Available from Dell HERE from £449
Model Tested:
Core i5-2410 @ 2.30Ghz
4GB Ram
320Gb HDD
You may remember I loved the previous Dell Vostro 130 I tried (Remember) and now I’ve got the updated model to try.
Now Dell have updated the already excellent Vostro line with the latest Intel Core Processors and Chipsets, including updated graphics, and as an added bonus this can also be supplied with an internal DVD drive – handy even if you might not use it a lot.
Externally little has changed, the metal lid looks great (I tried the Bronze one) although overall thickness has increased slightly. Opening the system up reveals a chicklet style full size keyboard which is comfortable to type on – you may nned a little time to adapt but this style of keyboard is pretty standard these days. The touchpad, which supports multitouch is smooth with 2 physical buttons that give a quiet click when pressed.
Connectivity wise you’re covered by 3 USB 3.0 ports, Ethernet, VGA, HDMI and eSATA as well as headphones/mic. There is also a SD card reader built in, so you should be fixed to connect to any equipment you need.
There are 3 quick launch keys that can be configured to your liking at the top of the keyboard.
Performance as you can see from the scores above is VERY good – don’t worry about the seemingly low Aero score – you dont notice it and I always notice this seems to be the lowest score in this ‘test’. From the other scores (7.9 is the best remember not 10) it is clear that this will cope with everything you throw at it day-to-day.
If i was a big gamer I’d look elsewhere, or be prepared to drop some detail settings as the integrated Intel HD3000 graphics, while great for business/productivity can lag a bit on newer games – But this is a business focussed system – for gaming look to the XPS or Alienware lines from Dell.
The 1366×768 screen is clear and bright, with a matte finish that I know some people love…but it’s glossy screens all the way for me personally 
Battery life clocks in at a respectable 6-7 hours under typical usage – this could probably be extended by switching wifi/bluetooth/brightness etc.
Overall this is another great machine, ideal for business or even a home PC for a family, and a good option if you are looking for a new laptop to send off with the kids to Uni or college this September.
