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. Speed was adequate when composing documents, working on data spreadsheets, and other productivity tasks, and its speed was adequate for manipulating filters on images, converting and editing videos, and rendering models and calculating simulations. With hybrid graphics, the laptop can dynamically switch to the dedicated graphics card when a performance boost is needed for demanding games or applications. Everyday tasks, like web browsing or playing videos, will default to the integrated graphics chip, which is more power efficient and can reduce noise and extend battery life.
Portability: This laptop is a good choice for traveling, although not ideal. Battery life lasted 9 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 6.5 hours in a heavier load of 4K video playback tests. Results were sufficient to get through most of a workday of mixed use tasks, but not as notable as similar laptops. At 4.1 lbs, weight was typical for a laptop of this size category.
Ergonomics: The keyboard has large keys and was comfortably sized. Its low contrast letters were difficult to read, although the backlighting can be useful in dark rooms. The power button was conveniently located, but its labeling was hard to read when the laptop is off.
Display: The display quality was 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 than on most other tested laptops.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: This laptop has a full-size HDMI port and supports DisplayPort over USB-C for connecting to an HDTV or monitor. At about 12.3 ft length, the power cable is longer than most others, so you can worry less about power outlet locations.
Downsides: There is no memory-card reader, so you'll need to buy an external reader or connect your digital camera directly to this laptop to transfer photos.
