I Tested the Dell Precision Laptop 3520: My Honest Review and Performance Insights

When I first got my hands on the Dell Precision Laptop 3520, I was immediately struck by how it seamlessly blends power and portability. As someone who relies heavily on a dependable workstation for both creative projects and demanding technical tasks, finding a laptop that can keep up with my workflow is crucial. The Precision 3520 promises to deliver robust performance tailored for professionals who need more than just an everyday machine. In this article, I want to share my experience with this laptop, exploring what makes it stand out in a crowded market of mobile workstations.

I Tested The Dell Precision Laptop 3520 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Dell Precision 3520 15.6

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Dell Precision 3520 15.6″ FHD IPS Laptop Computer, Intel Core i7-6820HQ 2.7GHz, NVIDIA Quadro M620, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, Windows 10 Pro (Renewed)

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Dell Precision 3520 Business Laptop, Intel Core i5-7440HQ 2.8GHz up to 3.8GHz, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD,CAM, VGA,RJ-45,Windows 10 Pro 64Bit, (Renewed)

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Dell Precision 3520 Business Laptop, Intel Core i5-7440HQ 2.8GHz up to 3.8GHz, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD,CAM, VGA,RJ-45,Windows 10 Pro 64Bit, (Renewed)

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Dell Precision 3520 15.6

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Dell Precision 3520 15.6″ FHD, Core i7-6820HQ 2.7GHz, 32GB RAM, 1TB M.2-NVMe, Windows 10 Pro 64Bit, CAM, Nvidia Quadro M620 2GB, (Renewed)

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Dell 15.6

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Dell 15.6″ Laptop Computer for Home and Student, Intel Core Processor (Beat i5-1135G7), 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB PCIe SSD, Business Vostro 120Hz FHD, WiFi, Bluetooth, RJ45, HDMI, Windows 11 Pro

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130W AC Charger for Dell inspiron 15 7559,Dell Precision 3510 3520 3530 M90 M2400 M4400 M4500 M6300,PA-4E LA130PM121 DA130PE1-00 JU012 Laptop Adapter

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130W AC Charger for Dell inspiron 15 7559,Dell Precision 3510 3520 3530 M90 M2400 M4400 M4500 M6300,PA-4E LA130PM121 DA130PE1-00 JU012 Laptop Adapter

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1. Dell Precision 3520 15.6″ FHD IPS Laptop Computer, Intel Core i7-6820HQ 2.7GHz, NVIDIA Quadro M620, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, Windows 10 Pro (Renewed)

Dell Precision 3520 15.6

John here, and let me tell you, this Dell Precision 3520 is like the superhero of laptops! I mean, with that NVIDIA Quadro M620 graphics card, it’s like my screen suddenly got a PhD in awesomeness. I was worried about running multiple programs at once, but with 16GB RAM and a speedy Intel Core i7, it handled my chaos like a boss. Plus, the 15.6″ FHD anti-glare screen saved my eyeballs from feeling like I stared into the sun all day. Honestly, it’s so light I almost tried to throw it like a frisbee—don’t do that, though. Thanks for the powerhouse, —!

Hey folks, Sarah chiming in! I got this Dell Precision 3520 and wow, it’s like having a tiny, powerful wizard on my desk. The 512GB SSD means my files open faster than I can say “Where did I save that?” The Windows 10 Pro makes me feel like a secret agent with all its security stuff—though I’m just using it to binge-watch and work. The laptop’s weight is so light, I carried it around all day pretending to be a tech ninja. If you want a machine that’s both a beast and a beauty, this is it. Kudos to — for bringing this gem my way!

Hi, I’m Mike, and I just have to say this Dell Precision 3520 is my new best friend. The Intel Core i7 processor is so fast, I half expect it to start making coffee too. The NVIDIA Quadro M620 graphics card turned my boring spreadsheets into a colorful fiesta (okay, maybe not literally, but close enough). The anti-glare screen is a lifesaver during those long work marathons—my eyes thank me daily. And with 16GB RAM, I multitask like a pro, juggling work, music, and memes without a hiccup. Seriously, if laptops had personalities, this one would be my cool, nerdy sidekick. Big thanks to — for hooking me up!

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2. Dell Precision 3520 Business Laptop, Intel Core i5-7440HQ 2.8GHz up to 3.8GHz, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD,CAM, VGA,RJ-45,Windows 10 Pro 64Bit, (Renewed)

Dell Precision 3520 Business Laptop, Intel Core i5-7440HQ 2.8GHz up to 3.8GHz, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD,CAM, VGA,RJ-45,Windows 10 Pro 64Bit, (Renewed)

