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Dell Latitude 12 E7250 Ultrabook Review

The carbon dwarf. If you do not like a tablet, and a smartphone is not large enough, then the 12.5-inch Ultrabook Dell Latitude 12 E7250 is a full business notebook that fits in your bag. Let us see what the small device is capable of.
In Review: Dell Latitude 12 E7250

For the original German review, see here.

You usually just have to look at the launch dates of Intel's next processor generation to find out when the successor of your favorite notebook will be available. Manufacturers usually launch their new devices as soon as new CPUs are available, and this has been the case in January: Intel launched its new Broadwell processor generation designed primarily for ultra-slim notebooks. Dell offers some new business notebooks and we have already reviewed the Dell Latitude 12 E5250 a short while ago.

Today we have a look at the slightly more exclusive Latitude 12 E7250 from the 7000-series, which represents the highest quality from Dell. The small device is supposed to impress business customers in particular with its carbon lid, touchscreen, extended security features and high chassis stability according to military standards.

Our list of comparable devices includes the Latitude 12 E5250 since it will be interesting to see the differences. We have also reviewed the predecessor the Dell Latitude 12 E7240, one and a half years ago. HP EliteBook 820 G1,  Lenovo ThinkPad X240, and the Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G are also suitable rivals.

Case

The case is made of high-quality materials like carbon, magnesium and aluminum.
The case is made of high-quality materials like carbon, magnesium and aluminum.

As befits a business Ultrabook that costs more than 1400 Euros (~$1600), Dell uses high-quality materials for the chassis: A tri-metal case made of magnesium and aluminum and, in the case of our review configuration with a touchscreen, a carbon fiber lid, create a sophisticated appearance. In addition, the lid and the palm rest have a soft-touch surface, so they are quite grippy and pleasant to touch. The touchscreen on the front is protected by Gorilla Glass 3.

Dell claims that the Ultrabooks from the 7000-series can withstand the strict tests according to MIL-STD-810G standards. However, this norm of the US Army consists of numerous tests starting with acceleration and shootings up to acidic environments, and since the manufacturers can decide which tests to run, we cannot really say what the Ultrabooks can withstand.

The case is definitely very sturdy and well built, the palm rest can be slightly pushed in under pressure, but it is limited and not unpleasant if you rest your hands there for a whole business day. You can only see picture distortions when you twist the screen significantly; however, pressure from the back is not a problem for the panel.

As is typical for a business notebook, the design is rather restrained. Only the visually interwoven carbon fibers on the lid of our review unit are a small highlight. Rounded corners and polished edges create a nice appearance and make it pleasant to touch. The area around the keyboard looks very similar to the less expensive Latitude 12 E5250.

The Dell Latitude 12 E7250 is 19.4 millimeters (~0.76 in) high and therefore slightly slimmer than its predecessor, 3.6 millimeters (0.14 in) thinner than the Latitude 12 E5250 and also the slimmest device among the comparison devices. However, sometimes the very small differences will hardly be noticeable in practice. The weight on the other hand might be where the Latitude 12 E7250 can set new records within the comparison at just 1.25 kilograms (~2.75 lb). Our test sample weighs 1.5 kilograms (~3.3 lb) because of the touchscreen and the 4-cell battery.

Connectivity

Not a lot has changed compared to the predecessor Latitude 12 E7240 in terms of connectivity: The sides look very similar to the predecessor, but the hardware WLAN switch on the left side has been omitted. A SmartCard reader with NFC support which was previously available at an additional cost, is already included in our review unit

As a real business device, Dell's Ultrabook obviously has a docking port, but the same applies to the other manufacturers except for Asus. Small drawback: The Latitude 12 E5250 does not have a VGA port, but you get a mini-DisplayPort as well as an HDMI port. The latter is not available among the comparison devices.

Overall, the port variety is quite reasonable and if required, the missing VGA port can be supplied through the available docking station.

Rear: LAN, HDMI, 2x USB 3.0, AC power
Rear: LAN, HDMI, 2x USB 3.0, AC power
Front: Speakers
Front: Speakers
Left side: Fan exhaust, SmartCard reader
Left side: Fan exhaust, SmartCard reader
Right side: SD reader, combined stereo jack, USB 3.0, mini-DisplayPort, Kensington Lock
Right side: SD reader, combined stereo jack, USB 3.0, mini-DisplayPort, Kensington Lock

Communication

Are you worried that you get a small Ultrabook without an Ethernet port? This is not a problem, at least in the business segment: All comparison devices including the Latitude 12 E7250 are equipped with fast Gigabit LAN. You also get WLAN with support for all current standards up to the very fast 802.11ac as well as Bluetooth 4.0.

