Dell Inspiron 530 Desktop

(Review) - Earlier this month, we reviewed Dell's Inspiron 531 slim desktop computer, and we recommended the system for its lightweight and feature-rich attraction. However, in addition to the 531, Dell also offers 530, an Intel version of the 531. Even though there is very little difference between the two in terms of physical outlook and added features, it's certainly different when it comes to price points and hardware components. As is our tradition at CoolTechZone.com, we'll spare you with the rehashed information from our 531 review and direct you to our original evaluation by clicking here. With that said, we'll take a quick look at the varying specs and conclude with final thoughts.

Dell Inspiron 531 Desktop Review

While the key difference between the two models is the pick between AMD and Intel microprocessors, there are a few other differences that are noteworthy as well. For instance, since Dell employs Intel's motherboard in its 530 series, the onboard graphics adapter is Intel's Integrated Graphics Media Accelerator 3100 as opposed to NVIDIA's Integrated GeForce 6150 in the 531. Then there's the inclusion of Intel's Pentium Dual Core E2140 microprocessor with 1.60GHz clock speed, 1MB of L2 cache and 800MHz system bus. 531, on the opposite end, packs an AMD Dual Core chip, albeit a faster one. Since this particular machine is also a bit cheaper, system memory is dropped from 1GB to 512MB, Microsoft's Windows Vista is downgraded from Home Premium to Home Basic and of course, the obvious difference in clock speeds, and therefore, performance difference between the two systems is present as well.

Everything else is exactly the same between the two models. Thankfully, Dell justifies the downgrade with a hefty price cut from $605 for 531 vs. $525 for 530. Keep in mind though that there are two 530 and 531 models that range in a variety of prices based on hardware specs. In essence, 530 is a great performer for mainstream Home and Home Office users who prefer a reliable machine, but don't really need world class components to break performance records. And once again, check out our original review of Dell Inspiron 531 to read our full analysis.

Click here to check out the latest prices on Dell Inspiron 531 Desktops!