Dell Latitude 7490 review exploring performance, portability, and value for business professionals

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Dell Latitude 7490 boasts a sleek, professional design that makes it ideal for both office and travel use. As someone who values durability in my devices, I was pleasantly surprised by the sturdy construction of this laptop. Its matte black finish gives it a clean, understated look, while the anti-glare screen ensures visibility in bright environments. The 14.1-inch display hits the sweet spot for portability and usability, and its full HD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels) delivers crisp visuals, whether you’re working on spreadsheets or streaming videos.

At just 2.99 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to carry around without any hassle. The thin profile (0.75 inches) also means it slides easily into most laptop bags. While the design leans more toward function than flair, I found the ergonomic keyboard layout and smooth trackpad to be standout features. Typing felt natural and comfortable, even during longer work sessions.

Performance and Speed

With the Intel Core i5-8350U processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM, this laptop handles multitasking like a champ. I’ve had multiple tabs open in Chrome while running Excel and streaming music, and the device didn’t slow down once. The 256GB SSD is not just fast but also silent, reducing boot times and ensuring quick access to files. Apps load in the blink of an eye, and the overall responsiveness is impressive.

For a laptop in this category, the Intel UHD Graphics 620 is more than enough for light graphic tasks. I’ve used it for basic photo editing and light gaming, and while it’s not a powerhouse for gamers, it performs solidly in day-to-day tasks. If you’re someone who frequently streams HD content, you’ll appreciate the smooth playback and vivid colors on the screen.

Ports and Connectivity

One of the key benefits of the Dell Latitude 7490 is its generous array of ports. You get three USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port, a Type-C port, and even an RJ-45 Ethernet port for wired internet connections. For me, this eliminated the need for multiple dongles, which is always a plus. The 802.11ac wireless connectivity is fast and stable, ensuring smooth video calls and downloads.

The built-in Bluetooth also works like a charm. I’ve connected wireless headphones and my phone without any issues, and the pairing process was seamless. Plus, the integrated webcam and microphone are decent for virtual meetings, delivering clear video and audio.

Battery Life

Battery life is often a make-or-break aspect for laptops, and the Latitude 7490 doesn’t disappoint. I’ve managed to get through a full day of work on a single charge, thanks to its efficient power management. The lithium-ion battery holds up well even when running resource-heavy applications. While it’s not the longest-lasting battery I’ve ever tested, it’s certainly reliable for standard daily use.

Charging is quick, too. Using the included power adapter, the laptop reaches a significant charge in a relatively short time. This is particularly handy if you’re constantly on the go and need to top up quickly.

Key Benefits

• Lightweight and portable, weighing only 2.99 pounds.
• Powerful specs, including a Core i5 processor and 16GB RAM.
• Generous storage with a 256GB SSD for quick data access.
• Excellent array of ports, including USB 3.0, HDMI, and Type-C.
• Anti-glare full HD display, perfect for long work hours.

Caveats

• The integrated graphics card isn’t ideal for heavy graphical tasks or gaming.
• Speakers lack depth, making external audio devices preferable for music lovers.
• The renewed condition might show slight external wear, though functionality remains unaffected.
• Limited upgradability due to its compact design.

Product Comparisons

Compared to other laptops in the renewed market, like the Lenovo ThinkPad T480 or the HP EliteBook 840 G5, the Latitude 7490 holds its ground well. The Lenovo ThinkPad offers similar performance but tends to be bulkier, while the EliteBook often comes with an inferior display resolution in this price range. What sets the Latitude apart is its combination of speed, display quality, and port selection. However, if you’re looking for a more gaming-friendly machine, the Acer Aspire 5 might be a better choice, though it lacks the Latitude’s premium build and portability.

Affordable Quality

The Latitude 7490 strikes a fantastic balance between performance and cost-efficiency. While it doesn’t have the ultra-sleek design of premium ultrabooks, it delivers reliable performance and a strong feature set at a fraction of the cost. If you’re a professional or student looking for a dependable workhorse without breaking the bank, this laptop fits the bill perfectly. It’s not just a purchase; it’s an investment in productivity.

Additional information