The WLAN reception is very good: At a distance of 10 meters (~33 ft) to the router and through three walls, we still had the full signal, and web pages opened quickly. Another three meters (~10 ft) and another wall, resulted in 4/5 bars and the performance was still very good.

A WWAN module is optionally available as well, so you can access the Internet on the road.

Security 

Nowadays, even smartphones are equipped with fingerprint sensors, so a real business Ultrabook should obviously have a fingerprint reader as well. You can use it to unlock the device or get access to other secure applications. SmartCards can also be used to protect the access even without any physical contact. There is a slot on the left side of the device. Both the SmartCard reader and the fingerprint reader are standard features but they can be removed from the configuration, saving you 17 Euros (~$19).

Dell Data Protection | Encryption is a software service from Dell that can be used to encrypt files on your local device, but also on the network, mobile devices and even in the Cloud, protecting them against unauthorized accesses. However, you will have to pay for the service per year: This can cost up to 62 Euros (~$71) per device.

DDP | Protected Workspace creates a protected environment where you can run software (the browser or files from mail attachments, for example), so spyware or malware cannot access the actual system.

It is also possible to maintain the devices remotely. This includes, among others, the installation of BIOS updates or you can even erase hard drives. This works around the globe as long as the notebook is connected to the Internet and even if it is turned off. You also get Dell Client Command Suite with free automation tools for frequently used administrative tasks.

Accessories

The pack includes only a compact and nicely designed power adaptor and the notebook. Accessories can be purchased at Dell: The missing VGA port can be compensated with an adaptor for the mini-DisplayPort, which is available for around 30 Euros (~$34). Dell also offers a so-called "Power Companion", an external battery with a nominal output of 12 Ah that can be used to recharge the notebook, for instance. This accessory costs 120 Euros (~$137). Privacy filters are available as well for around 30 Euros (~$34).

You can also get a Port Replicator costing 250 Euros (~$286) – a docking station with additional ports for the desk. It is also possible to attach a stationary display, a large keyboard and a mouse that you do not have to carry around with your notebook. The connection is via the docking port at the bottom of the notebook and you just have to attach the Latitude 12 E7250 to the Port Replicator. The docking station also provides VGA ports and older serial and PS/2 ports.

Comprehensive maintainability (Picture: Dell Latitude 12 E7240 with the identical construction)
Comprehensive maintainability (Picture: Dell Latitude 12 E7240 with the identical construction)

Maintenance

The internal structure has not changed compared to the predecessor, Dell Latitude 12 E7240. The battery can be removed from the outside and occupies roughly half of the bottom; the other half is covered by a maintenance hatch that can be lifted when you remove two screws. Surprising for such a small device, you get complete access to the memory, the SSD, the BIOS battery, the fan as well as the WLAN and the optional WWAN module. Replacing the memory and the SSD is easy. Unfortunately, our review sample was accidentally damaged when it was opened, so the picture is from the Dell Latitude 12 E7250 that has an identical internal layout.

Warranty

The prices on the website include a 36-month Pro support. However, you can save around 100 Euros (~$114) if you select the three-year standard support. This means you would have to waive the 24/7 support, a central contact as well as on-site service. It is also possible to extend the Pro service to 4 or 5 years (65 and 129 Euros; ~$74 and ~$147, respectively), but the standard service is significantly cheaper.

Input Devices

Keyboard

The keyboard of the Latitude 12 E7250 is rather crowded because of the small 12.5-inch chassis, but Dell still manages to equip its Ultrabook with a good input device. This is partly because the keys are 1.5 centimeters (~0.59 in) long and spaced 3 millimeters (~0.12 in) apart: They are slightly concave, have a rather limited travel but a soft and pleasant stroke. They also provide a decent feedback. Our review unit was equipped with a U.S. keyboard, but it is also possible to select other layouts or inputs without background illumination in the online shop. The absence of the latter will save around 20 Euros (~$23).

A numeric keypad is only possible via secondary assignment of keys in combination with the "Fn" key. However, this is actually rather confusing because of the dual lettering. Numerous function keys can also be used in combination with the "Fn" key: For example, it is possible to deactivate the microphone or adjust the keyboard illumination in two steps.

