Performance: Overall this laptop's performance was very good. Tasks like email, word processing and web browsing will be accomplished quickly. 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 fast when composing documents with images, calculating large data spreadsheets, and running other productivity tasks, and it was slow for manipulating images, editing videos, and calculating simulations.
Portability: This laptop is a good choice for traveling, although not ideal. Battery life lasted 10 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 6.5 hours in a heavier load of 4K video playback tests. Results could get you through a typical workday, under a workload of mixed use. At 4 lbs, this laptop is lightweight for a laptop of this size category.
Ergonomics: The laptop features, such as its keyboard, touchpad, and labeling were well-designed, making it comfortable and convenient to use. The keyboard has large keys and was comfortably sized. Its high contrast letters were easy to read. There's a dedicated number pad for faster data entry. The power button was well labeled and conveniently located.
Display: The display quality was very good overall. Colors were in the ballpark, though not completely accurate. The laptop's display was brighter than most and it's anti-reflective, a plus for viewing in a brightly lit room or outdoors. 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 display produces a smaller array of colors than on most other tested laptops.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: The 512GB solid-state drive uses less power and accesses data more quickly than conventional hard-disk drives. You can connect common external devices such as hard drives and Blu-ray burners using USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) for maximum performance. This laptop has a full-size HDMI port and supports DisplayPort over USB-C for connecting to an HDTV or monitor.
Downsides: There's no optical drive like a CD or DVD reader, so you'll have to buy an external drive if you need one. There is no memory-card reader, so you'll need to buy an external reader or connect your digital camera directly to this laptop to transfer photos. At about 6.6 ft length, the power cable is shorter than most others, so you'd need to be mindful of power outlet locations.
