Dell Inspiron 15 3520 vs Dell Precision 5470

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 offers average performance for general use with its Intel i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a decent display, but its battery life and screen quality are just adequate, which aligns with its fair categorization for general use.

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is equipped with an integrated Intel graphics card, which generally offers modest performance for gaming and 3D applications, and a higher screen refresh rate that can make gameplay smoother. Conversely, the Dell Precision 5470 features a dedicated Nvidia graphics card, which provides significantly better performance for gaming and 3D-intensive tasks but has a lower refresh rate that may affect motion fluidity in fast-paced games.

The Dell Precision 5470 outshines the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 for engineering and design largely due to its superior main processor and graphics unit, which are crucial for intensive tasks, along with double the RAM and a brighter, higher resolution screen that benefits detailed work. While the Inspiron offers a larger screen and good portability, the Precision's additional RAM, professional-grade GPU, and higher quality display panel provide the performance and clarity needed for complex engineering software, even if it comes with a slightly higher weight.

PerfectRec’s Content Creation Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for photo editing, video editing and other content creation tasks.

PerfectRec’s Software Development Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for software developers.

For general use, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520's screen might not be as sharp or vivid due to its resolution and brightness levels not matching higher-end screens, while the Dell Precision 5470's superior panel type, higher resolution, and greater brightness offer a clearer and more comfortable viewing experience. For engineering and design tasks, the Precision 5470's display covers a wider color gamut, providing more accurate colors which are crucial for detail-oriented work, unlike the Inspiron 15 3520 which may fall short in color accuracy and range. Gamers and professionals working with 3D graphics will find both laptops underwhelming as their screens do not have the high refresh rates needed for smooth motion, although the higher resolution of the Precision 5470 still provides a moderate advantage in clarity and detail.

Battery life estimate is based on a mix of common use patterns. More portable and higher performing laptops tend to have less battery life.

PerfectRec’s Build Quality Score incorporates case materials, display and keyboard flex, hinge quality, and overall reliability.