DELL Computer Systems | M1330 Laptop Review

DELL XPS M1330 - Is this a Dell that looks as good as it performs?

If you've been reading the Podcomplex blog you might have seen my post on choosing a laptop. Here I mentioned that the Dell M1330 was a good candidate for a mobile multimedia production unit, as it has a very impressive balance of power and portability (up to 2.2 GHz Core 2 Duo in a tiny 2kg, 13 inch screen package).

Everyone has their own particular requirements from their hardware, depending on how they use it, but generally you want a good balance of portability, reliability and processing power. Intel’s Core 2 Duo processors are still the number one choice, whether you go for a PC or MacBook. As Dell's latest small and light laptop, I would have to admit that the Dell XPS M1330 comes up trumps in all these areas...

Dell M1330 Specs and Features

DELL XPS M1330 Laptop Review

The XPS M1330 Range of Performance Laptops

Here are some key points to consider when configuring your M1330 laptop:

M1330 Processor:

The Dell M1330 can be configured with Intel Core 2 Duo processors from 1.5 GHz to 2.2 GHz - the best value option here is probably the 2.0 GHz T7250.

It is advisable to get the 4MB cache version (T7500) if you work with a lot of memory-intensive material such as large audio samples or media streaming. FSB speed is important too, as this affects how quickly data can pass from memory to the processor (800 MHz is optimal, but 667MHz will do the job nicely).

M1330 Memory:

Get at least 2GB, but preferably 3-4GB - the best value configuration on the Dell site is 2GB, and you can always add more memory later on if you need it. However, at the moment Dell are offering a big discount on their usual RAM prices, so you can upgrade your M1330 from 2GB to 4GB for only �70. Apart from the processor, RAM has the single biggest impact on performance of any component in your laptop, so it makes sense to put as much of it in as you can - while it's still cheap.

M1330 Hard disk:

7200rpm SATA is great to have if performance is your priority, but remember that it will be a bit louder and drain the battery faster too. Most people should stick with a 5400rpm drive. Also, the hard drive is extremely easy to upgrade, so if you need some extra speed or storage space after a year or so you can just buy a new hard drive rather than getting a whole new machine.

M1330 Graphics:

If you’re not playing games or editing video, then the integrated Intel Graphics option is probably best, as it will use less energy and therefore increase battery life. Integrated graphics are fine for simple video tasks such as DVD playback.

The dedicated Nvidia video card has 128MB of video memory, which increases graphics and video performance. This card is ideal for anyone who needs a bit more graphics power under the hood, and will allow you to play most of the latest games at decent quality settings. It should have no problems running games released earlier than last year at high quality settings.

M1330 Battery life:

Bigger batteries add weight as well as life, so you'll need to decide which is more important, portability or longevity. The 4-cell battery is an option if you choose the M1330 with integrated graphics - this means your system will weigh only 1.8 kg.

The 9-cell battery is available for any configuration, and significantly increases operation time (up to 5 hours under moderate workload). The heaviest M1330 configuration weighs in at about 2.2 kg, which is still considerably lighter than any other laptop with a dedicated graphics card option.

M1330 Sound:

The M1330 features two headphone outputs, which makes it easy for two people to watch a DVD on a plane (for example). The HDMI port outputs sound as well as video, and there is a standard surround output socket on the side. An external sound card can also be connected via USB or Firewire.

DELL Computer Systems | M1330 Laptop Review

DELL XPS M1330 - Is this a Dell that looks as good as it performs?

Dell M1330 Specs and Features

DELL XPS M1330 Laptop Review

Here are some key points to consider when configuring your M1330 laptop:

M1330 Processor:

M1330 Memory:

M1330 Hard disk:

M1330 Graphics:

M1330 Battery life:

M1330 Sound:

The M1330 features two headphone outputs, which makes it easy for two people to watch a DVD on a plane (for example). The HDMI port outputs sound as well as video, and there is a standard surround output socket on the side. An external sound card can also be connected via USB or Firewire.

MORE: THE XPS M1330 LAPTOP REVEALED...