Dell Inspiron 13z for college

CiaraBelle

I'm looking for a laptop as I'm starting college this year and so far this one has caught my eye:
http://ireland.dell.com/ie/en/home/Laptops/inspiron-13z/pd.aspx?refid=inspiron-13z&s=dhs&cs=iedhs1&~ck=mn

My main concern is that a 13" screen will be too small to work on, but at the same time a bigger laptop would be more awkward to carry around with me.

Apart from that it seems like a pretty decent laptop for its size and I've read mainly positive reviews. Any thoughts on whether a 15" screen would make a difference though? Or any other recommendations?

One thing, I do want something slim and a bit stylish (well, just not ugly...)

Any thoughts would be appreciated...

Voodu Child

Personally I prefer a 14" or 15" screen, if the laptop was going to be used for long periods. Its just more comfortable on the eyes.

Also bear in mind that most laptops nowadays use 16:9 screens, whereas in the past 16:10 was the standard aspect. So actually these new 13.3" screens (such as the one on the Dell you linked) are about the same height as the old 12.1" screens. Quite small to be honest.

CiaraBelle

Yeah, I'm leaning towards the 15z now, integrated webcam might tip me over

To be honest I haven't seen any 14" screens at all - recommendations?

Tipsygypsy

13z has an integrated webcam. I've recently ordered one. Seemed perfect for me. Didnt want anything to big, but wanted to still have decent functionality. Will let you know how what I think when Ive actually got my hands on it.

CiaraBelle

Tipsygypsy wrote: »

13z has an integrated webcam.

Looked again, so it does, my mistake thanks - guess I'm back to square one...

I'd appreciate hearing what you think when it arrives, thanks

Triangle

Depends on what you plan on using it for.

Personally, if i was going to code/word process then i'd definately go for the 15. The extra size makes a huge difference.

The 13z is a little too small to work long hours with imo.

Sugarglass

Hey, I got this laptop about 2 weeks ago, also for college. I've had a 15' inch screen for the last 5 years and it was quite bulky so difficult to transport. I love this laptop it's much lighter and more neat. I've no problems with the screen size, and I use my laptop a lot so it is something that is important to me. I got the 8 cell battery instead of the standard which means that it is slightly raised at the back which there is no mention of on the site. I knew this going in and it doesn't bother me as it is at a better angle for typing and there is better ventilation when I'm sitting. Also the battery length is great, up to nine hours if I'm just typing and surfing, 4+ watching DVD's.

This is a good review site and it has photos of the laptop with the 8 cell battery, if you want to check it out.
http://www.notebookcheck.net/Review-Dell-Inspiron-13z-Notebook.22081.0.html

If you have any questions just ask.:)

CiaraBelle

Pretty much plan to do all my college work on it (which I imagine would involve mostly word processing), as well as internet, photos, just general everyday use...

I suppose in saying that it sounds like it might be a better option to go for the bigger screen.

Anybody here have a laptop they bring in and out of college (or work) and would change it if they could based on the size? I know I'm being specific but its a lot of money and I'll be keeping it for a while, so I want to be sure!

Triangle

Ciara,
In my office, we buy a small laptop for those that travel alot, but also get a docking station (or just a 19" screen) to plug it into while in the office.

Maybe the 13z is for you and if you find it's too small, just get a larger screen to plug it into.....

I was just playing devils advocate in the last post

CiaraBelle

Thanks Sugarglass, didn't see your post till I'd written mine...
Seems I'm a bit torn now between the two sizes, advantages and disadvantages to both I suppose!