Dell Latitude D420

Dell Latitude D420

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The Dell Latitude D420 is a 12.1" ultra-portable notebook designed to succeed both the Latitude X1 and the Latitude D410. In an effort to simplify its ultramobile product line, Dell has merged several traits from each of these two retired models to create the new D420. Specifically, the D420 adopts the X1's wide-aspect screen and ultra-low voltage processor while maintaining the D410's aesthetic appeal and full-sized keyboard. In addition, the D420 continues Dell's trend of not including an internal optical drive, although external options are once again available.

In practice, the D420 has far more in common with the X1 than its direct predecessor, the D410. For instance, while the D410's starting weight was approximately 3.8 lbs, the 3.0 lbs D420 is positioned more closely to the X1's 2.5 lbs feather-light physique. Moreover, while the D410 offered standard Intel Pentium M processors operating at up to 2.00GHz, the D420 upgrades from the X1's ultra-low voltage Pentium M 1.1 GHz to an ultra-low voltage Core Solo 1.06GHz or Core Duo 1.2GHz CPU. Finally, rather than using a standard 2.5" notebook hard drive like the D410, the D420 uses the same 1.8" drive as the Latitude X1.

Specifications of the D420 as Reviewed

Processor: Intel Core Solo U1300 ULV (1.06GHz, 533MHz)
Screen: 12.1" WXGA TFT LCD 1280 x 800 (Matte)
Graphics: Intel GMA 950 (Integrated, up to 224MB shared)
Memory: 1.5GB, DDR2-533 SDRAM, (512MB Integrated) 2 DIMMs
Hard Drive: 60GB 4200RPM 1.8" Hard Drive
Wireless: Intel PRO/Wireless 3945ABG
Optical: D-Bay 24X CD-RW/DVD Combo (External)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP Professional
Input: Full size keyboard with touchpad and pointing stick
Battery: 6-Cell Primary (with ExpressCharge) such as dell XPS M1210 battery and 65W AC Adapter
65W AC Adapter: 0.8 lbs
D-Bay with DVD/CDRW Combo: 1.05 lbs
D420 Dimensions: 11.63"x8.27"x1.00"

On a final note, Dell must be commended for including a minimal amount of bundled software with the D420. Unlike Dell's Inspirons, the business-focused Latitude line is exempt from the infestation of trialware and junkware that has led to so many needless operating system reinstalls. This has actually been the first time I have not been forced to perform a clean OS reinstall with a new system, and I hope to see this repeated more often.

It is true that the D420 as tested with the Core Solo is no performance stand-out. However, to me this is not the most important aspect of an ultraportable. Build, internet connectivity options, reliability, security all combine to trump performance. As long as the notebook can perform all your required office tasks with ease then it's a passing grade in my book. There are definitely better performing ultraportables out there, if you're purely looking for the fastest ultraportable money can buy, look somewhere else.