1520 vs 1420

I am debating on whether to buy an Inspiron 1420 or 1520. Mobility is not much of an issue for me as I will primarily only be using this at home but I will take at least a couple of flights a year and my laptop will be with me. Which do you guys recommend for me, I know there are some subtle differences in the design of each such as the 1420 doesn't have latches to close the lid but instead a spring and that the weight difference is about a pound. Again I am just asking for some insight from you guys, thanks.

 

For me the 1520 is the perfect choice as it has the right screen resolution (well the best i'll get unless I go 17") and a more powerful video card option...

Other than those two, for me at least, I would be fine with a 1420...

 

I like the bigger size screen and its still portable.

 

Well, the 1420 is alright, if your not going to be playing much games that require too much power from the graphics card, and the screen size an another difference. Last time I checked you can bump up the screen resolution up to 1440x900, to make the screen seem a little bigger. not much differences at all.

 

Well, you have more options for customization on the 1520 such as Nvidia 8600 GT instead of the 8400 GS. If you're only taking it with you on a couple of flights and can withstand the weight of the laptop, I'll definitely go with the 1520.

 

This all comes down to what you'll be doing with your notebook. How often will you be carrying your notebook? If your carrying it alot with textbooks you'll benefit from the 1420's lighter weight.

 

how is the temperature of a T7500 C2D processor in the 1420 compared to the 1520? Is there any difference? The only gaming I might be doing would be Guitar Hero 3 (hooked up to an external monitor) otherwise that is no big issue (even though I am planning on getting at least the 8400 nVidia card). Thanks for your input guys.

btw..I kind of like the fact that the media buttons are under the lid when it is closed rather than them being uncovered and left in the "open" which they are in the 1520

 

The 1520 is better if you plan on doing some heavy gaming. Otherwise, the 1420 can handle lower-demanding games and it's more portable.

 

I can tell you that the 8400GS is not hooked up to a heatpipe. its got a heatsink next to the fan, getting air flow from the fan sucking air.

 

Go for a 1420 with the WXGA+ screen unless you need a 8600GT.

 

I say get the 1520

 

I have both here. I am sending the 1520 back. For me it is just to heavy on my lap and to be carting around the house. The 1420 is perfect weight and combo of screen for me. Not sure if it helps, I know staples is carrying Dell's now. I don't know which but maybe they have them in store for you to compare. I think its just a matter of opinion in your case, either one would suit your needs.

 

I have no regrets moving from a 15.4" Inspiron 6400 to a 14.1" Inspiron 1420. In my case, it wasn't so much the weight, but the actual size of the unit (i.e. less bulk)..... 1.3 inches actually makes a big difference.....

In the end, it comes down to graphics power vs portability.

If you get a chance, I would try to actually see both before making your final decision (e.g. at Dell kiosk or Staples).

-LQ

 

We no longer use the term laptop as these systems are not recommend to be placed on ones lap for general health, fertility and ergonomic reasons. The preferred term is Notebook which is derived from the way these systems look.

In notebooks, the smallest usable screen size one can opt for without affecting productivity is 13.3 inches. As notebooks are primarily designed for mobility, the largest screen size one can opt for is 15.4 inches.

Among Dell notebooks, I strongly recommend XPS M1330. If you insist on an Inspiron, I would recommend Inspiron 1420.

 

Does the 1520 have any added bulk like height, or just length/width? Basically is it fatter? I will be ordering an inspiron very soon and while I wont be doing intensive gaming, I will be watching movies and possibly playing older games. Portability isnt really an issue for me. I will be taking it places, but not everywhere I go.

 

any advice?

 

Obviously, having a bigger display, 1520s dimension and weight will be more.

 

Get the 1420 if you think you will carry it everyday and don't want smallish screen. I moved from 15.4" to 12.1" and found 14.1" is the best size and weight.