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 among the fastest with common tasks such as web browsing and video conferencing. Applications start up almost instantly. Speed was adequate when composing documents, working on data spreadsheets, and other productivity tasks, and it was slow for manipulating images, editing videos, and calculating simulations.
Portability: This laptop is a good choice for traveling, although not ideal. Battery life lasted 10.5 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 6.75 hours in a heavier load of 4K video playback tests. Results could get you through a typical workday, under a workload of mixed use. At 3.2 lbs, weight was typical for a laptop of this size category.
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. The power button was well labeled and conveniently located.
Display: The display quality was very good overall. Colors were in the ballpark, though not completely accurate. 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 smaller array of colors but has better contrast than on most other tested laptops.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: The 512GB 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 USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) for maximum performance. This laptop has a full-size HDMI port and supports DisplayPort over USB-C for connecting to an HDTV or monitor.
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. At about 6.8 ft length, the power cable is shorter than most others, so you'd need to be mindful of power outlet locations.
