After doing your research, you've decided you're buying a Dell (congratulations!), but which one, exactly?

After doing your research, you've decided

whether you buy a Dell

(congratulations!), but which one, exactly? Will it be a versatile Inspiron, a more powerful and high-end XPS or a business-oriented Latitude?

We're here to help you decide which Dell is right for you. Below, we explain the differences between the company's laptop lines and highlight the most important systems in each.

The numbers game

But before we jump into the wild and wonderful world of Dell Naming Conventions, let's talk about serial numbers. Although Dell has several brands under its belt, some, like Inspiron and Latitude, are also categorized by serial numbers such as 3000, 5000, and 7000. 3000-series systems are generally entry-level devices with components low-end and priced to match, while the 5000 series laptops cover mid-tier configurations. Consumers looking for a high-end system will want to check out laptops with 7000-series pads, as they typically offer high-end build materials as well as high-end specs.

XPS: Best Overall (budget permitting)

The crème de la crème of Dell's mainstream laptops, the XPS line focuses on high-end looks, with specs and prices to match. Targeting power users and creative professionals, the XPS is Dell's answer to Apple's MacBook Pro, offering high-resolution displays and fast performance - capabilities perfect for video or photo editing (check out our

tips

to get the most use and value from your XPS 13). Here are the best Dell XPS laptops:

XPS 13 9370

(

To buy

): our favorite mainstream laptop overall, this 2.7-pound beauty offers powerful performance, a stunning screen with almost no bezels, and over 12 hours of battery life. An advanced cooling system helps the 9370 deliver better sustained performance over time, while an optional 4K display panel is nothing short of stunning. Pay an extra $50 to get it in the gorgeous white and rose gold color scheme.

XPS 13 9360

(

To buy

): This slightly older model of the XPS 13 is still on sale and has a few advantages over the 9370. Its larger battery allows it to last a few hours longer on a charge while the USB Type-A ports make it easier to connect to a wide variety of peripherals. It also tends to cost less while still offering the latest 8th Gen Intel Core processors.

XPS 13 2-in-1

(

Buy p>

)

: The 2-in-1 version of the XPS 13 has the same stunning screen, but flips over to be used as a tablet. It starts at $979, but features a less powerful Intel Y-series processor than the XPS 13's U-series processor.

XPS-15

(

To buy

)

: The $999 XPS 15 is a premium 15-inch laptop that offers 10 hours of battery life, high performance, solid construction and good looks. It delivers serious productivity along with the graphical punch that serious artists need.

Inspiron: good for mainstream consumers on a budget

Inspire is Dell's mainstream consumer brand of laptops, and they come in a variety of sizes, models, and price ranges. These laptops are definitely not made for business, nor do they have the high-end features of the more expensive XPS line. Here are some of the best Inspirons:

Inspiron 17 7000 2-in-1

(

To buy

): one of the biggest 2-in-1s on the market, this folded behemoth is ideal for home users who want a huge screen for watching movies. Given its size, the

Inspiron 13 7000 2-in-1

(

To buy

): this lightweight and flexible 2-in-1 has a bright display, premium aluminum chassis, and solid performance.

Inspiron 15 7000 Gaming

(

To buy

>

:

An attractive gaming PC that costs significantly less than the company's Alienware laptops, the Inspiron 15 7000 is ideal for gamers on a budget. Starting at just $799, it also has good battery life for a gaming rig.

MORE:

Best Dell Laptops

Alienware: good for gamers

With flashy customizable light shows, powerful specs, and gorgeous displays, Alienware laptops set the standard for gaming. These systems come in three main sizes that can be configured to your specific gaming needs. The best models are:

Alienware 13 R3 OLED

(

To buy

): The world's smallest VR-enabled laptop, the Alienware 13 is just as powerful as its bigger siblings, and it's got a jaw-dropping OLED display to boot.

Alienware 15 R3

(

Buy< /p>

): Thinner, lighter, and VR-ready, the Alienware 15 hits the gaming target, offering decent portability with mid-level gaming and multitasking performance.

Alienware 17 R4

(

my dell laptop served me just fine and it also meant my typing was less wankily loud (and I do type like a wanker)… https://t.co/TfbHUvoNgD

— johanna ⛈ Tue Aug 10 15:03:01 +0000 2021

To buy

): Need desktop-level power, but don't have the space? This 17-inch monster can deliver all the power you need and more, especially with the optional graphics amplifier.

Latitude: good for business

A true industry, Latitudes are available in different models, sizes and price ranges. They're built to withstand the rigors of the job, and most have some degree of robust certification and a number of security features that include TPM, vPro, and optional fingerprint readers. As with the Inspiron line, the Latitudes are divided into 3000, 5000 and 7000 series models, with the 3000 series being the cheapest and the 7000 series offering the most premium models. Some of the best Latitudes are:

Dell Latitude 7390

(

To buy

): this compact clamshell has an extremely clear screen touch, excellent 8th Gen Core performance and over 10 hours of battery life.

Dell Latitude 5490

(

To buy

): Available for a starting price of $799, this relatively affordable 14-inch laptop has a long battery life and a comfortable keyboard.

Dell Latitude 7390 2-in-1

(

To buy

): if you're looking for a business convertible, the 7390 2-in-1 is Dell's best offering, thanks to its colorful display.

Accuracy: Good for engineers, architects and designers

Equipped with high-end components like Nvidia Quadro graphics and Intel Xeon processors, these pricey mobile workstations can handle the rigors of mechanical design, engineering simulations, or animations without breaking a sweat. Some of the best clarifications are:

Precision 5520

(

To buy

): Remarkably slender for a workstation, this high-end laptop offers exceptional performance with an optional 4K display.

Precision 3520

(

To buy

): A solid desktop replacement ideal for designers, architects and engineers, this laptop is a powerful and capable workstation with battery life that will last you through the workday.

Precision 7520

(

Buy< /p>

): Highly customizable, this high-end laptop is ideal for outputting large spreadsheets or running AutoCAD.

MORE:

Best 2-in-1s (laptop/tablet hybrids)

Chromebook: good for students

Although limited to using Google's ChromeOS, Chromebooks have found great success in classrooms and meeting rooms due to their affordability, portability, and ease of use. Dell's best deals are designed for kids.

Chromebook 3180

(

To buy

)

: This system is MIL-STD-810G tested to withstand drops and bumps, and it's about as childproof as it gets. With over 8 hours of battery life, the laptop will last through the school day.

Chromebook 3189 Education 2-in-1

(

Buy< /p>

): This 11.6-inch convertible has a touchscreen that's perfect for interacting with Android apps. Its spill-proof keyboard and rubberized edges should keep it from getting beaten up too much in school.

Now that you know which Dell you want to buy, do you know the right time?

to buy it? Research has found that PC makers release new laptops at three specific times of the year, including the upcoming back-to-school season.

But before you hit the buy button on that brand new Dell, be sure to check out Check out our

offers page

to get discounts on everything from XPS 13 to Alienware 15.

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Sherri L.Smith

Sherri L. Smith has been posting product reviews for Laptopmag.com since 2011. In that time, she's reviewed more than her share of laptops, tablets, smartphones, and everything in between. A resident gamer and audio junkie, Sherri was previously an editor for Black Web 2.0 and a contributor to BET.Com and Popgadget.