Laptop Thoughts: Dell Launches Inspiron R Series Laptops

"Today, more than ever, families are looking to technology as an extra set of hands - one that helps them stay connected, quickly cross items off daily ‘to-do' lists, and keep them entertained. The new Inspiron R laptops were designed with this in mind - making it easier than ever to access personal files and securely share photos and videos wirelessly, as well to enjoy the ideal mobile personal entertainment hub, offering smooth video playback, surround sound and a built-in Webcam. Wrapped in curvy edges, smooth lines and available in four unique colorful finishes with chrome accents, the Inspiron R laptops are as beautifully designed as they are useful. With several display sizes ranging from 14-inch models that fit perfectly in a messenger bag, to home and dorm room-friendly 15- and 17-inch versions, the Inspiron R boasts a contemporary and sleek appearance that will make anyone feel good about bringing it out in the classroom or the local coffee shop."

Dell's new series of Inspiron R laptops are your typical budget affairs, albeit with a fit of extra flair - the design looks pretty nice, and with the rounded edges, gives the laptops a less brick-like appearance. Prices start at $549 USD and go up to $979 USD. Curiously, as I look at the Dell.com product page for the Inspiron R series, I can't help but notice that there are virtually no hardware customization options. The one and only choice for hardware customization is the colour - red, black, blue, or pink.

In fact, the button doesn't even say "Customize" as is typical for Dell...it says "Personalize". Instead, Dell offers 12 different versions of the 14 inch model, 15 variations of the 15 inch model, and 15 different flavours of the 17 inch model. That's a staggering 42 different versions of this product line...I'm someone who enjoys choice, but really? 42 different versions? That seems mildly crazy to me, but this is a common problem with consumer electronics companies. I think some of the "lock in" is related to the fact that Fry's is Dell's retail partner, so perhaps they asked for fewer customization options...yet why then would you order from Dell if you can't customize your laptop?

Differences between each of the models include Intel Core i3 or i5 processors, 720p or 900p screens, RAM (looks like 3GB to 8GB), 320 GB up to 640 GB hard drives, DVD burners or Blu-ray drives, and 6 cell to 9 cell batteries. Even on the 17" models, no Core i7 CPUs though. The press release mentions Intel's Wireless Display technology, but the most expensive 17" version doesn't mention this as an option, so I'm not clear which models have this.