Essential Difference(s) Between Inspiron and Vostro

Hi there. I'm planning on buying a new Dell desktop shortly, to replace my aging but venerable Dimension 4500.

I need a single PC for typical home use. I'm definitely not a gamer - not that there's anything wrong with playing games, it's just not what I do. Also: I want Windows XP, not Vista.

Looks like my choices are Inspiron 530, Vostro 200 or Vostro 400. (I also don't want a "slim" form factor.)

From what I can see, there's not a whole lot of difference between these computers. Yes, they can be equipped with slightly different combinations of components, but is that all that distinguishes among them?

Inspiron is a "Home" computer, so it probably comes with trialware. That doesn't bug me, I just remove it. Vostro is a "Small Business" computer, so it comes with (allegedly) upgraded technical support. That doesn't impress me, since I'll never use it unless some hardware component dies in-warranty.

What then is the essential difference between Inspiron and Vostro? For example, because Vostro is a "Small Business" computer does that mean it has better build quality? Better case, fans, motherboard, etc.? And what the heck is the essential difference between Vostro 200 and 400?

If you have patience for one more question from me: Do these computers come with full installation CDs? Not those so-called recovery CDs - the real thing.

Thanks for your advice.

Daddy

"Daddy" <> wrote in message
news:. ..
Hi there. I'm planning on buying a new Dell desktop shortly, to replace my
aging but venerable Dimension 4500.

I need a single PC for typical home use. I'm definitely not a gamer - not
that there's anything wrong with playing games, it's just not what I do.
Also: I want Windows XP, not Vista.

Looks like my choices are Inspiron 530, Vostro 200 or Vostro 400. (I also
don't want a "slim" form factor.)

From what I can see, there's not a whole lot of difference between these
computers. Yes, they can be equipped with slightly different combinations of
components, but is that all that distinguishes among them?

Inspiron is a "Home" computer, so it probably comes with trialware. That
doesn't bug me, I just remove it. Vostro is a "Small Business" computer, so
it comes with (allegedly) upgraded technical support. That doesn't impress
me, since I'll never use it unless some hardware component dies in-warranty.

What then is the essential difference between Inspiron and Vostro? For
example, because Vostro is a "Small Business" computer does that mean it has
better build quality? Better case, fans, motherboard, etc.? And what the
heck is the essential difference between Vostro 200 and 400?

If you have patience for one more question from me: Do these computers come
with full installation CDs? Not those so-called recovery CDs - the real
thing.

Thanks for your advice.

Daddy


------------------------------


You've hit the nail on the head. They're essentially the same basic
hardware with different paint and plastics - and allegedly "less
bloatware/trialware" on the Vostro.

Go over to www.dealcatcher.com and find the mini-tower bundle and monitor
that works best for you (with WinXP and whatever else you're after).

On that website, left column, you'll see both "Dell Home" = Inspiron, and
"Dell SB (small business)" = Vostro for offers on each.


Stew

"S.Lewis" <> wrote in message news:uuovj.91410$.. .
>
> "Daddy" <> wrote in message
> news:. ..
> Hi there. I'm planning on buying a new Dell desktop shortly, to replace my
> aging but venerable Dimension 4500.
>
> I need a single PC for typical home use. I'm definitely not a gamer - not
> that there's anything wrong with playing games, it's just not what I do.
> Also: I want Windows XP, not Vista.
>
> Looks like my choices are Inspiron 530, Vostro 200 or Vostro 400. (I also
> don't want a "slim" form factor.)
>
> From what I can see, there's not a whole lot of difference between these
> computers. Yes, they can be equipped with slightly different combinations of
> components, but is that all that distinguishes among them?
>
> Inspiron is a "Home" computer, so it probably comes with trialware. That
> doesn't bug me, I just remove it. Vostro is a "Small Business" computer, so
> it comes with (allegedly) upgraded technical support. That doesn't impress
> me, since I'll never use it unless some hardware component dies in-warranty.
>
> What then is the essential difference between Inspiron and Vostro? For
> example, because Vostro is a "Small Business" computer does that mean it has
> better build quality? Better case, fans, motherboard, etc.? And what the
> heck is the essential difference between Vostro 200 and 400?
>
> If you have patience for one more question from me: Do these computers come
> with full installation CDs? Not those so-called recovery CDs - the real
> thing.
>
> Thanks for your advice.
>
> Daddy
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
>
> You've hit the nail on the head. They're essentially the same basic
> hardware with different paint and plastics - and allegedly "less
> bloatware/trialware" on the Vostro.
>
> Go over to www.dealcatcher.com and find the mini-tower bundle and monitor
> that works best for you (with WinXP and whatever else you're after).
>
> On that website, left column, you'll see both "Dell Home" = Inspiron, and
> "Dell SB (small business)" = Vostro for offers on each.
>
>
> Stew
>
>
>
>

