Dell Inspiron 530 Mainstream Desktop PC

The Bottom Line
Dell's Inspiron 530 desktop is a very flexible system that can be configured as a low cost budget system or as a mainstream system. In terms of those looking for a moderately priced performance system, it has potentional for those willing to go through the process of customization and parts selection to get it configured just right.
Pros

* Strong Dual Core Processor
* Decent Dedicated 3D Graphics Card
* Includes 19" Monitor and Speakers

Cons

* FireWire Ports Not Standard
* Requires Users To Really Customize Part Selections

Description

* Intel Core 2 Duo E6550 Dual Core Desktop Processor
* 2GB PC2-5300 DDR2 Memory
* 320GB 7200rpm SATA Hard Drive
* 16x DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Burner
* NVIDIA GeForce 8600 GT Graphics with 256MB Memory
* Dell SE198WFP 19" Widescreen LCD Monitor
* Intel HDA Audio with 30W 2.1 Dell Speakers
* v.92 56Kbps Modem and 10/100 Ethernet
* Eight USB 2.0 Ports, 13-in-1 Media Card Reader
* Vista Home Premium, MS Works 8, McAfee Anti-Virus 30-day Trial

Guide Review - Dell Inspiron 530 Mainstream Desktop PC

Dell's first Inspiron desktop computer system really is geared more towards the budget oriented consumer than the performance minded. That doesn't mean the Inspiron 530 can't be configured as a mainstream PC, it just means that it requires more customization.

The highest level of processor currently offered on the Inspiron 530 is the Intel Core 2 Duo E6550 dual core. This is actually a quite powerful desktop processor and is a step up from what many other companies are offering in their mainstream PCs. One gigabyte is offered standard, but users are advised to opt for the 2GB of PC2-5300 DDR2 memory so that applications run smoothing in the Windows Vista operating system.

There are a wide range of storage options for the Inspiron 530, but most users will probably find sufficient space with the base 320GB 7200rpm hard drive. Large 500GB hard drives or multi-drive configurations are available if you need more. A standard 16x dual layer DVD burner comes standard.

What Dell does offer with the Inspiron 530 that many other companies don't include is a monitor. In the case of this unit, the SE198WFP 19” widescreen is included. While not as nice as the UltraSharp, it still is a decent monitor. The upgrades GeForce 8600GT graphics is also a nice option for those potentially looking to use their system for PC gaming. Although not really powerful, it can still handle the task.

Overall, the Inspiron 530 desktop is a very strong offering, but consumers will need to put up with the customization processor to get the system that they want.