As part of the Intel 2 in 1 Smart Squad, I’m testing out an Intel 2 in 1 Dell Inspiron 11 3000 Series tablet/computer. Full disclosure: I’ve never run a Windows 8 PC before and have no idea what I’m doing. It’s interesting and definitely has a very tablet home screen kind of feel to it as well.
I actually expected my Intel 2 in 1 to be smaller. It’s a good size and a good balance between tablet and computer. Would I want to develop software on it for 10 hours/day? Probably not, but it’s the perfect size for travel.
Upon startup in laptop configuration, the trackpad is set with natural scrolling, which corresponds to finger movement like on a touch screen. Since I’m old school, it was the first setting I changed. I’m probably the only one left, but there’s something about that kind of scrolling on a computer that bothers me.
And speaking of starting up my Intel 2 in 1, I’ve never been more glad to have hardware that comes with a manual. I couldn’t find the on button for the longest time and ended up looking it up. Turns out it’s near the corner on the thin right side of the 2 in 1.
Setup is brief, although I was prompted to update my software right away. I also took the time to install some of my favorite apps for tablet— Kindle and Fruit Ninja, clearly. I’m considering shelling out the $4.99 for Temple Run, too.
As a tablet, I’m a fan of the large screen real estate. The colors are also excellent. However, I am concerned about my 2 in 1’s delicacy. It has a spinning hard drive and I can’t imagine flipping between tablet and laptop configurations while it’s running. I’m also hesitant to hold it at an angle.
Of course, how I’m most looking forward to using my Intel 2 in 1 is hacking the OS to run my free version of The Sims 2. I haven’t set aside time to do it yet and I definitely don’t want to crash the whole system, but it is totally happening. The Sims 2 is practically a classic.
Funny to think I’ve actually wanted one of these two-in-one tablet/computers since they came out in… the early 2000s? These modern ones are a lot sleeker, lighter and smaller than the full-size laptop originals. It was definitely worth the wait.
You can get a spec rundown of my 2 in 1 here and here.
Stay tuned for my next post on my Intel 2 in 1 (it’s a video!) coming up in September!
#spon: I’m required to disclose a relationship between our site and Intel This could include Intel providing us w/content, product, access or other forms of payment.
Tallia says
This looks like a cool product!
♡Tallia
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Ellesees.blogspot.com says
have wondered how this is! interested on your update.
Elle says
Alex ,
I have wondered about this system for a while. This is a good review, have fun with this product. I am sticking with my ipad and MacBook Air.. I am. It a techie like you …
Have a good week ahead, I love a nice, short week !
XX, Elle
http://mydailycostume.com
Alexandra Shook says
Thanks, Elle! I hope you had a nice weekend!
Kimberlee says
lol The Sims. I like how it folds. Definitely convenient. I’m looking forward to using mine for fashion week so I don’t kill my phone battery.
Nnenna says
Wooo, look at that new header- I love it! For some reason, your new posts are not showing up showing up in my Feedly?
I was going to say it’s been ages since I used a PC, but then I nearly forget that my work computer is a PC. I’ve never checked out one of these tablets though!
Alexandra Shook says
Yep, there’s totally something wrong with my Feedburner. I noticed it a few days ago but I have no idea what it could possibly be :P
The tablet/computers are definitely cool. My biggest complaint with tablets is that they’re slow– can’t type fast enough on the touch screen!