Dell XPS M1530: Product Review

The Dell XPS M1530 is no longer the newest Dell kid on the block, but if you're looking for a good deal, this may be the notebook computer for you.

In an appropriate ending to a "memorable" 2008, on New Year's Eve, my Toshiba P25 Satellite notebook computer gave up the ghost for good. While I really wasn't looking for a new laptop, I had to make a quick decision. After Googling a few phrases for "best notebook computer for graphic design," the Dell XPS line was suggested in forums more than a few times - after Apple, of course. Since I wasn't going the Apple route (all of my software is PC), for the first time, I turned to Dell.

Because Dell recently introduced a couple of new members to its XPS line, the XPS 1340 and 1640, and the buzz is already in the air for the upcoming Adamo, I found plenty of end-of-the-year incentives for purchasing one of the older XPS computers, as well as some additional coupons online.

Why I Chose the Dell XPS M1530

While Dell used to be "the" computer to have, there are many alternatives just as good or better these days. So, I suppose I could have chosen another brand. But the Dell XPS M1530 was my choice for some very specific reasons.

Lifespan/Price - I like to keep up with new technology so I don't want to spend so much on a notebook computer that I feel guilty if I keep it for less than 4 years. While the Dell XPS M1530 may not be the newest technology in 2009, it has more than enough speed and power to do what I need to do for a few years.

Features - I was able to go to the Dell site and build the XPS M1530 notebook that was appropriate for me. My computer as ordered included a 256MB NVIDIA® GeForce® 8600M GT video card, a memory of 4GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM at 667MHz (2 Dimms), Intel® Core 2 Duo Processor T8100 (2.1GHz/800Mhz FSB, 3MB Cache), and the High Resolution, glossy widescreen 15.4 inch LED LCD (1440x900) & 2.0 M. Sure, I could have gone even faster and better, but this will still be an upgrade from the 5 year-old Toshiba P25 Satellite. I debated over the solid state drive but chose to save my money. Unfortunately, I need a new desktop, too.

Battery Life - I also chose the 9 cell battery because I enjoy carrying my laptop around and reading blogs, online books, or working on correspondence. One of the items I had been most frustrated with on my Toshiba P25 Satellite was the extremely low battery life. Although I had been warned that a larger battery would increase the weight on my Dell XPS 1530 laptop, it turns out that the 9 cell battery weighs only a few ounces more. Hardly noticeable.

Dell XPS M1530 - Pros and Cons

Quick Delivery/Easy Setup - My Dell XPS M1530 arrived less than a week after I ordered it. The set-up was amazingly easy. I've heard the horror stories about Microsoft Vista but decided to leave it on my computer rather than switching back to XP. I loaded everything, including Photohop, Lightroom, Illustrator and their other Adobe friends, with no problem.

Quiet/Nice Screen - I was amazed at the quietness of the Dell XPS M1530. My Toshiba seemed always to put up a racket, especially in its later years. Not so with the Dell XPS. I was also worried about the size of the screen. Going from my 17 inch screen on the Toshiba to the 15 inch screen on the Dell M1530 was a concern. However, the LCD LED screen is beautiful and easily adjusted in brightness for both regular and battery use.

Keyboard Layout - I am having some trouble adjusting to the keyboard layout. Primarily, I find myself hunting for the "delete" key which is located in the upper right-hand corner on the Dell. It was easier for me to find and use on the lower right of the keyboard on my Toshiba. However, I understand from other Dell users that the location of the delete key on the XPS M1530 is typical for Dell. I'm sure I'll get used to it.

Speakers - One area of disappointment is the sound quality of the Dell speakers. Even voices come across a little "tinny". I didn't upgrade on this feature, so I wasn't expecting home theatre sound. However, the basic sound quality could and should be better for a computer in this category. If this bothers you, upgrade. If not, don't worry, it isn't a deal-breaker. Just don't expect much and you won't be disappointed.

Easy to Carry - The Dell XPS M1530 also is easy to carry - much easier than my large Toshiba P25. While I had visions of sitting in a coffee shop typing out the great American novel or doing design work on my Toshiba, it is something I rarely did. The Toshiba was heavy and the 17 inch screen and keyboard were so large that it dwarfed some cafe tables. Plus there was that battery life, too. I can defintely see my new Dell tagging along for an afternoon coffee break. And the 15 inch screen will allow me to do some design work without too much frustration at the lack of screen real estate.

Battery - Keep in mind, if you purchase the 9 cell battery, the keyboard/body of the Dell XPS M1530 will have a definite slant upwards toward the screen. Personally, I like this. But some people do not. You might seek out a similar model to see if you like typing on a slanted keyboard.

Speaking of the battery, it works beautifully and the extended time being cordless is something I will definitely enjoy. I have used the battery for more than three hours with battery life to spare. A very nice change from the Toshiba.

Dell XPS M1530: Final Recommendation

If you are in the market for a new notebook PC, don't need cutting edge technology, and want a good all-around PC that you can take along for your travels, you should definitely consider the Dell XPS M1530. This computer offers enough power to do most anything you'd want to do on a notebook, does it quietly, and has the battery life to keep working for awhile.

With current sales, coupons, and even free financing, you can purchase the Dell XPS 1530 with some bells and whistles for $1200 or less. A decent investment for the next three or four years.