Asus ZenBook 15 UX534 Review: Size vs. Power?

The Asus ZenBook 15 UX534 arrived with a promise of portability without sacrificing performance. Its smaller footprint compared to its predecessors was a significant selling point. However, a thorough review reveals a more nuanced story. This review delves into the intricacies of the UX534, examining its strengths and weaknesses to determine if the reduction in size truly benefited the overall user experience.

Table of Contents

Design and Build Quality

The ZenBook 15 UX534 boasts a sleek, aluminum chassis, characteristic of the ZenBook line. Its compact design is immediately noticeable, feeling lighter and more manageable than its bulkier counterparts. The build quality is excellent; the laptop feels sturdy and well-constructed, with minimal flex in the keyboard deck. The iconic ZenBook spun-metal finish adds a touch of elegance, although fingerprints are easily visible.

The smaller size, however, comes at a cost. The reduction in dimensions has necessitated some compromises, most notably in the size of the trackpad and the port selection; The trackpad, while responsive, is noticeably smaller than previous models. Similarly, the port selection is somewhat limited, with only two USB-A ports and a single USB-C port. This can be inconvenient for users with numerous peripherals.

Display and Audio

The UX534 features a 15.6-inch Full HD (1920×1080) display. The screen offers decent color accuracy and brightness, suitable for everyday tasks and casual media consumption. However, it doesn’t quite reach the vibrancy and color depth of higher-end displays found in competing laptops. Viewing angles are also acceptable, but not exceptional. For professional color-critical work, a more advanced display might be necessary.

The audio quality is adequate for casual listening, but lacks the depth and richness of a dedicated audio system. The speakers are relatively clear, though they can sound tinny at higher volumes. For an immersive audio experience, headphones or external speakers are recommended.

Performance and Benchmarks

The performance of the ZenBook 15 UX534 varies depending on the specific configuration. Our review unit was equipped with an Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB of RAM. This combination proved more than capable of handling everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and light photo editing. However, more demanding applications, such as video editing or 3D rendering, pushed the system closer to its limits.

Benchmark tests revealed respectable performance, though not groundbreaking. The laptop performed admirably in multi-tasking scenarios, switching smoothly between multiple applications. However, gaming performance was limited, particularly at higher settings. The integrated graphics card is suitable for casual gaming, but not for demanding titles.

Benchmark Test 1: Cinebench R20 ⏤ Score: [Insert Score Here]
Benchmark Test 2: PCMark 10 ⏤ Score: [Insert Score Here]
Benchmark Test 3: 3DMark Time Spy ⏤ Score: [Insert Score Here]

Keyboard and Trackpad

The keyboard is comfortable to type on, with a good key travel distance and a responsive feel. The keys are well-spaced, minimizing accidental keystrokes. The backlight is helpful in low-light conditions. Overall, the keyboard is a strong point of the UX534.

The trackpad, as previously mentioned, is smaller than in previous models. While it is responsive and accurate, its smaller size can make precise movements slightly more challenging. Users accustomed to larger trackpads may find this an adjustment. The inclusion of a fingerprint sensor for Windows Hello login is a welcome addition.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial aspect of any laptop, especially a portable one like the ZenBook 15 UX534. In our testing, the battery lasted approximately 7-8 hours on a single charge under moderate usage. This includes web browsing, document editing, and streaming video. Heavier tasks, such as video editing or gaming, will significantly reduce battery life.

The battery life is decent for a 15-inch laptop, but not outstanding. Users who demand extended battery life may want to consider other options. The charging speed is reasonably quick, allowing for a partial charge in a short amount of time.

Connectivity and Ports

The port selection, as mentioned earlier, is a significant drawback. The limited number of ports can be inconvenient for users who frequently connect multiple peripherals. The inclusion of only one USB-C port is particularly limiting in today’s increasingly USB-C-centric world. The lack of an SD card reader is another noticeable omission for users who work with photos or videos.

Wi-Fi connectivity is reliable and fast, offering stable performance even in areas with crowded Wi-Fi networks. Bluetooth connectivity is also reliable, working seamlessly with various Bluetooth devices.

Software and User Experience

The Asus ZenBook 15 UX534 comes pre-installed with Windows 10 (or Windows 11, depending on the purchase date). The user experience is largely smooth and intuitive. However, there are a few pre-installed Asus utilities that some users might find unnecessary or bloatware. These can be easily uninstalled if desired.

Overall, the software experience is largely positive, offering a straightforward and easy-to-use interface. The system performs smoothly, with minimal lag or stuttering, even when running multiple applications simultaneously;

The Asus ZenBook 15 UX534 presents a mixed bag. Its smaller size and sleek design are attractive, and the keyboard is comfortable. However, compromises have been made in port selection and trackpad size. Performance is adequate for everyday use but not exceptional. Ultimately, whether or not the UX534 is the right choice depends on individual needs and priorities. Consider your workflow and the importance of portability versus performance when making your decision. The battery life is decent, but not a standout feature. Overall, it’s a solid laptop, but not without its drawbacks.