Is the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 — Intel Core i5-1235U Worth It in 2026?
Quick Verdict:
Maybe—if you need a budget laptop with upgradeable memory, but be cautious of its limitations.
Is Dell Inspiron 15 3520 — Intel Core i5-1235U worth it? Is the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 — Intel Core i5-1235U worth it in 2026? This laptop targets budget-conscious consumers, offering a decent performance for everyday tasks. However, while it boasts some appealing specs, the overall quality and limitations may make some buyers reconsider their investment. PageBen is here to help you determine if this laptop meets your needs without overspending.
💰 Is the Price Justified?
At a budget tier, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 presents a compelling price-to-performance ratio, especially with its Intel Core i5-1235U processor. This CPU, with 10 cores and speeds up to 4.4 GHz, is suitable for standard productivity tasks and light multitasking. Given the current market in 2026, many laptops in this price range fall short on performance, making the Inspiron a reasonable investment for basic usage. However, potential buyers should compare its specs against competitors offering similar or enhanced features at a comparable price.
The 16GB RAM option is a significant advantage, particularly since it is upgradeable via two SODIMM slots. This feature allows users to extend the laptop's lifespan by increasing memory as needed, a rarity among budget laptops. In contrast, many competitors in the same price bracket offer soldered RAM, which cannot be upgraded, thus limiting future usability. The 512GB SSD provides adequate storage for average users, but those requiring more space may find themselves needing to invest further into external solutions.
One of the standout features of this laptop is its 120Hz refresh rate, which enhances everyday use with smoother scrolling and better overall responsiveness compared to the usual 60Hz displays in budget models. This makes the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 particularly appealing for casual gamers and media consumers. However, its 250 nits brightness and limited color gamut (45% NTSC) may disappoint those seeking a vibrant display for media consumption or creative work, impacting its overall value proposition.
In terms of connectivity, the laptop includes multiple USB-A ports and an HDMI 1.4 port, but it notably lacks a USB-C port in most configurations, which could limit connectivity options for newer devices. This absence may deter some users who rely on modern peripherals. Overall, while the price may seem justified for basic tasks, buyers should weigh the trade-offs carefully against their specific needs and potential future requirements.
✓ 3 Reasons to Buy
1. Upgradeable Memory
One of the key benefits of the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is its upgradeable memory. With two SODIMM slots, users can easily enhance the RAM from 8GB to 16GB or even 32GB unofficially. This flexibility allows for improved multitasking and future-proofing, making it an attractive option for students or professionals who may need more power later on. The ability to upgrade is particularly valuable in a budget laptop, where fixed memory options can lead to premature obsolescence.
Additionally, upgrading RAM can significantly enhance performance in memory-intensive tasks, such as running virtual machines or handling large datasets. This benefit sets the Inspiron apart from competitors that often come with soldered RAM, limiting their upgrade potential and lifespan.
2. High Refresh Rate Display
The 120Hz refresh rate is a standout feature for the Inspiron 15 3520, providing a smoother experience during everyday tasks and casual gaming. This higher refresh rate enhances scrolling, transitions, and overall responsiveness compared to the standard 60Hz displays typically found in budget laptops. For users who enjoy light gaming or multimedia consumption, this feature can make a noticeable difference, improving the overall user experience.
However, potential buyers should be aware that the display's brightness and color accuracy may not meet the expectations of those who prioritize graphic fidelity or photography. Despite these limitations, the 120Hz refresh rate can still offer a significant boost in usability, especially for users who spend a lot of time on their laptops for browsing or streaming.
3. Decent Port Selection
The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 features a decent port selection, including three USB-A ports and an HDMI output. This variety allows users to connect multiple peripherals, such as external drives, mice, and monitors, catering to diverse needs without requiring additional adapters. The presence of an HDMI 1.4 output facilitates easy connection to external displays, although it's limited to 1080p at 60Hz. This setup is ideal for users who may wish to extend their workspace or enjoy media on larger screens.
Moreover, the inclusion of a full-size SD card slot enhances its versatility, especially for photographers and videographers who need to transfer files quickly. While the absence of a USB-C port in many configurations is a drawback, the overall connectivity options still provide sufficient flexibility for most users.
