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Dell Latitude 7390 (i5-8350U, SSD 256 GB) Laptop Review

Smart business. Dell is updating its business subnotebooks of the 7000 series with the current Kaby Lake Refresh CPUs and has equipped the 7390 with a smart card slot as well as other security features. Our extensive test evaluates whether in addition to having a very long battery life, the display, connections, and input devices can also stand up to the demands of a professional.

The new Dell Latitude 7390 is a mobile business notebook of the upper price range in the popular 13-inch format and also a successor of the Latitude 13 7380, which we only tested in December of last year. At the time of testing, you can purchase the current configuration in the Dell shop for 1379 Euros (~$1706; the Latitude 7390 starts at $1199 in the US). It is driven by the Intel Core i5-8350U quad-core accompanied by 8 GB of RAM. The graphics are handled by the Intel HD Graphics 620 processor GPU, and the storage solution is a 256-GB SSD.

The Latitude scores with a complete security package that differentiates itself from the bulk of business notebooks by a smart card slot and is rounded off by Windows 10 Pro with Bitlocker. The subnotebook weighs 1.3 kg (~2.9 lb) and its Full HD IPS display has a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. You can see an overview of the basic configurations offered by Dell here. Under the same label, Dell also carries a series of convertibles (2-in-1) that share many characteristics of the non-convertibles. As always, you can modify the equipment details in the Dell Configurator.

In addition to the predecessor, we have included a compact 14-inch and two 13-inch devices from our list of the Top 10 subnotebooks, one of which is a convertible. As with the Latitude 7390, all the laptop in the test are of the upper price range and target mobile business users. The following are included in our test:

Dell Latitude 7390 (Latitude 13 7300 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-8350U 4 x 1.7 - 3.6 GHz, Kaby Lake Refresh
Graphics adapter
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Core: 1100 MHz, shared memory, 22.20.16.4799
Memory
8 GB 
, DDR4, 2400 MHz, single channel, single slot occupied, 16 GB max
Display
13.30 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 165 PPI, AU Optronics AUO462D / B133HAN [DELL P/N:F7VDJ], IPS, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Kaby Lake-U iHDCP 2.2 Premium PCH
Storage
SK hynix SC311 M.2, 256 GB 
, 196 GB free
Soundcard
Intel Kaby Lake-U/Y PCH - High Definition Audio
Connections
3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: 3.5 mm combined audio in/out, Card Reader: microSD/SDHC/SDXC, 1 Fingerprint Reader, NFC, Brightness Sensor
Networking
Intel Ethernet Connection I219-LM (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.2
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 16.5 x 305 x 208 ( = 0.65 x 12.01 x 8.19 in)
Battery
60 Wh Lithium-Ion, 4 cells
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HD
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, front bottom, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, Office 365 trial version for 30 days, 36 Months Warranty
Weight
1.307 kg ( = 46.1 oz / 2.88 pounds), Power Supply: 300 g ( = 10.58 oz / 0.66 pounds)
Price
1379 EUR
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case: simple, sturdy, and non-slip surface

The case, which is almost completely matte black and wedge-shaped tapering towards the front, appears almost generic in its elegant simplicity. Apart from the Dell logo, a color contrasted stripe at the bottom edge of the back, the On/Off button, and perhaps the hinge, there are hardly any visual accents. We especially liked the non-slip, almost rubberized surfaces of the base and the back of the lid. While fingerprints were visible, they did not stand out too much. On its page on the 7390, Dell speaks about "high-quality materials such as a magnesium alloy."

Even with the use of slightly more force, the base can only be twisted to a very limited extent while it merely produces some quiet creaking. The lid is unusually robust and also turns out to be pressure resistant. Single-handed opening becomes a problem, but on the other hand, the lid wobbles only minimally and briefly. The Dell Latitude 13 7930 can be opened to slightly more than 180°, and from about 135° the back is raised by the lid, which does not help the skid resistance.

In terms of its flawless workmanship, the 7930 does full justice to its high price. The device appears high-quality, solid, and despite (or because of) its simplicity, even representative. Let us put it this way: It will not take long for somebody who knows a little about notebooks to see the price level of the Dell.

Dell Latitude 7390
Dell Latitude 7390
Dell Latitude 7390
Dell Latitude 7390
Dell Latitude 7390
Dell Latitude 7390
Dell Latitude 7390
Dell Latitude 7390
Dell Latitude 7390

Compared to the predecessor, the Latitude 13 7380, the weight and footprint have hardly changed, and a few millimeters were shaved off the thickness. At about 1 kg (2.2 lb), Toshiba is presenting the lightest laptop in this test, and all the other candidates weigh about 1.3 kg (~2.9 lb). At the same time, the Portégé X30-D together with the 14-inch device from Asus which has exactly the same thickness (both 15.9 mm, ~0.63 in) take up the most space on the desk. In terms of its footprint, the HP Convertible is between them and mainly scores with its very low height of only 14.9 mm (~0.58 in).

