Dell Inspiron 15 3520 vs MSI Pulse GL66

The MSI Pulse GL66 offers better gaming and 3D performance than the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 largely due to its superior Nvidia RTX 3070 graphics unit and a higher screen refresh rate for smoother visuals; whereas the Dell model has a lower-end integrated GPU with a decent but lower refresh rate. Additionally, while both laptops have similar screen quality, the MSI's stronger CPU also contributes to its enhanced ability to handle gaming and 3D applications.

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520, with its Intel i3 processor and integrated graphics, is capable for engineering but may struggle with design tasks that require more powerful hardware, whereas the MSI Pulse GL66, equipped with a high-performing Intel i7 processor and robust Nvidia RTX 3070 graphics card, is well-suited for both engineering simulations and graphics-intensive design work. The Dell Inspiron offers better portability and operating noise management, but the MSI outshines it in terms of keyboard and speaker quality, both important aspects for extended use and multimedia tasks.

When choosing a laptop for general use, you'd want a screen that's pleasant to look at with clear images and text, which is where resolution and brightness matter most; both the Dell Inspiron and MSI Pulse might have screens that are sufficiently bright with adequate resolution. For engineering and design tasks, accurate color representation becomes crucial, and if neither laptop offers wide color gamuts, professionals might find the screens lacking for color-sensitive work. On the other hand, for immersive 3D experiences and smooth motion such as in gaming, a high refresh rate is essential, and if both laptops have lower refresh rates, they wouldn't be ideal for these activities despite acceptable resolution and panel types.

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.

The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is decent for general use, as it offers satisfactory performance with its Intel i3 processor and 8 GB of RAM, along with reasonable battery life and portability; however, its screen quality and speaker quality are not standout features. On the other hand, the MSI Pulse GL66 provides a more powerful performance with its Intel i7 processor and 16 GB of RAM, better keyboard and speaker quality, but it's less portable due to its higher weight and has shorter battery life, making it more suited for stationary use where its superior power and screen with higher refresh rate can be fully utilized.

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.