Touchpad

It is nice that Dell has equipped the Latitude E7250 with a full-fledged touchpad with two dedicated buttons. The diameter of 11.5 centimeters (~4.5 in) is also quite generous, but unlike the larger Latitude 14 E7450, unfortunately, the 12.5-inch version is not available with a TrackPoint. The surface is slightly roughened, but still provides good gliding capabilities. Multi-touch gestures are executed reliably. The two buttons sit firmly inside the chassis and provide a good feedback when you click them, but they are rather loud.

Touchscreen

The touchscreen of our configuration is only an option; Dell also offers matte panels without touch functionality. Operating the notebook with the touch-sensitive screen works quite well and all touch inputs are recognized reliably. The surface provides good gliding capabilities.

Keyboard
Keyboard
Touchpad
Touchpad
Touchscreen
Touchscreen

Display

If you want the Latitude 12 E7250 with a Full HD display, you need to get a configuration with a touchscreen, also included in our review configuration. The matte panels have a resolution of only 1366x768 pixels, which should be sufficient when you consider the display size of 12.5 inches. The Full HD picture appears very sharp on the screen.

Some of the comparison devices have brighter panels, but the maximum value of 360 cd/m² shows that our review unit can surpass the predecessor Latitude 12 E7240 as well as the less expensive Latitude 12 E5250. The brightness distribution of 81% is good  but you can actually notice brightness differences with large black or bright surfaces.

321
cd/m²
341
cd/m²
342
cd/m²
338
cd/m²
360
cd/m²
334
cd/m²
329
cd/m²
316
cd/m²
290
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
LG Philips LGD0436 195C3 125W1 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 360 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 330.1 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 81 %
Center on Battery: 360 cd/m²
Contrast: 679:1 (Black: 0.53 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 5.58 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 3.98 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
42.2% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
45.96% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
66.2% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
44.48% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.21
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
Core i5-5300U HD Graphics 5500
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
Core i5-4310U HD Graphics 4400
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch
Core i5-4300U HD Graphics 4400
HP EliteBook 820 G1
Core i7-4510U Intel HD Graphics 4400
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
Core i7-4600U HD Graphics 4400
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
Core i5-4210U HD Graphics 4400
Display
-5%
-1%
-4%
-3%
-2%
Display P3 Coverage
44.48
42.02
-6%
43.87
-1%
42.77
-4%
43.29
-3%
43.55
-2%
sRGB Coverage
66.2
63.2
-5%
64.7
-2%
64.1
-3%
63.9
-3%
64.9
-2%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
45.96
43.44
-5%
45.49
-1%
44.23
-4%
44.95
-2%
45.05
-2%
Screen
-56%
-2%
-5%
-8%
7%
Brightness middle
360
178
-51%
402.5
12%
385
7%
377
5%
433
20%
Brightness
330
160
-52%
389
18%
355
8%
348
5%
396
20%
Brightness Distribution
81
83
2%
87
7%
82
1%
84
4%
80
-1%
Black Level *
0.53
0.586
-11%
0.59
-11%
0.548
-3%
0.518
2%
0.47
11%
Contrast
679
304
-55%
682
0%
703
4%
728
7%
921
36%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
5.58
10.42
-87%
6.41
-15%
5.99
-7%
6.85
-23%
5.56
-0%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.98
11.57
-191%
4.95
-24%
5.7
-43%
6.48
-63%
4.92
-24%
Gamma
2.21 100%
2.34 94%
2.34 94%
2.05 107%
2.75 80%
2.48 89%
CCT
6192 105%
13931 47%
6375 102%
6594 99%
6379 102%
6054 107%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
42.2
40
-5%
42.66
1%
40.63
-4%
41
-3%
41
-3%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-31% / -42%
-2% / -1%
-5% / -4%
-6% / -7%
3% / 5%

* ... smaller is better

The Latitude 12 E7250 also exceeds its two siblings in terms of black value and contrast, but is average compared to the other rivals. A black value of 0.53 cd/m² is not bad, but you can clearly see the background illumination with dark contents and the maximum luminance in particular. Thanks to the contrast of 697:1, colors appear quite rich but still look a little like pastel. 

We determine more exact measurements for the display with the software CalMAN and the colorimeter. We cannot see a blue cast, which is a good result. However, blue tones are not very accurate and they have the largest deviations from the reference value. The deviation of the grayscale is generally very low. Calibration can improve the results significantly, we can hardly see any grayscale deviations from the reference color space sRGB. However, the accuracy of the display is not sufficient for professional users.