Size Comparison

324 mm / 12.8 inch 225 mm / 8.86 inch 15.9 mm / 0.626 inch 1.3 kg2.87 lbs316.9 mm / 12.5 inch 218.5 mm / 8.6 inch 14.9 mm / 0.587 inch 1.3 kg2.88 lbs315 mm / 12.4 inch 226.1 mm / 8.9 inch 15.9 mm / 0.626 inch 1 kg2.3 lbs306 mm / 12 inch 209 mm / 8.23 inch 20 mm / 0.787 inch 1.3 kg2.8 lbs305 mm / 12 inch 208 mm / 8.19 inch 16.5 mm / 0.65 inch 1.3 kg2.88 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Equipment: smart card for more security

While the Dell Latitude 7390 is distinguished by its solid connection equipment, you look in vain for highlights such as Thunderbolt 3. In addition to two USB 3.1 Gen1 connections, there are also a USB Type-C connection with DisplayPort, Ethernet, a slot for microSD cards, and a micro-SIM tray for the optional WLAN module, which was unoccupied in our test unit. You do not see a slot for a smart card often nowadays. Dell has succeeded in distributing the connections ergonomically in the rear areas of the sides, and only the smart card slot is in the front on the left side.

Left side: power, USB 3.1  Gen1 Type C with DP, HDMI 1.4, USB 3.1 Gen1 with Powershare, smart card reader
Left side: power, USB 3.1 Gen1 Type C with DP, HDMI 1.4, USB 3.1 Gen1 with Powershare, smart card reader
Right side: audio in/out, microSD and Micro-SIM tray below (deactivated), USB 3.1, Ethernet, slot for Noble security lock (wedge shape)
Right side: audio in/out, microSD and Micro-SIM tray below (deactivated), USB 3.1, Ethernet, slot for Noble security lock (wedge shape)

SD Card Reader

Unlike the card reader of the predecessor, that of the new Dell 7390 is connected via PCIe and therefore shows very good transfer rates which in our test were barely 30% behind the fastest card reader in our database. With their USB-3.0 connection, the predecessor and the Toshiba do not even manage half that speed, and the Asus ZenBook with its lame USB-2.0 speeds is simply annoying to everyone and not just photographers. Unfortunately you are limited to microSD, and therefore can only use microSD cards (with an SD adapter if necessary) in your camera as well. We performed our measurements with our Toshiba Exceria Pro M501 reference microSD card.

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Dell Latitude 7390
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
166 MB/s
Dell Latitude 13 7380
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
76.6 MB/s -54%
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M401)
63.2 MB/s -62%
Average of class Office
  (8 - 196.8, n=50, last 2 years)
55.6 MB/s -67%
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
35.1 MB/s -79%
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
Dell Latitude 7390
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
201.1 MB/s
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M401)
89.6 MB/s -55%
Dell Latitude 13 7380
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
87.8 MB/s -56%
Average of class Office
  (26.4 - 173.2, n=44, last 2 years)
65.2 MB/s -68%
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
 
40.4 MB/s -80%

Communication

Dell is using the tried and tested but no longer new Intel Wireless AC-8265 WLAN module. The module integrates Bluetooth 4.2, and achieves a maximum gross data rate of 867 MBit/s, thanks to MIMO 2x2 in the 5-GHz band. If you assume an unavoidable overhead of perhaps 200 MBit/s, the Dell 7930 achieves a good result in the competition during receiving which is mostly more important. However, during sending it is weaker, as with most of the competitors. For 87.10 Euros (~$108) extra (at the time of testing), you can add the Dell Wireless Qualcomm Snapdragon X7 LTE-A (DW5811E) WWAN module. NFC is also implemented.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Average of class Office
  (280 - 1332, n=6, last 2 years)
810 MBit/s +60%
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260
666 MBit/s +31%
Dell Latitude 13 7380
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
534 MBit/s +5%
Dell Latitude 7390
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
507 MBit/s
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
488 MBit/s -4%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
455 MBit/s -10%
iperf3 receive AX12
Average of class Office
  (348 - 1690, n=6, last 2 years)
852 MBit/s +39%
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
647 MBit/s +6%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
613 MBit/s 0%
Dell Latitude 7390
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
611 MBit/s
Dell Latitude 13 7380
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
600 MBit/s -2%
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260
503 MBit/s -18%

Security

Finally, you get the complete security package here: From TPM 2.0 up to the fingerprint sensor, smart card, and Bitlocker hard-drive encryption via Windows 10 Pro, everything that the mobile business user could wish for is included. Unfortunately, the fingerprint reader is recessed too deep in the case, so that it gave us some problems during the setup. It also does not always unlock the Dell notebook reliably, and may need several attempts.

Accessories

Apart from the mandatory power supply, you can only find the safety instructions and a Quick Start Guide in the simple box. Dell does not offer any accessories that are specifically designed for the Latitude 7390.

Maintenance

There is no maintenance hatch, and the battery is not accessible from the outside. However the disassembly, which might void the warranty, can be performed without any problems, since you only need to remove the base plate which is secured with 8 Philips screws. You get access to the storage, fan, battery, and the three M.2 expansion slots, one of which is occupied with the SSD and another with the WLAN module, while the one for the WWAN is left empty.

Warranty

Dell delivers the Latitude 7390 with a three-year standard manufacturer's warranty. Dell Support will first try to resolve the problem via remote maintenance and hotline on the next business day. If that does not help, you need to send the laptop to a repair center certified by Dell. You can find out about the fee-based warranty extension options here.

Please see our Guarantees, Return Policies and Warranties FAQ for country-specific information.

