Dell Latitude 5290 vs Surface Pro 7: The Shocking Winner Revealed!

Choosing the right laptop can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with two popular contenders like the Dell Latitude 5290 and the Surface Pro 7. Both devices offer a blend of portability, performance, and style, but their strengths lie in different areas. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each device, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

Design and Portability: A Tale of Two Form Factors

The Dell Latitude 5290 and the Surface Pro 7 present contrasting approaches to design and portability. The Latitude 5290 is a traditional clamshell laptop, boasting a sleek and professional aesthetic. Its compact footprint and lightweight design make it an ideal companion for frequent travelers. The Surface Pro 7, on the other hand, adopts a 2-in-1 form factor, transforming from a tablet to a laptop with the addition of a detachable keyboard. This versatility allows for both productivity and entertainment on the go.
Dell Latitude 5290:

• Pros:
• Compact and lightweight design
• Durable build quality
• Traditional clamshell form factor
• Comfortable keyboard and touchpad

• Cons:
• Limited touchscreen functionality
• Not as versatile as a 2-in-1

Surface Pro 7:

• Pros:
• Versatile 2-in-1 design
• Sleek and stylish aesthetic
• Excellent touchscreen and pen input
• Detachable keyboard adds flexibility

• Cons:
• Keyboard cover sold separately
• Can be slightly heavier than the Latitude 5290

Display: A Visual Feast for Different Purposes

The display is a critical aspect for both work and entertainment. The Dell Latitude 5290 and the Surface Pro 7 offer distinct display experiences tailored to different user preferences.
Dell Latitude 5290:

• Pros:
• 12.5-inch Full HD display
• Anti-glare coating for better visibility
• Crisp and clear visuals for productivity tasks

• Cons:
• Limited touchscreen functionality

Surface Pro 7:

• Pros:
• 12.3-inch PixelSense display
• Vibrant colors and sharp details
• Excellent touchscreen and pen input for creative tasks

• Cons:
• May not be ideal for high-intensity gaming

Performance: Powering Through Your Workload

Both the Dell Latitude 5290 and the Surface Pro 7 are equipped with powerful processors capable of handling demanding workloads. However, their performance capabilities differ depending on the specific configuration.
Dell Latitude 5290:

• Pros:
• Available with Intel Core i5 and i7 processors
• Ample RAM and storage options
• Designed for business productivity

• Cons:
• May not be as powerful as some high-end laptops

Surface Pro 7:

• Pros:
• Available with Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors
• Excellent performance for everyday tasks
• Can handle light gaming and creative applications

• Cons:
• May struggle with demanding professional software

Battery Life: Staying Productive on the Go

Battery life is crucial for mobile productivity. Both the Dell Latitude 5290 and the Surface Pro 7 offer respectable battery life, but their performance varies based on usage patterns.
Dell Latitude 5290:

• Pros:
• Up to 11 hours of battery life
• Reliable performance for extended work sessions

• Cons:
• Battery life may vary depending on usage

Surface Pro 7:

• Pros:
• Up to 10 hours of battery life
• Good for extended use on the go

• Cons:
• Battery life may not be as long as the Latitude 5290

Connectivity: Staying Connected on the Move

Connectivity options are essential for seamless communication and data transfer. Both the Dell Latitude 5290 and the Surface Pro 7 offer a wide range of connectivity features.
Dell Latitude 5290:

• Pros:
• Multiple USB ports
• HDMI output
• Gigabit Ethernet (optional)
• Wi-Fi 6 support

• Cons:
• Limited Thunderbolt support

Surface Pro 7:

• Pros:
• USB-C port with Thunderbolt 3 support
• Surface Connect port
• Wi-Fi 6 support

• Cons:
• Fewer USB ports than the Latitude 5290

Price and Value: Finding the Right Balance

The price point is a crucial factor for most buyers. Both the Dell Latitude 5290 and the Surface Pro 7 offer competitive pricing, but their value propositions differ.
Dell Latitude 5290:

• Pros:
• Affordable price point
• Good value for the features offered

• Cons:
• May not be as feature-rich as some high-end laptops

Surface Pro 7:

• Pros:
• Premium design and features
• Excellent value for a 2-in-1 device

• Cons:
• Can be more expensive than the Latitude 5290

The Verdict: Which Laptop Is Right for You?

The choice between the Dell Latitude 5290 and the Surface Pro 7 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Choose the Dell Latitude 5290 if:
• You need a traditional laptop with a compact design and durable build quality.
• You prioritize affordability and value for money.
• You primarily use your laptop for business productivity tasks.

• Choose the Surface Pro 7 if:
• You want a versatile 2-in-1 device with excellent touchscreen and pen input.
• You value premium design and features.
• You need a laptop for both work and entertainment.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Dell Latitude 5290 and the Surface Pro 7 are excellent choices, other laptops in the market may better suit your needs. Consider exploring options like the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, the HP EliteBook x360 1040 G7, or the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4.

Popular Questions

1. Which laptop has a better keyboard?
The Dell Latitude 5290 generally has a more comfortable keyboard with a better typing experience. However, the Surface Pro 7’s keyboard, while sold separately, is still a good option for those who prioritize portability.
2. Which laptop has a better webcam?
The Surface Pro 7 has a better webcam with a higher resolution and better image quality. The Latitude 5290’s webcam is functional but not as impressive.
3. Which laptop is better for gaming?
The Dell Latitude 5290 is not designed for gaming, but the Surface Pro 7 can handle light gaming with its dedicated graphics card.
4. Which laptop is more durable?
The Dell Latitude 5290 is known for its durable construction, making it a more reliable choice for frequent travelers. The Surface Pro 7 is also well-built, but it may be more susceptible to damage due to its detachable design.
5. Which laptop is better for students?
Both laptops are suitable for students, but the Surface Pro 7’s versatility and touchscreen functionality make it a more appealing option for those who need a device for both note-taking and entertainment.