Dell Latitude 7470 i5 6th Gen Laptop: A Comprehensive Review

In today’s fast-paced digital world, choosing a reliable laptop is essential for professionals and business users who demand efficiency, security, and performance. One device that continues to stand out in this segment is the Dell Latitude 7470 i5 6th Gen Laptop. Known for its durability, sleek design, and robust performance, the Latitude 7470 remains a competitive choice for users seeking a versatile machine. In this detailed blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Latitude 7470, from design and build quality to performance and connectivity features.

1. Design and Build Quality

The Dell Latitude 7470 embodies the professional aesthetics typical of Dell’s business laptop lineup. It features a matte black chassis with a soft-touch finish that is both elegant and resistant to fingerprints. The laptop is constructed from a combination of carbon fiber and magnesium alloy, providing exceptional durability without adding unnecessary weight.

At just under 3.4 pounds (1.54 kg) and 0.74 inches (18.8 mm) thick, the Latitude 7470 is remarkably portable, making it ideal for professionals who are frequently on the move. The overall build quality is top-notch, meeting MIL-STD-810G military-grade standards for durability, meaning it can withstand drops, vibrations, and extreme temperatures.

The hinge mechanism is sturdy, allowing the screen to be opened up to 180 degrees. This flexibility makes it easier to collaborate in meetings or adjust viewing angles for comfort.

2. Display

The Dell Latitude 7470 offers a 14-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display. This anti-glare screen provides sharp visuals and vibrant colors, making it suitable for both work and entertainment. With wide viewing angles and good contrast levels, users can enjoy clear images even in brightly lit environments.

Optional configurations also include touch-enabled displays, adding another layer of interactivity. The screen’s matte finish significantly reduces reflections, which is especially beneficial for users working outdoors or under harsh office lighting.

3. Performance

At the heart of the Latitude 7470 is the 6th generation Intel Core i5 processor. Specifically, many models are equipped with the Intel Core i5-6300U, a dual-core processor clocked at 2.4 GHz, with Turbo Boost speeds of up to 3.0 GHz. This processor delivers strong performance for everyday tasks, such as web browsing, document editing, and multimedia consumption.

Paired with 8GB of DDR4 RAM, the Latitude 7470 provides smooth multitasking capabilities. Users can easily run multiple applications without significant slowdowns. Additionally, the laptop typically comes with a 256GB SSD (solid-state drive), which significantly enhances boot times, application launch speeds, and overall system responsiveness.

While the integrated Intel HD Graphics 520 may not be suitable for gaming or heavy graphic design, it handles standard business applications and video playback with ease.

4. Keyboard and Trackpad

The keyboard on the Dell Latitude 7470 is one of its standout features. It offers a comfortable typing experience, with well-spaced keys that provide ample travel and tactile feedback. The backlit keyboard is particularly useful for working in low-light environments, allowing users to maintain productivity regardless of lighting conditions.

The Precision touchpad is smooth and responsive, supporting multi-touch gestures like pinch-to-zoom and two-finger scrolling. The dedicated buttons for left and right clicks offer a more traditional input method for users who prefer tactile feedback over tap gestures.

5. Connectivity and Ports

Business users will appreciate the wide range of connectivity options available on the Latitude 7470. The laptop includes:

• Three USB 3.0 ports for high-speed data transfer.

• HDMI and Mini DisplayPort outputs for connecting to external displays.

• An Ethernet port for wired network connectivity.

• A headphone/microphone combo jack for audio.

• An SD card reader for expanding storage or accessing media files.

Wireless connectivity is equally robust, with support for Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.1. Some configurations also offer mobile broadband options for users who need internet access on the go.

6. Security Features

Security is a major focus for the Dell Latitude series, and the 7470 is no exception. It includes several hardware and software features designed to protect sensitive data:

• Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2/2.0 for hardware-based encryption.

• Optional fingerprint reader for biometric login.

• Dell Data Protection tools to enhance data security.

Additionally, the laptop’s BIOS is highly customizable, allowing IT administrators to set security policies that align with organizational requirements.

7. Battery Life

Battery life is a critical consideration for business users, and the Dell Latitude 7470 delivers respectable performance in this area. Equipped with a 4-cell, 60 Whr battery, it provides up to 8-10 hours of usage on a single charge, depending on the workload and power settings. Power users can optimize battery life further by adjusting brightness levels and utilizing Dell’s power management software.

For users who need extended battery life, optional higher-capacity batteries are available, though they may add slightly to the overall weight.

8. Audio and Webcam

The audio quality on the Latitude 7470 is suitable for conference calls and multimedia playback. The built-in speakers deliver clear sound, though bass response is limited due to the compact design. For enhanced audio experiences, users can connect external speakers or headphones.

The integrated HD webcam provides decent video quality for virtual meetings. Combined with dual-array microphones, it ensures clear communication during video calls, even in noisy environments.

9. Software and Manageability

The Dell Latitude 7470 comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Pro, offering a range of features designed for business use. Dell’s suite of management tools, including Dell Command Suite, simplifies deployment, updating, and monitoring of the system, making it an excellent choice for IT departments managing multiple devices.

10. Conclusion

In summary, the Dell Latitude 7470 i5 6th Gen Laptop is a well-rounded machine that balances performance, portability, and durability. It caters perfectly to business professionals, students, and anyone in need of a reliable laptop for daily use. With its robust security features, excellent keyboard, and solid build quality, it remains a smart investment even in a competitive market.

While it may lack cutting-edge specs compared to newer models, its affordability and proven reliability make it a popular choice. If you are looking for a dependable laptop that delivers where it matters most, the Dell Latitude 7470 should be high on your list.