This 2-in-1 device is Dell's answer to the Microsoft Surface Pro 3.
It is a hybrid computer which works as a tablet or laptop. Its
screen can be detached from its keyboard dock to turn it from a
clamshell laptop to a tablet.
While the Surface Pro 3 probably appeals equally to consumers and
business users, the Dell is built for the enterprise crowd. It carries
Dell's Latitude branding for business computers and has enterprise
features, such as optional LTE connectivity (unavailable on the Surface
Pro 3), and management tools which should be well-received by IT
administrators.
Unlike the Surface Pro 3, the Dell does not have a kickstand. But it
has a keyboard dock that feels more solid and useful than the flimsy
keyboard of the Surface Pro 3.
Besides having good key travel, the Dell keyboard is backlit,
spillproof and has an internal battery. The dock has two USB 3.0 ports,
an SD card reader and a mini-DisplayPort. Unfortunately, the tablet
itself has no connectors aside from the audio jack and power connector.
As a tablet, the Dell Latitude (895g) is only slightly heavier than
the Surface Pro 3 (800g). The increase seems reasonable as the Dell has
a 13-inch screen compared with the Surface Pro 3's 12-inch display.
However, the Dell weighs twice as much as the latest 10-inch tablet
running Android or iOS. Its widescreen form factor also makes it
awkward to hold with one hand. Add the keyboard dock (770g) and the
Dell 2-in-1 ends up heavier (1.66kg) than some ultrabooks.
As a laptop, it felt top heavy when placed on an unstable surface
such as my lap. It always seemed to be on the verge of falling
backwards. To compensate for this, I kept my fingers on the keyboard.
But when placed on a desk, the Dell's balance is impeccable.
Like the Surface Pro 3, the Dell supports a stylus that can be used
to navigate the interface and take notes. However, this is an optional
feature, much like Dell's other accessories, which include a USB to
Ethernet, HDMI and VGA adaptor.
The 13-inch touchscreen has a 1,920 x 1,080-pixel resolution and
looks great. Viewing angles are good and the screen, though glossy, is
not as reflective as might be expected.
Powering the Dell is Intel's new Core M chip. Digital Life's first
encounter with this low-power chip was in the Lenovo Yoga 3 Pro, where
it felt sluggish and unresponsive. Not so with the Dell, which could be
a result of better optimisation.
The Dell has great battery stamina, due to the secondary battery in
the keyboard dock. The device lasted 8hr 15min in our battery test,
which is comparable with the best ultrabooks and tablets.
TECH SPECS
Price: $1,818
Processor: Intel Core M-5Y10 (800MHz)
Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 5300
Screen: 13 inches, 1,920 x 1,080 pixels
Connectivity: 2 x USB 3.0, Mini-DisplayPort, SD card slot, headphone jack
Battery: 30 watt-hour (tablet), 20 watt-hour (dock)
RATING
Features: 4/5
Design: 3/5
Performance: 3/5
Value for money: 4/5
Battery life: 5/5
Overall: 4/5
