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. It was fast when composing documents with images, calculating large data spreadsheets, and running other productivity tasks, and it was slow for manipulating images, editing videos, and calculating simulations.
Portability: This laptop is an Excellent choice for traveling. Battery life lasted 19.5 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 9 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 2.2 lbs, this laptop is lightweight 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, and the backlighting can be useful in dark rooms. The power button was well labeled and conveniently located. Testers found that the screen seemed too flexible, more than most other tested laptops. It does, however, have durability claims, such as shock, vibration, and low pressure, although these claims were not tested.
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 256GB 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 Thunderbolt 3 (40 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. At about 10.3 ft length, the power cable is longer than most others, so you can worry less about power outlet locations.
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 power supply adds about 0.6 lbs, which is heavy compared to the laptop weight.