Input Devices: high-quality haptics and a few quirks

Keyboard

With its predominantly high-quality ThinkPad keyboards, Lenovo has set yardsticks to which other manufacturers have to be compared again and again. With the Latitude 7930 at last, Dell has succeeded in partially countering this in the opinion of the tester. However, the keyboard turned out relatively small by about 2 cm (~0.8 in) in the width compared to a standard desktop keyboard, which is reflected in the Return key being too small, for example. Otherwise, the tester had no problems with the sizes and distances of the keys, although some 10-finger desktop movements might feel a little cramped. There are hardly any peculiarities in the layout, only the Page Up and Page Down keys have moved into the key block with the half-sized Arrow keys. The Escape key also serves as Fn-Lock key and could have therefore used its own status-LED, which is only limited to the F4 (i.e. microphone on/off) and Shift Lock keys.

The ergonomically labeled, regular size keys have a slightly concave shape, but all the other keys appear flat. With an easily noticeable pressure point and short stroke, the keys are only slightly cushioned, which accommodates the tastes of the tester. In terms of its satisfying typing experience and high-quality haptic feel, the keyboard is in no way inferior to a good ThinkPad keyboard. We might have said the same for the subdued noise level during typing, but unfortunately Dell has messed up with the frequently-used Space bar, whose clattering is really noisy compared to the other keys.

Touchpad

The conventional touchpad is  large with physically separated keys. The surface is roughened minimally, which ensures easy sliding of even moist fingers. However, it does not react to initial input at the very top edge. The mouse pointer can be moved with pixel accuracy, and fast (but not extremely fast) movements are followed well. You can configure gestures of up to four fingers with the aid of the Windows configuration settings, and there is also a Dell driver menu where some legacy functions can be controlled.

Unfortunately, the two replacement mouse keys make a rattly and cheap impression, the pressure point is only acceptable, and the acoustic feedback is almost missing completely.

Display: high contrast and no PWM/CABC

Subpixel grid
Subpixel grid

Dell is using a matte IPS panel with a Full HD resolution (13.3 inches, 165 PPI), which should ensure that even users with sharp eyes should not see a pixelated image at close distance. The very good brightness is surpassed by the Toshiba and particularly the Asus, while the HP turns out too dark for a convertible in its price range. 

The 92% brightness distribution is good and will be reflected in a black image that appears homogeneous and saturated overall. However, in very dark image content, you can notice clear beginnings of screen bleeding towards the edges. None of the candidates use PWM, and the manufacturer has also done without CABC in Dell Latitude 13. Although Dell lists some alternative displays on a specification sheet, these are not available in the laptop configurator.

308
cd/m²
320
cd/m²
323
cd/m²
306
cd/m²
329
cd/m²
321
cd/m²
304
cd/m²
317
cd/m²
315
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
AU Optronics AUO462D / B133HAN [DELL P/N:F7VDJ] tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 329 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 315.9 cd/m² Minimum: 15.4 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 92 %
Center on Battery: 332 cd/m²
Contrast: 1316:1 (Black: 0.25 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 4.3 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5, calibrated: 2.5
ΔE Greyscale 3.6 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
90.6% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
59.1% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
65.9% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
90.8% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
65.1% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.43
Dell Latitude 7390
AU Optronics AUO462D / B133HAN [DELL P/N:F7VDJ], , 1920x1080, 13.30
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
Chi Mei CMN14D2 / N140HCE-EN1, , 1920x1080, 14.00
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
CMN1374, , 1920x1080, 13.30
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
Toshiba TOS508F, , 1920x1080, 13.30
Dell Latitude 13 7380
LGD0589, , 1920x1080, 13.30
Display
6%
-1%
2%
1%
Display P3 Coverage
65.1
67.1
3%
65.5
1%
66.4
2%
65.5
1%
sRGB Coverage
90.8
98.7
9%
88.8
-2%
93.5
3%
91.8
1%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
65.9
69.3
5%
64.9
-2%
66.6
1%
65.8
0%
Response Times
19%
5%
21%
23%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
48.8 ?(24.8, 24)
40 ?(20, 20)
18%
55.2 ?(21.2, 34)
-13%
36.8 ?(18.8, 18)
25%
34 ?(17.2, 16.8)
30%
Response Time Black / White *
35.2 ?(21.2, 14)
28 ?(17, 11)
20%
27.2 ?(7.6, 19.6)
23%
29.6 ?(17.2, 12.4)
16%
29.6 ?(17.2, 12.4)
16%
PWM Frequency
Screen
1%
-19%
7%
-25%
Brightness middle
329
353
7%
262
-20%
332.6
1%
317
-4%
Brightness
316
366
16%
256
-19%
323
2%
295
-7%
Brightness Distribution
92
88
-4%
83
-10%
86
-7%
87
-5%
Black Level *
0.25
0.34
-36%
0.25
-0%
0.28
-12%
0.3
-20%
Contrast
1316
1038
-21%
1048
-20%
1188
-10%
1057
-20%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
4.3
2.88
33%
5.13
-19%
2.6
40%
6.3
-47%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
7.8
6.61
15%
9.46
-21%
6.7
14%
10.4
-33%
Colorchecker dE 2000 calibrated *
2.5
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.6
4.24
-18%
6.23
-73%
2.5
31%
7.8
-117%
Gamma
2.43 91%
2.38 92%
2.45 90%
2.12 104%
1.81 122%
CCT
6928 94%
7380 88%
6413 101%
6720 97%
7120 91%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
59.1
64
8%
57.84
-2%
62
5%
61
3%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
90.6
99
9%
88.57
-2%
94
4%
92
2%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
9% / 4%
-5% / -12%
10% / 8%
-0% / -13%

* ... smaller is better

Even though the manufacturers have continually managed to improve the black values of their panels for the last few years, the 0.25 cd/m² of our Dell Latitude can still be called a top value, which together with the very good brightness results in an excellent contrast ratio of 1316:1. However, none of the competitors in the test need to be ashamed, and even the relatively (!) dark HP convertible is still above 1000:1 due to its exemplary black value.

