Skip to main content

Dell Inspiron R notebooks get Sandy Bridge, switchable covers

Computer maker Dell has taken the wraps off a its new Inspiron R line of notebook computers, featuring second-generation Intel Core processors, 14-, 15-, and 17-inch screen sizes, and new “Switch” covers from Dell’s Design Studio that enable customers to swap around the notebook’s lids to change the look of their systems.

Dell Inspiron R notebooks (March 2011)
Image used with permission by copyright holder

“Our Inspiron R models equipped with 2nd generation Intel Core processors deliver the ultimate in entertainment and mobility and because customers value both performance and style, the eye-catching lids are designed to suit your mood or style at any given moment,” said Dell’s VP for consumer and SMB product group Sam Burd, in a statement. “With the Inspiron-R series, we’re living up to our heritage of delivering the performance you need to do more, and with Switch by Design Studio, you can look good while doing it.”

Recommended Videos

The new Inspiron R series will be available with second-generation “Sandy Bridge” Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors and 14-, 15-, and 17-inch screen sizes. All three sizes will feature Intel 3000 HD integrated graphics, while the 15-inch and 17-inch models will also sport discrete graphics: the Inspiron 17R will bring an Nvidia GeForce GT525M graphics controller with 1 GB of dedicated video memory, while the Inspiron 15R will sport AMD Radeon HD6470M graphics with 512 MB of dedicated video RAM. Stock configurations will vary between 3 and 6 GB of RAM, and up to 500 GB of hard drive storage will be available. The systems will sport either an internal tray-load DVD±RW drive or an optional internal Blu-ray player/DVD burner; the systems will also offer Intel Wireless Display technology so users can push 1080p video and 5.1 surround sound to a home theater without cables. The systems will all sport 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless networking options, HD webcams, two USB 3.0 ports (along with a USB 2 port and a USB 2.0/eSATA combo port), an 8-in-1 media card reader, and Windows 7 Home Premium (with an option for Windows 7 Professional).

The new Inspiron R systems are available now to U.S. customers on Dell’s Web site, and should be available in retail channels in the coming months. The Inspiron 15R starts at $529.99, with both the 14R and 17R starting at $579.99. The systems all come with a black lid; the Switch lids start at $39.99, and include options from “outstanding independent artists” as well as lids benefitting Susan G. Komen for the Cure and (Product) Red.

Geoff Duncan
Former Contributor
Geoff Duncan writes, programs, edits, plays music, and delights in making software misbehave. He's probably the only member…
Topics
Dell slashed the price of the Alienware m18 R2 gaming laptop with RTX 4080 by $420
The Alienware m18 R2 gaming laptop with Baldur's Gate 3 on the screen.

You should be on the lookout for gaming laptop deals if you're thinking about making an upgrade -- these devices are pretty expensive, so any discount will help cushion the blow on your wallet. Here's an offer from Dell to consider: a $420 discount for the powerful Alienware m18 R2 with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card, which reduces its price to $2,380 from $2,800. You can either pocket the savings or use them to buy more video games and accessories, but you need to act fast because there's a chance that the gaming laptop's price will be back to normal as soon as tomorrow.

Buy Now

Read more
Need a new laptop? Get the Dell Inspiron 15 while it’s $120 off
The Dell Inspiron 15 3520 laptop on a white background.

Not all laptop deals will get you a reliable device. Some budget-oriented laptop brands put the price tag above all else. That won't be an issue with the Dell Inspiron 15 3520, which you can buy from Dell with a $120 discount that drops its price to a more affordable $430 from $550. It's an excellent companion for students and work-from-home professionals, but we're not sure how much time is remaining before this offer expires. If you don't want to miss out on this bargain, you're going to have to act fast -- add it to your cart and proceed with the checkout process as soon as possible.

Buy Now

Read more
Get a 4070 Super Alienware gaming PC for $1,800 during Dell’s sale
Alienware Aurora R16 sitting on a coffee table.

If you’re a big gamer, the best desktop computer deals aren’t what you need. Instead, you want to track down the best gaming PC deals. Luckily, f you're reading this, we’ve done all the hard work for you. Right now, you can buy the Alienware Aurora R16 gaming desktop with a Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super GPU for $1,800. It normally costs $2,210 so you’re saving $410 off the regular price and scoring a gaming PC that is built to last. If you want to game in style this holiday season, here’s all you need to know before you hit the buy button.

Buy Now

Read more