Reminds me of an old song by Peggy Lee:

Is that all there is?
Is that all there is?
If that's all there is my friends,
Then let's keep dancing.
Let's break out the booze and have a ball,
If that's all there is.

Daddy

"Daddy" <> wrote in message
news:q-...

"S.Lewis" <> wrote in message
news:uuovj.91410$.. .
>
> "Daddy" <> wrote in message
> news:. ..
> Hi there. I'm planning on buying a new Dell desktop shortly, to replace my
> aging but venerable Dimension 4500.
>
> I need a single PC for typical home use. I'm definitely not a gamer - not
> that there's anything wrong with playing games, it's just not what I do.
> Also: I want Windows XP, not Vista.
>
> Looks like my choices are Inspiron 530, Vostro 200 or Vostro 400. (I also
> don't want a "slim" form factor.)
>
> From what I can see, there's not a whole lot of difference between these
> computers. Yes, they can be equipped with slightly different combinations
> of
> components, but is that all that distinguishes among them?
>
> Inspiron is a "Home" computer, so it probably comes with trialware. That
> doesn't bug me, I just remove it. Vostro is a "Small Business" computer,
> so
> it comes with (allegedly) upgraded technical support. That doesn't impress
> me, since I'll never use it unless some hardware component dies
> in-warranty.
>
> What then is the essential difference between Inspiron and Vostro? For
> example, because Vostro is a "Small Business" computer does that mean it
> has
> better build quality? Better case, fans, motherboard, etc.? And what the
> heck is the essential difference between Vostro 200 and 400?
>
> If you have patience for one more question from me: Do these computers
> come
> with full installation CDs? Not those so-called recovery CDs - the real
> thing.
>
> Thanks for your advice.
>
> Daddy
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
>
> You've hit the nail on the head. They're essentially the same basic
> hardware with different paint and plastics - and allegedly "less
> bloatware/trialware" on the Vostro.
>
> Go over to www.dealcatcher.com and find the mini-tower bundle and monitor
> that works best for you (with WinXP and whatever else you're after).
>
> On that website, left column, you'll see both "Dell Home" = Inspiron, and
> "Dell SB (small business)" = Vostro for offers on each.
>
>
> Stew
>
>
>
>

Reminds me of an old song by Peggy Lee:

Is that all there is?
Is that all there is?
If that's all there is my friends,
Then let's keep dancing.
Let's break out the booze and have a ball,
If that's all there is.

Daddy


---------------------------------------------


My lack of enthusiasm for both models stems from my hands-on experience and
memories of past Dell Dimension desktops (which the Inspiron and Vostro
effectively replaced).

The Dell-specific hardware distinctions in the older model Dimensions were,
imo, significantly to moderately apparent from other OEM manufacturers for
anyone who had to repair them.

These two models are pretty much 'cookie-cutter' boxes that could just as
easily be from HP or even EMachines in their fundamental design.

That said, I haven't found any OEM desktop that I can recommend instead -
though I keep my eyes open.

I do have a client with a Vostro 200 desktop and she's very pleased with it.
No issues in about 6 mos. of ownership.

meh.