The color accuracy looks good in the state of delivery. The Delta-E values are very close to the optimum of 3 or less, where the human eye cannot perceive any differences anymore. The ZenBook UX3430UQ and the Portégé X30-D also deserve the same praise, but the predecessor and the EliteBook x360 do not. We would have almost recommended it for image processing at amateur level, but a coverage of the small sRGB standard color space of only 90.6% prevented this. Only the Asus ZenBook receives this honor at 99%.

CalMAN Grayscales (no color profile)
CalMAN Grayscales (no color profile)
CalMAN ColorChecker (no color profile)
CalMAN ColorChecker (no color profile)
CalMAN saturation (no color profile)
CalMAN saturation (no color profile)
vs. AdobeRGB
vs. AdobeRGB
CalMAN Grayscales (with color profile)
CalMAN Grayscales (with color profile)
CalMAN ColorChecker (with color profile)
CalMAN ColorChecker (with color profile)
CalMAN saturation (with color profile)
CalMAN saturation (with color profile)
vs. sRGB
vs. sRGB

As you can see in the picture on the left, despite its decent brightness, the matte display has its problems to shine through, if it is pointed towards the bright (but cloudy) sky. The picture on the right represents a best-case scenario with a house entry in the back. In our experience, even on sunny days it should be sufficient to look for a shady place in order to get some ergonomic contrast.

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
35.2 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 21.2 ms rise
↘ 14 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 92 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
48.8 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 24.8 ms rise
↘ 24 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 82 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM not detected

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18110 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

In terms of the viewing angle stability, the Dell 7390 ranges far ahead. Even though the loss of brightness and contrast that cannot be avoided completely are noticeable at steeper viewing angles from about 40°, they remain within tight limits in angles that are less steep. If you look at the display from the top, the effects occur earlier.

Performance: four cores and SSD

Processor

The ULV Core i5-8350U quad-core with a 15-watt TDP comes from Intel's current Kaby Lake Refresh generation and brings a basic clock speed of 1.7 GHz, which can be increased up to 3.6 GHz via Turbo. This is the nominally fastest i5 CPU of this series. Its predecessor is the i5-7300U (2.6 - 3.5 GHz), which has only two physical cores, but still masters Hyper-Threading similar to the newer chip. In addition to the Intel UHD Graphics 620 GPU, the processor also integrates a DDR4 storage controller and handles the encoding and decoding of H.265 video material in the hardware. According to Intel, there should be a performance increase of about 40% compared to the bygone Kaby Lake chips of the first generation. Unlike the smaller i5-8250U model, the i5-8350U masters Intel's vPro technology. 

The usual office tasks are demanding too little of the CPU, one of the older and potentially more economical dual cores would have been sufficient for that. However, anyone needing to use more demanding software that is designed to run well in parallel cores, such as the Adobe Premiere Pro video processing software, would definitely benefit from the additional cores.

 
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Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64 Bit

When all four cores are fully utilized, the processor quickly hits its TDP limit, which is typical for the new ULV quad-cores. While during the first run through our Cinebench loop it achieved 625 points due to a good Turbo utilization, a very good for this CPU, in the second round the performance dropped to 572 points and then continued to drop further down to 546 points, until finally leveling out to 580 points after seven runs. Accordingly, we observed a significantly varying Turbo utilization here. In battery operation, the multicore performance was not reduced.

Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Average of class Office
  (82.6 - 284, n=118, last 2 years)
215 Points +41%
Dell Latitude 13 7380
Intel Core i7-7600U
161 Points +6%
Dell Latitude 7390
Intel Core i5-8350U
152 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8350U
  (128 - 153, n=8)
146.8 Points -3%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel Core i5-7300U
144 Points -5%
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
Intel Core i7-7500U
135 Points -11%
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
Intel Core i7-7600U
126 Points -17%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Average of class Office
  (160.8 - 2642, n=120, last 2 years)
1380 Points +121%
Dell Latitude 7390
Intel Core i5-8350U
625 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8350U
  (346 - 631, n=8)
548 Points -12%
Dell Latitude 13 7380
Intel Core i7-7600U
359 Points -43%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel Core i5-7300U
346 Points -45%
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
Intel Core i7-7500U
346 Points -45%
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
Intel Core i7-7600U
341 Points -45%
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
625 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
152 Points
Help

System Performance

Subjectively, everything is running smoothly and we did not expect anything else. Programs start up quickly, a cold start takes only a few seconds, and even escalating multitasking does not cause any stutters in the 7390.

Despite their differing configurations, the PCMark-8 scores of the test subnotebooks show no differences worth mentioning, so it should be similar with their subjective performance. Neither being the only device with a PCIe SSD nor with a quad-core in the test lead to the corresponding devices being able to stand out. Apparently the old PCMark 8 does not scale well at this high level anymore. The fact that our Latitude 7390 has a relatively weak showing here might be due to the single channel RAM and the comparatively slow SSD.

PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Average of class Office
  (2304 - 4830, n=12, last 2 years)
4261 Points +18%
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
GeForce 940MX, i7-7500U, SanDisk SD8SN8U512G1002
3913 Points +9%
Dell Latitude 13 7380
HD Graphics 620, i7-7600U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
3872 Points +8%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
HD Graphics 620, i5-7300U, Sandisk SD8TN8U-256G-1006
3774 Points +5%
Dell Latitude 7390
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8350U, SK hynix SC311 M.2
3600 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8350U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (3063 - 3776, n=7)
3566 Points -1%
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
HD Graphics 620, i7-7600U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
3543 Points -2%
Work Score Accelerated v2
Dell Latitude 13 7380
HD Graphics 620, i7-7600U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
5060 Points +6%
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
HD Graphics 620, i7-7600U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
4910 Points +3%
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
GeForce 940MX, i7-7500U, SanDisk SD8SN8U512G1002
4812 Points +1%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
HD Graphics 620, i5-7300U, Sandisk SD8TN8U-256G-1006
4803 Points +1%
Dell Latitude 7390
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8350U, SK hynix SC311 M.2
4768 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8350U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (4200 - 4906, n=6)
4669 Points -2%
Average of class Office
  (1854 - 5610, n=12, last 2 years)
3746 Points -21%
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3600 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4768 points
PCMark 10 Score
3577 points
Help

Storage Solution

In our model, Dell uses a Hynix M.2 SSD with a 256 GB capacity which is connected via SATA III. According to AS SSD, the performance turns out absolutely typical for the aging connector. The SATA-III limit of almost 500 MB/s is only reached during sequential reads, and the performance while reading small, distributed 4K blocks, which is important during OS and program starts, is only mediocre. The less important write speed comes in behind many comparable SSDs, which contributes to the overall score not being particularly high. In our test field, only the Samsung SSD in the Toshiba Portégé which is connected via PCIe can decisively move ahead. However, subjectively this should still only become noticeable to a very limited extent.

Dell Latitude 7390
SK hynix SC311 M.2
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
SanDisk SD8SN8U512G1002
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Sandisk SD8TN8U-256G-1006
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
Average SK hynix SC311 M.2
 
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
5%
-1%
129%
1%
Read Seq
493.4
500
1%
467.1
-5%
1270
157%
494 ?(493 - 496, n=2)
0%
Write Seq
413.4
457.4
11%
443.6
7%
1213
193%
401 ?(389 - 413, n=2)
-3%
Read 512
354.6
345.6
-3%
312.3
-12%
858
142%
365 ?(355 - 374, n=2)
3%
Write 512
322.6
415
29%
372.5
15%
763
137%
323 ?(323 - 323, n=2)
0%
Read 4k
27.63
28.34
3%
29.43
7%
40.9
48%
27.2 ?(26.7 - 27.6, n=2)
-2%
Write 4k
64.7
56.8
-12%
56.5
-13%
143.6
122%
68.3 ?(64.7 - 71.8, n=2)
6%
Read 4k QD32
284.4
311.3
9%
311.3
9%
626
120%
284 ?(283 - 284, n=2)
0%
Write 4k QD32
254.5
251.1
-1%
225.2
-12%
536
111%
267 ?(255 - 280, n=2)
5%
SK hynix SC311 M.2
Sequential Read: 493.4 MB/s
Sequential Write: 413.4 MB/s
512K Read: 354.6 MB/s
512K Write: 322.6 MB/s
4K Read: 27.63 MB/s
4K Write: 64.7 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 284.4 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 254.5 MB/s

Graphics Card

For the details on the processor graphics, which was merely renamed from Intel HD Graphics 620 to UHD Graphics 620 and does not have its own storage, we refer to our corresponding article on the GPU with numerous benchmarks. In the Latitude 7390, the maximum clock speed is 1100 MHz. Intel's HD graphics clearly benefits from faster dual-channel RAM. Even though the built-in storage is fast, it only runs in single-channel mode.

In our test field, the performance of all the respective 620 graphics cores remains at a similar level, with the UHD 620 in our test unit comfortably remaining in the middle of the field. Compared to all the UHD-620 GPUs in our database, the performance turns out slightly below average. In battery operation, the Cloud-Gate score of 3DMark 2013 is still 7551 points (in mains operation: 8104 points).

3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Average of class Office
  (1474 - 12230, n=115, last 2 years)
5878 Points +266%
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i7-7500U
2197 Points +37%
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (1144 - 3432, n=244)
1749 Points +9%
Dell Latitude 13 7380
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7600U
1633 Points +2%
Dell Latitude 7390
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8350U
1606 Points
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7300U
1476 Points -8%
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7600U
1446 Points -10%
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Average of class Office
  (5681 - 58068, n=98, last 2 years)
23871 Points +195%
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (6205 - 16400, n=225)
9262 Points +14%
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i7-7500U
8492 Points +5%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7300U
8220 Points +1%
Dell Latitude 7390
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8350U
8104 Points
Dell Latitude 13 7380
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7600U
7794 Points -4%
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7600U
7068 Points -13%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Average of class Office
  (712 - 8815, n=117, last 2 years)
4072 Points +325%
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i7-7500U
1540 Points +61%
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (557 - 2608, n=213)
1161 Points +21%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7300U
972 Points +1%
Dell Latitude 7390
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8350U
959 Points
Dell Latitude 13 7380
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7600U
926 Points -3%
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7600U
847 Points -12%
3DMark 11 Performance
1755 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
7618 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
901 points
Help

