Starting tomorrow (January 8, 2012) Staples will have the Dell Inspiron i14RN-1818DBK laptop for $499 with the following impressive specs:
- Processor: Intel Core i5-2430M (2.4GHz, 3MB Cache) processor
- Screen: 14.0″ High Definition (720p) WLED Display with TrueLife
- OS: Genuine Windows 7 ® Home Premium (64-bit)
- Memory: 6GB installed memory
- Storage: 640GB hard drive
- Optical Drive: 8X CD/DVD Burner (Dual Layer DVD+/-R Drive)
- Wireless: Intel Centrino Wireless-N 1030 with Bluetooth
- Ports: (2) USB 3.0, (1) USB 2.0, (1) USB 2.0 with E-SATA & Power Share, HDMI v1.4 Port, VGA Port, Integrated network connector 10/100, LAN (RJ45), AC adapter connector, Audio jacks (1-line out, 1 Mic-in), Media Card Reader
- Web Camera: Integrated 1.0MP HD (1280 x 720) webcam
- Battery: 6-Cell Lithium Ion Battery (48 WHr)
- Dimensions 13.5″W x 1.29″H x 9.68″D (4.89lbs)
- Warranty: 1 year warranty
You can see our review of a different configuration of the Dell Inspiron 14R here. Basically, it’s a budget laptop in terms of build but the specs are mid to high end and you’ll have a lot of performance for the dollar with the Intel Core i5-2430m that can overclock to 2.90GHz. The 6GB of RAM is certainly enough for any average work tasks and you’ll have plenty of storage with the 640GB HD.
In terms of ports selection, you get the latest USB 3.0 port for fast data transfer along with an eSATA USB combo port for a second alternative to fast data transfer. You also get an HDMI port that allows you to output video to a large screen TV or monitor. This laptop also comes with Intel WiDi technology so you can wirelessly stream video to a TV.
The Inspiron 14R has a switchable lid design, so if you don’t like the black lid this model comes with you can change the design simply by purchasing a different lid for around $30. The Inspiron 14R with Intel Core i5 starts at $649 on Dell.com, so you’re looking at a savings of over $150 with this particular configuration at Staples.
Link to Deal: Staples Inspiron 14R Core i5 Deal
Are these laptops equipped with the 1st gen processors? Dell has the 14R listed as NEW on their website with the 2nd gen processors. Is that going to make a significant difference in performance?
The laptop on special at Staples is the “New” Inspiron 14R as sold on Dell.com. The processor is an Intel 2nd generation Core i5 so you get the latest and greatest performance!