ColorChecker without calibration
ColorChecker without calibration
Grayscale without calibration
Grayscale without calibration
Saturation Sweeps without calibration
Saturation Sweeps without calibration
ColorChecker with calibration
ColorChecker with calibration
Grayscale with calibration
Grayscale with calibration
Saturation Sweeps with calibration
Saturation Sweeps with calibration
Color space coverage sRGB
Color space coverage sRGB
Color space coverage Adobe RGB
Color space coverage Adobe RGB

The glossy panel is a problem outdoors, but thanks to the high luminance you can at least see the screen content even in bright environments. We did not have any problems with the display in the shade or indoors.

The IPS display ensures a picture without distortions even from very flat viewing angles.

Viewing angles
Viewing angles
Outdoor use
Outdoor use

Performance

As well as the Intel Core i5-5300U processor of our review unit, you can also select a higher-clocked Core i7-5600U. All processors are based on Intel's new generation Broadwell with a 14 nm manufacturing process and there is also the new integrated Intel HD Graphics 5500. Our review unit is equipped with the maximum memory of 8 GB of RAM and an SSD with a capacity of 256 GB.

Systeminformationen Dell Latitude 12 E7250

Processor

The Intel Core i5-5300U from the new Broadwell generation clocks at 2.3 GHz. The two cores support Hyperthreading, so the CPU can execute up to four threads simultaneously. The Turbo Boost enables a maximum clock of 2.9 GHz for one core and 2.7 GHz for both cores. The processor is an ultra-low voltage with a TDP of 15 Watts, and experience shows that it should be sufficient for common tasks and still have a lot of headroom.

In practice, the processor does leave a very good impression and we could not notice any performance restrictions in Windows 8.1 or any applications that we tested. However, there are significant restrictions on battery power with the activated "Energy-Saving" profile: The processor throttles heavily and only manages a quarter of the previous (AC) result in Cinebench R10. This behavior can be changed with the profile "Balanced" or "High-Performance" where the clocks and therefore the Cinebench results are much higher.

The processor can reach its maximum Turbo clock, but it quickly starts to throttle when you start to stress the GPU at the same time: The cooling solution does not seem to be powerful enough for simultaneous high load of both components. We will have a closer look at the situation in theTemperature section. 

The slightly increased per-MHz performance of the new processor generation is noticeable in the Cinebench results: The Latitude can outperform all the other notebooks in the comparison by a few percent, but the advantage is not large enough to notice in practice.

Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
4341
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
9103
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
5092
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
16.83 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
2.94 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.33 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
264 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
22.61 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
98 %
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
114 Points
Help
Cinebench R10
Rendering Single 32Bit (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
4341 Points
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch
4230 Points -3%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
4638 Points +7%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
3862 Points -11%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
4282 Points -1%
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
9103 Points
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch
8616 Points -5%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
8417 Points -8%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
8025 Points -12%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
9018 Points -1%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Single 64Bit (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
1.33 Points
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
1.06 Points -20%
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch
1.29 Points -3%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
1.39 Points +5%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
1.18 Points -11%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
1.43 Points +8%
CPU Multi 64Bit (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
2.94 Points
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
2.73 Points -7%
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch
2.77 Points -6%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
2.67 Points -9%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
2.59 Points -12%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
2.83 Points -4%
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
114 Points
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
107 Points -6%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
124 Points +9%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
104 Points -9%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
125 Points +10%
CPU Multi 64Bit (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
264 Points
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
252 Points -5%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
248 Points -6%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
239 Points -9%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
261 Points -1%

Legend

 
Dell Latitude 12 E7250 Intel Core i5-5300U, Intel HD Graphics 5500, Samsung PM851 Series MZMTE256HMHP
 
Dell Latitude 12 E5250 Intel Core i5-4310U, Intel HD Graphics 4400, Sandisk X110 SD6SF1M-256G-1022
 
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch Intel Core i5-4300U, Intel HD Graphics 4400, Samsung SSD SM841 128GB
 
Lenovo ThinkPad X240 Intel Core i7-4600U, Intel HD Graphics 4400, Samsung SSD 840 250GB MZ7TD256HAFV
 
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G Intel Core i5-4210U, Intel HD Graphics 4400, Toshiba MQ01ABF050
 
HP EliteBook 820 G1 Intel Core i7-4600U, Intel HD Graphics 4400, Intel SSD Pro 1500 Series SSDSC2BF180A4H

System Performance

Thanks to the fast processor, the graphics card, which is more than sufficient for standard tasks, the memory equipment of 8 GB and the fast SSD storage, the Latitude 12 E7250 has a very well-balanced configuration. We never had the feeling that one component could be a bottleneck during our review period. 

