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, its speed was adequate for common tasks such as web browsing, video conferencing, and application startup. Performance was okay but on the slow side when composing documents, working on data spreadsheets, and running other productivity tasks, and it was so slow that it was difficult to manipulate images, edit videos, and calculate simulations. With hybrid graphics, the laptop can dynamically switch to the dedicated graphics card when a performance boost is needed for demanding games or applications. Everyday tasks, like web browsing or playing videos, will default to the integrated graphics chip, which is more power efficient and can reduce noise and extend battery life.
Portability: This laptop is a Very Good choice for traveling. Battery life lasted 14 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 8.75 hours in a heavier load of 4K video playback tests. Results were notably longer than many similar laptops, under a workload of mixed use. At 2.6 lbs, this laptop is lightweight 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 low contrast letters were difficult to read, although the backlighting can be useful in dark rooms. Keys were conveniently positioned, good for touch typists who want to speed up typing. The power button was well labeled and conveniently located. The touchpad was uncomfortably small, providing less space for gestures than most others tested. The keyboard uses colors that are somewhat hard to read, but the buttons have good feedback and the chassis has a sturdy build.
Display: The display quality was Excellent overall. Colors were accurately reproduced, realistic, and natural looking. The laptop's display was brighter than most, a plus for viewing in bright indoor lighting 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 has better contrast 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 2 (10 Gbps) 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: There's no optical drive like a CD or DVD reader, so you'll have to buy an external drive if you need one.
