The Dell G15 Gaming Laptop takes a “retro-inspired” approach, prioritizing performance over portability. While it excels in gaming, it comes with several trade-offs that buyers should consider. This review dives into the G15’s strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it’s the right gaming laptop for you.
The G15 I tested boasts an Intel Core i7-13650HX processor and an Nvidia RTX 4060 GPU with a 140-watt maximum graphics power. This combination delivers impressive gaming performance, especially considering the laptop’s budget-friendly price point.
Dell G15: Specifications and Features
The specific configuration reviewed includes:
- Model: 5530
- CPU: Intel Core i7-13650HX (14 cores, 20 threads)
- Memory: 16GB DDR5
- GPU: Nvidia RTX 4060 Mobile (140W Max TGP)
- Display: 15.6-inch, 1920×1080, 360Hz IPS with NVIDIA G-Sync
- Storage: 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD
- Webcam: 720p
- Connectivity: 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (DisplayPort Alternate Mode), 3x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 2.1, Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm Combo Audio
- Networking: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2
- Battery: 86 Wh
- Dimensions: 14.07 x 10.80 x 1.06 inches
- Weight: 6.19 pounds
- MSRP: $1,199.99 (as tested)
While this configuration offers a 360Hz display, it’s worth noting that other configurations are available, starting at $700 with an Intel Core i5 and RTX 4050. A particularly compelling option combines an Intel Core i9-13900HX, RTX 4060, 16GB RAM, and a 165Hz display for around $1,000.
Dell G15: Design and Build
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Dell describes the G15’s design as “retro,” which translates to a thick, angular chassis reminiscent of older gaming laptops. This design, while bulky (over an inch thick and six pounds), allows for robust internal cooling, contributing to the laptop’s strong performance. The build quality is surprisingly solid for a budget gaming laptop, with minimal flex in the chassis and display lid.
Dell G15: Keyboard and Trackpad
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The keyboard includes a numpad, but some keys, especially the Tab, Caps Lock, and left Shift, feel cramped. Key travel is adequate, but the typing experience is unremarkable. The orange backlighting complements the retro aesthetic, but lacks the customization options offered by some competitors.
The touchpad is a significant weakness. Its small size (4 inches wide by just over 2 inches deep) makes it difficult to use comfortably. This suggests Dell expects users to rely on an external mouse, further reinforcing the G15’s role as a desktop replacement.
Dell G15: Display and Audio
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The 360Hz display provides incredibly smooth motion, though it’s arguably overkill for a laptop at this price point. The 165Hz option offers a better balance of performance and value. While the 1080p resolution is sharp, the IPS panel lacks the vibrancy and contrast of OLED displays.
The audio quality is disappointing. While loud, the speakers lack bass and can sound muddy at higher volumes. Headphones are recommended for a better gaming experience.
Dell G15: Webcam, Microphone, and Biometrics
The 720p webcam and single-array microphone deliver mediocre video and audio quality. Biometric login features are absent.
Dell G15: Connectivity
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The G15 offers ample USB-A ports and HDMI 2.1, but its single USB-C port (USB 3.2 Gen 2) lacks power delivery and doesn’t support newer standards like USB 4 or Thunderbolt. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 are functional but outdated compared to Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7.
Dell G15: Performance
The Core i7-13650HX, paired with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, delivers impressive performance. The G15 excelled in benchmarks like PCMark 10 and Handbrake, demonstrating its ability to handle demanding workloads.
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The RTX 4060 consistently outperformed expectations, delivering frame rates comparable to some RTX 4070 laptops. While ray tracing performance was less impressive, the G15 handled demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 admirably at high settings.
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Dell G15: Battery Life
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Battery life is a shortcoming, lasting under five hours in our video playback test. Real-world usage, even for light productivity tasks, will likely result in similar battery drain. The large, heavy power adapter is another inconvenience.
Dell G15: Conclusion
The Dell G15 Gaming Laptop prioritizes gaming performance above all else. It offers excellent value for gamers seeking a desktop replacement capable of handling modern titles. However, its bulk, short battery life, mediocre peripherals, and limited connectivity options make it less suitable for everyday use. If portability and versatility are important, you might want to consider other options. But if raw gaming power on a budget is your top priority, the Dell G15 delivers.