Our review unit also has a small advantage over the comparison devices in the PCMark benchmark, but once again, the difference is hardly noticeable when using the notebook. Only the ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA falls behind because of the low amount of memory and the conventional hard drive.

PCMark 7 Score
4662 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
2772 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
3052 points
Help
PCMark 7 - Score (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
4662 Points
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
4067 Points -13%
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch
4567 Points -2%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
4629 Points -1%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
2504 Points -46%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
5196 Points +11%
PCMark 8
Creative Score Accelerated v2 (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
3052 Points
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
2996 Points -2%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
2461 Points -19%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
2115 Points -31%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
3045 Points 0%
Home Score Accelerated v2 (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
2772 Points
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
2696 Points -3%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
2470 Points -11%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
2120 Points -24%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
3624 Points +31%

Storage Devices

The SSD in our review configuration of the Latitude 12 E7250 is PM851, provided by Samsung. It uses a 256-bit AES encryption to secure the files on the drive. This might also be the reason for the lower transfer rates compared to other devices like the predecessor Latitude 12 E7240 or the Lenovo ThinkPad X240. However, the differences are not that big, and the Latitude 12 E7250 is still very good in terms of loading times and copy processes.

Samsung PM851 Series MZMTE256HMHP
Sequential Read: 509 MB/s
Sequential Write: 244 MB/s
512K Read: 428 MB/s
512K Write: 244 MB/s
4K Read: 29 MB/s
4K Write: 61 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 214 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 180 MB/s

Graphics

The Intel HD Graphics 5500 was introduced with the Broadwell generation. It is faster than the GPU solution of the previous generation; and usually runs at 300 MHz, but the clock can be raised up to 950 MHz via Turbo. This GPU should be well suited for common tasks and some light gaming, but it cannot always maintain the maximum Turbo clock and drops to 750 MHz in complex 3D applications that also stress the processor. This means the performance is not quite as high as expected.

The Intel HD Graphics 4400 in the predecessor Latitude 12 E7240 is beaten by our review unit in the 3DMark benchmarks (up to 19%), and most of the comparison devices are slightly slower as well. Only the HP EliteBook 820 G1 offers slightly more GPU performance, which is probably a result of the high clock of the Intel HD Graphics 4400 and the fast memory configuration.

3DMark 11 Performance
927 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
42996 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
4633 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
599 points
Help
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
927 Points
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
930 Points 0%
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch
752 Points -19%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
828 Points -11%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
835 Points -10%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
937 Points +1%
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Score (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
4633 Points
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
3697 Points -20%
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch
3760 Points -19%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
3985 Points -14%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
4069 Points -12%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
4636 Points 0%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Score (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
599 Points
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch
519 Points -13%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
516 Points -14%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
508 Points -15%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
592 Points -1%
1280x720 Ice Storm Standard Score (sort by value)
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
42996 Points
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
36234 Points -16%
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch
27853 Points -35%
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
29301 Points -32%
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
31711 Points -26%
HP EliteBook 820 G1
41559 Points -3%

Gaming Performance

Gaming in the native display resolution is usually too demanding for the GPU. Browser games or casual games can run, and it is also possible to play "FIFA 15" with reduced details and some dropped frames. Our experience with the Intel HD Graphics 5500 also shows that you can play "Diablo 3" as long as you do not select the highest settings and resolutions. However, all other current 3D games usually fail, even with very low details and really low resolutions; some games like "Dragon Age: Inquisition" even refused to start. You should have a closer look at the Alienware 13 if you want a small gaming notebook.

low med. high ultra
Crysis 3 (2013) 16 9.8 6.8 1.9
Tomb Raider (2013) 44 21.9 15.2 8.2
Thief (2014) 12.5 9.2 7.4 3.4
Sims 4 (2014) 124 32.1 16.2 9.6
Fifa 15 (2014) 35.1 30.5 16.2
Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor (2014) 16.2 11.4 6.1 3.9
Ryse: Son of Rome (2014) 11.2 6.9 4.2 3.3
Assassin's Creed Unity (2014) 8.6 6.2 3 1.1
Far Cry 4 (2014) 13.5 9.8 6.2 2.1
The Crew (2014) 15.3 11.2 6.2 3.1

Emissions

System Noise

The fan is only audible under load, but it is completely deactivated while idling and the Latitude 12 E7250 is completely silent. The noise characteristics under load are very similar to the predecessor, which is an indication of a similar cooling solution. We can measure a maximum noise of 42.8 dB(A). The fan noise is quite high-pitched and rather annoying, but not too loud. The fan control uses multiple steps for the speed.

