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 slow for manipulating images, editing videos, and calculating simulations.
Portability: This laptop is a very good choice for traveling. Battery life lasted 14.75 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 10.75 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 4 lbs, weight was typical for a laptop of this size category.
Ergonomics: The keyboard was not full-sized, and might be uncomfortable for larger hands. Its high contrast letters were easy to read, and the backlighting can be useful in dark rooms. There's a dedicated number pad for faster data entry. The power button was well labeled and conveniently located.
Display: The display quality was fair overall. Colors were not reproduced as accurately as on better displays. The display was anti-reflective, so there was little or no glare when 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: You can connect common external devices such as hard drives and Blu-ray burners using USB4 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 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.
