Dell Latitude 5520 15" vs Microsoft Surface Pro 7+ 12"

The Dell Latitude 5520, released in early 2021, is a traditional business-oriented laptop, while the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 Plus, also introduced in early 2021, is a versatile 2-in-1 tablet-laptop hybrid. These devices cater to different user needs, primarily distinguished by their form factor, screen size, and portability. Both operate on the Windows platform, offering a familiar software environment for many users.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, both the Dell Latitude 5520 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 Plus were released in 2021, meaning they benefit from similar timelines for operating system support and updates from Microsoft.

• Software Longevity: Both devices run Windows, ensuring a consistent update schedule and security patches for several years. The practical lifespan for both is expected to be comparable in terms of software support.
• Repairability: The Dell Latitude 5520, as a traditional laptop, generally offers more straightforward access to internal components for upgrades or repairs, potentially extending its physical lifespan. The Surface Pro 7 Plus, while featuring a removable SSD for data retention, is typically more challenging to repair due to its compact, tablet-centric design.
• Build Durability: The Latitude 5520 is built with business-grade durability in mind, often undergoing MIL-STD testing, and incorporates bioplastics in its construction. The Surface Pro 7 Plus features a magnesium alloy casing, contributing to its lightweight yet sturdy feel.

Both the Dell Latitude 5520 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 Plus are equipped with 11th-generation Intel Core processors, providing capable performance for a range of tasks.

• Processing Power: Both devices offer configurations with various 11th-generation Intel Core processors, delivering responsive performance for everyday computing, multitasking, and demanding applications. The Latitude 5520 can be configured with up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM, offering substantial capacity for intensive workloads. The Surface Pro 7 Plus supports up to 32GB of LPDDR4x RAM.
• Storage Solutions: Both models utilize fast SSD storage, contributing to quick boot times and application loading. A notable feature of the Surface Pro 7 Plus is its removable SSD, which can be beneficial for data security and management. The Latitude 5520 also offers multiple M.2 storage slots, including one supporting PCIe 4.0 speeds.
• Battery Behavior: The Dell Latitude 5520 typically comes with larger battery options, with some configurations offering up to a 63Whr battery, and can provide between 8 to 14 hours of use depending on configuration and usage. The Surface Pro 7 Plus features a 50.4Wh battery, with Microsoft claiming up to 15 hours of battery life, though real-world usage often sees around 8-9 hours.

The display experience differs significantly between these two devices, primarily due to their intended use cases and form factors.

• Display Technology and Size: The Dell Latitude 5520 features a larger 15.6-inch display, with options ranging from HD to Full HD IPS panels, and even an optional 4K UHD display. Some configurations include an anti-glare screen. The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 Plus has a more compact 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels, offering a higher pixel density for its size.
• Clarity and Viewing Experience: The Surface Pro 7 Plus's higher resolution on a smaller screen results in a very sharp and clear image, well-suited for detailed work and media consumption. The Latitude 5520's larger screen provides more screen real estate, which can be beneficial for multitasking and working with multiple windows.
• Touch and Pen Support: The Surface Pro 7 Plus's display is a touchscreen with support for pen input, enhancing its versatility as a tablet and for creative tasks. While some Latitude 5520 configurations offer touchscreens, it is not a standard feature across all models.

The camera and audio capabilities of these devices reflect their primary design philosophies, with the Surface Pro 7 Plus emphasizing video conferencing and versatility.

• Camera System: The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 Plus is equipped with a 5.0MP front-facing camera and an 8.0MP rear-facing camera, both capable of 1080p Full HD video recording, making it well-suited for video calls and capturing documents or images. The Dell Latitude 5520 typically features an integrated HD webcam, often with a privacy shutter, designed for standard video conferencing needs.
• Microphone Quality: The Surface Pro 7 Plus includes dual far-field Studio Mics, optimized for clear voice pickup during calls and recordings. The Latitude 5520 also features an integrated microphone array for communication.
• Speaker Output: The Surface Pro 7 Plus offers 1.6W stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, providing clear audio for media consumption and calls. The Latitude 5520 includes dual 2W speakers.