Review Dell XPS 17 Notebook (i7-2630QM & GT 555M)

The 17 inch XPS 17 already proved to be an elegant and, at the same time, strong multimedia notebook in our last review. It was even suitable for gamers due to the potent graphics card. While the previous model was equipped with a first generation Core i processor, the new version can serve with a cutting edge Sandy-Bridge-CPU. Dell almost exploits the entire product range, starting with the dual core, Core i3-2310M (2.1 GHz, 3 MB L3 cache), up to the quad core, Core i7-2820QM (2.3 – 3.4 GHz, 8 MB L3 cache) – everything you could wish for is available.
The customer is also free to choose the main memory, to the largest extent. The spectrum ranges from three and twelve GB of DDR3 RAM (four GB are currently sufficient). A contemporary 7200 rpm HDD does its job as the hard disk. A swift SSD isn't available at the moment. It goes on with the display: instead of the standardly installed HD+ WLED screen (1600x900), you can choose a 3D capable FHD WLED screen (1920x1080) with a frame rate of 120 Hz if you like (60 Hz are standard).
Incidentally, the mandatory shutter glasses for 3D vision aren't automatically included. Dell demands the full purchase price for Nvidia's 3D Vision kit – unashamed. To experience games, movies and pictures three dimensionally, you also have to add the according graphics card to the virtual shopping cart. The GeForce GT 550M and GeForce GT 555M – both models from the upper midrange – in their 3D version is conclusively reflected with an additional charge on the bill.
But the configuration options aren't by long exhausted with that yet. For example, the DVD burner can be replaced by a BluRay combo drive (burns CDs and DVDs), which would be handy for movie fans. Talking about movies and TV: Dell optionally offers a DVB-T tuner, as well. Users who frequently work in the dark should opt for an illuminated keyboard. The decision about the operating system should be easier. Windows 7 Ultimate won't provide most users with any noteworthy advantages. Windows 7 Home Premium usually suffices. Finally, either a battery with six cells (56 Wh) or a nine cell battery (90 Wh) can be chosen, depending on the model.
The most expensive XPS 17 alternative, L702X, served as our test basis. It started at a fair price of 899 euros at the time of this review. The model we had, equipped with a Core i7-2630QM, GeForce GT 555M (3D), four GB of RAM, a 500 GB HDD, a Full HD display, BluRay drive, TV card, illuminated keyboard and Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit (see the right for more configuration details), added up to 1334 euros.
Case
The new XPS 17's case is almost absolutely equal to its predecessor. The resistant, matt silver surfaces, which are partly made of aluminum, are well manufactured and make a high quality impression. Beyond that, black borders set nice accents; the rounded design won't appeal to everyone though.
In regards to stability, the notebook hardly has to accept criticism. Especially the case has an extremely high torsional stiffness. The lid isn't quite as good in return. It allows itself to be bent and pressed noticeably. Then again, the tightly pulled hinges couldn't really convince us. For one thing, the base unit partly lifts extremely when the laptop is being opened. For another, surface vibrations occasionally force the display to wobble.
In view of the weight of 3.6 kilograms (w. 9 cell battery) and dimensions of 415x287x59 millimeters, the laptop has been rather more designed for stationary use. We have classified the XPS 17 as a desktop replacement, in combination with the good performance.
Connectivity
Nothing's been changed in terms of connectivity. We are still looking for a FireWire port and an ExpressCard slot, but the XPS 17 shows itself generously equipped otherwise. The intelligent port placement deserves special praise as it takes an example on desktop replacements. Since the majority of interfaces are on the rear, there is a pleasant amount of room beside the laptop.
An RJ45 gigabit LAN port, a HDMI respectively (mini) display port out and an antenna socket for the optional TV card follow two latest USB 3.0 ports, the power socket and a Kensington lock on the rear. The left is equipped with a third USB port (2.0) and a 9in1 cardreader. The right finally has two audio out, an audio in and an eSATA/USB 2.0 combo port.
Wireless Communication
If you like to surf on the Internet or share data wirelessly, you can exploit the XPS 17's full potential. The wireless module from Intel (Centrino Wireless N 1030) installed in our device is capable of WLAN b/g/n and Bluetooth 3.0.
Software
The software configuration is quite generous. Apart from various Dell programs, the full version of CyberLink's PowerDVD 9.6 would have to be primarily mentioned. It can, according to the start desktop, also render 3D BluRays. However, in order to tickle out the system's maximum speed, and especially in the beginning, to not be harassed by pop up reports, you should part from the one or other software program.
Scope of Delivery
The scope of delivery proved to be apt. Aside the flat power adapter (130 or 150 watts) and the battery (6 or 9 cell), Dell adds a manual, a few information leaflets, a driver & tools DVD, as well as a data carrier with the operating system to the XPX 17.
Warranty
Barely another manufacturer offers such an amount of services as Dell. If you have enough resources you can extend the one year pick up & return service to a 12 to 48 month onsite hardware support.
Keyboard

Dell has done a good job with the input devices. The keyboard especially stands out from the competition with its optional (white) illumination. You don't have to awkwardly search for single keys in the dark, but have everything under perfect control instead. A key size of 14 x 14 mm is fairly small, but thanks to the chiclet design (single key layout) you can cope perfectly after a certain amount of accommodation.
The well designed layout, not to forget the special function keys' clear symbol language contributes to that as well. We would describe the typing feel as good, whereas the stroke could be a bit crisper in our opinion. Annoying: The black key gap between the keys quickly collects dirt.
Touchpad
The 100 x 56 mm touchpad is one of the XPS 17's biggest pros. The smooth surface ensures very good gliding traits. Beyond that we can verify that the touchpad has a great accuracy. In addition, it supports various gestures (e.g. zoom and scroll), which is triggered by two fingers as usual. The touchpad can be disabled to avoid unintentional hitting during gaming. However, Dell should improve the mouse keys. We find their feedback a bit unclear.
Display
The XPS 17 is one of the few notebooks available on the market that can serve with a 3D capable screen. The screen renders a scene from two slightly different angles or perspectives in the stereoscopic 3D reproduction, which is most commonly used at the moment. A three dimensional experience is implied to the user when each eye is allowed to only see one of these so-called half images with help from an optical aid.
Dell exploits Nvidia's 3D Vision Technology for the 3D effect implementation, which works on the basis of shutter eye-glasses. The shutter eye-glasses alternately fade in one of the glasses in rapid sequence so that the viewer gets a spatial impression. A screen with a frame rate of 120 Hz is mandatory to make this process run smoothly. The 60 Hz of a standard screen isn't enough for a flicker-free rendering. Aside the moderate wear comfort after longer use, the massive brightness loss is one of the biggest drawbacks of the shutter system. As mentioned in the beginning, the shutter glasses also cost extra.

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