Stew

"S.Lewis" <> wrote in message news:WArvj.79956$. ..
>
> "Daddy" <> wrote in message
> news:q-...
>
> "S.Lewis" <> wrote in message
> news:uuovj.91410$.. .
>>
>> "Daddy" <> wrote in message
>> news:. ..
>> Hi there. I'm planning on buying a new Dell desktop shortly, to replace my
>> aging but venerable Dimension 4500.
>>
>> I need a single PC for typical home use. I'm definitely not a gamer - not
>> that there's anything wrong with playing games, it's just not what I do.
>> Also: I want Windows XP, not Vista.
>>
>> Looks like my choices are Inspiron 530, Vostro 200 or Vostro 400. (I also
>> don't want a "slim" form factor.)
>>
>> From what I can see, there's not a whole lot of difference between these
>> computers. Yes, they can be equipped with slightly different combinations
>> of
>> components, but is that all that distinguishes among them?
>>
>> Inspiron is a "Home" computer, so it probably comes with trialware. That
>> doesn't bug me, I just remove it. Vostro is a "Small Business" computer,
>> so
>> it comes with (allegedly) upgraded technical support. That doesn't impress
>> me, since I'll never use it unless some hardware component dies
>> in-warranty.
>>
>> What then is the essential difference between Inspiron and Vostro? For
>> example, because Vostro is a "Small Business" computer does that mean it
>> has
>> better build quality? Better case, fans, motherboard, etc.? And what the
>> heck is the essential difference between Vostro 200 and 400?
>>
>> If you have patience for one more question from me: Do these computers
>> come
>> with full installation CDs? Not those so-called recovery CDs - the real
>> thing.
>>
>> Thanks for your advice.
>>
>> Daddy
>>
>>
>> ------------------------------
>>
>>
>> You've hit the nail on the head. They're essentially the same basic
>> hardware with different paint and plastics - and allegedly "less
>> bloatware/trialware" on the Vostro.
>>
>> Go over to www.dealcatcher.com and find the mini-tower bundle and monitor
>> that works best for you (with WinXP and whatever else you're after).
>>
>> On that website, left column, you'll see both "Dell Home" = Inspiron, and
>> "Dell SB (small business)" = Vostro for offers on each.
>>
>>
>> Stew
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
> Reminds me of an old song by Peggy Lee:
>
> Is that all there is?
> Is that all there is?
> If that's all there is my friends,
> Then let's keep dancing.
> Let's break out the booze and have a ball,
> If that's all there is.
>
> Daddy
>
>
> ---------------------------------------------
>
>
> My lack of enthusiasm for both models stems from my hands-on experience and
> memories of past Dell Dimension desktops (which the Inspiron and Vostro
> effectively replaced).
>
> The Dell-specific hardware distinctions in the older model Dimensions were,
> imo, significantly to moderately apparent from other OEM manufacturers for
> anyone who had to repair them.
>
> These two models are pretty much 'cookie-cutter' boxes that could just as
> easily be from HP or even EMachines in their fundamental design.
>
> That said, I haven't found any OEM desktop that I can recommend instead -
> though I keep my eyes open.
>
> I do have a client with a Vostro 200 desktop and she's very pleased with it.
> No issues in about 6 mos. of ownership.
>
> meh.
>
>
> Stew
>
>

Thank you, Stew. Your opinions are always helpful.

Before my Dimension 4500 I owned an XPS M200s. Fortunately, both have been utterly reliable for me. I didn't know enough to touch the XPS M200s but I have repaired and upgraded the 4500 and have taken note of how its proprietary parts did not always make life easy (or cheap, for that matter.)

FWIW, this is my PC-buying philosophy: I'm looking for an up-to-date CPU+motherboard+case that I can upgrade over time as I come across bargains. So, for example, I'm fine with on-board video, since it lets me use the computer while I shop for a video card. Basically, I start with a computer that I know works properly, and build from there. That being the case, "cookie cutter" sounds good to me.

Now if I was a "real man" I'd build my own computer completely from scratch, only I'm not quite there, knowledge-wise. Besides, Mommy thinks I spend too much time with the computer already.

Daddy

"Daddy" <> wrote in message
news:. ..

