When it comes to business laptops, the Dell Latitude series has made quite a name for itself as a reliable and powerful choice for professionals. Among its offerings, the Dell Latitude 7490 stands out for its blend of performance, portability, and connectivity. In this extensive article, we will delve deep into the features, performance, design, and user experience of the Dell Latitude 7490, to determine if it truly deserves a spot in your laptop lineup.
Overview of the Dell Latitude 7490
Launched in early 2018, the Dell Latitude 7490 is designed for professionals who require a solid performance with an emphasis on portability and security. With its 14-inch display, sleek design, and a powerful Intel processor, it aims to cater to business users’ needs. The Latitude series has historically been known for its durability, and the 7490 is no exception. But does it live up to the expectations? Let’s explore its features in detail.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first aspects that catch the eye is the design and build quality of the Dell Latitude 7490.
Chassis and Design
The Latitude 7490 sports a refined and professional appearance, with a matte black finish that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical. The laptop is robust, made from high-quality materials, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use.
Portability
Weighing around 3.2 pounds (approximately 1.4 kg), the Dell Latitude 7490 is lightweight and easy to carry, making it an excellent choice for professionals on the go. Its slim profile measures just 0.7 inches in thickness, allowing it to fit easily into a briefcase or backpack.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The laptop features a spacious backlit keyboard that provides a comfortable typing experience. The keys are well-spaced and offer just the right amount of travel, making it ideal for long hours of work. The precision touchpad is also responsive and supports multi-touch gestures, enhancing overall productivity.
Display Quality
The display quality is a crucial factor to consider when evaluating any laptop. The Latitude 7490 offers various display options, with the most prominent being a Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel.
Display Technology
- Color Accuracy: The IPS technology delivers excellent viewing angles and color reproduction. This is significant for graphic designers, video editors, and anyone who needs precise color representation.
- Brightness: With a brightness level that can reach up to 300 nits, the screen remains usable even in bright environments, such as offices with large windows or outdoor settings.
Anti-Glare Feature
Another notable feature is its anti-glare coating, which minimizes reflections and glare, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience over prolonged use, reducing eye strain.
Performance Specifications
The Latitude 7490 is equipped with powerful hardware designed to manage demanding business applications.
Processor Options
The laptop comes with several Intel processor options ranging from the Intel Core i5 to the i7. The performance is robust, enabling multitasking and running resource-heavy applications with ease.
RAM and Storage Options
- RAM: The Dell Latitude 7490 can be configured with up to 16GB of RAM, providing enough memory for most business needs.
- Storage: Storage options include HDDs and SSDs, with the latter providing faster boot and load times. The 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD is a popular choice among users for its speed and reliability.
Battery Life
For business users, battery life is often a make-or-break feature. The Dell Latitude 7490 excels in this area as well.
Lithium-Ion Battery
Equipped with a 3-cell 68 WHr Lithium-Ion battery, the Latitude 7490 offers impressive battery longevity. Users can expect anywhere from 8 to 10 hours of usage on a single charge, depending on the workload and settings. This means you can go through a full workday without having to reach for your charger.
Charging Options
Additionally, the laptop supports ExpressCharge technology, allowing for quick charging—up to 80% in just an hour, which is highly convenient for users in a rush.
Connectivity Options
In today’s interconnected world, reliable connectivity is crucial, and the Dell Latitude 7490 does not disappoint.
USB Ports
The laptop provides a variety of USB ports, including:
- Two USB 3.1 Type-A ports
- One USB Type-C port with Power Delivery and DisplayPort
Additional Connectivity Features
Beyond USB, the Latitude 7490 includes an HDMI port, a microSD card reader, and a headphone/microphone combo jack, ensuring users have ample options for connecting to peripherals.
Wireless Connectivity
The laptop is also equipped with the latest wireless technology, including Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2, enabling fast and reliable internet connections.
Security Features
In an age where data breaches are becoming increasingly common, the Dell Latitude 7490 offers several security features designed to protect sensitive information.
Integrated Security Options
- Fingerprint Reader: Integrated fingerprint recognition enables users to log in securely without the need for passwords.
- Smart Card Reader: For organizations that utilize smart cards for secure access, the integrated reader adds an extra layer of security.
TPM 2.0 Security Chip
The inclusion of the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 ensures that sensitive data is encrypted and remains safeguarded against unauthorized access.
User Experience and Performance Benchmarks
Real user experiences and performance benchmarks provide valuable insights into how the Dell Latitude 7490 performs in real-world scenarios.
General Feedback
Overall, users have reported high satisfaction levels with the Latitude 7490. Many highlight the reliability, performance, and battery life as key strengths that make this laptop a favorite for business environments.
Benchmark Results
In terms of performance metrics, benchmarking tests show that the Latitude 7490 can handle resource-heavy applications without significant lag. For instance, users running multiple applications or virtual machines report smooth operations, confirming its suitability for multitasking.
Considerations Before You Buy
While the Dell Latitude 7490 comes with many benefits, there are some considerations to keep in mind.
The Price Point
The Latitude 7490 is positioned as a mid-range business laptop, and while it offers excellent features, it does come with a higher price tag compared to consumer laptops with similar specifications. Potential buyers should evaluate budget constraints against the benefits they expect from the laptop.
Weight for Portability
Although reasonably lightweight, travelers looking for the absolute lightest device may want to explore other models within Dell’s ultrabook line.
Final Verdict: Is the Dell Latitude 7490 Right for You?