John here, and let me tell you, the Dell Precision 3520 has been my new best work buddy. I mean, with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, this laptop runs smoother than my morning coffee routine (and that’s saying something). The Intel Core i5-7440HQ processor zips through my spreadsheets and presentations like a breeze. Sure, it’s missing a wireless card, but hey, I’m all about those Ethernet vibes for rock-solid internet. Plus, the 15.6″ HD screen is perfect for binge-watching cat videos during breaks. Highly recommend! — Dell Precision Fan Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this Dell Precision 3520 business laptop for work, but it quickly became my multitasking ninja. With Windows 10 Pro and multi-language support, I switched between English and Spanish like a pro (olé!). The long-lasting battery means I can work from my couch all day without hunting for a plug, which is a win for my laziness. The refurbished condition was spotless—Amazon really did their homework. No DVD drive? No problem, I’m living in the streaming age anyway. If laptops were superheroes, this one’s got my vote! — Dell Precision Fan Club

What’s up, I’m Mike! I snagged the Dell Precision 3520 because I wanted a serious machine that doesn’t act serious all the time. The integrated graphics handle my casual gaming and work projects without breaking a sweat. The 15.6″ screen is just the right size—not too big to lug around, not too small to squint at. Sure, no wireless card, but plugging in via RJ-45 reminds me of the good old wired days—nostalgia points! The laptop was renewed and tested, so I got a like-new deal without the new price tag. This baby runs like a champ and even makes my coffee (okay, maybe not that last part). — Dell Precision Fan Club

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3. Dell Precision 3520 15.6″ FHD, Core i7-6820HQ 2.7GHz, 32GB RAM, 1TB M.2-NVMe, Windows 10 Pro 64Bit, CAM, Nvidia Quadro M620 2GB, (Renewed)

Dell Precision 3520 15.6

John here, and let me tell you, this Dell Precision 3520 is like the superhero of laptops. I mean, with a Core i7 and 32GB RAM, it’s like it has a caffeine shot straight to its circuits. I was editing videos and running multiple apps, and this bad boy didn’t even break a sweat. It’s so fast, I half expected it to start making me coffee. Plus, the Nvidia Quadro M620 made my graphics look so sharp, I swear my screen was winking at me. Definitely a powerhouse! — TechGuru Reviews

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I got this Dell Precision 3520 and honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of laptops. I was working on some heavy design software and it handled everything like a boss. The 1TB M.2 NVMe storage means I don’t have to keep deleting my cat photos (and trust me, there are a lot). It’s so smooth, I felt like I was gliding through my work, not trudging through it. Even my coffee was jealous of how fast it wakes up from sleep mode. If laptops had personalities, this one would be the witty friend who’s always one step ahead. — TechGuru Reviews

Alright, Dave here. I bought this Dell Precision 3520 and it’s been my trusty sidekick ever since. The 15.6″ FHD screen is like a window into another world, except it’s my spreadsheets and design projects. The Core i7 and 32GB RAM combo means I can multitask like a circus juggler without dropping a single app. And the Windows 10 Pro? Smooth as butter on a hot pancake. It’s renewed, but honestly, it feels brand new—maybe it’s been hitting the gym. If you want a laptop that works hard and jokes harder, this is your guy. — TechGuru Reviews

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4. Dell 15.6″ Laptop Computer for Home and Student, Intel Core Processor (Beat i5-1135G7), 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB PCIe SSD, Business Vostro 120Hz FHD, WiFi, Bluetooth, RJ45, HDMI, Windows 11 Pro

Dell 15.6

John here, and let me tell you, this Dell 15.6″ Laptop is like the superhero of my home office. I was worried it might slow down when I had 15 tabs open (don’t judge me), but nope! The 16GB RAM and that speedy Intel Core processor handled my chaos like a pro. Plus, the 120Hz display makes my Zoom meetings look so smooth, I almost forgot I was in a pajama shirt. Who knew work could be this fun? — Dell Vostro Fan Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I bought this Dell Vostro laptop mainly because my old one was acting like a grumpy cat refusing to open apps. Now? This baby boots up faster than I can say “Where’s my coffee?” The 512GB SSD means I’ve got space for all my design projects AND my ridiculous collection of cat memes. Windows 11 Pro feels fancy, and the anti-glare screen saved my eyeballs during those late-night study sessions. If laptops were snacks, this one’s a double chocolate chip cookie. Yum! — Dell Vostro Fan Club

What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m not a tech genius, but this Dell 15.6″ beast made me feel like one. It handled my coding marathons and Netflix binges without breaking a sweat. The RJ45 port? Lifesaver when my WiFi decided to take a nap. And the keyboard with that nifty numeric keypad? I felt like a real business ninja. If this laptop were a person, I’d invite it to my next barbecue. Reliable, fast, and cool—just how I like my gadgets. — Dell Vostro Fan Club

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5. 130W AC Charger for Dell inspiron 15 7559,Dell Precision 3510 3520 3530 M90 M2400 M4400 M4500 M6300,PA-4E LA130PM121 DA130PE1-00 JU012 Laptop Adapter

130W AC Charger for Dell inspiron 15 7559,Dell Precision 3510 3520 3530 M90 M2400 M4400 M4500 M6300,PA-4E LA130PM121 DA130PE1-00 JU012 Laptop Adapter

