At IFA in Germany, the crowded conference floor showcases an array of laptop models, many of which are just incremental updates of existing designs. However, Asus has introduced a couple of models that stand out due to their robust hardware powered by Qualcomm’s Arm platforms and their competitive pricing.
Asus ProArt PZ13
The Asus ProArt PZ13 takes a page from the Microsoft Surface’s playbook, specifically its tablet form factor. This device blends the best features of mobile and laptop technology, featuring a Snapdragon X Plus processor coupled with a high-resolution 13.3-inch OLED display (2880×1800), typically found in premium laptops.
Its versatile design includes a flip-out keyboard and a kickstand, making it adaptable for various use cases, including video consumption and productivity. With up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, it’s capable of handling serious tasks. The ProArt PZ13 also offers IP52 water and dust resistance and weighs just 1.87 pounds (0.85kg), making it a practical choice for media and photography work on the go. Starting at $1,100, it competes well against high-end tablets like the iPad and Samsung models.
Asus Vivobook S 15
In contrast, the Asus Vivobook S 15 is more of a traditional laptop, akin to the Surface Laptop. It also uses the Snapdragon X Plus platform but features a larger 15.6-inch OLED screen with a 2800×1620 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a vibrant display for its users.
This model comes with four USB ports (two USB-C, two USB-A), a full-sized HDMI port, and a microSD card reader, offering substantial connectivity options. While the RAM is fixed at 16GB, there’s an accessible M.2 2280 slot for additional storage. The 70 watt-hour battery is designed to last over a full day of work. Starting at $900, and with a $1,200 option including 1TB of storage, the Vivobook S 15 presents strong value for those seeking a high-quality, budget-friendly laptop.
