Performance: Overall this laptop's performance was only fair, well below that of many models but still good enough for routine tasks like email, word processing and web browsing. Compared to other tested laptops, it was fast for common tasks such as web browsing and video conferencing. Applications start up quickly. Performance was okay for light productivity but for some more demanding tasks may be very slow, particularly when calculating large data spreadsheets or using images in multiple documents, 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 9.25 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 6 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 3.1 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 well labeled and conveniently located. The touchpad was uncomfortably small, providing less space for gestures than most others tested.
Display: The display quality was good overall. Colors were in the ballpark, though not completely accurate. The display was anti-reflective, so there was little or no glare when viewing in a brightly lit room or outdoors. The display had a narrow viewing angle, so you'll have limited flexibility in how to position the screen for optimal viewability for one user, and it will be difficult for more than one person to look at the screen at the same time. Its display produces a smaller array of colors and has worse contrast than on most other tested laptops, which may lessen the realism of videos or slideshows.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: The 256GB 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 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) for maximum performance.
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 6.8 ft length, the power cable is shorter than most others, so you'd need to be mindful of power outlet locations.
