ASUS ZenBook 14 vs VivoBook 15: Battle of the Budget Ultrabooks
What To Know
- Additionally, the ZenBook 14 includes a fingerprint scanner for secure login and the VivoBook 15 has a webcam with a privacy shutter.
- The VivoBook 15 offers more basic features, such as a non-backlit keyboard, a standard touchpad, and a built-in microphone.
- However, if you’re on a budget and looking for a reliable laptop for basic tasks, the VivoBook 15 is a solid option.
When it comes to ultraportable laptops, two titans stand tall: the ASUS ZenBook 14 and the VivoBook 15. Both offer a compelling blend of portability, performance, and style. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the nitty-gritty details to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The ZenBook 14 exudes sophistication with its sleek aluminum chassis and iconic concentric-circle design. It’s remarkably thin and light, weighing a mere 1.19 kg and measuring just 13.9 mm at its thickest point. The VivoBook 15, on the other hand, opts for a more traditional plastic construction, but it’s still sturdy and well-built. It’s slightly larger and heavier, weighing 1.6 kg and measuring 19.9 mm thick.
Display
The ZenBook 14 boasts a stunning 14-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2880 x 1800 pixels. It delivers exceptional colors, deep blacks, and wide viewing angles. The VivoBook 15 features a larger 15.6-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. While it’s not as vibrant as the OLED panel, it still provides good image quality and ample screen real estate.
Performance
The ZenBook 14 is powered by the latest Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD storage. This combination ensures snappy performance for everyday tasks, multitasking, and even light gaming. The VivoBook 15 offers a wider range of processor options, including Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 models. It also comes with up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD storage, providing a decent level of performance for basic computing needs.
Battery Life
The ZenBook 14 packs a 63Wh battery that promises up to 13 hours of battery life. In real-world usage, you can expect around 8-10 hours of runtime on a single charge. The VivoBook 15 has a slightly smaller 50Wh battery, which provides up to 9 hours of battery life. However, its larger display and less efficient hardware result in a shorter runtime of around 6-8 hours.
Connectivity
Both the ZenBook 14 and VivoBook 15 offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options. They feature USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support, USB-A ports, HDMI ports, and microSD card slots. Additionally, the ZenBook 14 includes a fingerprint scanner for secure login and the VivoBook 15 has a webcam with a privacy shutter.
Features
The ZenBook 14 comes with a number of premium features, including a backlit keyboard, a precision touchpad with NumberPad 2.0, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The VivoBook 15 offers more basic features, such as a non-backlit keyboard, a standard touchpad, and a built-in microphone.
Price
The ASUS ZenBook 14 starts at around $1,000, while the VivoBook 15 starts at around $600. The price difference is significant, and it reflects the premium features and higher performance offered by the ZenBook 14.
Which One Should You Choose?
The ASUS ZenBook 14 and VivoBook 15 are both excellent ultraportable laptops, but they cater to different needs. If you prioritize portability, performance, and premium features, the ZenBook 14 is the clear choice. However, if you’re on a budget and looking for a reliable laptop for basic tasks, the VivoBook 15 is a solid option.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Winner
In the battle of ASUS ZenBook 14 vs VivoBook 15, the ZenBook 14 emerges as the victor. Its superior build quality, stunning display, impressive performance, and premium features make it the ultimate choice for users who demand the best in ultraportable computing. While the VivoBook 15 offers a more affordable option, it falls short in terms of design, display, and performance.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which laptop has a better display?
A: The ASUS ZenBook 14 has a superior OLED display with a higher resolution and wider color gamut.
Q: Which laptop is more portable?
A: The ASUS ZenBook 14 is significantly thinner and lighter than the VivoBook 15.
Q: Which laptop has better performance?
A: The ASUS ZenBook 14 offers higher-end processor options and delivers faster performance.
Q: Which laptop has a longer battery life?
A: The ASUS ZenBook 14 has a larger battery and provides longer battery life than the VivoBook 15.
Q: Which laptop is more affordable?
A: The VivoBook 15 is more affordable than the ZenBook 14, starting at a lower price point.
