Introduction
The Dell Latitude 7320 and MacBook Neo are both popular choices for entry-level laptops, each offering unique strengths. This guide compares the Dell Latitude 7320 to the MacBook Neo, highlighting its superior features and performance.
Hardware Specifications
The Dell Latitude 7320 is equipped with an 11th generation Intel Core i7 processor (i7-1185G7), featuring 4 cores and 8 threads, with a maximum clock speed of 4.8 GHz. It comes with 32 GB of LPDDR4x non-upgradeable RAM and 1 TB of user-replaceable storage. The device has a WWAN slot with a modem, dual USB-C Thunderbolt ports, microSD card slot, HDMI port, and a USB-A port. The Latitude 7320 also has a physical webcam shutter and fingerprint sensor, which work under Linux.
Performance and Features
The Dell Latitude 7320 is a powerhouse, with dual Thunderbolt ports and Linux support, offering quadruple the RAM compared to the MacBook Neo. It can be used as a desktop replacement with an eGPU dock, supporting multiple monitors. The device is also incredibly well-built, with a carbon fiber and plastic shell that can withstand impacts.
Display and Battery Life
The Dell Latitude 7320 has a 250-nit display, which is significantly lower than the MacBook Neo's 60 Hz, 600-nit display. The Latitude 7320’s battery life is also disappointing, lasting only 4 hours on a good day with power savings enabled. In comparison, the MacBook Neo offers better battery life, though it is still not spectacular.
Operating Systems
The Dell Latitude 7320 can run both Windows 11 and Linux, with the author choosing Arch Linux. The MacBook Neo, however, offers macOS on the desktop, which is not available on the Dell.
Conclusion
While the MacBook Neo is a newer and more versatile machine, the Dell Latitude 7320 offers a more capable and diverse experience, especially for those who value Linux support and multiple ports. Although its display and battery life are inferior, the Latitude 7320's robust build and diverse features make it a strong contender for entry-level laptop buyers.