The Dell Studio Series of laptops are definitely for the stylish, mobile user who needs power on the go. The models range in size from 15inch to 17inch diagonal and come in a variety of colors and configurations. Almost at the level of a desktop replacement, Dell Studios pack a punch.
After loading up Office, Photoshop CS3, and Adobe Flash CS3, we found no obvious loss when booting up or opening up any of the typically heavy applications. Photoshop takes about 5-7 seconds to completely load, even while watching a 10 minute youtube video, without so much of a hiccup. As it is still early in the game, so far I cannot see any performance issues with the new Studio.
The Dell Studio that we tested was a 64bit system( the only type that will recognize the 4GB of RAM installed) with Windows Vista Service Pack 1. This service pack is also another determining factor as to whether Windows will even recognize that it has 4 GB of RAM installed. That being said, once you have the latest patches(Windows updates) installed, you will be well on your way to happy computing.
The integrated wireless adapter was easily configured and installed. The webcam is also a great performer, though we could have done without the Dell Webcam app.
The molded touch pad seamlessly blends with the alloy palm rest, and is sensitive to light touches. The included scroll capability of the touch pad is a nice addition. The keyboard could handle my chubby fingertips with ease, though some button rearranging takes getting used to. As a programmer, this was noticeable early on. However, a minor sacrifice for the full size keyboard.
Over all while we have just begun to touch the surface, we were for the most part very pleased with the overall performance of the Dell Studio laptops.
| Processor |
Intel® Core 2Duo |
| Operating System |
Windows Vista Ultimate |
| Memory |
Up to 4GB DDR2 SDRAM |
| Hard Drive |
320 GB Up to 640GB 5400 RPM SATA Hard Drives |
| Graphics |
Discrete Grahic Card: 256MB ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3650 |
| LCD Display |
High Resolution glossy LED widescreen 17 inch, 1440 x900 |
| Audio + Speakers |
Integrated Audio |
| Optical Drives |
6x Slot Load Blu-ray CD/DVD Combo Drive |
| Camera |
Built in Webcam (2.0 MP) |
| Wireless |
Dell Wireless Half Mini Card
Sprint or Verizon Mobile Broadband Built In |
| Connectivity |
Gigabit Ethernet |
| Bluetooth |
Bluetooth® Internal (2.0) mini-card |
| Ports Slots |
4 USB,HDMI Connector, VGA Video Connector
|
| Dimensions + Weight |
15.46 x1.18 x 11.36 inches
7.88 pounds (varies with Battery Options)
|
