Vostro vs Precision? Can't Decide

Hi folks,

I'm looking to upgrade my cheap consumer-grade laptop with something more robust. My uses are mostly software development as well as photography (Photoshop, etc.). I'm not interested in using this new machine for gaming (that would be a very secondary use).

I'm looking for a 17" laptop, so am considering both the Vostro 3700 and Precision M6500. I understand the system differences between these two machines, as well as the cost differences. Ideally, I'd like whatever I buy to last 3+ years without falling too far behind in technology, but on the other hand the Precision is very expensive (budgets suck).

Thus, would the new Vostro 3700, maxed out on configuration, be a worthwhile investment or, since I'm going to spend the money, should I go the extra mile and get the Precision? What would I miss (other than the graphics card mostly) if I go Vostro?

I've been agonizing over this for a good month or so and realize making a decision like this in a vacuum isn't going to happen, so let me know your thoughts.


Thanks.

 

Unless having a 17" screen is an absolute requirement, have you considered the Latitude E series? They are a higher business class than a Vostro, but not as expensive as a Precision. You can also get 1920x1200 resolution to display the same amount of information / graphics, etc., - just within 15.4" instead of 17". The additional portability with the smaller size may also be a consideration.

 

I'm really leaning towards a 17" screen. I have looked briefly at the Latitude E Series, but notice that the graphics card on those isn't nearly as good as the Vostro or Precision. I actually use a Latitude E6500 every day at work (company provided) with 1920x1200 screen. That resolution on 15.4" is pretty hard on the eyes, though.

 

Precision:

• Better (standard) warranty (3700 is relatively cheap to upgrade the warranty though)
• Tank-link build
• (Theoretically) somewhat higher quality internals
• RGBLED screen
• Higher-cap standard battery (9-cell vs. 6 cell)
• Use of E-port Dell docking solutions
• USB 3.0 option now available
• More powerful Core i7 Quad and Extreme options than 3700
• DDR3-1333 (up to 16GB) and DDR3-1600 (up to 8GB) memory options

All of which can come with a VERY steep price tag attached.

I would have loved to have gotten my wife a 17" Latitude, but, alas, the 15.6" E65XX is the largest at the moment and my wife wanted an integrated keypad, badly. Her 17" Vostro is decent, but it certainly is not as robust as my E6400 Latitude. On the other hand, as a simple desktop replacement, its not really going to be going anywhere where it would require the extra durability and armor of the magnesium-shelled Latitude. Her 17" Vostro is still quite nice, and performs quite well in its role as a desktop replacement for her.

If you can 'live' with a 15.6" rather than 17", then the E6510 would be a great compromise between the 3700 and the Precision. Lower price than the Precision by a long shot (particularly if you can find a good 25% or more off coupon), DDR3-1333 RAM, HD panel option, i7 Quad, etc. All in a robust shell with a good 3 year warranty.

EDIT: Sorry, I was apparently typing my reply at the same time you were, above. So some of my commentary does not reflect your reply. Apologies.

 

I guess the main reason I'd go with the Precision is the screen/graphics card. The Vostro 3700 has a 1600x900 screen, and I'm sure it's not as nice as the Precision (particularly compared to the RGBLED screen). So I keep asking myself if I would be okay with the Vostro 1600x900 screen for a few years, or would I be disappointed and wished I had spent the extra cash for the Precision.

 

i went with the vostro personally because it is more affordable and more bang for the buck.

 

How do you like the Vostro? How's the overall build quality and the screen? Is the screen matte?

 

Yes it is matte. I really like it. there is flex on the back of the screen and the keyboard but i think it is normal b/c most of the dells have that same flex on the back of the lid. The fan is always on but quiet most of the time i had said earlier that it turned off but it really never did i just didnt hear it so i assumed it was off. but it runs faster than the m6400 i had with a qx9300 the only complaint is i cant got the 1440x900 screen on it if i got that it would be PERFECT.

 

Great...thanks for the additional insight!

Not sure what you mean here...you wish you did get the 1440x900? What resolution is your screen?

 

small typo its that we cant get the 1440x900 the only screen option is 1366 x 768 which is ok but just wish i could have a slightly higher resolution.