We recently got a couple OptiPlex's and a Latitude E5420 for our business. They were pretty much purchased on a whim and I didn't really look too much into the hardware and design aspects of the computer. While the Latitude is nice I find its got a huge bezel and lots of unused space around the keyboard which makes it a little larger overall than it needs to be.
I recently saw a XPS 14z and that thing just screams sexy...but I think thats really the only reason I'm wanting it. The Latitude is primarily for my mom to use at work but its been spending most of time at home and I find myself using it more than her.
My laptop is a HP DM-1, an 11.6" inch which is light and super portable so even when I'm using the Dell its mostly while sitting at the desk. In that sense the portability and sleekness of the XPS is negligible because I have my HP when on the go.
Would any of you recommend the XPS over the Latitude? A couple negatives about the XPS I've read is the screen and its overall glossy factor, also I've read the build quality is not necessarily the best and the some people complain the wifi sucks. The keyboard also seems a bit funky but I'm guessing that just takes some time to get used to.
The Latitude seems to be very well built depite some excess size (but not overweight) and I love the matte screen, but the brushed metal finish still picks up fingerprints and smudges. It gives the impression of being a solid workhorse and that it'll keep on going even 4-5 years from now, the XPS seems more fragile and its longevity questionable.
So, any suggestions??
-
The XPS line of keyboards are incredible. I've not yet used the 14z (although am waiting for mine to arrive, i7,8gb,256gb SSD) and I'm very keen for it. I'm sure the keyboard will be great, just like the XPS 15 - and the build quality is meant to be rather decent from what I hear. Most issues with the XPS 14z seem to have been fixed in BIOS updates.
I'm looking forward to a fully-powered laptop, with great portability and sleek looks. And it'll be fast, thanks to the SSD! -
For what it's worth, I own a E6420 and just scored a 14Z. The E6420 is identical to the E5420 in fit/finish so it's a fair comparison imo.
Anyways, the difference is really aesthetics and "feel". The keyboard on the 14Z is amazing but then again it wasn't like there wasn't anything to particularly wrong with the E6420. Also, it's hard to put into words the difference the smaller frame and weight makes. The 14Z just feels so easy to grab and go.
With that said, I've already gotten into and out of the E6420. It's definitely more durable as the joints, etc feel much more robust.
Bear in mind that you're also sacrificing 2 years of warranty. That can be huge if you plant to keep this a long time (it's a non-issue for me since I get bored and switch out laptops every few months). You're using it for your business so I don't know, it sounds like you might already know the answer...
Stick with a Latitude E5420 or go with a XPS 14z
Discussion in 'Dell' started by LoneRonin, Apr 27, 2012.