Dell Latitude 5520 15" Vs Microsoft Surface Go 2 10"

Dell Latitude 5520 15"
Dell Latitude 5520 15"
Starting at

Refurbished price:490.00

Versus €1,251.88 new

See options
Microsoft Surface Go 2 10"
Microsoft Surface Go 2 10"
Starting at

Refurbished price:249.00

Versus €590.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Dell Latitude 5520 15, released in 2021, is a business-oriented laptop designed for productivity and robust performance. In contrast, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 10, launched in 2020, is a compact 2-in-1 device that prioritizes portability and versatility. Both devices run on the Windows operating system, but they cater to different user needs with their distinct form factors and hardware capabilities. The Latitude 5520 offers a traditional laptop experience with a larger screen and more powerful internal components, while the Surface Go 2 provides a tablet-first approach with optional keyboard accessories for a more flexible computing experience.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and operating system support are key factors. The Dell Latitude 5520, released in 2021, benefits from a slightly newer launch, potentially extending its software support window compared to the Microsoft Surface Go 2, which debuted in 2020. Both devices run Windows, ensuring a consistent update schedule from Microsoft for several years.

  • Software Longevity: The Dell Latitude 5520, being a 2021 model, is likely to receive major Windows updates for a slightly longer period than the 2020-released Surface Go 2, offering extended access to new features and security patches.
  • Build Durability: The Latitude 5520 is constructed with business durability in mind, featuring a reinforced chassis and spill-resistant keyboard, making it resilient to daily wear and tear. The Surface Go 2 features a magnesium alloy body and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for screen protection, providing a sturdy feel for its compact size.
  • Repairability & Upgradability: The Dell Latitude 5520 generally offers more accessible internal components for potential upgrades to RAM and storage, which can extend its practical lifespan. The Surface Go 2, being a more compact 2-in-1, has more limited user-accessible components for upgrades.

Year of Release

2020

2019

Last Os Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

Windows 11

Windows 11

Performance

The performance capabilities of these two devices are tailored to their intended use cases, with the Dell Latitude 5520 offering a more robust computing experience compared to the highly portable Microsoft Surface Go 2.

  • Processing Power: The Latitude 5520 is equipped with more capable processors, allowing it to handle demanding applications, extensive multitasking, and complex data processing with greater efficiency. The Surface Go 2, with its more modest processors, is designed for lighter tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media consumption.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: Users of the Dell Latitude 5520 can expect smooth transitions between numerous applications and responsive performance even under heavy workloads, supported by ample RAM configurations. The Surface Go 2 performs well for everyday activities, but may experience occasional slowdowns when many applications are open simultaneously or during more intensive operations.
  • Storage and Battery Life: The Latitude 5520 typically offers larger and faster SSD storage options, contributing to quicker boot times and application loading. Its battery life can range from 8 to 14 hours depending on configuration and usage, with some models offering up to 14 hours and 43 minutes of web browsing. The Surface Go 2, while having smaller storage capacities, also provides solid-state drive options for faster data access. Its battery can last around 10 to 11 hours for typical usage, making it suitable for all-day use on the go.

Memory (GB)

16 GB

8 GB

Processor

Core i5-1135G7

Pentium Gold 4425Y

Graphic card

Integrated Graphics

Integrated Graphics

Screen quality

The display experience differs significantly between these two devices, primarily due to their size and target audience, though both aim for clear visuals.

  • Display Size and Resolution: The Dell Latitude 5520 features a larger 15.6-inch display, commonly available in Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, providing ample screen real estate for productivity tasks and comfortable viewing. Some configurations also offer 4K UHD options. The Microsoft Surface Go 2 has a more compact 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280, offering a sharp image for its size and a 3:2 aspect ratio that is well-suited for document viewing.
  • Display Technology and Brightness: The Latitude 5520 typically uses IPS panels, offering good viewing angles and color reproduction, with brightness levels around 250 nits. The Surface Go 2 also features an IPS display with good viewing angles and color accuracy, and a brightness of around 390-400 nits, which is beneficial for use in varied lighting conditions.
  • Touch and Refresh Rate: The Dell Latitude 5520 offers optional touchscreen configurations, while the Surface Go 2's display is inherently a 10-point multi-touch screen, central to its 2-in-1 functionality. Both devices generally feature a standard 60Hz refresh rate, suitable for general computing and media consumption.

