Dell Latitude 7390 13" vs Microsoft Surface Pro 6 12"

The Dell Latitude 7390, released in 2018, is a business-oriented laptop that often comes in a traditional clamshell or 2-in-1 convertible design. The Microsoft Surface Pro 6, also launched in October 2018, is a versatile 2-in-1 detachable tablet computer. Both devices run on the Windows operating system and aim to provide portable computing solutions, but they differ significantly in their form factor and intended use cases.

The practical lifespan of these devices is influenced by their release timeline, software support, and build quality.

• Release Timeline: Both the Dell Latitude 7390 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 6 were released in 2018. This means they share a similar age and will likely follow comparable timelines for receiving major operating system updates.
• Software Longevity: Both devices initially shipped with Windows 10 and are capable of upgrading to Windows 11. The duration of official software updates and security patches from Microsoft will be similar for both, ensuring continued functionality and security for several more years.
• Build and Durability: The Dell Latitude 7390 is often described as having a sturdy build, with some models featuring a carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer lid and MIL-STD-810G certification for resistance against shock, vibration, and environmental extremes. The Surface Pro 6 features a magnesium alloy body, offering a premium feel and solid construction. The Dell Latitude 7390 2-in-1 models may also feature Gorilla Glass 4 for screen protection.

Both devices are equipped with processors from the same generation, leading to comparable performance for many tasks, though specific configurations can vary.

• Processor Capabilities: Both the Dell Latitude 7390 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 6 utilize 8th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors. This allows them to handle everyday productivity applications, web browsing, and multitasking efficiently. Users can expect smooth operation for typical office work and content consumption.
• Storage and RAM: Both models offer various configurations for RAM (typically 8GB or 16GB) and SSD storage, impacting overall responsiveness and the ability to manage multiple applications simultaneously. Higher RAM configurations will provide a smoother experience for heavy multitasking.
• Battery Behavior: The Dell Latitude 7390 is noted for its long battery life, with some configurations offering over 10 hours of use in web browsing tests. The Surface Pro 6 also provides good battery life, with up to 13.5 hours reported for typical use. Both are designed to last through a workday.

The display experience on these devices offers distinct characteristics due to differences in size, resolution, and aspect ratio.

• Display Technology and Resolution: The Dell Latitude 7390 features a 13.3-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display, often with a matte finish to reduce reflections. The Microsoft Surface Pro 6 has a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a higher resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels, resulting in a higher pixel density.
• Brightness and Color: The Latitude 7390's display offers good brightness, typically around 300 nits, and covers a wide color gamut, providing vibrant images. The Surface Pro 6's display is also known for being bright and vivid, with excellent color reproduction, often exceeding 400 nits of brightness.
• Aspect Ratio and Viewing Experience: The Latitude 7390 typically uses a 16:9 aspect ratio, common for laptops. The Surface Pro 6 features a 3:2 aspect ratio, which provides more vertical screen real estate, often preferred for productivity tasks like document editing and web browsing.

The camera systems on both devices are primarily designed for video conferencing and basic photography, with some differences in features.

• Camera Resolution: The Dell Latitude 7390 typically includes a standard HD webcam for video calls. The Microsoft Surface Pro 6 features a 5-megapixel front-facing camera and an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera, both capable of 1080p HD video recording.
• Security Features: Both devices support Windows Hello for secure login. The Latitude 7390 can offer facial recognition via an infrared camera or a fingerprint reader. The Surface Pro 6 also includes Windows Hello facial recognition.
• Microphone and Speakers: Both devices include built-in microphones for calls and stereo speakers for audio output. The Latitude 7390's speakers have been noted as being adequate for a business laptop, while the Surface Pro 6 features front-firing stereo speakers with Dolby Audio.