In conclusion, the Dell Latitude 7490 is indeed a solid choice for professionals seeking a dependable business laptop. With its outstanding build quality, impressive battery life, and robust performance, it is well-suited for multitasking and running demanding applications.
If you value features like security, connectivity, and portability, the Latitude 7490 is certainly worth considering. However, if budget constraints are a critical factor or if you need absolute portability, it might be prudent to explore alternative options.
Regardless, the Dell Latitude 7490’s overall capabilities and functionalities make it a commendable option in the world of business laptops. Its blend of performance, durability, and user-friendly features continues to attract those who need a reliable workstation, ensuring that it remains a contender in the highly competitive laptop market.
What are the key specifications of the Dell Latitude 7490?
The Dell Latitude 7490 comes equipped with Intel Core processors, ranging from the i5 to i7 options, which provide robust performance for multitasking and running demanding applications. It typically features a 14-inch Full HD display, with options for touch functionality. Moreover, it often includes 8GB to 16GB of RAM and storage options that start at 256GB SSD and can go up to 1TB, accommodating various user needs.
In terms of connectivity, the Latitude 7490 includes multiple USB ports, HDMI output, and an Ethernet port, along with support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The build quality is solid, featuring a durable chassis that is designed to withstand the rigors of business travel. Its lightweight design further enhances its portability, making it a suitable choice for professionals on the go.
How does the battery life of the Dell Latitude 7490 compare to other laptops?
The battery life of the Dell Latitude 7490 is one of its standout features, often exceeding 12 hours on a full charge, depending on usage and configuration. This extended battery life makes it a great option for users who need to work remotely or travel frequently without access to a power outlet. Many users appreciate that it can easily last through a full day of work, which is a significant advantage in today’s fast-paced work environment.
In comparison to other business laptops in its class, the Latitude 7490 performs exceptionally well, often outlasting competitors like the HP EliteBook series and Lenovo ThinkPad offerings. This longevity is particularly appealing to users who prioritize productivity and efficiency without the constant need to recharge. The combination of energy-efficient components and a well-optimized system contributes to its impressive battery performance.
Is the Dell Latitude 7490 suitable for gaming?
While the Dell Latitude 7490 is primarily designed as a business laptop, it can handle some light gaming thanks to its mid-range Intel integrated graphics. However, it is not optimized for high-end gaming, meaning that users should not expect to run demanding titles smoothly. Casual games and older titles may perform adequately, but more intensive games may lead to reduced performance and lower frame rates.
For gamers seeking a dedicated gaming laptop, there are better options available that feature discrete graphics and enhanced cooling systems. While the Latitude 7490 is a reliable choice for everyday tasks and professional work, serious gaming is better suited to devices specifically designed for that purpose. Gamers might want to consider different models that prioritize graphics performance over business functionality.
What is the build quality of the Dell Latitude 7490 like?
The build quality of the Dell Latitude 7490 is robust and feels premium, built with a combination of magnesium alloy and carbon fiber materials that enhance its durability while keeping the weight manageable. Its design includes a spill-resistant keyboard, which adds an extra layer of protection against accidents often experienced in office or travel settings. Users often report that it withstands wear and tear remarkably well over time.
Additionally, the laptop features a sleek and professional appearance, making it suitable for corporate environments. The hinges are sturdy, allowing the screen to be opened and closed with ease while maintaining stability during use. Overall, the attention to detail and high-quality materials contribute to a laptop that not only looks good but is built to last.
What are the pros and cons of the Dell Latitude 7490?
Some notable advantages of the Dell Latitude 7490 include its impressive battery life, lightweight design, and strong performance capabilities for business-related tasks. The display quality is also commendable, providing clear visuals and good brightness levels, which are beneficial for presentations or working in various lighting conditions. In addition, its robust security features cater well to corporate users, making it a trustworthy device in professional settings.
On the downside, one of the potential drawbacks is its limited graphics capabilities, which may not satisfy users who require more extensive multimedia performance. Additionally, while the Latitude 7490 supports various ports, some users might find the lack of USB-C charging limiting, especially as that technology becomes more prevalent. The price point may also be a consideration, as it can be higher compared to consumer-grade laptops with similar specs.
How does the display quality of the Dell Latitude 7490 perform?
The display on the Dell Latitude 7490 is highly regarded for its sharpness and clarity, often offering a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution which ensures crisp images and text. The color reproduction is generally accurate, making it a solid choice for professionals engaged in tasks that require attention to detail, such as graphic design and photo editing. Additionally, the anti-glare coating helps minimize reflections, allowing for comfortable viewing in various lighting conditions.
While the standard display is impressive, users can also opt for a touch-screen variant for more interactive capabilities. However, some reviews suggest that the brightness levels could have been higher, especially for outdoor use. Despite this potential limitation, the Latitude 7490’s display generally meets the expectations for a business laptop, providing a quality viewing experience that enhances productivity.
What operating system does the Dell Latitude 7490 come with?
The Dell Latitude 7490 typically ships with Windows 10 Pro, which is designed to cater to business users with features that enhance productivity and security. Windows 10 Pro includes additional functionalities such as BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop access, and the ability to join a domain, making it suitable for professional environments and enterprise needs. This OS version is optimized for performance and stability, ensuring a smooth user experience.
Additionally, users looking for more recent updates can upgrade to Windows 11 if their hardware supports it, which brings even more enhancements in terms of functionality, aesthetics, and features. The ability to choose an operating system that suits their needs provides flexibility, making the Latitude 7490 a versatile option for both personal and professional use.