Final Words & Conclusion
The Lunar Lake 200V implementation in the ASUS ZenBook S 14 is suitable for daily use and multitasking, though it does not offer high-end performance (by far). The CPU's multi-core performance is very modest, its single-core performance remains competitive. Hopwever, the integrated GPU capabilities surpass those of other current platforms as that's really fast. In reality for users seeking a high-performance all-purpose laptop, this model and other Lunar Lake V variants from this generation may not be the best choice. Intel has streamlined its Lunar Lake chips compared to the previous Meteor Lake generation, adopting a straightforward 4+4 configuration without Hyper-Threading, fewer tiles, and relying entirely on TSMC for manufacturing.
The new CPU has a maximum power consumption of 37W, making it approximately 10% slower than the Core Ultra 155H from the previous generation, which features twice as many cores, 22 threads, and can boost up to 115W in certain laptops. Despite this, the single-core performance of the Lunar Lake processor is superior to Intel's prior generation. Moreover, when comparing the Core Ultra 155H with the Core Ultra 258V used in this review, the significant difference in maximum power consumption skews the comparison. The Core Ultra 7 165U, an economical model from the previous generation, outperforms Lunar Lake in all benchmarks. In terms of graphics, there has been a vast improvement as evidenced by 3DMark Time Spy results. However, gaming performance relies on effective driver support and much faster CPU performance. The chip architecture allows Intel to better compete with AMD and Qualcomm. The low power consumption of Lunar Lake enables the construction of a thin laptop, exemplified by ASUS's ZenBook S 14, which measures 1.1 cm in thickness and weighs 1.2 kg. Despite its lightweight design, the laptop feels sturdy and offers a variety of ports. The user experience is enhanced by a well-designed hinge, comfortable keyboard, responsive touchpad with additional functions, and a 1080p webcam with facial recognition positioned slightly off-center. The ZenBook S 14 features a high-resolution OLED display with a high refresh rate, good color control, and limited maximum brightness. The mirrored finish may reduce visibility in bright environments. Overall, the ASUS ZenBook S 14, powered by Intel’s Lunar Lake platform, provides efficient performance in a lightweight design. It offers nearly 16 hours of battery life during video playback, excels in single-core tasks and everyday computing, and the integrated Intel Arc 140V GPU handles gaming and GPU-intensive applications effectively. Weighing 1.2 kg and featuring a 14-inch 3K OLED display, it strikes a balance between performance, battery life, and portability, making it suitable for users prioritizing mobility and efficiency. Battery performance is solid, especially under heavier usage, outperforming Intel laptops with older processors, though it is not exceptional during light tasks. In the Benelux region, the ZenBook S 14 is priced starting at 1,729 euros, which is competitive for a thin and fast laptop with up-to-date hardware. As of this review, the ASUS ZenBook S 14 UX5406SA is available in select stores. Standard configurations include the Core Ultra 7 256V processor, 16 GB of RAM, a 1 TB SSD, and a 2.8K OLED touch display, priced at $1,399 in the United States and approximately 1,500 euros in Europe. A higher-end version with the Core Ultra 7 258V processor and 32 GB of RAM is available for around 1,700 euros in Europe, though it has not yet been released in the United States.
Concluding
The Asus Zenbook S14 is a compact 14-inch ultrabook that stands out for its slim profile and robust build quality. Measuring just 1.1 cm in thickness and weighing 1.2 kilograms, the laptop leverages Intel's Lunar Lake architecture, specifically the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, to achieve low power consumption. While versatile, the SoC remains lacklustre in CPU performance and if I had to choose between an AMD Ryzen AI Series 300 SoC tr this one, it probably would be the AMD platform for a bit more bite on the raw processor performance. On all other fronts (connectivity, infrastructure), it shines.
The Zenbook S14 itself then, the chassis combines aluminum and ceramic materials, providing a premium feel, although it may require regular cleaning to maintain its appearance. Despite its thin design, the Zenbook S14 is equipped with a comprehensive selection of ports, enhancing its connectivity options for various peripherals and devices. The high-resolution OLED display offers a high refresh rate, ensuring clear and smooth visual output. While the display maintains reliable color accuracy, its maximum brightness is somewhat limited, and the mirrored finish can reduce visibility in brightly lit environments. Additional design features include a well-engineered hinge, a comfortable keyboard, and an efficient touchpad, complemented by a 1080p webcam with facial recognition capabilities, although the camera's slightly off-centre placement may impact user experience. In terms of performance, the Zenbook S14 delivers competent capabilities suitable for a wide range of tasks within its price bracket. The Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor provides adequate single-core performance, aligning well with comparable systems in the market. This makes the laptop well-suited for everyday computing tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. However, for applications that demand extensive multi-core processing, the Zenbook S14 may is not powerful though, users with complex and heavy workloads need to divert to more powerful alternatives. During intensive operations, the system maintains a quiet operation. Battery life is a strong point, with the Zenbook S14 achieving nearly 14 hours under our testing conditions. This extended battery performance enhances the laptop's portability and usability for users who require long-lasting power on the go. In the end, the Asus Zenbook S14 presents itself as a viable option for individuals seeking a lightweight and efficient laptop equipped with the latest hardware. While this SoC may not cater to those with high-performance demands, the Zenbook S14 offers a balanced blend of features that align with current laptop design trends and user expectations. Personally, i'; I'd be on the lookout for something more powerful though.
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