Dell Inspiron 15 3525 vs Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5i

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5i outperforms the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 for general use, primarily due to its higher RAM, which facilitates better multitasking and overall smoother performance, and its brighter, higher resolution screen with a better aspect ratio that improves viewing experience and productivity. Additionally, the IdeaPad Slim 5i has a longer battery life, enhancing its portability, despite it being slightly heavier than the Inspiron, which may affect its ease of transport.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5i is deemed better for engineering and design due to its stronger CPU, double the RAM for more efficient multitasking, and a superior GPU for better graphics and rendering performance, along with a higher resolution screen which allows for clearer and more detailed visuals. The Dell Inspiron 15 3525, while offering a solid CPU and GPU for basic engineering tasks, has less RAM which may slow down performance with complex projects, and the screen quality, although good, is lower in resolution compared to the Lenovo.

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.

When choosing between the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 and the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5i for general use, both laptops have screens that are adequate thanks to their satisfactory resolution and brightness, although higher-end models might offer sharper images and better visibility. For engineering and design work, neither laptop excels due to limited color coverage, which can be critical for precision in color replication. In terms of gaming and 3D applications, both are less suited because their screens have lower refresh rates, which can result in less fluid motion and responsiveness, while their resolution and panel types are acceptable but not optimized for high-end gaming experiences.

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.

PerfectRec’s Gaming and AI Score strongly emphasizes graphics processing capability, while also taking into account other factors that impact suitability for gaming and AI work.

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.