Resolution

1920 x 1080

1920 x 1280

Screen type

LCD

IPS

Camera

Audiovisual

The camera and audio capabilities of these devices reflect their primary functions, with the Surface Go 2 emphasizing video calls and portability, while the Latitude 5520 focuses on business communication.

  • Camera System: The Dell Latitude 5520 includes an HD webcam, often with a privacy shutter and optional IR sensor for facial recognition, suitable for standard video conferencing. The Microsoft Surface Go 2 features a 5.0MP front-facing camera with 1080p HD video and an 8.0MP rear-facing camera, making it well-suited for video calls and casual photography.
  • Video Recording Quality: Both devices are capable of recording video, with the Surface Go 2 offering 1080p HD video recording on both its front and rear cameras, providing clear visuals for virtual meetings or capturing moments. The Latitude 5520's HD webcam is primarily designed for communication rather than high-fidelity video capture.
  • Audio Experience: The Latitude 5520 comes with dual 2W speakers and a microphone array, providing clear audio for calls and presentations. The Surface Go 2 features 2W stereo speakers with Dolby Audio Premium and dual far-field Studio Mics, enhancing voice clarity and reducing background noise during calls, which is beneficial for its portable and collaborative nature.

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several practical elements differentiate the Dell Latitude 5520 and the Microsoft Surface Go 2, impacting their usability in various scenarios.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Latitude 5520 offers a comprehensive selection of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet, and a microSD card reader, providing extensive connectivity for peripherals and external displays. It also supports Wi-Fi 6 and optional LTE. The Surface Go 2 is more streamlined, featuring a USB-C port, Surface Connect port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a microSDXC card reader, along with Wi-Fi 6 and optional LTE Advanced for mobile connectivity.
  • Physical Design and Portability: The Dell Latitude 5520 is a traditional laptop, starting at approximately 1.59 kg (3.5 lbs), designed for a stable desktop experience. The Surface Go 2 is significantly lighter at around 544g (1.2 lbs) without its optional Type Cover, making it highly portable and easy to carry as a tablet. Its compact dimensions and built-in kickstand enhance its versatility for on-the-go use.
  • Security and Input: Both devices offer modern security features. The Latitude 5520 includes options like a fingerprint reader and IR facial recognition, alongside a comfortable, backlit keyboard with a dedicated numpad. The Surface Go 2 also supports Windows Hello facial recognition and offers an optional Type Cover keyboard and Surface Pen for a more interactive input experience.

Weight

1590 g

800 g

Screen size

15

10

User feedback for the Dell Latitude 5520 15 often praises its robust performance for business applications, its comprehensive port selection, and its comfortable keyboard, making it a reliable workhorse for professionals. Some users, however, note that certain display configurations might not be as vibrant as higher-end alternatives. The Microsoft Surface Go 2 10 is frequently lauded for its exceptional portability, versatile 2-in-1 design, and bright, sharp touchscreen, making it a popular choice for students or those needing a lightweight companion device. Criticisms sometimes point to its more modest processing power, which can limit its suitability for intensive tasks, and the fact that essential accessories like the Type Cover are sold separately.

Users prioritizing a traditional laptop form factor with strong performance for demanding productivity tasks, extensive connectivity, and a larger screen for multitasking will find the Dell Latitude 5520 15 well-suited to their needs. Its robust build and upgradability also appeal to those seeking a device with a longer practical lifespan. Conversely, individuals who value extreme portability, a flexible tablet-laptop hybrid design, and a device primarily for web browsing, media consumption, and light productivity will likely prefer the Microsoft Surface Go 2 10. Its compact size and touch-first interface make it ideal for on-the-go use or as a secondary device.

For those considering either of these devices, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, offering excellent value while extending the life cycle of these capable machines.

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