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 fast for common tasks such as web browsing and video conferencing. Applications start up quickly. 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 slow for manipulating images, editing videos, and calculating 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 Good choice for traveling, although not ideal. Battery life lasted 9 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 7 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 3.4 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 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. Testers liked the sturdy build of the chassis.
Display: The display quality was Very Good overall. Colors were near-accurate, and mostly realistic and natural looking. 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.
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 for connecting to an HDTV or monitor. The power supply adds a lightweight 0.4 lbs, not too much more than the laptop weight.
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.
