3.7 GHz.
• Intel Core i5-1135G7 with 4 cores, 8 threads, 8 MB cache, and a max frequency of 4.2 GHz.
• Intel Core i7-1165G7 with 4 cores, 8 threads, 12 MB cache, and a max frequency of 4.7 GHz.
• Intel Core i3-1005G1 with 2 cores, 4 threads, 4 MB cache, and a max frequency of 3.4 GHz.
• Intel Core i5-1035G1 with 4 cores, 8 threads, 6 MB cache, and a max frequency of 3.6 GHz.
• Intel Pentium 7505 with 2 cores, 4 threads, 4 MB cache, and a max frequency of 3.5 GHz.
• Intel Celeron 6305 with 2 cores, 2 threads, 4 MB cache, and a max frequency of 1.8 GHz.

The performance of the Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor is competitive with pricier Ultrabooks, offering good performance sustainability. However, the initial Turbo Boost benefits are smaller compared to higher-end processors like the Intel Core i7-1165G7. The CPU operates at 4 x 2.4 - 4.2 GHz, with a PL2 of 51 W for short bursts and a sustained PL1 of 22 W.

Benchmarks:

• Cinebench R15 Multi Loop: Ø665 (655.8-671.77)

Graphics

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 offers both integrated and discrete graphics options:

• Integrated:
  • Intel UHD Graphics
  • Intel Iris Xe Graphics
• Discrete:
  • Nvidia GeForce MX350 with 2 GB GDDR5 memory

The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7 80EUs provides adequate performance for light gaming and multimedia tasks but may struggle with more demanding applications. The performance is 30 to 45 percent slower than the average laptop equipped with the same GPU, primarily due to the single-channel memory configuration.

Benchmarks:

• 3DMark Fire Strike Score: 1680 points
• 3DMark Time Spy Score: 865 points

Memory

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 supports the following memory configurations:

• 4 GB, 1 x 4 GB, DDR4, 2666 MHz with Integrated Graphics, 3200 MHz with Discrete Graphics
• 8 GB, 1 x 8 GB, DDR4, 2666 MHz with Integrated Graphics, 3200 MHz with Discrete Graphics
• 8 GB, 2 x 4 GB, DDR4, 2666 MHz with Integrated Graphics, 3200 MHz with Discrete Graphics
• 12 GB, 1 x 4 GB + 1 x 8 GB, DDR4, 2666 MHz with Integrated Graphics, 3200 MHz with Discrete Graphics
• 16 GB, 2 x 8 GB, DDR4, 2666 MHz with Integrated Graphics, 3200 MHz with Discrete Graphics
• 16 GB, 1 x 16 GB, DDR4, 2666 MHz with Integrated Graphics, 3200 MHz with Discrete Graphics

The single-channel RAM configuration significantly impacts the graphics performance of the Iris Xe GPU. Adding another memory module to enable dual-channel mode is highly recommended to boost GPU performance.

Benchmarks:

• AIDA64 Memory Copy: 36640 MB/s
• AIDA64 Memory Read: 40897 MB/s
• AIDA64 Memory Write: 41742 MB/s

Storage

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 can be configured with various storage options:

• 1 TB, 5400 RPM, 2.5-inch, SATA, HDD
• 2 TB, 5400 RPM, 2.5-inch, SATA, HDD
• 128 GB, M.2 2230, PCIe NVMe Gen3 x4, SSD
• 256 GB, M.2 2230, PCIe NVMe Gen3 x4, SSD
• 512 GB, M.2 2230, PCIe NVMe Gen3 x4, SSD
• 1 TB, M.2 2230, PCIe NVMe Gen3 x4, SSD
• 256 GB, M.2 2280, PCIe NVMe Gen3 x4, SSD
• 512 GB, M.2 2280, PCIe NVMe Gen3 x4, SSD
• 1 TB, M.2 2280, PCIe NVMe Gen3 x4, SSD
• 2 TB, M.2 2280, PCIe NVMe Gen3 x4, SSD
• M.2 2280, 32 GB with 512 GB SSD, PCIe NVMe Gen3 x4, Intel® Optane™ Memory H20 series (Supported on 11th Generation Intel® Processors only)

The 256 GB PCIe NVMe SSD (SK Hynix BC711 HFM256GD3GX013N) in the reviewed unit offers sequential read and write rates of up to ~3300 MB/s and ~1000 MB/s, respectively. The drive maintains its maximum transfer rate over long periods without any heat pads or additional cooling.

