Dell Precision 5690 mobile workstation review

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The Precision 5690 is considered a flagship in Dell's Mobile Workstation line-up, and for good reason. And like all the best mobile workstations we've reviewed, this heavy-duty laptop caters to professionals who need the extra power, even at the cost. These individuals who need this kind of computer need exceptional portable computing power. The Precision 5690 boasts the latest Intel Meteor Lake processors, AI integration, NVIDIA's Ada-generation GPU, and a fantastic build quality, making it a highly versatile tool for even the most demanding tasks. Granted, it does take some design inspiration from the ever-popular Dell XPS range and some from the competitors at Apple; the Precision 5690 stands tall as a fantastic contender for serious productivity and workload.

Dell Precision 5690: Price and Availability

The base model costs around $2,300 and includes an Intel Core Ultra 5, integrated graphics, and an FHD+ non-touch display. Our test model is spec'd out with an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H 2.5GHz processor with 64GB of RAM, Windows 11 Pro, an NVIDIA RTX 5000 Ada Generation GPU, 4TB of internal storage, and a 4K OLED display. This test model comes in around $6,500.

Dell Precision 5690: Unboxing and First Impressions

Though this computer is quite robust in power, the packaging for the Dell Precision 5690 is humble. Its minimalistic approach reflects Dell's commitment to sustainability with recycled materials. Within the product box are the laptop, a 165W USB-C Charger, a USB-C to USB-A dongle, and some protective papers ensuring the computer makes it to you without a scratch. From the moment I took the protective sleeve off, I loved the anodized aluminum chassis. It looks premium and feels like it can be used daily and shouldn't get destroyed. it's right up there with the best business laptops I've tried.

Dell Precision 5690: Design and Build Quality

The Dell Precision 5690 showcases a sleek yet professional design made of a Titan Gray anodized aluminum case material. It's hefty, yet it is pretty portable for the workstation at only 4.5 lbs. Just as importantly, it can maintain a sturdy build with overall minimal flex. This is not a flimsy device, which is excellent for those who use their laptops daily. It can be used without worrying about snapping or breaking the first time used in the real world.

Coming from a guy with a personal MacBook Pro, I am particular about my touchpads; I don't put up with anything less than excellent. And the Precision 5690's touchpad is fantastic. It has a tremendously wide shape and fantastic haptic feedback and feel in general. Further, the keyboard is another thing that needs to be excellent for a laptop to be genuinely great since part of the reason people choose a laptop over a desktop is to be able to use it on the go. If the keyboard is excellent and built-in, that's one less thing that needs to be carried alongside the laptop, further bulking up the otherwise portable setup. Much like the touchpad, the keyboard is also great on this computer. Granted, it's no Keychron custom mechanical keyboard, but it's a fantastic keyboard with backlit keys. If it had a numpad, it might've been perfect.

Dell Precision 5690: In use

I'll say it one more time. I am used to working on a MacBook Pro day in and out. So, I frequently compare laptops I test to that as a litmus test. The Dell Precision 5690 has made me confident that I could run with just the Precision 5690 and fly through every single thing in my workflow with the slightest of ease and then some, with only having to re-learn keyboard shortcuts. Jokes aside, this machine is incredible. Yes, there are even more powerful computers. Yes, there are more portable laptops, too. Many laptops are "more" of one thing or another, but the Dell Precision 5690 has been one of those unique computers that fits the sweet spot of being a device that does everything well.

It performs very well in all categories it's intended to. I've taken this as my only laptop for several days now, and I have zero hangups or hiccups when it comes to getting work done on this laptop, which is across all the various types of tasks I do. I have been able to do admin work, emails, spreadsheets, web-browsing, and project management, along with also getting a photo and some video editing done; I've been able to run programs, try my hand at some coding, I've gamed, I have run remote desktops, I have run benchmarks to know that this could be a serious contender even in engineering and running massive code bases, deliver exceptional performance across CAD, and CGI work,

And through all that, this laptop is still portable enough that I don't mind throwing it in a backpack and carrying it to wherever work takes me that day. Even the battery is excellent for this kind of machine. I'll keep a power bank and charger in my bag because that's the kind of person I am, but I don't feel like I need to top off every couple of hours; I can buckle down for a long working session without the anxiety of getting charged.

Because of the 4K OLED display, I enjoy using this display. Some professional laptops opt for a 1080p display, which is fine, but then I go from my iPhone 16 Pro's beautiful display and I find myself wishing for a better screen. I don't have this issue here. With the Precision 5690, that beautiful screen makes watching content feel right, and adds a little extra to editing photos and videos.

Dell Precision 5690: Final verdict

The Dell Precision 5690 is a workstation marvel, combining portability with uncompromising performance. While its price and limited port options may deter some, its sheer power, stunning display, and premium build make it a no-brainer for professionals needing the best. Whether you’re an architect, data scientist, creative professional, or someone who needs reliable power in their primary machine, the Precision 5690 delivers impressive results that justify its premium price tag.

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