Running an 8300 processor, the Dell XPS 1530 can never reach its full potential, as heating issues will prevent this machine from running above 50% for long. A cooling pad is not enough to relieve this problem, as the heat coming from the top will scorch any palm that dares try to lay rest.
Upsides to this machine are the option of a full HD screen, though there is a significant drop of with screen brightness around the edges unless you opt for the LED option.
The larger battery is a must for anyone who needs to go unplugged for more than the 90 minutes that the standard battery will last. The upgraded battery will stick out from below, offering improved cooling, but will make even the dell included sleeve no longer fit and will require backpacks which can fit a 17in laptop. Extended battery will last 2.5-3.5 hours depending on use.

Don't go for the higher end processors with this machine, the battery and your palms won't be able to bear it. The lower end models will handle everything you need, and if your needing to constantly max out your processor, consider a different computer. Also, even though this is the XPS line, crapware abounds and a reinstall of the OS is your best way to cut out the junk which seriously hampers this machine.
Don't be fooled by the thin sheet of aluminum on the top of this machine, standard dell plastic is what holds it together.