Benchmarks:

• CrystalDiskMark 5.2 / 6 Sequential Read: 2023 MB/s
• CrystalDiskMark 5.2 / 6 Sequential Write: 845 MB/s

Co-processors

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 does not include any dedicated co-processors.

Input Devices

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Keyboard

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 features a chiclet keyboard with a 10-key numeric keypad. The keyboard is available in various regional layouts and can be either non-backlit or backlit.

The key feedback is lighter and softer than expected, resulting in a spongy feel. The Space and Enter keys, in particular, feel weaker compared to similar keys on other brands like HP Pavilion or Lenovo IdeaPad. The lack of a keyboard backlight may be a drawback for users who work in low-light conditions.

Touchpad

The laptop includes a clickpad measuring 11.5 centimetres (4.5 in) x 8 centimetres (3.1 in).

The surface of the clickpad is stickier than on many other clickpads, making it somewhat tiring for actions like clicking or dragging-and-dropping without actual buttons or a USB mouse. The clickpad is relatively large compared to competitors but lacks dedicated buttons, which may affect usability for some users.

Webcam

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 is equipped with a 720p HD camera.

The webcam quality remains unchanged from the previous year's Inspiron 3501 model. It lacks a shutter or Windows Hello support, which may be a concern for privacy-conscious users.

Microphone

The laptop features a single-integrated microphone.

The microphone quality is adequate for video calls and basic recording tasks but may not meet the expectations of users looking for high-quality audio capture.

Output Devices

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Display

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 offers the following display options:

• 15.6-inch, HD, 1366 x 768, 60 Hz, anti-glare, non-touch, 45% NTSC, 220 nits, TN
• 15.6-inch, FHD, 1920 x 1080, 60 Hz, anti-glare, non-touch, 45% NTSC, 220 nits, wide-viewing angle
• 15.6-inch, FHD, 1920 x 1080, 60 Hz, anti-glare, touch, 45% NTSC, 220 nits, wide-viewing angle

The 15.6-inch 1920 x 1080 pixel IPS display has a narrow color space, with colors appearing shallower and less vivid compared to pricier alternatives. The contrast ratio and response times are decent for a budget laptop, but the limited sRGB reproduction is a significant drawback. The display is touch-enabled, adding to its versatility.

Benchmarks:

• Maximum brightness: 240.3 cd/m²
• Average brightness: 230.1 cd/m²
• Contrast: 1142:1
• ΔE Color: 6.34

Audio

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 comes with two 2 W stereo speakers.

The audio quality is decent and loud considering the price. The speakers produce clear sound for casual listening and video playback but lack deep bass, which may not satisfy audiophiles.

Benchmarks:

• Speaker loudness: 78.7 dB

Connectivity

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WiFi

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 offers several Wi-Fi options:

• Qualcomm QCA9377, 1x1 MIMO, 433 Mbps, 2.40 GHz/5 GHz, Wi-Fi 5 (WiFi 802.11ac), Bluetooth 4.1
• Intel 9462, 1x1, 433 Mbps, 2.4/5 GHz, Wi-Fi 5 (WiFi 802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.0
• Intel AX201, 2x2 MIMO, 2400 Mbps, 2.4/5 GHz, Wi-Fi 6 (WiFi 802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.1 (optional systems configured with 11th Generation processors)
• Realtek RTL8821CE, 1x1, 433 Mbps, 2.4/5 GHz, Wi-Fi 5 (Wi-Fi 802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.0

The Qualcomm Atheros QCA9377 Wireless Network Adapter provides stable and reliable transfer rates for streaming purposes, although it may limit performance compared to newer Wi-Fi 6 options.

Benchmarks:

• iperf3 transmit: 307 MBit/s
• iperf3 receive: 333 MBit/s

Bluetooth

The laptop includes Bluetooth 4.1, 5.0, or 5.1 depending on the Wi-Fi module.

SD Card Reader

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 features an integrated SD card reader.

The SD card reader is slow, taking over 50 seconds to transfer 1 GB of pictures. The design also causes the card to protrude, which may be inconvenient for some users.

Benchmarks:

• Average JPG Copy Test: 19.4 MB/s

USB

The laptop is equipped with the following USB ports:

• 1 USB 2.0
• 2 USB 3.2

The lack of USB-C ports is a notable omission in today's market. The available USB ports are sufficient for basic connectivity needs but may limit peripheral options.

