Dell M1330 Build Quality

For a student who will be carrying the laptop around in a bag everywhere:

how is the build quality and flex? I realize there is screen flex because of the led screen, but what about the rest of the machine? How is the battery life for the small battery? How is the screen?

 

It's moderate in build quality. It's a consumer laptop. So if you throw it on the table from your backpack, it'll die. But if you're gentle (which you should be regardless) it will be fine. The machine is fine. I don't know about battery life, read the review.

 

I got mine it has a couple ...Little blemishes a loose corner and my front area with the headset jacks isnt in place right and moves about a quarter inch out of place..definetly not worth sending it back or anything and even though it cost me about 2000 i still think its more then worth it

 

any other opinions?

 

Yes.....

First and foremost, it is an XPS system so you will find that it has a very different feel than the Inspiron. It isvery tight and well put together.

As for build quality, there have been issues recognized here on this site but, overall, I believe it to be he same as any other. The M1330 was the hottest laptop available from even before its release so Dell may hve rushed it a bit.

Personally speaking, I have had 7 systems pass through me the biggest concern of which is was a small crack in a battery. Those that I have sold have had great reviews from the buyers.

EDIT: Again, as it is an XPS system...you need to also understand all that comes with it. From a very detailed operations manual to a complete diskset to the XPS binder and dustcloth to the XPS laptop case to the remote and earphones, I believe Dell has really put the best foot forward with this line.

I haven't even started discussing the 30 day system replacement policy if it arrives flawed or Dell Total Customer Satisfaction Commitment where you can get 100% of your money back if not satisfied or XPS personalized support... Its warranty also cannot be touched by other companies...

Yes, yes...I'm a very happy Dell guy.

Oh and did I mention how easy it is to move your system to 64Bit because of the available drivers at Dell and outside....

DOWNFALL.... They are now starting to outsource all telephone and online issues to other countries...not impressed.

 

does anyone else have opinions on the build quality as a daily carrier?

 

I take my M133O with me all over and, while I try to be gentle because it looks like it could use it, it's not a tin can by any stretch.

It's not built like the rock that the M121O was built like and the way the Latitudes are built, but I would say its built as least as well as any consumer-grade laptop out there (except maybe a Lenovo TP).

With Dell's name and the XPS logo, I am confident that it won't develop stupid problems, thoughm as Les said, that 3 year warranty (or 4, if you prefer) is a great investment.

 

It's nice. Even just the weight and size helps. I find myself picking it up from the corner while it's open, say to move it from the coffee table to my lap, and it's solid, absolutely no flex and easy to lift. Not true with my toshiba, but it was a 7 lb 15.4".

 

I'd say be very careful with it. Last week while opening it the left LCD hinge completely shattered into pieces and left all kinds of wires exposed and bent the media bar. I have no idea why this happened because I had no previous problems, but this thing is made of cheap plastic components. Wish I had taken pics, otherwise I'd start a new thread and say lookie at this!

Tech had to come out and replace the LCD bezel & back plate, palm rest and media bar.

 

I think I'll just wait for the Latitude E series. The durability should be much improved.