Dell debuts new Inspiron and Vostro notebooks

By Geoff Duncan Published August 11, 2011

Dell Inspiron 14z — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Computer maker Dell has taken the wraps off three new notebooks today, that consumer-oriented Inspiron 13x and Inspiron 14x, and the business-skewered Vostro V131.

The Inspiron 13z and 14z take the “z” ultraportable distinction from the XPS 15z and aim to put it in more colorful and checkbook-friendly packaging. The new systems sport either second-generation Intel Core i3 or Core i5 processors, with the 13z sporting a 13.3-inch 1,366 by 768-pixel display and the 14z stepping out to a 14-inch display with the same native resolution. Both systems can support up to 8 GB of RAM and offer a high-definition webcam and chiclet-style keyboard. Del is offering black and red cases, with matching palmrests.

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The 13z is available with a 320 or 500 GB hard drive or a 1298 GB SSD, while the 14z steps up to 500, 640, or 750 GB hard drives and an internal tray-load DVD combo drive. Both systems feature SDS Premium Sound HD, and work with Intel’s Wireless Display technology or HDMI to connect to big screens.

Pricing for the Inspiron 14z starts at $599.99 and is on sale now in the U.S. and other markets; for now, the Inspiron 13z is only available in selected Asian markets.

Dell Vostro V131 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Not neglecting its business customers, Dell has also unveiled the new Vostro V131, which builds on the V130 by adding power-sipping processors (including Intel’s second-generation Core i3 and i5 CPUs) and user replaceable battery options, including a 6-cell model that adds a bit of keyboard tilt and can offer up to 9.5 hours of battery life when paired with an SSD and an Intel Celeron Dual Core processor. Dell is offering a bunch of options with the Vostro V131s, including WWAN, WiMax and LTE (in the U.S.), Bluetooth 3.0, fingerprint readers, and Absolute LoJack security software, along with stock options like a full HD webcam, two USB 2.0 ports, backlit keyboard, and built-in Skype capability. However, the goal of the Vostro V131 is long battery life and portability, not raw power: the systems peak at 2 GB of RAM. Dell says the Vostro V131 will be available next month, with prices starting at $449.

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Geoff Duncan writes, programs, edits, plays music, and delights in making software misbehave. He's probably the only member…

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