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Notebook Review

Acer Aspire 3 A317 Review: Practical 17.3-Inch Laptop with DVD Drive

August 14, 2020 By Notebook Center Editorial Team Acer
Summary: A 17.3-inch Acer laptop with Core i5-1035G1, 12 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, matte IPS display, and DVD drive; strong desk use focus with limited portability.

Editor note: This English review is an original adaptation prepared by Notebook Center from the Notebook-Center.ru source review.

Overview

The Acer Aspire 3 A317 in this configuration is a 17.3-inch laptop built for users who prefer a large screen and a full-size layout. The tested setup includes an Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor, 12 GB of DDR4 memory, a 512 GB SSD, and Windows 10 Pro. One uncommon detail for this class is the built-in DVD drive.

Technical Specifications

ComponentDetails
ProcessorIntel Core i5-1035G1 1000 MHz
Memory12 GB DDR4 2666 MHz
Storage512 GB SSD
Display17.3" 1920x1080 Full HD IPS, matte
GraphicsIntel UHD Graphics G1
Optical driveDVD
WirelessWi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.2
Audio2 speakers
Ports2x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.0, HDMI, RJ-45, combo audio jack
Webcam720p
Battery2-cell Li-ion, 4800 mAh
Size and weight419.5 x 289.5 x 25 mm, 2.8 kg
Operating systemWindows 10 Pro 64-bit
ConfigurationAcer Aspire 3 A317-52-509H

Design and Build

The chassis is plastic, but the source review describes the build quality as solid, with no creaks, no obvious panel gaps, and good rigidity in normal use. This is a large notebook at 2.8 kg, so it is more practical as a mostly desk-based machine than a carry-everywhere model.

Display, Audio, and Webcam

The 17.3-inch IPS panel uses Full HD resolution and a matte finish. According to the source review, this combination improves usability in bright environments and gives even backlighting with decent color reproduction for everyday tasks. The speakers are placed on the bottom panel and were described as above average for this class, while the 720p webcam is basic and works better in good daylight.

Keyboard and Touchpad

The island-style keyboard includes a numeric keypad, which is useful for office and spreadsheet work. There is no backlight, but key spacing and short travel were noted as comfortable for typing. The touchpad is slightly offset and was reported as responsive with adequate sensitivity.

Performance, Ports, and Battery

With a quad-core Core i5-1035G1, 12 GB RAM, and a 512 GB SSD, this configuration is positioned for routine productivity, web work, and general home use. Wired and wireless connectivity covers common needs, but there is no USB Type-C port and no card reader. The right side includes a DVD drive, while the left side carries power input, RJ-45, HDMI, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, and a combo audio jack. The 4800 mAh battery is rated by the manufacturer for up to about 5.5 hours.

Verdict

The Acer Aspire 3 A317 is a practical large-screen notebook for users who want a 17.3-inch display, numeric keypad, SSD storage, and legacy features such as a DVD drive and RJ-45. Its main compromise is portability: the size and 2.8 kg weight make it less convenient for frequent travel.