There are actually quieter Ultrabooks for the desktop: The HP EliteBook 820 G1 with 35.8 dB(A) or the Asus Pro BU201LA with 33 dB(A) are much quieter.

Noise Level

Idle
29.3 / 29.3 / 29.3 dB(A)
Load
37.9 / 42.8 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Voltcraft sl-451 (15 cm distance)

Temperature

Stress test
Stress test

We had already noticed that the predecessor got noticeably warm during prolonged periods of load. The temperatures are even higher for the Latitude 12 E7250 with up to 56 °C (~133 °F) under maximum load. You can definitely feel the warming at this point, but it is not yet unpleasant. The temperatures are even higher after prolonged periods of maximum load when it gets so hot that you should not touch the bottom, although this scenario is not very likely for the Latitude 12 E7250. The top of the base unit is cooler with up to 46.7 °C (~116 °F) and the palm rest is acceptable. 

The warming of the notebook is also perceptible while idling, especially at the bottom with a maximum temperature of 33.2 °C (~92 °F). The temperatures at the top are slightly cooler.

Both the HP EliteBook 820 G1 and the ASUSPRO BU201LA are better in this section as well: The two devices are even cooler under maximum load with up to 41.9 °C (~107 °F) for the HP EliteBook 820 G1 and 43.1 °C (110 °F) for the ASUSPRO BU201LA. The Lenovo ThinkPad X240 is also slightly cooler with up to 50.5 °C (~123 °F).

The processor gets warm quite quickly in our stress test and reaches temperatures of more than 80 °C (~176 °F), which results in significant throttling to 1.49 GHz. However, by terminating the graphics benchmark, the clock immediately falls back to its maximum Turbo clock of 2.7 GHz. The graphics card cannot maintain its maximum clock with simultaneous load for the CPU and the GPU, and fluctuates between 750 and 800 MHz. This means that the cooling solution is not powerful enough when you stress both components so they have to be throttled. The GPU also quickly throttles to 750 MHz when the workload is not as big, for example, in demanding 3D benchmarks, and cannot maintain the maximum Turbo clock.

Max. Load
 43.4 °C
110 F
46.7 °C
116 F
30.7 °C
87 F
 
 34.2 °C
94 F
42.1 °C
108 F
30.2 °C
86 F
 
 28.4 °C
83 F
28.4 °C
83 F
31.8 °C
89 F
 
Maximum: 46.7 °C = 116 F
Average: 35.1 °C = 95 F
33.8 °C
93 F
56 °C
133 F
44 °C
111 F
33.1 °C
92 F
43.6 °C
110 F
41.3 °C
106 F
29.7 °C
85 F
30.3 °C
87 F
31.5 °C
89 F
Maximum: 56 °C = 133 F
Average: 38.1 °C = 101 F
Power Supply (max.)  44.8 °C = 113 F | Room Temperature 19.8 °C = 68 F | Fluke 62 Max
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 35.1 °C / 95 F, compared to the average of 30.7 °C / 87 F for the devices in the class Subnotebook.
(-) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 46.7 °C / 116 F, compared to the average of 35.9 °C / 97 F, ranging from 21.4 to 59 °C for the class Subnotebook.
(-) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 56 °C / 133 F, compared to the average of 39.4 °C / 103 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 27.8 °C / 82 F, compared to the device average of 30.7 °C / 87 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 31.8 °C / 89.2 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.3 °C / 82.9 F (-3.5 °C / -6.3 F).

Speakers

The small stereo speakers are located under the front edge and the sound has not changed compared to the predecessor. At least, you get a much better sound compared to other business devices, even though the sound is focused on high tones. The maximum volume is actually good and there are no distortions.

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The Latitude 12 E7250 does not consume any power when it is turned off, which unfortunately still is not a matter of course. The standby consumption is also very low with 0.2 Watts. A comparison with the predecessor Latitude 12 E7240 shows that the consumption is now much higher in all scenarios: The Latitude 12 E7250 needs at least 4.1 Watts and therefore 0.4 Watts more than the previous Latitude 12. The absolute maximum consumption is 40.4 Watts compared to 34.8 Watts for the predecessor, but the maximum consumption is limited to a short time, before it levels off at around 30 Watts. This is not a problem for the power adaptor: It has a nominal output of 65 Watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0 / 0.2 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 4.1 / 8.3 / 9.4 Watt
Load midlight 31.6 / 40.4 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Extech Power Analyzer 380803
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.

