Dell Inspiron 15 3520 (2022)

Dell Inspiron 15 3520 (2022)

Manufacturer	Dell
Product family	Inspiron
Release date	January 2022 (2022-01)
Introductory price	USD 400 to 800
Discontinued	No
Operating system	Windows 11 Home (Can be configured with Windows 11 Pro)
CPU	Intel Core i3-1215U Intel Core i5-1235U Intel Core i7-1255U
Memory	8 GB (1 x 8 GB) or 16 GB (2 x 8 GB) DDR4-2666 MT/s
Memory slots	2 user accessible
Storage	256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
Storage slots	1 user accessible
Removable storage	1 SD-card slot
Display	Screen size: 15.6 inch Panel type: IPS Coating: Anti-Glare Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Refresh rate: 60 Hz or 120 Hz Brightness: 250 Nits Touchscreen: Optional
Graphics	Intel UHD Graphics Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Sound	2 x 2 W stereo speakers
Camera	720p at 30 fps HD camera
Connectivity	Realtek Wi-Fi 5 RTL8821CE, 1x1, 802.11ac, MU-MIMO, Bluetooth® wireless card 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A) 1 x USB 2.0 1 x HDMI 1.4 1 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack 1 x Power Jack
Power brick	65W AC adapter
Battery	3 Cell, 41 Wh, integrated
Chassis	Color: Carbon Black Materials: Plastic
Fingerprint reader	No
Facial recognition	No
Website	Dell

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The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 (2022) is a mid-range laptop designed for everyday use, featuring Intel's 12th Gen U-series processors and a variety of configurations to suit different needs. It is positioned as a versatile and affordable option for both personal and professional use.

Primary Hardware

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Processor

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 (2022) can be configured with the following processors:

• Intel Core i3-1215U with 6 cores (2 P-cores + 4 E-cores) and 8 threads, 10 MB cache and a max frequency of 4.4 Ghz.
• Intel Core i5-1235U with 10 cores (2 P-cores + 8 E-cores) and 12 threads, 12 MB cache and max frequency of 4.4 Ghz.
• Intel Core i7-1255U with 10 cores (2 P-cores + 8 E-cores) and 12 threads, 12 MB cache and max frequency of 4.7 Ghz.

The Inspiron 15 3520 is designed to handle everyday tasks efficiently, with the i3-1215U being suitable for basic tasks like web browsing and document editing, while the i5-1235U and i7-1255U offer more power for multitasking and more demanding applications.

Reviewers have noted that the performance of the Inspiron 15 3520 is adequate for its price range. The i5-1235U and i7-1255U configurations provide a noticeable boost in performance for multitasking and more intensive applications compared to the i3-1215U. However, the laptop is not designed for heavy-duty tasks like video editing or gaming.

Benchmarks:

• Cinebench R23:
  • i3-1215U: ~800 pts (single-core), ~3500 pts (multi-core)
  • i5-1235U: ~1200 pts (single-core), ~6000 pts (multi-core)
  • i7-1255U: ~1300 pts (single-core), ~7000 pts (multi-core)

Graphics

The Inspiron 15 3520 comes with integrated graphics options:

• Intel UHD Graphics
• Intel Iris Xe Graphics

The Intel UHD Graphics is available with the i3-1215U processor, while the Intel Iris Xe Graphics is paired with the i5-1235U and i7-1255U processors. These integrated graphics solutions are suitable for basic graphical tasks, such as video playback and light photo editing.

Reviewers have found that the Intel Iris Xe Graphics provides a significant improvement over the Intel UHD Graphics, particularly in tasks that require more graphical power. However, neither option is suitable for gaming or other graphically intensive applications.

Benchmarks:

• 3D Mark TimeSpy:
  • Intel UHD Graphics: ~400 pts
  • Intel Iris Xe Graphics: ~1200 pts

Memory

The Inspiron 15 3520 supports the following memory configurations:

• 8 GB (1 x 8 GB) DDR4-2666 MT/s
• 16 GB (2 x 8 GB) DDR4-2666 MT/s

The memory is user-upgradable, with two accessible slots that can support up to 32 GB of RAM. This allows users to upgrade their system if they require more memory for their applications.

