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Updated March 22, 2024·
When comparing the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 with the Lenovo ThinkPad X13, consider that the Inspiron typically offers more affordable pricing with decent everyday performance, which can be perfect for general tasks like web browsing, office work, and media consumption. However, the ThinkPad X13 usually provides a more robust build quality, better security features, and often superior keyboard comfort, making it a strong contender for business professionals and those who require a durable, reliable machine. The X13 also tends to have better portability due to its smaller size and weight, making it easier to carry around. If your work involves travel or if you prioritize a solid, compact design and are willing to invest more, the ThinkPad could be the better choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for a cost-effective option for general use and prefer a larger screen, the Inspiron might be more suitable. Give Feedback
this description is based on the product variant with some specs and product variant with some specs. At the time of writing, the variant with some specs cost some dollars and the variant with some specs cost some dollars.
Advantages of the Dell Inspiron 15 3525
- The Dell Inspiron 15 3525 has no clear advantages over the Lenovo ThinkPad X13.
Advantages of the Lenovo ThinkPad X13
- Very good for general use
- Very good for engineering and design
- Very good for software development
- Very good for content creation
- Very good overall build quality
- Very good portability
- Good speakers
- Excellent keyboard
Key differences
General Use
7.0
8.4
1920 x 1080
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1200
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
259.0 nits
DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS
321.0 nits
6.5 Hours
BATTERY LIFE
8.5 Hours
6.5/10
KEYBOARD QUALITY SCORE
9.0/10
7.7/10
PORTABILITY SCORE
8.9/10
The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 is very good for general use, while the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 is good.
The Dell Inspiron 15 3525 offers sufficient CPU power and RAM for everyday tasks, along with decent screen quality and battery life, but the Lenovo ThinkPad X13 excels with a more powerful CPU, higher RAM capacity, superior screen, lighter weight for better portability, and longer battery life, making it a standout choice for those who prioritize performance and mobility despite its potentially higher cost. The ThinkPad also benefits from a durable build and typically well-regarded keyboard, which are bonuses for heavy users and frequent travelers, though the Dell may still appeal for its balance of features to price ratio.
Gaming and AI
6.0
6.7
3.6/10
OVERALL GPU SCORE
4.0/10
1920 x 1080
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1200
60Hz
REFRESH RATE
60Hz
No
SUPPORTS DLSS
No
No
MUX SWITCH / ADVANCED OPTIMUS
No
7.5/10
FAN NOISE SCORE
7.5/10
The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 and Dell Inspiron 15 3525 are both only fair for gaming and AI, though the Lenovo ThinkPad X13 is somewhat better.
The Dell Inspiron 15 3525 has a GPU that will handle games and 3D tasks adequately, but its screen refresh rate isn't the highest, which may affect fast-paced visuals, while the Lenovo ThinkPad X13, although also providing decent gaming and 3D performance thanks to its GPU, offers a more robust build quality and generally superior screen, but may fall short for enthusiasts seeking the smoothest gaming experience. Both laptops have processors that are capable for general use, but won't be the top choice for those needing the most power for demanding software or multitasking.
Engineering and Design
6.4
8.0
5.8/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
8.8/10
3.6/10
OVERALL GPU SCORE
4.0/10
8.0 GB
RAM
32.0 GB
The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 is very good for engineering and design, while the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 is only fair.
The Dell Inspiron 15 3525, while suitable for basic engineering and design tasks, may lack the more powerful CPU, high RAM capacity, and advanced GPU necessary for complex projects, and could also have a less vibrant screen, whereas the Lenovo ThinkPad X13 likely offers better performance and display for demanding software, but might also be more portable with a more responsive keyboard, all contributing to a potential increase in price and higher quality experience. While both laptops can handle engineering and design work, the ThinkPad's enhanced capabilities make it a preferred choice for more intensive use, but it's important to consider the tradeoffs in terms of cost and needs.
Content Creation
7.1
8.2
5.8/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
8.8/10
1920 x 1080
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1200
8.0 GB
RAM
32.0 GB
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 is very good for content creation, while the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 is good.
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.
Software Development
6.9
8.1
5.8/10
OVERALL CPU SCORE
8.8/10
8.0 GB
RAM
32.0 GB
1920 x 1080
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1200
6.5/10
KEYBOARD QUALITY SCORE
9.0/10
The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 is very good for software development, while the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 is only fair.
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.
Screen Quality
6.3
6.9
15.6in
SIZE
13.3in
1920 x 1080
RESOLUTION
1920 x 1200
IPS
DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
IPS
60Hz
REFRESH RATE
60Hz
259.0 nits
BRIGHTNESS
321.0 nits
The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 has a better screen than the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 for general use, gaming and AI, engineering and design, content creation, and software development.
The Dell Inspiron's screen might not offer the sharpness and vibrancy needed for engineering tasks but suffices for everyday tasks like browsing and document editing. The Lenovo ThinkPad X13's higher resolution and brightness enhance detail and visibility, making it suitable for precise design work, though its modest color range may fall short of professional needs. Neither laptop, however, offers the high refresh rate crucial for smooth 3D gaming visuals, thus they perform poorly in gaming scenarios.
Battery
6.5 Hours
8.5 Hours
The Dell Inspiron 15 3525 has 6.5 hours of battery life. The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 has 8.5 hours of battery life.
Battery life estimate is based on a mix of common use patterns. More portable and higher performing laptops tend to have less battery life.
Portability
Good
Very Good
15.6in
SIZE
13.3in
3.7 lbs
WEIGHT
2.8 lbs
0.7in
THICKNESS
0.6in
The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 has very good portability, while the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 has good portability.