Battery Runtime

Dell offers batteries with 39 Wh and 52 Wh. Our review unit is equipped with the larger version, which has a noticeable impact on both the weight as well as the battery runtimes. The lithium-polymer battery with four cells provides excellent battery runtimes, but it increases the weight of our review unit to more than 1.5 kg (~3.3 lb), so it is not a lightweight anymore.

More than 7 hours web browsing? This is not a problem for the Latitude 12 E7250 and you should be able to watch three long movies from the hard drive. Overall, you get between 4% and 20% more runtime compared to the rivals and the predecessor. The runtimes are also good for an Ultrabook.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
14h 05min
WiFi Surfing
7h 26min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
6h 42min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 43min
Dell Latitude 12 E7250
Core i5-5300U HD Graphics 5500
Dell Latitude 12 E5250
Core i5-4310U HD Graphics 4400
Dell Latitude E7240 Touch
Core i5-4300U HD Graphics 4400
Lenovo ThinkPad X240
Core i7-4510U Intel HD Graphics 4400
Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G
Core i7-4600U HD Graphics 4400
HP EliteBook 820 G1
Core i5-4210U HD Graphics 4400
Battery Runtime
-20%
-26%
-13%
-35%
-4%
Reader / Idle
845
646
-24%
621
-27%
719
-15%
463
-45%
813
-4%
H.264
402
323
-20%
182
-55%
327
-19%
WiFi
446
331
-26%
300
-33%
363
-19%
218
-51%
392
-12%
Load
103
92
-11%
83
-19%
107
4%
113
10%
124
20%

Verdict

In Review: Dell Latitude 12 E7250. Test model courtesy of Dell Germany.
In Review: Dell Latitude 12 E7250. Test model courtesy of Dell Germany.

Business notebooks are rarely inspiring; they are usually solid and offer unrestricted suitability for daily use. Dell still tries to create some fascination on the desk with the Latitude E7250: The chassis is made of high-quality materials like carbon, aluminum as well as magnesium and the construction is easily accessible for tinkerers. The battery runtimes are good enough for a long flight without a socket. 

These aspects are combined with typical business features like port variety, long warranty period and comprehensive security features. The WLAN signal is also good, and the display can impress with a sharp picture and accurate colors. A docking port is obviously a standard feature, and the input devices are impressive.

We are not really happy with the temperature development under load and the fact that the high-pitched fan is quite loud in this case. The glossy touchscreen can be removed from the options list, which would also improve the rather heavy weight. The missing VGA port could be annoying for some users, especially if you forgot the corresponding adaptor.

Overall, there is not much criticism for the Latitude E7250, but you do not get many reasons to upgrade if you already have the predecessor on your desk: The new Intel processor generation is not that much faster and will not be noticeable in practice, nothing has really changed in the chassis and the predecessor was already equipped with the comprehensive security features.

However, if you are looking for a portable and reliable business notebook with a good display and excellent maintainability, then you can stop your search. The price is also quite moderate in comparison with devices from Lenovo or HP.

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In Review: Dell Latitude 12 E7250. Test model courtesy of Dell Germany.
In Review: Dell Latitude 12 E7250. Test model courtesy of Dell Germany.

Specifications

Dell Latitude 12 E7250 (Latitude 12 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-5300U 2 x 2.3 - 2.9 GHz, Broadwell
Graphics adapter
Intel HD Graphics 5500, Core: 900 MHz, 10.18.10.3977
Memory
8 GB 
, Single-channel, 2 slots – 1 occupied, DDR3L-1600
Display
12.50 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel, capacitive touchscreen , LG Philips LGD0436 195C3 125W1, TN-LED, Corning Gorilla Glass NBT, Anti fingerprint coating, glossy: yes
Mainboard
Intel Broadwell-U PCH-LP (Premium)
Storage
Samsung PM851 Series MZMTE256HMHP, 256 GB 
, 229 GB free
Connections
3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, 1 Docking Station Port, Audio Connections: combined 3.5 mm stereo jack, Card Reader: SD, 1 SmartCard, 1 Fingerprint Reader, NFC
Networking
Intel I218-LM Gigabit (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Wireless-AC 7265 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.0
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 19.4 x 310.5 x 211 ( = 0.76 x 12.22 x 8.31 in)
Battery
52 Wh Lithium-Polymer, Sanyo 4-cell battery
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 8.1 Pro 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HD webcam
Additional features
Speakers: stereo speakers, Keyboard: chiclet keyboard , Keyboard Light: yes, 36 Months Warranty
Weight
1.5 kg ( = 52.91 oz / 3.31 pounds), Power Supply: 130 g ( = 4.59 oz / 0.29 pounds)
Price
1430 Euro