Reviewers have noted that the 8 GB configuration is sufficient for basic tasks, but the 16 GB configuration provides a smoother experience for multitasking and more demanding applications.

Benchmarks:

• AIDA64 Memory Copy: ~25000 MB/s

Storage

The Inspiron 15 3520 can be configured with the following storage options:

• 256 GB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
• 512 GB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
• 1 TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD

The storage is user-upgradable, with one accessible M.2 slot. This allows users to upgrade their storage if they require more space for their files and applications.

Reviewers have found that the SSDs provide fast boot times and quick access to files, with the 512 GB and 1 TB options offering more space for users who need it.

Benchmarks:

• CrystalDiskMark 8:
  • SEQ1M Q8T1 (Sequential 1MB blocks): ~3000 MB/s (read), ~1500 MB/s (write)
  • RND4K Q1T1 (Random 4 KB blocks): ~50 MB/s (read), ~150 MB/s (write)

Co-processors

The Inspiron 15 3520 does not include any dedicated co-processors for AI or other specialized tasks.

Input Devices

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Keyboard

The Inspiron 15 3520 comes with a standard English US non-backlit keyboard. The keyboard layout is typical for a 15.6-inch laptop, with a full-size number pad and function keys.

Reviewers have noted that the typing experience is comfortable, with decent key travel and feedback. However, the lack of backlighting can be a drawback for users who work in low-light environments.

Touchpad

The touchpad on the Inspiron 15 3520 is a standard plastic touchpad. It is responsive and supports multi-touch gestures, providing a smooth user experience.

Reviewers have found the touchpad to be adequate for everyday use, though it lacks the premium feel of glass touchpads found on higher-end laptops.

Webcam

The Inspiron 15 3520 is equipped with a 720p HD camera that records at 30 fps. It includes an integrated microphone for video calls and online meetings.

Reviewers have noted that the webcam quality is average, suitable for casual video calls but not for professional use. The integrated microphone provides clear audio for voice calls.

Microphone

The Inspiron 15 3520 features a single integrated microphone. It is designed to capture clear audio for video calls and voice recordings.

Reviewers have found the microphone to be adequate for everyday use, though it may struggle in noisy environments.

Output Devices

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Display

The Inspiron 15 3520 offers two display options:

• 15.6", FHD 1920x1080, 120Hz, WVA, IPS, Non-Touch, Anti-Glare, 250 nit, Narrow Border, LED-Backlit
• 15.6", FHD 1920x1080, 60Hz, WVA, IPS, Touch, Anti-Glare, Narrow Border, LED-Backlit

Both display options provide a Full HD resolution with good color accuracy and viewing angles. The 120Hz non-touch display is suitable for users who prioritize a smoother visual experience, while the 60Hz touch display offers the convenience of touch input.

Reviewers have praised the display quality, noting the good color reproduction and brightness levels. However, the 250 nit brightness may be insufficient for outdoor use.

Audio

The Inspiron 15 3520 comes with stereo speakers, each rated at 2 W, for a total of 4 W output. The speakers are located on the bottom of the laptop.

Reviewers have found the audio quality to be decent for a laptop in this price range, with clear mids and highs but lacking in bass. The maximum volume is adequate for personal use but may not be sufficient for larger rooms.

Connectivity

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WiFi

The Inspiron 15 3520 is equipped with a Realtek Wi-Fi 5 RTL8821CE module, supporting 1x1 802.11ac MU-MIMO and Bluetooth® wireless card.

Reviewers have noted that the Wi-Fi performance is adequate for everyday use, though it may not be as fast or reliable as Wi-Fi 6 modules found in more expensive laptops.