"S.Lewis" <> wrote in message
news:WArvj.79956$. ..
>
> "Daddy" <> wrote in message
> news:q-...
>
> "S.Lewis" <> wrote in message
> news:uuovj.91410$.. .
>>
>> "Daddy" <> wrote in message
>> news:. ..
>> Hi there. I'm planning on buying a new Dell desktop shortly, to replace
>> my
>> aging but venerable Dimension 4500.
>>
>> I need a single PC for typical home use. I'm definitely not a gamer - not
>> that there's anything wrong with playing games, it's just not what I do.
>> Also: I want Windows XP, not Vista.
>>
>> Looks like my choices are Inspiron 530, Vostro 200 or Vostro 400. (I also
>> don't want a "slim" form factor.)
>>
>> From what I can see, there's not a whole lot of difference between these
>> computers. Yes, they can be equipped with slightly different combinations
>> of
>> components, but is that all that distinguishes among them?
>>
>> Inspiron is a "Home" computer, so it probably comes with trialware. That
>> doesn't bug me, I just remove it. Vostro is a "Small Business" computer,
>> so
>> it comes with (allegedly) upgraded technical support. That doesn't
>> impress
>> me, since I'll never use it unless some hardware component dies
>> in-warranty.
>>
>> What then is the essential difference between Inspiron and Vostro? For
>> example, because Vostro is a "Small Business" computer does that mean it
>> has
>> better build quality? Better case, fans, motherboard, etc.? And what the
>> heck is the essential difference between Vostro 200 and 400?
>>
>> If you have patience for one more question from me: Do these computers
>> come
>> with full installation CDs? Not those so-called recovery CDs - the real
>> thing.
>>
>> Thanks for your advice.
>>
>> Daddy
>>
>>
>> ------------------------------
>>
>>
>> You've hit the nail on the head. They're essentially the same basic
>> hardware with different paint and plastics - and allegedly "less
>> bloatware/trialware" on the Vostro.
>>
>> Go over to www.dealcatcher.com and find the mini-tower bundle and monitor
>> that works best for you (with WinXP and whatever else you're after).
>>
>> On that website, left column, you'll see both "Dell Home" = Inspiron, and
>> "Dell SB (small business)" = Vostro for offers on each.
>>
>>
>> Stew
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
> Reminds me of an old song by Peggy Lee:
>
> Is that all there is?
> Is that all there is?
> If that's all there is my friends,
> Then let's keep dancing.
> Let's break out the booze and have a ball,
> If that's all there is.
>
> Daddy
>
>
> ---------------------------------------------
>
>
> My lack of enthusiasm for both models stems from my hands-on experience
> and
> memories of past Dell Dimension desktops (which the Inspiron and Vostro
> effectively replaced).
>
> The Dell-specific hardware distinctions in the older model Dimensions
> were,
> imo, significantly to moderately apparent from other OEM manufacturers for
> anyone who had to repair them.
>
> These two models are pretty much 'cookie-cutter' boxes that could just as
> easily be from HP or even EMachines in their fundamental design.
>
> That said, I haven't found any OEM desktop that I can recommend instead -
> though I keep my eyes open.
>
> I do have a client with a Vostro 200 desktop and she's very pleased with
> it.
> No issues in about 6 mos. of ownership.
>
> meh.
>
>
> Stew
>
>

Thank you, Stew. Your opinions are always helpful.

Before my Dimension 4500 I owned an XPS M200s. Fortunately, both have been
utterly reliable for me. I didn't know enough to touch the XPS M200s but I
have repaired and upgraded the 4500 and have taken note of how its
proprietary parts did not always make life easy (or cheap, for that matter.)

FWIW, this is my PC-buying philosophy: I'm looking for an up-to-date
CPU+motherboard+case that I can upgrade over time as I come across bargains.
So, for example, I'm fine with on-board video, since it lets me use the
computer while I shop for a video card. Basically, I start with a computer
that I know works properly, and build from there. That being the case,
"cookie cutter" sounds good to me.