 

The Latitude 12 E7250 is the first small business companion from Dell with Intel's Broadwell generation.
The Latitude 12 E7250 is the first small business companion from Dell with Intel's Broadwell generation.
You can choose between a Core i5 or a Core i7 processor.
You can choose between a Core i5 or a Core i7 processor.
The input devices are impressive.
The input devices are impressive.
The keyboard provides a comfortable stroke and a firm feedback.
The keyboard provides a comfortable stroke and a firm feedback.
A touchscreen is integrated as well, but it is very glossy.
A touchscreen is integrated as well, but it is very glossy.
Only the configuration with a touchscreen has a carbon fiber lid.
Only the configuration with a touchscreen has a carbon fiber lid.
A necessary step: The additional weight of the touchscreen can at least be partly compensated.
A necessary step: The additional weight of the touchscreen can at least be partly compensated.
Still, the stability of the lid cannot really impress us.
Still, the stability of the lid cannot really impress us.
The cooling performance is just sufficient, but the fan is very annoying under load.
The cooling performance is just sufficient, but the fan is very annoying under load.
The port variety is generous and you even get a docking port at the bottom.
The port variety is generous and you even get a docking port at the bottom.
The power button is one to the few new design features of the Latitude 12 E7250.
The power button is one to the few new design features of the Latitude 12 E7250.
The chassis is now completely dark gray.
The chassis is now completely dark gray.
The hinges are firm and enable a large opening angle.
The hinges are firm and enable a large opening angle.
All in all, Dell once again offers a very practical device with comprehensive security features.
All in all, Dell once again offers a very practical device with comprehensive security features.

Similar Laptops

Devices from a different Manufacturer and/or with a different CPU

HP EliteBook 820 G2 Subnotebook Review
HD Graphics 5500, Core i7 5500U
Lenovo ThinkPad X250 Ultrabook Review
HD Graphics 5500, Core i7 5600U

Devices with the same GPU

Lenovo E31-70 Notebook Review
HD Graphics 5500, Core i3 5005U, 13.30", 1.584 kg
Toshiba Portege Z30t-B1320W10 Notebook Review
HD Graphics 5500, Core i7 5600U, 13.30", 1.326 kg
Eurocom Armadillo 2 (Clevo W840AU) Notebook Review
HD Graphics 5500, Core i5 5200U, 14.00", 1.9 kg
Asus Zenbook UX305LA (Core i7) Subnotebook Review
HD Graphics 5500, Core i7 5500U, 13.30", 1.3 kg

Links

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Pros

+Great chassis with aluminum and carbon
+Comprehensive maintainability
+Long battery runtimes
+Convenient input devices
+Long warranty
+Comprehensive security features
+Good WLAN signal
+Generous port variety
+IPS display with accurate colors
 

Cons

-Glossy display
-High weight
-Gets warm under load
-System noise not very convenient under load
-Throttling under load

Shortcut

What we like

That Dell equips the device with a good maintainability, a large battery and a lot of security features.

What we'd like to see

The notebook could be lighter. Business customers might also miss a VGA port.

What surprises us

How many ports are available at the small chassis.

The competition

Latitude 12 E5250, HP EliteBook 820 G1, Lenovo ThinkPad X240, Asus ASUSPRO Advanced BU201LA-DT036G

Rating

Dell Latitude 12 E7250 - 02/05/2015 v4(old)
Florian Wimmer

Chassis
88 /  98 → 90%
Keyboard
87%
Pointing Device
89%
Connectivity
75 / 80 → 94%
Weight
69 / 35-78 → 79%
Battery
87%
Display
83%
Games Performance
58 / 68 → 85%
Application Performance
79 / 87 → 91%
Temperature
83 / 91 → 91%
Noise
89%
Audio
50 / 91 → 55%
Camera
47 / 85 → 55%
Average
76%
84%
Subnotebook - Weighted Average
Florian Wimmer, 2015-02-12 (Update: 2018-05-15)