✗ Reasons to Skip It
Limited Display Quality
One major drawback of the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is its display quality. While the 15.6-inch FHD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate is an attractive specification, the 250 nits brightness coupled with a 45% NTSC color gamut results in a washed-out viewing experience. For users who require accurate color representation for photo editing or graphic design, this laptop falls short. The limited brightness can also hinder visibility in well-lit environments, affecting usability for those who work outdoors or in bright offices.
Consequently, creative professionals or those who consume a lot of visual media may find this laptop inadequate for their needs. The display's deficiencies may lead to frustration for users who seek vibrant, true-to-life colors in their daily usage.
Lack of USB-C and Limited HDMI
Another significant limitation is the absence of a USB-C port in most retail configurations. USB-C has become a standard for many modern devices, and its lack can limit connectivity options, particularly for users with newer peripherals that utilize this interface. This limitation can create inconvenience, requiring additional adapters or dongles for basic tasks, which can detract from the overall user experience.
Additionally, the HDMI 1.4 port restricts output to 1080p at 60Hz, which is not ideal for users looking to connect to 4K displays or higher refresh rates. This can be a dealbreaker for gamers or professionals who require advanced display capabilities, making the laptop less versatile in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Technical Analysis
Key Specs at a Glance
The Intel Core i5-1235U processor offers decent performance suited for everyday tasks, featuring 10 cores that can handle multitasking efficiently. Its maximum clock speed of 4.4 GHz allows it to perform well under load, making it a viable choice for students or professionals in need of a reliable work machine. However, when compared to newer processors, it may not keep pace with more demanding applications or advanced gaming needs.
For graphics, the Intel Iris Xe Graphics provides acceptable performance for casual gaming and video playback. However, it's important to note that performance may diminish unless dual-channel RAM is utilized, as integrated graphics benefit significantly from increased memory bandwidth. This limitation could affect users who intend to use the laptop for any graphically intensive tasks.
The 16GB RAM option is a highlight, allowing for an upgrade path that is not commonly found in budget laptops. Many competitors in 2026 have fixed memory options, limiting their future viability as software demands increase. The 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD is also a strong feature, offering fast boot times and sufficient storage for most users, but those needing additional storage will have to consider upgrades.
The display is a mixed bag; while the 15.6-inch FHD resolution provides clear visuals, the 120Hz refresh rate is a significant advantage for smoother scrolling and general use. However, with a brightness level of only 250 nits and a color gamut of 45% NTSC, colors may appear washed out, which can be a dealbreaker for users focused on media editing or vibrant content consumption.
Battery life is another crucial aspect for users on the go. With a 41 Wh or 54 Wh battery option depending on configuration, the Inspiron 15 3520 should provide decent longevity for typical tasks. However, those who plan to use it for extended periods away from a power source may need to consider the heavy lifting required for intensive applications, as this could lead to quicker battery drain.
Compare with similar options:
Who Is This For?
The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 is best suited for students, office workers, or casual users who need a reliable laptop for everyday tasks such as word processing, web browsing, and video streaming. With 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, it provides ample performance for these applications, along with the upgradeability that can extend its lifespan as user needs evolve.
However, it may not be ideal for gamers or creative professionals who require high-performance graphics and superior display quality. The Intel Iris Xe Graphics and limited color gamut make it less suitable for demanding visual tasks, while the absence of a USB-C port may hinder connectivity with modern devices, impacting usability for tech-savvy users.
Final Decision: Should You Buy It?
✓ Buy if:
- •You need a budget-friendly laptop for everyday tasks and basic multitasking.
- •You value upgradeable RAM for future-proofing your device.
- •You prefer a laptop with a high refresh rate for smoother everyday use.
✗ Skip if:
- •You require a laptop for creative work that demands high display quality.
- •You need modern connectivity options like USB-C for newer peripherals.
In conclusion, the Dell Inspiron 15 3520 — Intel Core i5-1235U offers a reliable fit for budget-conscious users seeking a standard laptop for everyday tasks. However, its limitations in display quality and connectivity may not justify the investment for everyone. For the best current price and further insights, check PageBen before making your purchase decision.