Dell Precision 5690 Review – The Dell Precision 5690 expands Dell’s lineup of 16-inch workstation laptops, joining the Precision 5680 and the high-end 7680. Unlike its predecessors, the 5690 features Intel’s latest Core Ultra processors, making it a future-proof choice for professionals. While the Precision 7680 supports up to 128GB of RAM and three SSDs, the 5690 caps out at 64GB of memory and two storage drives, striking a balance between power and portability.
Dell Precision 5690 Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Workstation |
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 9 185H |
| RAM (as tested) | 32GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as tested) | 512GB |
| Secondary Drive Type | SSD |
| Secondary Drive Capacity (as tested) | 512GB |
| Screen Size | 16 inches |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2400 |
| Touch Screen | No |
| Panel Technology | OLED |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia RTX 5000 Ada |
| Graphics Memory | 16GB |
| Wireless Networking | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 0.87 x 13.9 x 9.5 inches |
| Weight | 4.46 lbs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro |
| Battery Life | 17 hours 11 minutes |
Performance and Build Quality
The Precision 5690 starts at $2,289 with a Core Ultra 5 135H processor, 16GB RAM, and a 256GB SSD. The base model also includes Intel Arc Pro integrated graphics, which may not be ideal for high-end workstation users who require a dedicated GPU. However, those willing to upgrade can opt for one of five discrete GPUs for superior performance.
Built with an aluminum chassis, the laptop also features a polycarbonate and glass fiber palm rest. It meets MIL-STD 810H certification, ensuring resistance to extreme temperatures, vibration, and shock—ideal for professionals on the move. At just 4.46 pounds, it is more portable than the HP ZBook Fury 16, which weighs 5.3 pounds, and is slightly lighter than the 16-inch MacBook Pro at 4.8 pounds. The HP ZBook Studio 16 G10 remains the lightest in this category at 3.81 pounds.
Port Selection and Connectivity
The Precision 5690 follows Dell’s XPS series in omitting traditional USB Type-A ports. Instead, it offers two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports on the left side, while the right side features a USB-C 3.2 port and a security lock slot. While this design choice enhances portability, users who rely on older peripherals may need adapters or a docking station.
Final Verdict
Dell Precision 5690 Review – For professionals who don’t require ECC memory or massive storage capacity, the Dell Precision 5690 delivers exceptional power in a slim, travel-friendly form. With a stunning OLED display, robust processing capabilities, and impressive battery life, it stands out as a top-tier mobile workstation under five pounds.
