The Dell Inspiron 3880 desktop series has been on pf our favorite entry-level PC options since it launched in 2017, offering reliable AMD computing power in configurations that start as low as $599, or even less. The new Inspiron 3880 we’re reviewing packs Intel into a sturdy case, giving you powerful Intel performance and fast SSD storage for similarly low prices.
Thanks to its speedy 10th generation Core i5 CPU and dependable 12GB of RAM, the Inspiron 3880 offers strong business and office productivity in an affordable, attractive package. However, it lacks a dedicated GPU that would suffice for gaming, but since you’re buying a productivity PC, it works as it should.
If you can pony up a bit extra, HP offers the Omen 25L (GT12-0050, 2020 model) with even stronger performance, far better upgradability and even nicer designs.
Design
The Dell Inspiron (i3880-5422BLK-PUS) has a minimalist, no-nonsense design that’s reminiscent of s business machine, while touting some eye-catching flourishes on the front panel. The system gets diagonal vents on the front side, it lacks the blue backlighting you find on the gamer-centric Dell i5680-5842BLU-PUS.
The model we’re reviewing features a pretty basic black, plastic chassis, though there are configurations with ribbed front panels for enthusiasts who want a bit more pizazz.
Port selection is well-rounded, at least you have all the essentials for connections, starting with two USB 3.0 ports, two USB 2.0, a card reader and a headphone jack up front.
Around the back, you have two more USB 3.0 and two USB 2.0 port, an Ethernet port, a VGA port and an HDMI port. A front-facing HDMI and a USB-C connection, both of which are becoming popular would be much welcome, but their absence isn’t a deal breaker either.
Performance
As configured, with a 10th generation, Intel Core i5, 12GB RAM, 512GB solid state drive (SSD) and Intel UHD Graphics 630; the Dell Inspiron 3880 is a reliable business/office machine. Because compared with a typical standard desktop computer, this one benefits from a powerful CPU, has more RAM that’s usually capped at 8GB at this price range, and the SSD accelerates things as compared to a traditional spinning hard drive.
Booting takes mere seconds, and launching productivity applications is quite brisk. Dell includes an optical drive and an SD card reader, making the machine office-ready as you can access media from your external peripherals.
There isn’t an included monitor, but we recommend the Sceptre E248W-19203R as it can be used for work and play. We’d also recommend that you budget for a better mouse and keyboard, than what HP includes in the package.
Bottom Line
There are great things about the Dell Inspiron Desktop, made even more exciting by a few areas where Dell paid more attention to details. The positive aspects are the solid and high performing 10th Gen Core i5 platform, compact package and the ability to handle single thread and multi-thread tasks with equal aplomb.
The Inspiron 3880 offers reliable productivity performance for an affordable price with minimal compromises. Its minimalist design is attractive for a business-office environment; it has enough muscle to handle most productivity tasks and it works fine out-of-the-box.
If budget is your main concern, or are deploying multiple units for a small office, the Dell Inspiron 3880 Desktop will more than satisfy your computing needs for a good price.