Gaming Performance

The GPU is not suitable for the current and/or graphically more demanding 3D games. For example, even in the lowest settings at 1024x768 pixels, the mighty "Rise of the Tomb Raider" from 2016 does not run smoothly, not to mention the current segment of the "Final Fantasy" series. Things are different in the quite current, but graphically less demanding "Farming Simulator 2017," where the limits are only reached in high settings in Full HD. What is generally possible are (older) isometric games such as "Diablo III" or "StarCraft II," which can also be played in high presets.

low med. high ultra
Rise of the Tomb Raider (2016) 19.6
Farming Simulator 17 (2016) 51.2 19.7
Final Fantasy XV Benchmark (2018) 8.8

Emissions: quiet and cool

Noise Emissions

During idle operation, the fan remains turned off, and the occasional load spikes such as those occurring while surfing do not change this. So we can immediately proceed to the stress test: After Prime95 and FurMark were started, it took almost 15 seconds before the fan started running quietly.

Continuing, the increase of the fan speed occurred with delays and in distinct steps. After about two minutes, the maximum noise level was reached, presenting itself as a bright whirring that was not too annoying. In a quiet room, it was still audible from a distance of about 5 meters (~16 ft). After reducing the load, the fan continued to run at high speeds for a quite a long time.

A frequent problem in current Dell systems is the electronic noises or coil whine. While this problem is not very pronounced in the Latitude 7390, slight electronic noises at 29.7 dB(A) do occur particularly under load.

Noise Level

Idle
29.5 / 29.5 / 29.5 dB(A)
Load
32.4 / 39.9 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Audix TM1, Arta (15 cm distance)   environment noise: 29.5 dB(A)
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2034.536.436.733.834.12530.330.830.930.4333133.336.433.733.835.54030.632.730.930.634.35028.129.128.428.729.86328.727.527.327.929.58026.427.124.725.827.410027.12525.427.627.812525.228.824.327.226.916025.524.625.326.427.620024.52323.423.725.92502322.92323.324.731522.321.821.521.523.640022.62119.719.524.850021.921.31919.224.863023.120.417.918.826.58002320.717.517.826.4100025.72117.217.626.7125024.721.816.316.528.316002521.115.61629.4200024.823.315.815.930.2250024.120.216.115.829.4315021.718.215.916.129.5400020.517.716.516.327.3500021.918.617.316.728.263002017.817.816.927.4800019.217.81917.224100001817.618.817.520.81250017.517.518.117.418.71600017.417.618.817.318.3SPL35.132.429.629.539.9N2.21.71.31.33.3median 23median 21median 18.1median 17.5median 26.7Delta2.72.52.52.5231.433.436.53231.434.134.44333.534.139.839.151.140.139.829.832.439.630.529.835.532.735.934.335.530.631.137.529.530.627.428.727.727.427.425.726.726.826.425.726.926.827.425.526.924.624.324.52424.623.423.323.522.523.423.122.522.521.923.123.322.822.320.923.322.821.521.320.822.821.720.720.319.421.722.220.519.818.722.22321.119.718.42326.123.220.81826.126.323.720.418.326.327.52420.618.127.528.324.821.117.928.329.426.121.717.929.42723.219.518.32727.423.419.218.527.427.822.61918.627.824.520.618.918.924.521.719.7191921.720.119.419.119.120.119.719.519.219.119.719.619.919.519.219.638.435.132.430.838.42.92.21.81.52.9median 24.5median 22.8median 20.4median 19median 24.52.31.71.51.72.330.732.830.232.531.230.132.131.340.14030.129.228.127.935.735.734.534.225.42428.325.227.724.430.422.727.421.825.520.723.920.224.61925.918.624.418.924.418.624.718.923.818.722.518.522.2192219.920.319.519.819.320.420.1202119.620.23632.12.61.7median 24.4median 20.13.42.1hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseDell Latitude 7390Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012THP EliteBook x360 1030 G2

Temperature

Beginning of the stress test
Beginning of the stress test
Stress test after 1 hour
Stress test after 1 hour

During high constant load, having the Dell Latitude 7390 on your lap can become uncomfortable, since up to 55 °C (131 °F) can be reached at the bottom. However, this is also a scenario that is rare. While idling or under low, sporadic loads, we measured only a few degrees above room temperature. So usually it will remain cool in the office.

In the beginning of our stress test with Prime95 and FurMark, the CPU cores were still operating in their Turbo range, while the GPU speeds were varying around 950 MHz. However, the speeds quickly dropped to the basic clock speed of 1.7 GHz, and even that could not be maintained for long. Towards the end, the clock speeds remained constant at 1.5 GHz and the GPU at 900 MHz or slightly below. So we were observing mild throttling in this scenario which is not very relevant in practice. 

