Computer.co.uk

Aimed at the mobile media / entertainment crowd, Dell’s XPS M1530 model seems to still be going strong more than a year after it’s launch date.

As with all Dell’s offerings, you can upgrade various components for a little extra, however the basic, entry-level spec still comes equipped with a reasonably powerful processor, a large amount of RAM, and plenty of space for your mp3s and photos.

Laptops like these, with their stylish design and glossy finish, are clearly aimed at the top end of the mobile market, and it’s sometimes hard to pick a model which comfortably combines price and power. With the XPS M1530 range (£629 - £1049), it’s a matter of what you want out of your laptop.

For a decent laptop to watch films on the go, play the occasional game and jump on the net, then it’s a tough choice between the two lower-end versions. On the other hand, if you’re looking for Blu-Ray support, huge amounts of storage space and a processor powerful enough to run a small third-world country, then the top-of-the-range model is probably the one you’re after.

Here is a quick run-down of the entry-level model:

As always, there is the ability to change the specification on each of the models in the range, see Dell’s XPS M1530 range website for more details.

Pros:

• Compact and light.
• Decent processor power
• Lots of memory

Cons:

• No option to upgrade the graphics card
• Blu-Ray comes at a premium
• No Firewire

If you’re after something to flash around at the next board meeting, you might want to take a look at the Dell Studio XPS range - they even come with leather trim!