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. Speed was adequate when composing documents, working on data spreadsheets, and other productivity tasks, and it was so slow that it was difficult to manipulate images, edit videos, and calculate 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 5.5 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 3.5 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. The power button was well labeled and conveniently located.
Display: The display quality was Good overall. Colors were in the ballpark, though not completely accurate. The display was highly prone to glare making it difficult to see 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 128GB 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 3.0 (5 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. At about 6.7 ft length, the power cable is shorter than most others, so you'd need to be mindful of power outlet locations.