Benchmarks:

• iperf3 transmit: ~300 Mb/s
• iperf3 receive: ~400 Mb/s

Bluetooth

The Inspiron 15 3520 comes with a Bluetooth 5.0 module.

SD Card Reader

The Inspiron 15 3520 includes an SD-card slot for expandable storage and easy transfer of files from cameras and other devices.

USB

The Inspiron 15 3520 is equipped with the following USB ports:

• 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports
• 1 x USB 2.0 port
• 1 x Power Jack
• 1 x Headset (headphone and microphone combo) port

Display Outputs

The Inspiron 15 3520 includes one HDMI 1.4 port, which supports a maximum resolution of 1920x1080 at 60Hz. It does not support 4K or 2K output.

Case

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The Inspiron 15 3520 is available in Carbon Black and is made of plastic. The design is simple and functional, with a matte finish that helps resist fingerprints.

Reviewers have noted that the build quality is solid for a laptop in this price range, though it lacks the premium feel of metal chassis found in higher-end models. The laptop is relatively lightweight and portable, making it suitable for everyday use.

Maintenance

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The Inspiron 15 3520 is designed to be user-upgradable, with easy access to the RAM and storage. The bottom panel can be removed by unscrewing a few Philips-head screws, allowing users to upgrade their components as needed.

Cooling System

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The Inspiron 15 3520 features a standard cooling system with a single fan and heat pipe. The cooling system is designed to handle everyday tasks efficiently, though it may struggle with more intensive applications.

Reviewers have noted that the laptop remains relatively cool during light tasks, but the fan can become audible under heavy load.

Benchmarks:

• Idle upper side: ~30 °C
• Idle bottom: ~32 °C
• Load upper side: ~40 °C
• Load bottom: ~45 °C

Energy Management

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Power Consumption

The Inspiron 15 3520 ships with a 65W AC adapter.

Reviewers have found that the power consumption is typical for a laptop in this class, with efficient power management during light tasks and higher consumption under load.

Battery Life

The Inspiron 15 3520 comes with a 3 Cell, 41 Wh integrated battery. Dell claims that the battery can last up to 6 hours on a single charge, depending on usage.

Reviewers have found that the battery life is average for a laptop in this price range, with around 4-5 hours of usage during typical tasks like web browsing and document editing.

Benchmarks:

• WiFi Browsing (150 nits): ~270 minutes
• Video Playback (150 nits): ~300 minutes
• Load: ~120 minutes

Biometrics

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The Inspiron 15 3520 does not include a fingerprint reader or support for Windows Hello face recognition.

Software

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All SKUs ship with Windows 11 Home, but the laptop can be upgraded to Windows 11 Pro, either manually or when buying directly from Dell.

Preinstalled Software

Microsoft 365

The Inspiron 15 3520 comes with a 30-day trial of Microsoft 365, allowing users to try out the suite of productivity applications before purchasing a subscription.

McAfee+ Premium

The laptop also includes a 30-day trial of McAfee+ Premium for antivirus protection.

Accessories & Warranty

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The Inspiron 15 3520 comes with a 65W AC adapter and paperwork.

Dell offers a one-year limited manufacturer warranty, with options to extend the warranty for an additional cost.

Reviews Summary

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Overall Sentiment

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is considered a solid mid-range laptop for everyday use, offering good performance for its price range. It is suitable for users who need a reliable laptop for tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. The laptop's upgradeability and decent display options are also appreciated by reviewers. However, it is not designed for heavy-duty tasks or gaming.

Problems Summary

• No backlit keyboard option.
• Average webcam quality.
• Limited graphics performance.
• No support for 4K/2K output via HDMI.
• Plastic build lacks premium feel.
• Average battery life.

Links

i3-1215U, Intel UHD Graphics, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD: Intel UHD Graphics, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD: [https://www.techradar.com/reviews/dell-inspiron-15-3520-review TechRadar

i5-1235U, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD: LaptopMag

i7-1255U, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: PCMag

i5-1235U, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD: NotebookCheck