Performance: Overall this laptop's performance was excellent. Tasks like email, word processing and web browsing will be speedy and you can even accomplish tougher tasks like video editing and mid-range gaming at top speed. Compared to other tested laptops, it was among the fastest with common tasks such as web browsing and video conferencing. Applications start up almost instantly. 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 among the fastest for manipulating filters on multiple images, converting and editing videos, and rendering 3D models and calculating simulations. In addition, demanding video games will show smooth graphics and have a quick response. 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. At 6.5 hours, battery life was adequate but not notable. At 5.1 pounds, weight was typical for a laptop this size.
Ergonomics: The laptop features, such as its keyboard, touchpad, and labeling were well-designed, making it comfortable and convenient to use. The keyboard has large keys and was comfortably sized. Its high contrast letters were easy to read, and the backlighting can be useful in dark rooms. There's a dedicated number pad. The power button was well labeled and conveniently located.
Display: The display quality was very good overall. Colors were accurately reproduced, realistic, and natural looking. 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. Friction on the touchscreen may prevent fast swiping, and fingerprints may take some effort to clean off.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: Laptop has a touchscreen. There's a 512GB solid-state hard drive, which uses less power and accesses data more quickly. You can connect common external devices such as hard drives and Blu-ray burners to the USB 3.0 ports for maximum performance. Gigabit Ethernet provides fast transfer of data over a local network. This laptop is compatible with both HDMI and DisplayPort for connecting to an HDTV.
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. The battery is not easily removable.
