The ASUS Zenbook UX31E is proving to be one of my most challenging and fascinating review products so far. It has sparked debates, it has been on long commutes and it has made me rethink my ideas when it comes to buying a laptop. So, without further rambling, here are ten reasons for you to take the UX31E for a test drive…
1. Looks
The Zenbook is a good looking beast that’s smothered in an aluminium shell and is only 3mm at its thinnest point. The cover has a textured surface that withstands most finger oils and the interior looks glossy and seamless.
2. Weight
Few things hurt as much as heavy tech when you are a regular traveller who needs the aforementioned tech. The Zenbook UX31E weighs in at a very light 1.3kgs which won’t leave you with a strange hunch or limp.
3. The keyboard and touchpad
A brushed metal touchpad that responds to touch with accuracy and speed sits below a full-sized QWERTY keyboard that bounces beautifully as you type. While you may need to add a little extra welly to your typing, the fact that your mouse cursor remains untouched as you work is a huge bonus point.
4. The connectivity
The included micro-HDMI and mini-VGA outputs, the multi-format card reader, the two USB ports and the combo audio Jack all line either side of the UX31E and give you pretty much all the connectivity you need to get going.
5. The accessories
Few manufacturers include a case for the laptop and the accessories in the price, even fewer supply ones that look good. The ASUS Zenbook UX31E comes with a robust cover in a lovely neutral colour and a matching case for the mini-HDMI and min-VGA adaptors.
6. The power
Driven by the Intel i7 Core processor that runs at 1.8GHz (and can Turbo Boost to 2.9Ghz), the Zenbook can handle a lot of pressure. It will give you power when you need it and the 4GB RAM, 128GB SATA III SSD, and built-in graphics allow gaming, word processing and plenty more.
7. Multimedia
With the connectivity on offer and the power of the included tech, the UX31E can handle high definition movies, photographs, and a good few games. While not capable of delivering a high-end performance for the more powerful games, it still holds its own well enough.
8. The battery
The battery life is really good, especially if you’re using it regularly and have an on/off working relationship with the Zenbook – as in, turn it on, use it for a bit, close the lid, and repeat. Not only that, but the Instant On feature is a life saver when you’re in a hurry and the battery barely gets warm while you work.
9. The screen
The 13.3 inch display does exactly what it should, delivering a bright and extremely high quality image. I could find little fault with the textures, colours and performance, even when running without the power.
10. The sound
The included Bang & Olufsen ICEpower technology alongside the ASUS SonicMaster technology make for a quality of sound that’s surprisingly rich and vibrant for such a tiny piece of tech.
Tamsin