Unleash the Power of Gaming with the 2017 Dell Inspiron 7000 Gaming Laptop

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Hardware Overview
   • Processor and RAM
   • Graphics
   • Storage
   • Display
   • Keyboard and Trackpad
3. Design and Build Quality
4. Battery Life
5. Upgradability
6. Gaming Performance
   • Grand Theft Auto V
   • Rocket League
   • Doom
   • Street Fighter V
7. Sound Quality
8. Other Features
9. Pros and Cons
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In this review, we will be taking a closer look at the Dell Inspiron 7000 gaming laptop for 2017. Priced at $799, this laptop promises to pack in a lot of performance for a budget-friendly price. We will explore all its features and capabilities in this comprehensive review.

Hardware Overview

The Dell Inspiron 7000 is designed to provide maximum performance while keeping costs low. Let's take a closer look at its hardware specifications.

Processor and RAM

Powered by an Intel Core i5 quad-core processor (i5-7300HQ) and 8GB of DDR4 RAM, the Inspiron 7000 offers a good balance of gaming performance and multitasking capabilities. The processor can be upgraded to an i7, and the RAM can be expanded up to 32GB for users who require more power.

Graphics

The laptop features an NVIDIA GTX 1050 graphics card with 4GB of GDDR5 memory. This discrete GPU provides better gaming performance compared to laptops without a dedicated graphics card. While it may not match the performance of higher-end GPUs, it still delivers solid entry-level gaming performance.

Storage

The Inspiron 7000 comes with a 1TB HDD with an additional solid-state component for faster performance. While not as fast as a true SSD, this hybrid storage solution offers quicker boot times and faster access to frequently used files.

Display

One area where the Inspiron 7000 falls short is its display. Unlike its predecessor, which had a high-quality IPS display, the 2017 model features a TN display. Although it offers decent image quality when viewed dead center, the quality quickly degrades as you change viewing angles. This makes it less suitable for tasks such as photo and video editing.

Keyboard and Trackpad

The laptop features a backlit keyboard with a red glow, making it suitable for gaming. The WASD keys are outlined to differentiate them from the rest. The trackpad, while accurate, may be limited in precision for gaming, so it's recommended to use a dedicated gaming mouse for better accuracy.

Design and Build Quality

The Dell Inspiron 7000 has a bulky design, weighing in at around 5.76 pounds (2.62 kilograms). While it may not be the most portable laptop, the larger form factor allows for better cooling and larger speakers. The casing is sturdy and well-built, considering its price point.

Battery Life

The laptop's battery life is moderate, lasting around 5 to 6 hours under normal usage. However, when gaming, the battery drains quickly, providing only 2 to 3 hours of gameplay. It's advisable to keep the laptop plugged in while gaming to ensure uninterrupted performance.

Upgradability

The Inspiron 7000 offers decent upgradability options. The bottom panel can be easily opened with a single screw, allowing for easy access to the internals. Users can upgrade the storage by adding an M.2 SATA drive or swap out the existing drive. RAM can also be upgraded up to 32GB, providing users with additional memory for demanding tasks.

It's important to note that the processor and GPU cannot be upgraded, so it's essential to choose the base configuration that meets your needs before making any changes.

Gaming Performance

One of the key selling points of the Dell Inspiron 7000 is its gaming performance. Let's take a closer look at how it performs in popular games.

Grand Theft Auto V

Running Grand Theft Auto V at recommended settings, the laptop manages to achieve around 45 frames per Second (fps) on average. While higher frame rates can be achieved in less demanding scenes, it's clear that the GTX 1050 is capable of delivering a smooth gaming experience. Adjusting the settings can help improve performance further.

Rocket League

Rocket League runs exceptionally well on the Inspiron 7000. With all settings maxed out, the laptop consistently achieves 96 to 100 fps, providing a fast and responsive gaming experience. This Game showcases the capabilities of the laptop, making it an excellent choice for competitive gaming.

Doom

Doom performs impressively on the Dell Inspiron 7000, even at higher graphics settings. With recommended settings, the laptop achieves a consistent 67 to 70 fps, making the game highly enjoyable. This performance is a significant improvement over the previous model, thanks to the GTX 1050 GPU.

Street Fighter V

Street Fighter V runs flawlessly on the Inspiron 7000. With all settings maxed out at 1080p, a solid 60 fps is maintained throughout gameplay. Fighting games like Street Fighter V rely more on CPU performance, and the laptop handles it effortlessly.

Sound Quality

The Dell Inspiron 7000 features front-facing speakers with an onboard subwoofer. While the subwoofer doesn't deliver booming sound, it provides a decent audio experience. The larger casing allows for more substantial speakers, resulting in better sound quality. However, for the best audio experience, using a good pair of headphones is recommended.

Other Features

The laptop offers a range of connectivity options, including three USB 3.0 ports, a full-size HDMI output, a Gigabit Ethernet jack, and a combo headphone/microphone jack. However, it lacks the newer USB Type-C and Thunderbolt ports. It also includes a Kensington lock for added security.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Great gaming performance for the price
• Upgradable storage and RAM
• Sturdy build quality
• Front-facing speakers with decent sound
• Affordable

Cons:

• Mediocre TN display with limited viewing angles
• Bulky and heavy design
• Average battery life
• Lack of USB Type-C and Thunderbolt ports

Conclusion

The Dell Inspiron 7000 gaming laptop offers impressive gaming performance at an affordable price. While it has its shortcomings, such as the TN display and average battery life, the laptop delivers where it matters most for gamers on a budget. With upgradability options and a solid build quality, it provides a good value proposition for those seeking a portable gaming machine without breaking the bank.

Overall, the Dell Inspiron 7000 is recommended for budget-conscious gamers who want a capable laptop that can handle demanding games without compromising their bank accounts.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Please generate a few FAQ Q&A at the end.

Q: Can the Dell Inspiron 7000's processor be upgraded? A: No, the processor cannot be upgraded. It's essential to choose the desired processor configuration before purchasing.

Q: Can the laptop's RAM be expanded? A: Yes, the RAM can be upgraded up to 32GB, providing ample memory for multitasking and demanding applications.

Q: Does the Dell Inspiron 7000 have USB Type-C or Thunderbolt ports? A: No, the laptop lacks USB Type-C and Thunderbolt ports. It features three USB 3.0 ports instead.

Q: Is the laptop suitable for photo and video editing? A: While it can handle basic editing tasks, the mediocre TN display may limit the accuracy and clarity required for professional-level work.

Q: Can the keyboard and trackpad be customized for gaming? A: While the keyboard features a red backlight and the WASD keys are outlined, customization options are limited. It's recommended to use a dedicated gaming mouse for better accuracy.

Q: How does the Dell Inspiron 7000 compare to other laptops in the $800 price range? A: The Dell Inspiron 7000 offers excellent gaming performance for its price range. However, there may be other laptops worth considering, and suggestions are welcomed for further reviews.

Resources:

Dell Inspiron 7000 Gaming Laptop: link