Dell Latitude 9420 2-in-1

Technical Specifications

• Processor: 11th Generation Intel Core i5 (e.g., i5-1135G7, i5-1145G7) or Core i7 (e.g., i7-1185G7) processors, available with Intel vPro technology.
• RAM: 8GB, 16GB, or up to 32GB LPDDR4x 4267MHz, soldered to the motherboard.
• Storage: M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drives (SSD) ranging from 128GB up to 1TB, Class 35/40.
• Display: 14-inch, 16:10 aspect ratio. Options include a Full HD+ (FHD+, 1920x1200) non-touch panel or a Quad HD+ (QHD+, 2560x1600) touch-enabled display. Both offer 500 nits brightness, 100% sRGB color coverage, anti-reflective and anti-smudge coatings, Low Blue Light technology, and Corning Gorilla Glass. The 2-in-1 model typically features the QHD+ touchscreen.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics.
• Ports:
  • Left side: Two Thunderbolt 4 ports (USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode/USB4/Power Delivery), one HDMI 2.0 port, one microSD card reader, one 3.5mm universal audio jack, and one wedge-shaped lock slot.
  • Right side: One USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port with PowerShare.
  • Optional microSIM slot for WWAN (5G/4G LTE) connectivity.
• Wireless Connectivity: Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX210 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2.
• Battery: 60 Wh (59.6 Wh) Lithium-Polymer battery, supporting Dell ExpressCharge and ExpressCharge Boost for rapid charging.
• Dimensions & Weight: Approximately 12.2 x 8.5 x 0.5 inches (310.59 x 215.18 x 13.91 mm), with a starting weight of 3.2 pounds (1.4 kg).
• Webcam: 720p HD webcam with an automatic SafeShutter privacy feature and IR face recognition for Windows Hello.
• Audio: Quad speakers with Dell Intelligent Audio features, including noise-canceling and auto-mute for conferencing.
• Keyboard/Touchpad: Backlit keyboard with decent key travel and a large glass Precision touchpad.

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The Dell Latitude 9420 2-in-1 features robust specifications tailored for business professionals. The 11th Gen Intel Core processors, especially the i7-1185G7, provide strong performance for demanding productivity tasks. The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics offer a significant boost for multimedia and light graphical work. A standout feature is the 14-inch QHD+ 16:10 display, which boasts excellent brightness, color accuracy, and a taller aspect ratio for enhanced productivity. Connectivity is comprehensive with Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI, and Wi-Fi 6E. However, the RAM is soldered, limiting upgrade options, and base storage configurations can be modest. The 720p webcam, while functional with privacy features, is considered a minor drawback for a premium device. The M.2 2230 SSD slot restricts the use of larger M.2 2280 drives.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Supports Windows 10 (64-bit), Windows 11, and Ubuntu 20.04 LTS.
• Drivers: All necessary drivers are available for download via Dell's official support website.
• End of Support Date: Specific end-of-support dates are not publicly listed in general reviews; users should consult Dell's official product lifecycle documentation for precise information.
• Compatibility: The device is built on the Intel Evo vPro platform, ensuring enterprise-grade manageability, stability, and security features. Dell Optimizer software is integrated to enhance application performance, battery life, and audio settings through AI and machine learning.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility: The Latitude 9420 2-in-1 offers excellent compatibility and support for enterprise environments. Its broad operating system support, including Windows and Ubuntu, caters to diverse IT infrastructures. The Intel vPro platform provides essential remote management and security capabilities for IT departments. Dell Optimizer further enhances the user experience by intelligently adapting to usage patterns. Dell's commitment to its Latitude business line typically translates to long-term driver availability and robust technical support, though specific end-of-life dates require direct inquiry with the manufacturer.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • Intel Evo vPro platform: Provides hardware-level security, remote management, and stability features.
  • Dell Trusted Devices: Offers comprehensive endpoint security solutions to protect devices above and below the operating system.
  • Automatic SafeShutter: An industry-first automatic webcam privacy shutter that knows when to open or close by syncing with video conferencing software.
  • ExpressSign-in 2.0: Utilizes Intel Visual Sensing Technology and a proximity sensor for faster, more reliable auto-wake when a user approaches and auto-lock when they step away.
  • Fingerprint Reader: Integrated into the power button for secure biometric authentication.
  • Microphone Mute Key: A dedicated key for quick and secure muting of the internal microphones.
  • Supply Chain Security: Dell implements integrity controls from the factory to prevent tampering.
• Vulnerabilities: Publicly available information does not highlight specific, widespread vulnerabilities for the Dell Latitude 9420 2-in-1.
• Recommendations: Users should activate and regularly utilize all embedded security features, including the automatic SafeShutter, ExpressSign-in, and fingerprint reader. Maintaining updated system drivers and Dell Optimizer software is crucial for optimal security. Adhering to enterprise security policies and best practices, such as strong passwords and regular software updates, further enhances protection.

