Performance: Overall this laptop's performance was excellent. Tasks like email, word processing and web browsing will be speedy. Compared to other tested laptops, it was among the fastest with common tasks such as web browsing and video conferencing. Applications start up almost instantly. It was among the fastest when composing multiple documents with images, calculating large complex data spreadsheets, and running other demanding productivity tasks, and it was fast for manipulating filters on multiple images, converting and editing videos, and rendering 3D models and calculating simulations. Graphical tasks run faster among other models with only integrated graphics.
Portability: This laptop is a very good choice for traveling. Battery life lasted 16.75 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 16 hours in a heavier load of 4K video playback tests. Results were outstanding enough to last well beyond a typical day of mixed use, lasting longer than most other similar laptops. At 3.4 lbs, weight was typical for a laptop of this size category.
Ergonomics: Some features of the keyboard, touchpad, and labeling, were well-designed, and were comfortable or convenient to use. The keyboard has large keys and was comfortably sized. Its high contrast letters were easy to read, and the backlighting can be useful in dark rooms. The power button was conveniently located, but its labeling was hard to read when the laptop is off. Testers liked the sturdy build of the chassis.
Display: The display quality was excellent overall. Colors were accurately reproduced, realistic, and natural looking. The laptop's display was brighter than most and it's anti-reflective, a plus for viewing in a brightly lit room or outdoors. It has HDR settings that can show fine detail and is helpful for use in dark rooms. The display has a wide viewing angle, especially important if more than one person needs to see the screen at a time, say, for a video or presentation. Its Liquid Retina XDR display has better contrast than on most other tested laptops.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: You can connect common external devices such as hard drives and Blu-ray burners using USB4 for maximum performance. The fingerprint reader lets you log into your computer without typing in a password. This laptop has a full-size HDMI port and supports DisplayPort over USB-C for connecting to an HDTV or monitor.
Downsides: It lacks any full-sized USB-A ports, so you will need an adapter if you have accessories that require this USB type. At about 6.7 ft length, the power cable is shorter than most others, so you'd need to be mindful of power outlet locations. It has a shorter-than-typical 3 months of free tech support by telephone.
