Computers

Dell Studio 17

Approximate retail price:

$785

We expect this model to perform similarly to the tested Dell Studio S17-162B although it may differ in price and features.

4 people have reviewed this model.

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About - Dell Studio 17
The Studio 17 is a laptop available from Dell. The Studio 17 typically costs $785 . Consumer Reports recommends that you match the features on a model to the needs you have. Here's our take on some of the specifications and features that are commonly available on laptop models like the Studio 17. Processor: Also known as the CPU (Central Processing Unit), the processor is responsible for running commands and handling data. Processors come in different speeds and may have two or more cores (ex. dual-core), which let you more quickly process multiple complex tasks. We recommend a dual-core processor such as the Intel Core 2 Duo. However, those with basic needs can settle for a less expensive processor such as the Intel Pentium Dual-Core or AMD Turion 64 X2. Memory (GB): Also known as RAM, memory is a temporary storage area for data. Its size is an important factor for performance. We recommend at least 1GB of memory, preferably 2GB. Hard drive (GB): The hard drive is a permanent storage area for data. This is where all of your files, such as documents, music, and programs are stored. Hard drives come in various sizes and speeds. Most laptops come with at least an 80GB hard disk, which is plenty for storing music and photos. But you may want a larger hard disk if you intend to store video. Most laptops have 5400 RPM hard disks which are fast, but 7200 RPM hard disks will allow programs to load faster.

About - Dell Studio 17

The Studio 17 is a laptop available from Dell. The Studio 17 typically costs $785 .

Consumer Reports recommends that you match the features on a model to the needs you have. Here's our take on some of the specifications and features that are commonly available on laptop models like the Studio 17.

Processor:: Also known as the CPU (Central Processing Unit), the processor is responsible for running commands and handling data. Processors come in different speeds and may have two or more cores (ex. dual-core), which let you more quickly process multiple complex tasks. We recommend a dual-core processor such as the Intel Core 2 Duo. However, those with basic needs can settle for a less expensive processor such as the Intel Pentium Dual-Core or AMD Turion 64 X2.
Memory (GB):: Also known as RAM, memory is a temporary storage area for data. Its size is an important factor for performance. We recommend at least 1GB of memory, preferably 2GB.
Hard drive (GB):: The hard drive is a permanent storage area for data. This is where all of your files, such as documents, music, and programs are stored. Hard drives come in various sizes and speeds. Most laptops come with at least an 80GB hard disk, which is plenty for storing music and photos. But you may want a larger hard disk if you intend to store video. Most laptops have 5400 RPM hard disks which are fast, but 7200 RPM hard disks will allow programs to load faster.

About This Brand
The largest seller of desktops and laptops in the United States, Dell also offers netbooks. Its mainstream/value line is called Inspiron. Studio is the design- and style-oriented brand, while Studio XPS models are premium performance and gaming systems. The Dell Mini is its netbook series. For hard-core gamers, Dell offers Alienware systems.
Read our Brand Reliability

About This Brand

The largest seller of desktops and laptops in the United States, Dell also offers netbooks. Its mainstream/value line is called Inspiron. Studio is the design- and style-oriented brand, while Studio XPS models are premium performance and gaming systems. The Dell Mini is its netbook series. For hard-core gamers, Dell offers Alienware systems.

