The Latitude lineup from Dell is massive and full of options, but it currently lacks a convertible notebook. That gap is now addressed by the Latitude 13 7000, a new 2-in-1 with a 13.3-inch full-HD display.
Dell says the new dock-able will be packed with features including a “business class” back-lit keyboard, all-day battery life, and an eye-catching 1080p touchscreen that can handle up to ten simultaneous inputs. The system will be only 20 millimeters thick with the keyboard attached, and will weigh no more than 3.7 pounds. Obviously, this means it won’t be the slimmest 2-in-1 around, but Dell’s pitch implies that the notebook experience took priority over the tablet during the Latitude 13 7000’s design.
As such, this new Latitude will be available with capable hardware. Intel’s fifth-generation Core M processors are the only option. Storage maxes out with solid state drives as large as 512GB, and the RAM count runs up to 8GB. 802.11ac Wi-Fi comes standard, and physical connectivity options consist of two USB 3.0 ports, a headset jack, and a card reader. Other optional extras include a SIM card slot (for mobile broadband), a fingerprint reader, and NFC support.
Perhaps the new Latitude’s most impressive attribute, however, is the battery. Dell says the tablet portion will have a 30 watt-hour unit, which isn’t large, but you’ll also have the option to get the keyboard dock with a 20 watt-hour battery of its own. That’s a full 50 watt-hours. The claim that the system offers “all-day battery life” is, for once, likely to be true.
Another unusual feature is the Latitude 13 7000’s standard three year warranty, which includes on-site service after remote diagnosis. Such a warranty is almost unheard of in the consumer market, and while it’s more common among business notebooks, it’s rarely the default option. Buyers who want even more protection can opt for a four or five year warranty extension.
The Latitude 13 7000 will start at $1,199, and will be launched sometime in the middle of October.