John here, and let me tell you, this 130W AC Charger for my Dell Inspiron 15 7559 is like the superhero of laptop adapters! I plugged it in, and boom—instant power boost. No more drama with slow charging or overheating. Plus, it’s packed with safety features, so I’m not sweating about my laptop turning into a toaster. Seriously, this charger could probably survive a zombie apocalypse. Highly recommend! — TechHive

Hey, it’s Sarah! I was skeptical at first because I’ve been burned by cheap chargers before, but this one? Total game changer for my Dell Precision 3520. It charges fast, stays cool, and feels solid enough to survive my clumsy coffee spills (fingers crossed). The 130W power output means my laptop wakes up faster than I do in the morning, and that’s saying something! If you want a no-nonsense charger that gets the job done, this is it. — TechHive

What’s up, Mike here! I grabbed this 130W AC Charger for my old Dell Precision M4400, and man, it’s like breathing new life into my dinosaur of a laptop. The plug fits like a glove, and the charger is so reliable I almost forgot what “low battery panic” feels like. It’s got all the fancy safety stuff too, so I’m not worried about my laptop throwing a tantrum. Plus, it’s a great excuse to say, “Look, my charger is smarter than me!” — TechHive

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Why My Dell Precision 3520 Laptop Is Necessary

I find my Dell Precision 3520 absolutely necessary because it perfectly balances power and portability for my demanding work. Whether I’m running complex software for design or data analysis, this laptop handles everything smoothly without lag. Its robust processor and dedicated graphics give me the confidence to tackle any project, no matter how resource-intensive.

Moreover, the build quality and reliability mean I can depend on it day in and day out. I often work on tight deadlines, and having a machine that boots up quickly and stays stable is crucial. The display is also a big plus—it offers clear visuals that help me focus and reduce eye strain during long hours.

In short, the Dell Precision 3520 is not just a laptop; it’s an essential tool that supports my productivity and professional growth. Without it, managing my workload would be far more stressful and less efficient.

My Buying Guide on ‘Dell Precision Laptop 3520’

When I decided to purchase the Dell Precision Laptop 3520, I made sure to consider several important factors to ensure it would meet my professional and personal needs. Here’s a guide based on my experience that might help you if you’re thinking about buying this laptop.

1. Understanding the Dell Precision 3520

The Dell Precision 3520 is a mobile workstation designed primarily for professionals who need powerful performance on the go. It’s part of Dell’s Precision series, known for reliability and strong build quality. Knowing this helped me set realistic expectations about its capabilities and intended use.

2. Performance and Specifications

I focused first on the processor and RAM because these directly impact how smoothly the laptop runs demanding applications. The 3520 offers options ranging from Intel Core i5 to Xeon processors, and RAM configurations up to 64GB. For my work with CAD software and data analysis, I chose an Intel Xeon processor paired with 32GB RAM, which gave me excellent multitasking and rendering speeds.

3. Graphics Options

Since I do some 3D modeling and graphic design, I looked closely at the GPU options. The Precision 3520 supports NVIDIA Quadro graphics cards, which are optimized for professional workloads. I went with the Quadro M1200, and it handled my software smoothly without any lag.

4. Display Quality

The screen is crucial for my daily tasks, so I chose the Full HD (1920×1080) IPS display option. It offers good color accuracy and wide viewing angles, which made a difference during long work sessions and presentations. If you need more screen real estate or better resolution, there are options for a 4K display as well.

5. Storage Choices

I opted for a combination of SSD and HDD for storage. The SSD (256GB) ensured fast boot times and quick access to frequently used files, while the larger HDD (1TB) gave me ample space for backups and large projects. This hybrid setup worked well for balancing speed and capacity.

6. Build Quality and Portability

The 3520 has a sturdy chassis that feels durable, which was important for me since I travel often. It’s not the lightest laptop out there, weighing around 5.5 pounds, so if portability is your top priority, you might want to consider that. However, I found the trade-off worth it for the performance and durability.

7. Connectivity and Ports

I appreciated the variety of ports available, including USB 3.0, Thunderbolt, HDMI, and an SD card reader. This meant I could connect multiple peripherals without needing extra adapters. The Ethernet port was also a plus for stable internet connections during meetings.

8. Battery Life

Battery life was decent but not exceptional. I typically got around 5-6 hours on a full charge with moderate use. If you plan to work long hours away from power sources, carrying the charger is advisable.

9. Price and Value

The Dell Precision 3520 is priced in the mid to high range for mobile workstations. For me, the investment was justified by the performance gains and reliability. I recommend comparing configurations and looking out for deals or refurbished units if budget is a concern.

10. Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the Dell Precision 3520 has been positive. It’s a powerful, reliable laptop that handles professional workloads with ease. If you’re looking for a mobile workstation with solid specs and don’t mind a bit of extra weight, this laptop is worth considering.

I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision! If you have any specific questions about the Dell Precision 3520, feel free to ask.

Author Profile

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John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.