Introduction
The ASUS ZenBook A14 marks my second experience using a Snapdragon X series laptop as my daily driver. To my surprise, there have been several meaningful improvements, particularly from Microsoft.
Design and Performance
The ZenBook A14 boasts Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite, distinguishing itself from the Surface Laptop Snapdragon edition I reviewed previously, notably with the inclusion of an HDMI 2.1 port. The chassis is elegantly crafted from a powdered metallic finish, providing a textured grip while ensuring a solid feel, with no flex or bowing under pressure.
Battery Life and Display Quality
One of the primary advantages of the ZenBook A14 stems from the long battery life synonymous with Snapdragon laptops. As my daily work companion, I can comfortably use it for three days for regular tasks such as writing articles, managing emails, and binge-watching shows. The OLED display is stunning; colors are vibrant, blacks are deep, and the whites can be blindingly bright. On a full charge, expect around 23 hours of use, which is impressive for any laptop.
Price and Limitations
However, at INR 1,22,990 (RM4,999), the ZenBook A14 presents a challenge for prospective buyers. As a gamer, I find it not well-suited for gaming, and random lag spikes when waking the laptop from sleep can be frustrating. While the memory capacity seems adequate, the display’s 60Hz refresh rate raises questions—especially given the price tag. For an enhanced experience, a 120Hz option would have been preferable.
In summary, while the ASUS ZenBook A14 with Snapdragon X Elite excels in design and battery life, potential buyers should consider its limitations and whether it’s worth the asking price.
