The level of detail/information you can expect when I drop my 17" review *Rough Draft*

Here is the start of my review. The beginning of the review enables me to answer questions BEFORE having the laptop in front of me.

I wanted to provide this to you all so it's not another "oh, look, another inspiron review". The amount of information I'am going to provide is going to be what you all ask for. If there is anything you'd want added in the final draft, please let me know. Also, let me know what you think so far, and what I could add.

***Disclaimer***
Before you dig into this review, Please keep in mind that this is a PERSONAL review of this specific notebook. If you disagree with ANYTHING that follows, please try to keep it to yourself or write your own review of this notebook. If I happen to be wrong on some topics, you can point that out to me and I will fix it. Please keep the negative opinions out of this review.
***Disclaimer***

1. Overview and Introduction: The Notebook I will be reviewing today is a member of the brand new Dell Inspiron line. Specifically the Dell Inspiron 1721. This is Dell's Desktop Replacement notebook. This notebook includes a keypad like traditional keyboards. The only factor to keep in mind when considering this laptop is what you're going to be using it for. This notebook IS a Desktop Replacement and weighs a little more than it's brother and sister notebooks.

The configuration of the Dell Inspiron 1721 that will be used in the review is as follows:

Jet-Black Dell Inspiron 1721
AMD Turion 64 x 2 TL-56 1.8ghz/1MB L2 Cache
2GB, DDR2, 667MHz 2 Dimm
ATI RADEON Xpress1270 256MB HyperMemory for Inspiron 1721
160G 5400RPM SATA hard drive
Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium Edition
17.0 inch Wide Screen XGA+ TL LCD
Dell Wireless 1390 802.11g Mini Card

(If you would like to know anymore thorough information regarding the specifications of this laptop, Feel free to inquire about them and I will add them to the review)

2. Reasons for Buying: Since I can remember, I have ALWAYS built my desktops. I have owned 2 laptops in the past. (Toshiba Satellite and Dell Inspiron B130) I have grown out of the gaming aspect of computers (will explain further at the end of this section) which is why I chose the specs I did for the Inspiron 1721.

I purchased this laptop to replace my desktop completely. I have been a PC tech for 12 years. I have ALOT of magazines and books but I still find myself sighing at my choices when I sit on the throne (Toilet, for those who don't know ) This notebook is probably only going to see light gaming, alot of linux and general e-mail and web browsing.

I cannot honestly say that I looked at other notebooks before making my purchase. I took a few peeks at a macbook and some Sony Vaio's, but for the price and what I was going to be using it for, The Dell Inspiron 1721 was the optimal choice.

3. Where and How Purchased: I purchased this notebook directly from Dell.com. I paid $1,015 for it. (Shipping/Taxes included) There are many variables to consider when ordering from Dell. I will break down the general features of the laptop really quick, and include why I chose the way I did.

Why the 1721? : I wanted a Desktop Replacement. I enjoy the feel of a regular keyboard, and the closest I could get to that was a 1721 which included the closest to a full-size keyboard I could acquire.

Why 21? Why not the 1720? : Well, Price for one thing. Since I can remember, I have used AMD/ATI EXCLUSIVELY and have NEVER been let down. Not a single processor or video card from either company has ever let me down. I must admit, If I wanted full-blown processing power, the Intel is somewhat in the lead. If AMD ever let me down, I'd have a reason to be a "switcher".

Why Jet-Black? : None of the other 7 colors really screamed out to me. The red was nice, but I wanted somewhat of a neutral color. Something that is naturally going to pick up all that nature has to throw at it, but not show it as much as something bright. Also, Resell value. If you think about it, you may have a better chance selling a neutral, clean-looking black laptop than a bright yellow laptop. (my opinion, of course)

Why 1.8ghz? : I chose the TL-56 because none of the other processor upgrades made sense for the price. AMD's Turion offers up to 2.2ghz, but 1MB L2 Cache. 400mhz will not make or break this notebook, especially for the price they were asking to get the 2.2. The difference in performance was minimal from the 1.8 to the 2.2, and it definatly did not open any eyes as to why the price difference was significant in my opinion.

(If you have any questions, or wish to have other variables listed here, feel free to send me a PM or an E-mail and I will be sure to add them.)