 23.7 °C
75 F
23.7 °C
75 F
23.1 °C
74 F
 
 23.5 °C
74 F
23.4 °C
74 F
22.9 °C
73 F
 
 22.7 °C
73 F
22.6 °C
73 F
22.5 °C
73 F
 
Maximum: 23.7 °C = 75 F
Average: 23.1 °C = 74 F
23 °C
73 F
23.4 °C
74 F
23.6 °C
74 F
22.5 °C
73 F
23.1 °C
74 F
23.4 °C
74 F
22.1 °C
72 F
22.6 °C
73 F
23 °C
73 F
Maximum: 23.6 °C = 74 F
Average: 23 °C = 73 F
Power Supply (max.)  21.3 °C = 70 F | Room Temperature 19.8 °C = 68 F | Voltcraft IR-900
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 34.8 °C / 95 F, compared to the average of 29.5 °C / 85 F for the devices in the class Office.
(±) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 43.1 °C / 110 F, compared to the average of 34.2 °C / 94 F, ranging from 21.2 to 62.5 °C for the class Office.
(-) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 55.2 °C / 131 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 23.1 °C / 74 F, compared to the device average of 29.5 °C / 85 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 28.4 °C / 83.1 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 27.7 °C / 81.9 F (-0.7 °C / -1.2 F).
Temperatures, stress test - top
Temperatures, stress test - top
Temperatures, stress test - bottom
Temperatures, stress test - bottom

Speakers

We are going through our music test as usual, with the presets as in the delivery state and a maximum volume which is decent here. While the sound system handles airy pop fairly well, it presents a very mid-centric, tinny, hollow, and in parts sharp sound image without any trace of bass and with very little dynamics and spaciousness. It is simply just obnoxious. If there are several high-pitched instruments, the ability to differentiate between them suffers significantly. At least there are no major distortions or volume variations. The voices in movies also sound slightly unnatural, but are still easily understandable.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2035.233.12529.4303135.6334031.7315030.428.16326.928.18025.627.210025.83012525.332.816026.13920023.345.125021.951.13152157.840018.259.150018.259.863017.765.180017.170.3100016.868.4125015.771.7160015.571.7200015.771.9250015.670.5315015.871.1400016.174.3500016.574.8630016.871.8800017.1641000017.267.51250017.263.41600017.361.6SPL2983.1N1.255.2median 17.2median 65.1Delta2.29.133.934.733.936.334.536.342.343.142.333.432.133.439.538.939.533.633.433.62827.92831.126.231.138.827.838.843.824.743.840.823.540.848.122.748.153.121.553.157.220.757.256.619.756.659.119.659.166.118.566.164.718.164.766.418.266.463.71863.760.517.960.561.61861.661.118.161.161.918.461.962.518.462.561.818.661.866.71966.773.119.173.175.21975.265.919.565.977.530.977.538.41.538.4median 61.6median 19median 61.67.91.87.93641.837.137.74535.835.347.750.746.655.659.5596056.562.668.973.870.277.375.873.478.27774.672.169.767.8626086.363.8median 67.87.442.23837.234.435.835.435.334.733.732.232.533.732.63331.231.43031.328.737.328.349.927.458.827.261.726.860.526.160.625.458.924.965.624.462.923.96223.367.823.366.323.367.423.261.722.965.12359.92362.42367.323.269.323.165.123.16136772.640.8median 23.9median 61.71.96.13736.83735.534.835.534.134.134.133.633.733.632.232.632.235323537.629.737.634.129.234.139.928.839.947.428.247.446.826.946.842.326.542.344.525.644.550.224.950.254.624.454.654.324.154.354.924.354.953.223.453.255.323.455.357.523.257.558.723.458.756.423.356.457.723.457.762.823.162.856.723.256.760.123.460.158.823.458.86623.56659.523.859.563.424.763.470.935.770.927.52.527.5median 55.3median 23.8median 55.35.80.75.8hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseDell Latitude 7390Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012THP EliteBook x360 1030 G2Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)Dell Latitude 13 7380
Dell Latitude 7390 audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (83.1 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 22.5% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (10.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 5% higher than median
(+) | mids are linear (4.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 5.8% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (6% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (20.7% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 41% of all tested devices in this class were better, 11% similar, 48% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 22%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 50% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 42% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (75 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 18.9% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (12.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 3.4% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (6.9% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2.7% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (5% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (20.4% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 60% of all tested devices in this class were better, 8% similar, 31% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 48% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 44% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2 audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (86.3 dB)
Analysis not possible as minimum curve is missing or too high

Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001) audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (77 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 16.7% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (14.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 2.6% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (6.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3.5% away from median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (9.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (19.7% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 34% of all tested devices in this class were better, 8% similar, 58% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 22%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 44% of all tested devices were better, 7% similar, 49% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Dell Latitude 13 7380 audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (70.9 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 12.8% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (12.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 1.9% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (7.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 4.5% away from median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (12.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (22.8% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 58% of all tested devices in this class were better, 9% similar, 33% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 22%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 62% of all tested devices were better, 6% similar, 31% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Frequency comparison (checkboxes selectable!)

Power Management: inconspicuous consumption

Power Consumption

It should be obvious that the Core i5-8350U with its four physical cores uses more power overall than the Kaby Lake dual-cores of the competitors. In general and here as well, this becomes particularly noticeable under load. However, we are surprised that despite its GeForce 940MX, the Asus uses significantly less power during maximum load than the Latitude 7390. While the Portégé stands out again with a much too high consumption in the three idle scenarios, it is the most efficient during load. Overall, we can attest our test unit with a power consumption that is inconspicuous.

