The Dell Latitude 7490 and Latitude 5490 are business laptops with solid performance and security features.
The 7490 is a premium model with a sleeker design and better build quality, while the 5490 is a more budget-friendly option with similar performance.
This comparison will highlight their key differences to help you choose the right one.
Dell Latitude 7490 vs Latitude 5490: Specs Comparison
Feature | Dell Latitude 7490 | Dell Latitude 5490 |
Processor | Intel Core i7-8650U (Quad-Core, 1.9GHz, 8M Cache, vPro) | Intel Core i5-7300U (Dual-Core, 2.6GHz, max boost 3.5GHz) |
RAM | 16GB DDR4 | 16GB DDR4 |
Storage | 512GB SSD | 256GB SSD |
Display | 14.1″ Full HD (1920 x 1080) Anti-Glare | 14″ HD (1366 x 768) Non-Touch |
Graphics | Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 | Integrated Intel HD Graphics 620 |
Build Quality | Magnesium Alloy back | Standard plastic build |
Ports | Standard USB and HDMI ports | USB-C 3.1 Gen 2, USB 3.1, HDMI, Ethernet |
Customer Rating | 4.0 (1,138 reviews on Amazon) | 4.1 (157 reviews on Amazon) |
Price | $240 | $177 |
Which is Better: Dell Latitude 7490 or Dell Latitude 5490?
Answer: Dell Latitude 7490
Reasons to Choose Dell Latitude 7490
- Better Performance – The Intel Core i7-8650U processor (quad-core) in the 7490 is faster and more efficient than the dual-core i5-7300U in the 5490, making it better for multitasking and demanding applications.
- Superior Display Quality – The 7490 features a Full HD (1920×1080) anti-glare display, offering better clarity, sharper visuals, and a more comfortable viewing experience than the lower-resolution HD (1366×768) display on the 5490.
- Larger Storage Capacity – With a 512GB SSD, the 7490 offers double the storage space compared to the 256GB SSD in the 5490, allowing for more files and applications.
- Premium Build Quality – The Magnesium Alloy back of the 7490 gives it a more durable and premium feel, making it sturdier and more stylish than the 5490.
- Longer Battery Life – The 60 Whr Express Charge battery in the 7490 ensures longer usage time and faster charging, making it ideal for professionals on the go.
Why Dell Latitude 5490 Fails?
- Weaker Performance – The dual-core i5 processor is not as powerful as the quad-core i7 in the 7490, making it less suitable for heavy multitasking.
- Lower Display Quality – The 1366×768 resolution on the 5490 is outdated and less sharp, reducing visual clarity and comfort.
- Limited Storage – The 256GB SSD in the 5490 is half the size of the 512GB SSD in the 7490, limiting storage capacity for large files.
- Less Premium Build – The 5490 lacks the premium magnesium alloy design of the 7490, making it feel less sturdy and refined.
- Shorter Battery Life – The battery in the 5490 is not as powerful as the 7490’s, meaning it may require more frequent charging.
Verdict
If you need a powerful, durable, and long-lasting business laptop, the Dell Latitude 7490 is the clear winner. It outperforms the Latitude 5490 in every key aspect, including processor speed, display quality, storage capacity, and battery life. While the Latitude 5490 is a budget-friendly option, it falls short in performance and display, making the Latitude 7490 the better choice overall.
1. Performance & Processing Power
Performance is a crucial factor when choosing a laptop, especially for business or professional use.
The Dell Latitude 7490 is equipped with an Intel Core i7-8650U processor. This quad-core CPU runs at 1.9GHz with Turbo Boost up to higher speeds, making it suitable for multitasking, office applications, and even light creative tasks. Additionally, the vPro technology enhances security and remote management, making it an excellent choice for corporate users.
On the other hand, the Dell Latitude 5490 features an Intel Core i5-7300U processor. This dual-core CPU operates at 2.6GHz and can boost up to 3.5GHz. While it provides decent performance for office work, web browsing, and basic multitasking, it is not as powerful as the i7-8650U found in the 7490.
