Performance: Overall this laptop's performance was good, below that of many other models but still powerful enough for tasks such as email, word processing, web browsing, and streaming movies. 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 but on the slow side when composing documents, working on data spreadsheets, and running other productivity tasks, and its speed was adequate for manipulating filters on images, converting and editing videos, and rendering models and calculating simulations.
Portability: This laptop is a good choice for traveling, although not ideal. Battery life lasted 16.5 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 10.25 hours in a heavier load of 4K video playback tests. Results were outstanding enough to last well beyond a typical day of mixed use, lasting longer than most other similar laptops. In heavier loads, the battery lasted shorter than expected, so you're more likely to need a charge as you run more performance intensive tasks. At 3 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 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. The power button was conveniently located, but its labeling was hard to read when the laptop is off. The touchpad was uncomfortably small, providing less space for gestures than most others tested. A stylus is included for use with the touch screen. The TrackPoint Pointing Stick can be used as an alternate input method. The keyboard can be folded away, allowing the screen to be used like a tablet. The touchscreen is smooth enough for fast swipes, and fingerprints clean off easily. Testers liked the sturdy build of the chassis. There is a built-in storage space for the included stylus.
Display: The display quality was very good overall. Colors were accurately reproduced, realistic, and natural looking. 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 wider array of colors than on most other tested laptops.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: Laptop converts to a touchscreen tablet to be used as either a laptop computer or a tablet. You can connect common external devices such as hard drives and Blu-ray burners using USB4 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 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.
