When it comes to choosing a dependable laptop from Dell’s Latitude series, the Latitude E6420 and the Latitude E7490 are two models that often come under comparison. Both have their merits; however, they cater to slightly different audiences. While the Latitude E6420 is a rugged older model known for its durability, the Latitude E7490 is a lighter, more modern ultrabook designed for professional use. Deciding which one to buy depends on your needs for performance, portability, and longevity.
Design and Build Quality
The Latitude E6420 boasts a bulky and robust design. Its chassis is made with a tri-metal construction that includes a magnesium alloy body, anodized aluminum display back, and reinforced steel hinges. This makes it ideal for tough environments like fieldwork or industrial use.
On the other hand, the Latitude E7490 features a sleek and modern design. It is significantly thinner and lighter, making it a better choice for frequent travelers and office workers. It has a soft-touch finish and carbon fiber-reinforced lid that keep it classy yet durable.
Performance
Under the hood, the two laptops are generations apart. The E6420 usually comes with 2nd generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, up to 8GB RAM, and spinning hard drives. This configuration is enough for basic tasks like web browsing, word processing, and light media playback, but it struggles with multitasking or demanding applications by today’s standards.
In stark contrast, the E7490 is equipped with 8th generation Intel Core i5 or i7 CPUs, supports up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM, and comes with Solid State Drives (SSD) for much faster data access. It easily handles modern office workloads, video conferencing, and even some light software development.
Display and Graphics
The Latitude E6420 has a 14.0-inch LED-backlit HD display with a maximum resolution of 1366×768 or, optionally, 1600×900. While this was decent at the time of its release, it pales in comparison to modern standards.
On the flip side, the Latitude E7490 features a Full HD (1920×1080) IPS display, offering better color reproduction and wider viewing angles. Some variants even come with a touch screen or integrated privacy filters, making it superior for everyday productivity.
Portability
- E6420: Weighs around 2.1 kg (4.63 lbs) and measures 1.3 inches thick.
- E7490: Weighs approximately 1.4 kg (3.1 lbs) and is only 0.7 inches thick.
Clearly, the E7490 wins in terms of portability, making it the better option for those who are always on the go.
Battery Life
The older technology inside the E6420 results in a shorter battery life, usually around 4–5 hours with a 6-cell battery, depending on usage. The E7490, with its more optimized hardware and power-efficient components, can last up to 10–12 hours on a single charge.
Connectivity and Ports
The E6420 comes with a wide array of ports including VGA, HDMI, ExpressCard, Ethernet, and multiple USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports. It even includes a DVD drive, something that’s nearly extinct today.
The E7490 streamlines its ports for a modern-day setup, offering USB-C with DisplayPort support, HDMI, and USB 3.1 ports. It lacks legacy options like VGA, but supports features such as Thunderbolt 3 on some configurations.
Which One Should You Buy?
If your primary concern is durability and you’re on a tight budget, the E6420 is still a good pick for basic computing needs. However, if you’re looking for better performance, portability, and battery life, the E7490 is undoubtedly the superior choice. It is future-ready and significantly more efficient for today’s software.
FAQ
- Q: Can the RAM be upgraded on these models?
A: Yes, both models allow RAM upgrades. However, the E7490 supports DDR4 and up to 32GB, whereas the E6420 is limited to DDR3 and up to 8GB. - Q: Is the Latitude E6420 still worth buying in 2024?
A: Only if you’re looking for a basic, extremely rugged machine for simple tasks, and at a low price point. - Q: Does the E7490 support Windows 11?
A: Yes, with the right configuration (UEFI and TPM 2.0), the E7490 is compatible with Windows 11. - Q: Which laptop is better for travel?
A: The E7490 is lighter, thinner, and has longer battery life, making it ideal for travelers.