Dell Inspiron i1545-4583JBK

There is nothing inherently wrong with the Dell Inspiron i1545-4583JBK. This entry-level 15.6-inch laptop can be found at Staples for $639.98 (list) and features a standard configuration that includes an Intel dual-core CPU, 4GB of memory, and integrated Intel graphics. It boasts a pleasing design, with a simple, understated look and a comfortable keyboard and touchpad. Plus, its 320GB hard drive is blissfully free of bloatware. But if you look at the larger 17.3-inch Dell Inspiron 1764-5955IBU ($799.98 list, ) and the smaller 14.1-inch Dell Inspiron 1464-4382OBK ($749.98 list) on either side of the Inspiron i1545-4583JBK on the shelves at Staples, you'll notice that they received an upgrade to Intel's latest mobile processor—the Core i3—while the Inspiron i1545-4583JBK uses the older Pentium Dual Core T4400 CPU. Core i3-based models offer better performance, and they still carry reasonable prices. HP's latest 15.6-inch laptop, the Pavilion dv6-2173cl ($799.99 list, ), features a Core i3 chip, plus discreet Nvidia graphics to boot. Still, the Dell Inspiron i1545-4583JBK costs up to $160 less than these Core i3-based laptops. For basic home use—Web browsing, movie watching, and music listening—or for your kid clamoring for a laptop, the Dell Inspiron i1545 is a good pick.