In the beginning of the stress test (max load), we measured a power consumption of up to 67.4 watts for 4 seconds, which nominally exceeds the capacity of the 65-Watt power supply, but makes no difference in practice.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.26 / 0.38 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 2.34 / 5.6 / 6.5 Watt
Load midlight 43 / 67.4 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
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.
Dell Latitude 7390
i5-8350U, UHD Graphics 620, SK hynix SC311 M.2, IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
i7-7500U, GeForce 940MX, SanDisk SD8SN8U512G1002, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
i5-7300U, HD Graphics 620, Sandisk SD8TN8U-256G-1006, IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
i7-7600U, HD Graphics 620, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP, IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Dell Latitude 13 7380
i7-7600U, HD Graphics 620, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP, IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Power Consumption
4%
7%
-11%
11%
Idle Minimum *
2.34
2.6
-11%
3.2
-37%
4.6
-97%
3.2
-37%
Idle Average *
5.6
5.9
-5%
5.5
2%
7.6
-36%
5.5
2%
Idle Maximum *
6.5
6.25
4%
6.5
-0%
8.2
-26%
6.1
6%
Load Average *
43
42
2%
29.7
31%
23.8
45%
29.5
31%
Load Maximum *
67.4
46
32%
41.3
39%
28
58%
32
53%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

Due to technical difficulties, we were unable to run the practically relevant WLAN test this time and therefore needed to rely on other tests of the battery life (How we test). In the idle test, the Latitude 7390 achieves an outstanding result lasting almost 28 hours, which is almost exactly the same as the predecessor with a battery of similar capacity. The HP EliteBook x360 has 5% less battery capacity, but remains behind the test unit by 16% in the idle test, and 12% in the H.264 test.

That the battery life under load turns out considerably shorter than in most dual-core competitors with their weaker batteries can be traced back to the additional consumption of the four cores of the i5-8350U in this load state as discussed above. From the overall results and our experience, we can say with high probability that the WLAN runtime should be above 10 hours as in the predecessor. With that, most users should be able to get through the day safely.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
27h 40min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
12h 29min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 32min
Dell Latitude 7390
i5-8350U, UHD Graphics 620, 60 Wh
Asus Zenbook UX3430UQ-GV012T
i7-7500U, GeForce 940MX, 50 Wh
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
i5-7300U, HD Graphics 620, 57 Wh
Toshiba Portege X30-D (PT274U-01N001)
i7-7600U, HD Graphics 620, 48 Wh
Dell Latitude 13 7380
i7-7600U, HD Graphics 620, 60 Wh
Average of class Office
 
Battery Runtime
-9%
46%
-7%
25%
1%
Reader / Idle
1660
1292
-22%
1387
-16%
898
-46%
1594
-4%
1414 ?(527 - 2359, n=23, last 2 years)
-15%
H.264
749
659
-12%
691 ?(348 - 1112, n=40, last 2 years)
-8%
Load
92
97
5%
244
165%
121
32%
141
53%
117 ?(56 - 209, n=65, last 2 years)
27%
WiFi v1.3
527
630
430
630
589 ?(272 - 1137, n=107, last 2 years)

Verdict

Pros

+ simple, representative design
+ solid, non-slip case
+ flawless workmanship
+ opening angle > 180 °
+ complete security equipment with smart card
+ sensible connections
+ fast card reader
+ good accessibility after easy disassembly
+ 3 years manufacturer's warranty
+ satisfying typing experience
+ low black value, high contrast
+ good color accuracy as delivered
+ quiet operation
+ excellent endurance

Cons

- cannot be opened with one hand
- lid can raise the base
- no Thunderbolt 3
- no maintenance flap, battery not accessible from outside
- relatively small keyboard
- slightly unreliable fingerprint sensor
- touchpad keys are lower quality
- noisy space key
- no PCIe SSD
- bad and highly annoying sound system
The Dell Latitude 7390 - provided by Dell Germany
The Dell Latitude 7390 - provided by Dell Germany

With the new Latitude 7390, Dell has done almost everything right. For a not so expensive 1400 Euros (~$1732) for the model we tested, you receive a rounded package with only a few weaknesses.

We should mention here the slightly small but otherwise mostly successful keyboard, the mediocre mouse key replacements, the lack of Thunderbolt 3, and the noisy Space key. It is a minor design misstep that the lid raises the base from an opening angle above about 135°. The only thing we really did not like was the obnoxious sound and the sub-optimal fingerprint sensor.

Not only are the points on the "Pro" list more numerous, but mostly also more important. Even though with its i5-8350U, the Latitude is a little bit of overkill for office tasks, since the battery life is still on a high level, we say that more power can never hurt. The simply designed but high-quality case, the good to very good input devices, the complete security equipment, the sensible connections, the high-contrast display, Windows 10 Pro, and last not least the 3 years of warranty together with the quiet operation deserve a clear purchase recommendation.

Dell Latitude 7390 - 04/05/2018 v6(old)
Sven Kloevekorn

Chassis
87 / 98 → 88%
Keyboard
90%
Pointing Device
88%
Connectivity
65 / 80 → 81%
Weight
71 / 20-67 → 100%
Battery
93%
Display
89%
Games Performance
59 / 68 → 87%
Application Performance
88 / 92 → 95%
Temperature
89%
Noise
91%
Audio
44%
Camera
63 / 85 → 74%
Average
78%
89%
Office - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Dell Latitude 7390 (i5-8350U, SSD 256 GB) Laptop Review
Sven Kloevekorn, 2018-04-12 (Update: 2019-03-20)