The Dell vostro series of computers is aimed mainly at business users, however they may also be suitable for some consumers. These laptops are well suited to small businesses due to their relatively low cost and reliability. Most of the vostro series of machines come with a 14.1” display.
Delivery
You normally have to order dell machines direct from dell, delivery is pretty quick it typically takes between 3 and 5 days to arrive. Sometimes you will be lucky enough to get it the next day!
As soon as you open the outer package you will notice the trademark dell box with the blue text printed on it. The laptop is very well packed in several layers of cardboard, and is completely encased in Styrofoam.
Build quality
Dell are normally pretty good for the build quality of their machines, this Dell Vostro machine is no different. The only minor complaint I have with it is the battery doesn’t quite fit in perfectly. It’s no major problem, just it rattles around a little.
The rest of the laptop is very well built in deed. The keyboard doesn’t seem to flex at all, and if it does it is only a very minor thing. The screen doesn’t seem to flex either. Many laptops have week hinges, but the vostro gets around this by having very sturdy hinges. There isn’t a latch which I personally like because it’s much easier to open.
Keyboard
The keyboard is virtually identical to other dell laptops, it’s not bad, but it’s not great either. It’s not as good as an IBM keyboard, but it’s not completely awful.
Trackpad
Again this is similar to a number of other dell laptops, it’s very easy to use and doesn’t seem over sensitive like a number of others. I do suggest using an external mouse if you can though.
Webcam
This is an optional extra, and it’s up to you whether you want it or not. The webcam is built into the housing around the screen and looks fantastic. I would opt for the 2MP camera as it provides fantastic results.
Software
Dell is one of the few companies that allow you to specify what you want installed on your computer. You can select whether or not you want the standard dell utilities to be installed for example.
Many other laptops come bundled with loads of trial software, but with the dell you can just say you don’t want any! Previously many people had to format dell machines before using them for the first time in order to get them running at a reasonable speed.
Get the Vostro 1400 with 120 GB HD, 2GB memory and 14.1 inch Wide Screen for just $599!