Display Outputs

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 includes one HDMI 1.4 port.

The HDMI port supports up to 1080p60, which may be a limitation for users looking to connect to higher resolution displays.

Case

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 features a plastic chassis available in a carbon color. The system doesn't feel any more rigid or of higher quality than the older Inspiron 15 3501 despite the full-on redesign. The plastic materials used in the chassis may not withstand heavy use over time.

The laptop's dimensions are 0.68 inches (1.7 cm) (front) to 0.74 inches (1.9 cm) (rear) in height, 14.11 inches (35.8 cm) in width, and 9.27 inches (23.5 cm) in depth. It weighs 3.82 pounds (1.73 kg).

Maintenance

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The bottom panel of the DellInspiron 15 3511 can be easily removed, allowing access to two storage bays and two SODIMM slots, making upgrades straightforward.

Upgradeable components:

• RAM
• Storage (HDD and SSD)

Cooling System

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 uses a single fan cooling solution with a short copper heat pipe.

Heat

The cooling system is effective for most day-to-day tasks, keeping the laptop quiet and cool. However, under heavy loads, temperatures can reach up to 38 °C on the top and 57 °C on the bottom of the laptop, which is manageable for most users.

Benchmarks:

• Maximum temperature on the upper side: 37.8 °C
• Maximum temperature on the bottom: 55.6 °C

Noise

The cooling system is very quiet under most day-to-day loads and remains almost silent for longer than expected. The fan noise tops out at almost 40 dB(A) under stress, which is quieter than most alternatives, making it suitable for quiet environments.

Benchmarks:

• Load Maximum: 40 dB(A)

Energy Management

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Power Consumption

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 ships with a 65 W AC adapter.

The power consumption is efficient relative to other 15.6-inch laptops running on U-series CPUs. Idling on the desktop draws between 3 W and 7 W, with a maximum draw of 56 W under extreme loads.

Benchmarks:

• Load Maximum: 55.8 W

Battery Life

The laptop is available with either a 3-cell, 41 Wh or a 4-cell, 54 Wh lithium-polymer battery.

The battery life during real-world WLAN use is about 6.5 hours before needing to recharge. Charging from empty to full takes roughly 2 hours with the included AC adapter.

Benchmarks:

• WiFi Websurfing: 6h 21min
• Idle (without WLAN, min brightness): 12h 47min
• Load (maximum brightness): 1h 19min

Biometrics

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 does not feature any biometric security options, such as a fingerprint reader or facial recognition.

Software

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 ships with various operating systems, including Windows 11 Home, Windows 11 Pro, Windows 11 Pro - Academic, and Ubuntu 20.04.

Preinstalled Software

The laptop comes with several preinstalled software applications, including:

• Dell Update
• CinemaColor
• Mobile Connect
• Digital Delivery
• Customer Connect
• My Dell

Linux Support

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 can be configured with Ubuntu 20.04, indicating some level of Linux support. However, specific details about Linux compatibility are not provided.

Accessories & Warranty

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 comes with a 65 W AC adapter and standard paperwork.

Dell offers various warranty options, including:

• 1-year hardware service with on-site/in-home service after remote diagnosis
• 2, 3, or 4 years hardware service with on-site/in-home service after remote diagnosis
• 1-year hardware warranty with mail-in service after remote diagnosis
• 2, 3, or 4 years hardware warranty with mail-in service after remote diagnosis
• 1-year Premium Support and on-site service
• 2, 3, or 4 years Premium Support and on-site service
• 1-year Premium Support Plus and on-site service
• 2, 3, or 4 years Premium Support Plus and on-site service
• 1-year ProSupport with Next Business Day on-site service
• 2, 3, or 4 years ProSupport with Next Business Day on-site service
• 1, 2, 3, or 4 years Accidental Damage Service

Reviews Summary

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Overall Sentiment

The Dell Inspiron 15 3511 is considered a budget-friendly laptop that offers decent performance for everyday tasks. It is competitive with pricier Ultrabooks, especially with its 11th gen Core i5 CPU. However, it has some drawbacks, including a lack of USB-C ports, a somewhat flimsy chassis, and limited color reproduction on the display. The laptop is suitable for users seeking a balance between performance and affordability.

Problems Summary

• Lack of USB-C ports
• Somewhat flimsy chassis
• Limited color reproduction on the display
• Single-channel RAM configuration impacts graphics performance
• Slow SD card reader
• No biometric security options
• Plastic materials may not withstand heavy use over time