Dell Inspiron 17R review

Another advantage of the 17R’s size is that there’s more room for the keyboard, and even with a numberpad added, the keys are large and have plenty of room between them. The keys have a slightly convex surface, so you get extra tactile feedback from your fingertips as you strike them, and their action is light and crisp. The layout is standard, with the Control key in the bottom-left corner and the Function key marked in bright orange, matching the corresponding shortcut icons on the F1-12 keys.

A massive touchpad – measuring over 11cm diagonally – sits beneath the keyboard. It has a smooth, responsive surface and two large buttons. The buttons have a light, shallow action, but we felt they were set too far back from the edge of the case, which means you have to reach forward with your thumb to strike them.

Despite its yellow cast, the 17R’s screen is bright and colourful, and great value at this price. 2D performance may be average, but it can play games and it even has a decent set of speakers. The Asus K53S has a more accurate screen and better 2D performance, but we think the Inspiron 17R’s large screen tips the balance in its favour, winning it our Best Buy award.