First impressions: Dell Studio 17 PC

When Windows 7 was released on October 22, many computer models were discontinued and replaced by new ones equipped with the new operating system. We’re now testing a sizable group of desktops, laptops, and netbooks for inclusion in our upcoming computer Ratings (available to subscribers only).

For now, we can report findings for some models that are still being tested, starting with the Dell Studio 17, a 17-inch laptop.

The Dell Studio 17 retails at Best Buy for $780. With a Core 2 Duo processor and 4GB of memory, and a 500GB hard drive, performance was very good. It should be able to handle just about any task, although we don’t recommend it for 3D gaming. Battery life was better than average for a 17-inch laptop, at 4.25 hours. At 7.2 lbs., it’s not very heavy for its size.

You’d expect a generous keyboard on a 17-inch laptop, and that’s what you get. But there’s some give when you type, resulting in a squishy feel. The touchpad is large and easy to maneuver on, and it supports multitouch technology so you can use hand gestures to scroll and zoom, among other things.

The 1600x900 LED-backlit display is easy on the eyes, even using the brightest setting. Colors are vivid. Check back for the results of our complete testing of this display.

There’s a slot-loading optical drive, and sound from the built-in JBL speakers was good for listening to music, with a decent amount of bass. I also found the touch-sensitive keys located above the keyboard to be handy for raising and lowering volume. Another touch-sensitive key brings up a "mobility center," where you can check battery life, turn off wireless access, and control display brightness.

The clean-looking interior includes glossy black surrounding the keyboard and a smooth gray wrist-rest area. The speakers are located below the keyboard, near the wrist rest.

Other features include a webcam and double mics, an 8-in-1 memory card reader, two USB connectors, HDMI connectivity, and a port for an eSATA external hard drive. —Donna Tapellini

Comments

[Tobias]

Just tried to order one at Dells Denmark store. Had to cancel the order in the end as they gave me a 30th December (6 weeks!!) delivery estimate and explained that there is no bluetooth option that works with windows 7 currently.
A multimedia laptop in end 2009 WITHOUT a bluetooth option??
Sorry Dell.. not good enough..

[Paul Rivers]

I own one myself. I haven't found the display particularly easy on the eyes, but I guess I've gotten used to it. The glare level on a glossy screen is typical.

But the vertical viewing angle is really narrow. I cannot say how it is compared to other screens - I've seen laptops where the screen dissapears entirely when viewed from the wrong angle, and the studio isn't like that. Instead, odd colors wash out. I've found that that can happen without even moving my body, just from the movement of my head. I suppose I've gotten used to it somewhat, but I do find it odd.

The touchpad is really great. Best touchpad I've ever used. Only drawback is that sometimes when typing on the keyboard the touchpad thinks I touched it, even though I didn't think I did.