Dell Inspiron 15 3530 vs Lenovo Slim Pro 9i

The Lenovo Slim Pro 9i is rated very good for general use because it boasts a higher quality screen, more power with an i7 processor, more RAM, and greater storage capacity compared to the Dell Inspiron 15 3530, which, while offering an i5 processor, sufficient RAM and storage for basic tasks, has a lower-resolution standard IPS screen. Additionally, the Slim Pro 9i's superior portability with similar weight but smaller dimensions and a higher battery capacity makes it more convenient for on-the-go users despite its higher price.

The Lenovo Slim Pro 9i surpasses the Dell Inspiron 15 3530 in gaming and 3D performance primarily due to its more powerful Nvidia RTX 4050 graphics card and higher screen refresh rate of 165Hz, compared to the Dell's integrated Intel Iris Xe GPU and 120Hz refresh rate. Additionally, the Lenovo's higher screen quality with Mini LED and greater resolution enhances visual experience, while its superior CPU also contributes to overall better performance for gaming and 3D applications.

The Dell Inspiron 15 3530 offers a decent setup for engineering and design with an Intel i5 processor, integrated graphics, and a good amount of memory, but it's overshadowed by the Lenovo Slim Pro 9i which has a superior Intel i7 processor, dedicated Nvidia graphics, and double the memory, delivering exceptional performance for demanding applications. While both laptops have good screen quality, the Lenovo stands out with its higher resolution Mini LED display, offering better clarity and color accuracy for intricate design work, although it may be slightly heavier impacting its portability compared to the lighter Dell Inspiron.

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.

The Dell Inspiron 15 3530 is suitable for general tasks, given its adequate resolution and brightness, but its fair-quality display may fall short for detailed engineering work due to less-than-ideal color coverage. The Lenovo Slim Pro 9i excels in both general use and engineering with its superior display offering high resolution, exceptional brightness, and wide color gamut, ensuring vivid and accurate color reproduction critical for design accuracy. However, for gaming and 3D applications, both laptops' screens fall behind due to lower refresh rates, meaning they won't provide the smooth visuals preferred in fast-paced interactive environments.

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

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