Analysis of Security Status: The Dell Latitude 9420 2-in-1 is engineered with a strong focus on enterprise security, integrating multiple layers of protection. The Intel vPro platform provides a foundational level of hardware security and manageability. Innovative features like the automatic SafeShutter and ExpressSign-in offer both convenience and robust privacy controls, addressing common user concerns about webcam and login security. While no system is entirely impervious, the comprehensive suite of security features positions the Latitude 9420 2-in-1 as a highly secure asset for business environments.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Processor Performance: The 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1185G7, coupled with 16GB of RAM, handles demanding business applications, extensive web browsing with numerous tabs, and multimedia tasks effortlessly.
• Geekbench 5.3: Achieved an overall score of 6,037, surpassing competitors like the HP EliteBook x360 1040 G7 (4,041), Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga (5,447), and its predecessor, the Latitude 9410 2-in-1 (3,726). Single-core scores are around 1580, and multi-core scores are approximately 6000.
• Handbrake (4K to 1080p Video Conversion): Completed the task in 13 minutes and 35 seconds, outperforming the EliteBook x360 1040 (16:25), ThinkPad X1 Yoga (13:50), and Latitude 9410 2-in-1 (19:09).
• 3DMark Fire Strike: Scored 5,258, significantly higher than the EliteBook x360 1040 (1,229) and Latitude 9410 2-in-1 (3,726).
• Cinebench R15: Demonstrated class-leading multi-core CPU performance, often finishing first in comparisons. Raw multi-thread performance is 5 to 11 percent higher than the average for systems with the same Core i7-1185G7 CPU.
• Real-world Performance: Exhibits no noticeable lagging or sluggishness during typical daily usage, including streaming, web browsing, and general office tasks. It is well-suited for general office productivity and mainstream photo/video editing.
• Graphics Performance: Intel Iris Xe Graphics provide a substantial improvement over previous integrated solutions, making it capable for multimedia consumption and casual gaming, though not designed for high-end gaming or intensive graphical applications.
• Battery Life: Achieved 15 hours and 2 minutes in the Laptop Mag Battery Test (continuous web surfing over Wi-Fi at 150 nits with QHD+ display). Other tests report around 14 hours 39 minutes or 12 hours 16 minutes for similar web surfing scenarios. Real-world mixed usage typically yields 9 to 10 hours.

Analysis of Performance & Benchmarks: The Dell Latitude 9420 2-in-1 delivers robust performance, consistently outperforming many competitors in its class across various benchmarks. The 11th Gen Intel processors with Iris Xe graphics provide ample power for demanding business applications and efficient multitasking. Its exceptional battery life, even with a high-resolution QHD+ display, makes it an ideal choice for mobile professionals requiring extended use away from power outlets. While the integrated graphics are not for heavy gaming, they are more than sufficient for business multimedia needs. Some reviews noted potential performance dips when connected to multiple external monitors via a dock.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the Dell Latitude 9420 2-in-1 generally highlight its premium nature and strong capabilities. Users frequently praise the device's excellent build quality, describing it as solid and premium. The 14-inch QHD+ 16:10 display receives high acclaim for its sharpness, brightness (500 nits), and vibrant colors, often cited as a major selling point. Performance, driven by 11th Gen Intel processors, is consistently rated as excellent for business and productivity tasks, with smooth multitasking capabilities. The long battery life is another significant positive, allowing for extended use on the go. Users also appreciate the comprehensive suite of security features, including the automatic SafeShutter webcam and ExpressSign-in. The audio quality, particularly the quad speakers and Intelligent Audio features, is frequently noted as outstanding, providing a rich sound experience for conferencing and media consumption.

However, some common criticisms emerge. The high price point is a frequent concern, positioning it as a premium device for those with larger budgets. The 720p webcam, despite its privacy features, is often deemed subpar for a laptop in this price range. While the keyboard is generally considered good and comfortable for typing, some users find it less satisfying than those on competitors like Lenovo ThinkPads. The soldered RAM limits future upgradeability, and the use of smaller M.2 2230 SSDs instead of the more common 2280 format is also a point of contention for some. The device's weight, at around 3.2 pounds, is sometimes noted as slightly heavier compared to some ultraportable rivals.

Summary

The Dell Latitude 9420 2-in-1 stands out as a highly capable and premium business convertible, designed to meet the rigorous demands of enterprise users. Its core strengths lie in its robust performance, driven by 11th Generation Intel Core processors and integrated Iris Xe graphics, which handle demanding productivity workloads with ease. The 14-inch QHD+ 16:10 display is a significant highlight, offering exceptional visual clarity, brightness, and color accuracy, making it ideal for both work and media consumption. Security is paramount, with features like the Intel vPro platform, automatic SafeShutter webcam, ExpressSign-in, and a fingerprint reader providing comprehensive protection and convenient access. Furthermore, its impressive battery life ensures extended productivity on the go, and the high-quality audio system enhances communication and entertainment.

However, the Latitude 9420 2-in-1 comes with certain considerations. Its premium pricing positions it at the higher end of the market. The 720p webcam, while functional and privacy-focused, does not match the resolution expected from a device in this category. While the keyboard is comfortable, it may not offer the tactile feedback preferred by some users compared to certain competitors. The soldered RAM limits future upgrade options, and the choice of M.2 2230 SSDs restricts storage expansion flexibility. Despite these points, the Latitude 9420 2-in-1 remains a compelling choice for businesses prioritizing performance, security, and a high-quality user experience in a versatile 2-in-1 form factor.

For organizations seeking a powerful, secure, and adaptable laptop for their mobile workforce, the Dell Latitude 9420 2-in-1 is a strong recommendation, particularly for roles requiring extensive screen time, video conferencing, and robust data protection. It excels in delivering a premium experience with few compromises, making it a valuable asset in a modern enterprise environment.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.