Review: Dell Latitude E6400

The basic specifications of Latitude E6400 are:

• Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8600 (2.40GHz, 1066MHz FSB, 3MB cache)
• Screen: 14-inch 1440 x 900 WXGA+ LED Backlit (matte finish)
• Memory: 1GB DDR2-800 PC-6400 RAM (Nanya, 5-6-6-18)
• Storage: 160GB 5400rpm HDD (Samsung HM160HI)
• Optical Drive: 9.5mm thick SATA PLDS (Philips Liteon) 8A2SDVD+/-RW
• Wireless: Intel 5100 802.11a/b/g/n
• Graphics: Intel X4500HD
• UK Backlit keyboard
• ExpressCard slot
• Creative 0.3MP web camera and microphone
• Battery: 56Wh 6-cell
• Standard E series 90W PSU and optional slim 65W Auto/Air/AC adapter
• Dimensions: 335 x 244 x 33mm (including feet about 2mm long) or 13.2" x 9.6" x 1.3"
• Advertised weight: The Quick Reference Guide states "2.15 kg (4.75 lb) with UMA graphics, 6-cell battery, solid-state drive"
• Actual weight: 2.31kg / 5.1 lbs (with UMA graphics, 6-cell battery, HDD)
• Travel weight: 2.87kg / 6.33lbs (with standard 90W PSU); 2.68kg / 5.91lbs (with slim 65W PSU)
• Windows Vista Business with XP Pro downgrade

Conclusion

The pleasure of looking at the bright and clear LED backlit WXGA+ display offsets the displeasure of having a computer that is not as light as expected. All Dell's information indicates that this computer should be lighter than it actually is. So far, this computer has been a pleasure to use.

The build quality is excellent but Dell really should have found space for some better loudspeakers. The very smooth bottom will make it easier for the computer to launch itself towards the floor. Perhaps that is why Dell is keen on providing the drop-proof storage options.

Pros

• Excellent display (LED backlit WXGA+ option)
• Very rugged build
• Good performance
• Up to about 6 hours light usage with a 6 cell battery
• Cool and quiet, except under heavy load when the fan runs fast
• Easy access to most components

Cons

• Overweight
• Big standard power brick (what happened to the new E series slim 90W PSU?)
• BIOS does not make proper use of the optional slim 65W PSU
• Poor quality audio from the surprisingly small speakers hiding behind those big grilles
• Overweight (yes, I said it twice)