Now if I was a "real man" I'd build my own computer completely from scratch,
only I'm not quite there, knowledge-wise. Besides, Mommy thinks I spend too
much time with the computer already.

Daddy


-------------------------------------


Given that you're not a gamer, but wish to have the option to add a video
card later should you desire; have a look at these Optiplex 300 mini-tower
bundles - specifically the ones at $479 and $519 (monitor included, as well
as a 3-year onsite hardware warranty):
http://www.dell.com/content/products...471&lid=639567

A far better value (primarily due to hardware quality and warranty coverage)
than you'll find in either the Inspiron or Vostro. I've placed one of these
bundles as well in a small business and I was very impressed with it (as was
the end-user).

Check them out and see what you think. You'll probably want to add a DVDRW
to either configuration, but other than that they're ready to go imo.


Stew

"S.Lewis" <> wrote in message news:dYuvj.93653$_.. .
>
> "Daddy" <> wrote in message
> news:. ..
>
> "S.Lewis" <> wrote in message
> news:WArvj.79956$. ..
>>
>> "Daddy" <> wrote in message
>> news:q-...
>>
>> "S.Lewis" <> wrote in message
>> news:uuovj.91410$.. .
>>>
>>> "Daddy" <> wrote in message
>>> news:. ..
>>> Hi there. I'm planning on buying a new Dell desktop shortly, to replace
>>> my
>>> aging but venerable Dimension 4500.
>>>
>>> I need a single PC for typical home use. I'm definitely not a gamer - not
>>> that there's anything wrong with playing games, it's just not what I do.
>>> Also: I want Windows XP, not Vista.
>>>
>>> Looks like my choices are Inspiron 530, Vostro 200 or Vostro 400. (I also
>>> don't want a "slim" form factor.)
>>>
>>> From what I can see, there's not a whole lot of difference between these
>>> computers. Yes, they can be equipped with slightly different combinations
>>> of
>>> components, but is that all that distinguishes among them?
>>>
>>> Inspiron is a "Home" computer, so it probably comes with trialware. That
>>> doesn't bug me, I just remove it. Vostro is a "Small Business" computer,
>>> so
>>> it comes with (allegedly) upgraded technical support. That doesn't
>>> impress
>>> me, since I'll never use it unless some hardware component dies
>>> in-warranty.
>>>
>>> What then is the essential difference between Inspiron and Vostro? For
>>> example, because Vostro is a "Small Business" computer does that mean it
>>> has
>>> better build quality? Better case, fans, motherboard, etc.? And what the
>>> heck is the essential difference between Vostro 200 and 400?
>>>
>>> If you have patience for one more question from me: Do these computers
>>> come
>>> with full installation CDs? Not those so-called recovery CDs - the real
>>> thing.
>>>
>>> Thanks for your advice.
>>>
>>> Daddy
>>>
>>>
>>> ------------------------------
>>>
>>>
>>> You've hit the nail on the head. They're essentially the same basic
>>> hardware with different paint and plastics - and allegedly "less
>>> bloatware/trialware" on the Vostro.
>>>
>>> Go over to www.dealcatcher.com and find the mini-tower bundle and monitor
>>> that works best for you (with WinXP and whatever else you're after).
>>>
>>> On that website, left column, you'll see both "Dell Home" = Inspiron, and
>>> "Dell SB (small business)" = Vostro for offers on each.
>>>
>>>
>>> Stew
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>> Reminds me of an old song by Peggy Lee:
>>
>> Is that all there is?
>> Is that all there is?
>> If that's all there is my friends,
>> Then let's keep dancing.
>> Let's break out the booze and have a ball,
>> If that's all there is.
>>
>> Daddy
>>
>>
>> ---------------------------------------------
>>
>>
>> My lack of enthusiasm for both models stems from my hands-on experience
>> and
>> memories of past Dell Dimension desktops (which the Inspiron and Vostro
>> effectively replaced).
>>
>> The Dell-specific hardware distinctions in the older model Dimensions
>> were,
>> imo, significantly to moderately apparent from other OEM manufacturers for
>> anyone who had to repair them.
>>
>> These two models are pretty much 'cookie-cutter' boxes that could just as
>> easily be from HP or even EMachines in their fundamental design.
>>
>> That said, I haven't found any OEM desktop that I can recommend instead -
>> though I keep my eyes open.
>>
>> I do have a client with a Vostro 200 desktop and she's very pleased with
>> it.
>> No issues in about 6 mos. of ownership.
>>
>> meh.
>>
>>
>> Stew
>>
>>
>
> Thank you, Stew. Your opinions are always helpful.
>
> Before my Dimension 4500 I owned an XPS M200s. Fortunately, both have been
> utterly reliable for me. I didn't know enough to touch the XPS M200s but I
> have repaired and upgraded the 4500 and have taken note of how its
> proprietary parts did not always make life easy (or cheap, for that matter.)
>
> FWIW, this is my PC-buying philosophy: I'm looking for an up-to-date
> CPU+motherboard+case that I can upgrade over time as I come across bargains.
> So, for example, I'm fine with on-board video, since it lets me use the
> computer while I shop for a video card. Basically, I start with a computer
> that I know works properly, and build from there. That being the case,
> "cookie cutter" sounds good to me.
>
> Now if I was a "real man" I'd build my own computer completely from scratch,
> only I'm not quite there, knowledge-wise. Besides, Mommy thinks I spend too
> much time with the computer already.
>
> Daddy
>
>
> -------------------------------------
>
>
> Given that you're not a gamer, but wish to have the option to add a video
> card later should you desire; have a look at these Optiplex 300 mini-tower
> bundles - specifically the ones at $479 and $519 (monitor included, as well
> as a 3-year onsite hardware warranty):
> http://www.dell.com/content/products...471&lid=639567
>
> A far better value (primarily due to hardware quality and warranty coverage)
> than you'll find in either the Inspiron or Vostro. I've placed one of these
> bundles as well in a small business and I was very impressed with it (as was
> the end-user).
>
> Check them out and see what you think. You'll probably want to add a DVDRW
> to either configuration, but other than that they're ready to go imo.
>
>
> Stew
>
>
>