Read our Brand Reliability

Features & Specs - Dell Studio 17
LCD size (in.) The LCD size is the diagonal measure of the LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen on a PC. Most consumer laptops come with widescreen displays that are more suitable for watching widescreen movies. 15.4" screens are the most popular, giving you the most screen size for your money. 14.1" have a smaller screen but tend to weigh a pound less. If price isn't an issue, get a 17" screen if you need a large screen or a 12.1-13.3" screen if you want a laptop for travel. LCD size (in.)	17
Processor Also known as the CPU (Central Processing Unit), the processor is responsible for running commands and handling data. Processors come in different speeds and may have two or more cores (ex. dual-core), which let you more quickly process multiple complex tasks. We recommend a dual-core processor such as the Intel Core 2 Duo. However, those with basic needs can settle for a less expensive processor such as the Intel Pentium Dual-Core or AMD Turion 64 X2. Processor	Core 2 Duo T6400
Memory (GB) Also known as RAM, memory is a temporary storage area for data. Its size is an important factor for performance. We recommend at least 1GB of memory, preferably 2GB. Memory (GB)	4
Hard drive (GB) The hard drive is a permanent storage area for data. This is where all of your files, such as documents, music, and programs are stored. Hard drives come in various sizes and speeds. Most laptops come with at least an 80GB hard disk, which is plenty for storing music and photos. But you may want a larger hard disk if you intend to store video. Most laptops have 5400 RPM hard disks which are fast, but 7200 RPM hard disks will allow programs to load faster. Hard drive (GB)	320
Video memory (MB) The amount of dedicated memory built into a graphics adapter. Most laptops have integrated graphics, which have no dedicated memory but are still suitable for most applications, including photo editing and watching movies. Some laptops have discrete graphic adapters, which typically have 256 MB or more video memory, to deliver smoother and more realistic graphics for 3D games. Video memory (MB)	NA
Wi-Fi type (802.11) The type of built-in 802.11 wireless networking supported. Laptops with 802.11n also support 802.11g routers. Some laptops with 802.11n also support the 5GHz "high band," a standard suitable for apartments and other crowded areas. Wi-Fi type (802.11)	NA
Memory-card reader At least one flash memory-card slot (CF, SD, XD, MS, etc.) Memory-card reader	NA
Built-in webcam A built-in webcam for videoconferencing. Built-in webcam	NA
Blu-ray reader Lets you play Blu-ray high definition movies. Blu-ray reader	NA
FireWire / eSATA port Has a FireWire or eSATA port for connecting an external hard drive. FireWire / eSATA port	NA
DVI / HDMI video out Has a DVI or HDMI video output for sending video to an HDTV. DVI / HDMI video out	NA
Multitouch touchpad The touchpad supports use of multiple-finger gestures to zoom and scroll. Multitouch touchpad	NA
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User Reviews - Dell Studio 17

Average User Rating

(based on 4 reviews)

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Displaying Reviews 1-3 of 4 See all 4 user reviews

recall me

By Friend of Jonah from Washington, DC on 9/9/2009

Pros:

Comfortable Keyboard, Fast, Powerful, Quality Display

Cons:

CDDVD un-drive

Best Uses:

Business Use, Frustration, Word Processing

Describe Yourself:

Tech Savvy

Primary use:

Business

How long have you owned it:

Three-to-six months

Bottom Line:

No, I would not recommend this to a friend

CD drive does not read disks -- ejects everything. When troubleshooting routines did not solve,[...] my only option for a 94-day-old machine on which I cannot load my software is to send it to them for 45-day return service. Internet posts make clear this is a consistent problem.

[6 of 7 customers found this review helpful]

Dell Studio, big problems

By BeckyBob from Wilmington, NC on 3/5/2009

Cons:

Dell cust service is bad, DVD burner is a problem

Describe Yourself:

Tech Savvy

Primary use:

Business

How long have you owned it:

More than six months

Bottom Line:

No, I would not recommend this to a friend

I purchased a Dell Studio laptop last August and have problems with from day one. The DVD burner is internal to the computer and will not eject the DVD. Dell has replaced the DVD burner device twice, but it is still not working. The most frustrating thing is Dell Customer service is very difficult to deal with. They have been rude and unbending in their attempts to fix this problem. At this point I would like a new computer, but they will not do this and will not let me speak to a supervisor that is able to make this decision. I have had all Dell products up until this time, but will never purchase another Dell product.

[5 of 7 customers found this review helpful]

Pretty but will drive you crazy

By MJ from Illinois on 3/3/2009

Pros:

Comfortable Keyboard, Long Battery Life, Powerful, Quality Display, Quiet

Cons:

Heavy, Poorly Designed Keyboard

Best Uses:

Business Use, Word Processing

Describe Yourself:

Tech Savvy

Primary use:

Business

How long have you owned it:

One-to-three months

Bottom Line:

No, I would not recommend this to a friend

This computer would be a good one - except it is driving me nuts. YOu are typing along and suddenly it is zooming in or zooming out. You have to stop what you are doing and go and unzoom or whatever. I am sure it is because it is so sensitive, I must be hitting something, but I have no idea what it is. It has also frozen up a couple times already. It's pretty heavy too, but I guess that is to expect with a 17 inch screen.

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To find the model that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value. Here's one tip: Don't pay for more features than you'll use.