

SEE: Beyond the PC: Lenovo’s ambitious plan for the future of computing (cover story PDF) (TechRepublic) While this is slightly more forgivable on a 13-inch system, the soldered RAM + single SODIMM combination on the 15-inch T590 is objectionable.

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Soldered RAM makes it impossible to upgrade after ordering, and leaves buyers captive to manufacturer’s pricing for RAM, which can often be exorbitant. (Dell’s model number schema leaves a lot to be desired.) For comparison, recent 13-inch HP notebooks including the EliteBook 735 and EliteBook 830 G5 include two SODIMM sockets. The ThinkPad X390 has soldered RAM, as does the 2-in-1 version of the 2018 Dell Latitude 7390, though the standard notebook version of the 7390 has soldered RAM and one SODIMM slot. Abandoning the seven-row keyboard (with the exception of the ThinkPad 25th Anniversary Edition) has also been a point of criticism.ĭell and Lenovo business-class systems are on essentially equal footing for user serviceability, though the extent to which this is possible has decreased in recent years. Though Dell and HP systems use the same screen type, MacBooks use 16:10 screens, while Microsoft’s Surface line of devices adopted 3:2 screens in 2014, similar to Google’s Pixelbook and Pixel Slate systems. Twelve years after Lenovo’s purchase of the ThinkPad business from IBM, some changes have been made, though these typically reflect industry-wide changes in how laptops are designed.Īmong these include the use of 16:9 screens, which are often criticized for being designed for media consumption rather than productivity. Owing to a distinctive design language, the ThinkPad is practically synonymous with “business notebook,” though fans of IBM’s original models are often quick to criticize Lenovo’s stewardship of the brand. The business case for Lenovo ThinkPad systems
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Dell’s Latitude Rugged and Rugged Extreme series are more in competition with Panasonic’s ToughBook series, as there is not quite a direct competitor in among ThinkPads. While ThinkPads are by no means fragile (more about that later), the Latitude Rugged 5420 is MIL-STD 810G and IP52 certified, and would serve well in environments where these systems are not likely to be handled gingerly. If you’re working in particularly adverse conditions, Dell’s Latitude Rugged series provides a great deal more protection than is available on Lenovo’s ThinkPad line.

SEE: 16 top laptops for business users in 2019 (free PDF) (TechRepublic) There is no cover for the webcam, however, leaving users who need to cover the camera reliant on tape or sticky notes, while Lenovo includes the “ThinkShutter” to cover the camera when not in use. The newly-announced models are available starting May 1, with the 7000 series starting at $1,299, the 2-in-1 Latitude 7200 starting at $999, the 5000 series starting at $819, and 3000 series starting at $599.Ĭompared to Dell’s consumer-facing XPS series, the newest Latitude and Vostro models (correctly) place the webcam at the top center of the screen bezel, avoiding the “nose cam” effect. The budget-focused Latitude 3000 uses the same form factors, without the carbon fiber reinforcement. The aluminum and carbon fiber Latitude 7000 series comprises 13- and 14-inch models, and 2-in-1 12-inch model (Latitude 7200), while the carbon-fiber Latitude 5000 series includes 13-, 14-, and 15-inch models.
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Among these include aluminum and/or carbon fiber chassis, privacy screen settings to narrow the field of view, fingerprint readers, Windows Hello-compatible IR cameras, and smart card readers.

The business case for Dell Latitude systemsĭell’s newly-announced systems bring essentially the same set of features for business-class systems as are available from HP and Lenovo. TechRepublic compares the two product lineups to help you decide what’s best for you. Dell is making a steady stream of announcements at Dell Technologies World in Las Vegas this week, including among them refreshed models of the company’s Latitude and Vostro notebook computers.ĭell’s Latitude series and Lenovo’s ThinkPad series are popular options for business users due to the inclusion of several hardware and security features.
