The Asus Zenbook 14 OLED (2024) arrives as a refined iteration of its predecessor, boasting the latest Intel processors, a stunning OLED display, and a sleek, portable design. This review delves into the strengths and weaknesses of this premium laptop, exploring its suitability for various users.
Design and Build Quality:
The Zenbook 14 OLED remains a looker, retaining the familiar brushed-aluminum chassis and premium feel. The “Powder Blue” color scheme adds a touch of sophistication, while the lightweight design (2.82lbs) makes it ideal for travel or working on the go. The hinge feels sturdy, allowing for smooth one-handed opening, and the keyboard deck offers ample space for comfortable typing.
Display:
The star of the show is undoubtedly the 14-inch OLED display. Its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional contrast ratio deliver an immersive viewing experience, perfect for creative work, watching movies, or simply browsing the web. The display also boasts a 90Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals and a more responsive user experience. However, OLED technology is susceptible to burn-in, and users who frequently work with static elements like toolbars might want to consider alternative panel options.
Performance:
The Zenbook 14 OLED packs a punch with the latest Intel Core Ultra processors, offering configurations ranging from i5 to i7. These processors deliver ample power for everyday tasks like browsing, productivity applications, and even light photo editing. While not ideal for demanding workloads like video editing or heavy gaming, the integrated Intel Arc graphics can handle casual gaming and basic creative tasks. Overall, the performance is well-suited for everyday users and professionals who prioritize portability over raw power.
Keyboard and Trackpad:
The backlit keyboard on the Zenbook 14 OLED offers a comfortable typing experience with good key travel and a satisfying clicky feel. The layout is well-organized, and the inclusion of a number pad (NumberPad 2.0) using the touchpad is a clever space-saving feature, although it might take some getting used to. The large glass trackpad is smooth and responsive, supporting multi-touch gestures for intuitive navigation.
Connectivity and Battery Life:
The Zenbook 14 OLED comes equipped with a good selection of ports, including two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, an HDMI port, and a microSD card reader. This allows for versatile connectivity options for external displays, peripherals, and data transfer. Battery life is impressive, with the laptop lasting up to 16 hours on a single charge during light use. This makes it a reliable companion for extended workdays or travel.
Software and Features:
The Zenbook 14 OLED comes pre-installed with Windows 11 and some Asus bloatware. While the bloatware can be uninstalled, it’s an unnecessary addition that might clutter the user experience. The laptop also includes several Asus-specific features like MyASUS, which offers various customization options and utilities.
The Asus Zenbook 14 OLED starts at a price of $1,300, which positions it as a premium offering in the competitive 14-inch laptop market. While the price might seem steep for some users, the combination of a stunning OLED display, sleek design, and solid performance makes it a compelling option for those seeking a premium and portable experience. However, it’s worth noting that competitors offer similar specifications at slightly lower price points, so careful comparison shopping is recommended.