Will do. Thanks again.

Daddy

"S.Lewis" <> wrote:

>A far better value (primarily due to hardware quality and warranty coverage)

is the hardware REALLY that much better on the
Optiplex? Better and sturdier case and all that?
Better power supply?

"S.Lewis" <> wrote:

>; have a look at these Optiplex 300 mini-tower
>bundles - specifically the ones at $479 and $519 (monitor included, as well
>as a 3-year onsite hardware warranty):
>http://www.dell.com/content/products...471&lid=639567

Wow!!

You may have given me a link to just the cheap but
reliable desktop I need!

I am a student and just need something I "can" upgrade
in time..... but of low cost yet standard parts and
good quality

I thought abt building but just don't have the time!

the case of the optiplex is definitely a better build quality, and the
optiplex doesn't have those stupid cosmetic optical drive covers that will
inevitably brake and leave the machine looking ugly(er?), but I don't know
about the other components. i suspect that the power supply in the optiplex
is better and the motherboard is also better since it is tested for
enterprise class compatibility. but the fact remains that you will pay
more for it and you have to ask yourself if it matters to you. on one hand
nobody wants to own junk, but if it gets the job done and is less expensive
then it probably makes sense to go with the less expensive machine. these
things don't get better with age so you only really need it to last a couple
of years before you will want to replace it anyway (it doesn't have to last
forever). if you were running mission critical stuff (medical equipment,
office server) it would be no bargain to skimp on quality as one failure
costs you money, time, and reputation, but for basic home use, who cares.
the hard disk, keyboard, mouse, display, optical drives, etc are the same
across all models, so all we are talking about here are the chassis,
motherboard, and powersupply.

<> wrote in message
news:...
> "S.Lewis" <> wrote:
>
>>A far better value (primarily due to hardware quality and warranty
>>coverage)
>
> is the hardware REALLY that much better on the
> Optiplex? Better and sturdier case and all that?
> Better power supply?