Winner: Dell Latitude 7490
With a faster quad-core processor, the Latitude 7490 offers better performance for demanding applications and multitasking.
2. Memory & Storage
Both laptops come with 16GB of DDR4 RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and responsiveness. However, storage capacity sets them apart.
The Latitude 7490 is equipped with a 512GB SSD, providing ample space for documents, software, and multimedia files. It also ensures faster boot times and quicker application launches.
In comparison, the Latitude 5490 features a 256GB SSD, which is half the storage capacity of the 7490. While it still offers good speed, users who need more space for files and applications may find it limiting over time.
Winner: Dell Latitude 7490
With a larger 512GB SSD, the 7490 provides better storage capacity for professionals and heavy users.
3. Display & Build Quality
Display quality plays a significant role in visual clarity, comfort, and productivity.
The Dell Latitude 7490 features a 14.1-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) anti-glare display. The higher resolution ensures sharp text, vibrant colors, and better viewing angles, making it ideal for office work, multimedia consumption, and presentations. Additionally, its Magnesium Alloy back enhances durability, giving it a premium feel.
On the other hand, the Latitude 5490 has a 14-inch HD (1366 x 768) display, which offers lower resolution and less sharp visuals. While it is sufficient for basic tasks, users who need a clearer, more detailed display may find it lacking.
Winner: Dell Latitude 7490
The Full HD screen and premium build quality make the 7490 the better choice for professionals who prioritize display clarity and durability.
4. Connectivity & Features
Both laptops come with essential business-friendly features, but there are slight differences in connectivity options.
The Latitude 7490 includes Intel Dual-Band Wireless-AC 8265 + Bluetooth 4.2, ensuring fast and stable wireless connectivity. It also supports WWAN/WLAN, making it suitable for users who require mobile network connectivity.
The Latitude 5490, however, has an edge in connectivity. It features Intel Wireless-AC 9560 + Bluetooth 5.0, offering better wireless performance. Additionally, it includes Gigabit Ethernet, USB-C 3.1 Gen 2, DisplayPort, and HDMI, providing more port options for external displays and accessories.
Winner: Dell Latitude 5490
With Bluetooth 5.0 and more connectivity ports, the 5490 offers better flexibility for users who need multiple connection options.
5. Battery Life
Battery life is another critical factor, especially for professionals who work on the go.
The Latitude 7490 is powered by a 60 Whr Express Charge 4-cell battery, which provides longer battery life compared to many business laptops. It also supports fast charging, allowing users to quickly recharge their device.
The Latitude 5490 offers decent battery life, but it may not last as long as the higher-capacity battery in the 7490. Users who need extended battery performance for long work hours may find the 7490 a better option.
Winner: Dell Latitude 7490
With a higher-capacity battery and Express Charge support, the 7490 lasts longer for work and travel.
6. Price & Customer Ratings
Pricing and customer feedback can help determine which laptop offers better value.
- Dell Latitude 7490 costs $240, with 1,138 customer reviews and an average rating of 4 stars on Amazon.
- Dell Latitude 5490 is more affordable at $177, with 157 customer reviews and a slightly higher rating of 4.1 stars.
Although the Latitude 5490 is more budget-friendly, the Latitude 7490 provides better value considering its performance, display, and battery life.
Winner: Dell Latitude 5490
For users on a tight budget, the 5490 offers great features at a lower price.
Final Verdict: Which Laptop is the Better Choice?
Both the Dell Latitude 7490 and Latitude 5490 are solid business laptops, but they cater to different needs.
- Choose the Dell Latitude 7490 if you need better performance, a Full HD display, premium build quality, and longer battery life. It is ideal for business professionals, multitaskers, and those who require a high-performance laptop.
- Choose the Dell Latitude 5490 if you are looking for a budget-friendly laptop with good connectivity options, decent performance, and essential business features. It is suitable for students, office users, and those who don’t need high-end specs.
Overall Winner: Dell Latitude 7490
With a faster processor, better display, premium build quality, and longer battery life, the Latitude 7490 is the superior choice. However, if affordability is your top priority, the Latitude 5490 still offers great value for its price.