The most portable laptops are small, thin, and light.
Build Quality
6.2
8.5
The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 has very good build quality, while the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 has only fair build quality.
PerfectRec’s Build Quality Score incorporates case materials, display and keyboard flex, hinge quality, and overall reliability.
Cost
$400
$1,459
$0
$500
$1,000
$1,500
$2,000
$2,500
The Dell Inspiron 15 3525 has a price of $400 and the Lenovo ThinkPad X13 costs $1,459.
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How the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 and the Lenovo ThinkPad X13 compare to other laptops
Spec Comparison
 |  | |
| Dell Inspiron 15 3525 | Lenovo ThinkPad X13 |
GENERAL | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | |||
$400 | $1,459 | ||
Release Date | |||
Release Date | March 1, 2022 | September 1, 2023 | |
Overall Dimensions | |||
Overall Dimensions | 14.1'' x 9.3'' x 0.75'' | 11.9'' x 8.5'' x 0.63'' | |
Weight | |||
Weight | 3.71 lbs | 2.87 lbs | |
Width | |||
Width | 14.11" | 11.88" | |
Depth | |||
Depth | 9.27" | 8.46" | |
INTERNAL | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Processor | |||
Processor | AMD Ryzen 5 5625U | AMD Ryzen 7 7840U | |
RAM | |||
RAM | 8 GB | 32 GB | |
DDR Memory Version | |||
DDR Memory Version | 4 | 5 | |
RAM Slots | |||
RAM Slots | 2 | 0 | |
Storage | |||
Storage | 512 GB | 1024 GB | |
BATTERY | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Battery Life | |||
Battery Life | 6.5 Hours | 8.5 Hours | |
Battery Capacity | |||
Battery Capacity | 41 Wh | 41 Wh | |
SCREEN | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Diagonal Size | |||
Diagonal Size | 15.6" | 13.3" | |
Display Technology | |||
Display Technology | IPS | IPS | |
Resolution | |||
Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 1920 x 1200 | |
Refresh Rate | |||
Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | |
Display Brightness | |||
Display Brightness | 259 nits | 321 nits | |
RELIABILITY, APPEARANCE & ACOUSTICS | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Build Quality Score | |||
Build Quality Score | 6.3/10 | 8.5/10 | |
Portability Score | |||
Portability Score | 7.8/10 | 8.9/10 | |
Gaming Laptop Appearance | |||
Gaming Laptop Appearance | No | No | |
Premium Business Laptop | |||
Premium Business Laptop | No | Yes | |
Fan Noise Score | |||
Fan Noise Score | 7.5/10 | 7.5/10 | |
HARDWARE FEATURES | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Keyboard Quality Score | |||
Keyboard Quality Score | 6.5/10 | 9/10 | |
Speaker Quality Score | |||
Speaker Quality Score | 6.5/10 | 7.5/10 | |
Webcam | |||
Webcam | 720p | 1440p | |
Fingerprint Reader | |||
Fingerprint Reader | No | Yes | |
Backlit Keyboard | |||
Backlit Keyboard | No | Yes | |
Number Pad | |||
Number Pad | Yes | No | |
CONNECTIVITY | |||
|---|---|---|---|
USB Type-A | |||
USB Type-A | 2 | 2 | |
USB-C ports | |||
USB-C ports | 1 | 2 | |
USB-C Charging | |||
USB-C Charging | No | Yes | |
Display Outputs | |||
Display Outputs | 1 | 3 | |
Thunderbolt Ports | |||
Thunderbolt Ports | 0 | 0 | |
Shopping
Dell Inspiron 15 3525
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Dig into reviews and images
PCMag
Mark Knapp | January 2023
"Dell's Inspiron 15 (3525) is a peppy-enough and affordable-enough home or remote work machine, but it's not very ambitious; it does little to go beyond the basics. More the concern: It’s readily overshadowed by a number of machines that outperform and outclass it. Even if the Inspiron can get the job done today, its competition has the mettle to keep doing the job tomorrow in a way the Inspiron simply can’t promise. Many of its slightly higher-end rivals have to be on sale (and frequently are) to match it on price, but the Inspiron 15 (3525) is outclassed even by some similarly priced options, making it a difficult recommendation."
Lenovo ThinkPad X13
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Dig into reviews and images
NotebookCheck
Benjamin Herzig | September 2023
"The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 G4 has very good input devices, a wide array of security features and ports as well as 5G in the tested configuration. It is more compact and lightweight compared with its predecessor, and it has improved speakers and a slightly better webcam. On the other hand, the fan is more annoying and the performance is barely improved. The battery is worse as well, but this is primarily attributable to the OLED screen - if this aspect is important, buyers should choose the IPS Low Power LCD."
Get a great deal on the Dell Inspiron 15 3525 or the Lenovo ThinkPad X13
About Dell
Dell is a highly recognizable American technology company, and is one of the largest personal computer vendor by market share. Their laptops are very popular for both personal and professional use, and they also own the Alienware brand which makes mid to high end gaming laptops. Their premium XPS range of laptops offer great build quality and portability, while Latitude and Precision laptops are known for reliability, repairability and performance for business users.
About Lenovo
Lenovo is a Chinese technology company, and one of the largest personal computer vendor. They are well known for a variety of technology products, including laptops. Their consumer series include their entry level IdeaPad and LOQ series and mid-to-high-end Yoga and Legion series. On the business-oriented side, their series include their entry-level ThinkBook series and mid-to-high-end ThinkPad series. Lenovo laptops offer strong performance for reasonable prices, and are often on sale.
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