Asus Transformer Book T300 Chi 2-in-1 Ultrabook Review


Introduction and Specifications

Asus unveiled its latest addition to the Transformer series at CES in January, the Transformer Book Chi. Available in three sizes, the new Transformer Book Chi Series features a 2-in-1 detachable laptop design. Their flagship Transformer Book T300 Chi offers a 12.5-inch screen, an Intel Core M processor, and a fanless cooling solution. The more compact T100 Chi is a 10.1-inch model that promises all-day battery life. Prices for the Transformer Book Chi Series range from $399 to $899.

Today, we’re going to take a hands-on look at the T300 Chi which is offered in two models starting at $699. We have the high-end T300CHI-FH011H model on hand for testing. This model is priced at $899 and features more RAM, a higher-resolution WQHD 2560 x 1440 resolution display, and a faster processor than the other 12.5" T300 Chi model.

ASUS Transformer Book T300 Chi

The 2-in-1 detachable laptop design employs a magnetic hinge that supports four usage modes: Attached, Detached, Flipped, and Tented. The T300 Chi measures about 0.65 inches when docked, making it slightly thinner than an Apple Macbook Air. And Asus claims the T300 Chi is the world's thinnest Windows tablet, measuring just 0.28 inches. The Transformer Book Chi also features an all-aluminum unibody design to give it a premium look and feel.

Transformer Book T300 Chi Lid Closed

You’ll find IPS displays enhanced with ASUS TruVivid technology and support for the sRGB color gamut in all of the Transformer Book Chi Series models. All of the Transformer Book Chi models also feature solid-state drives to improve durability and overall performance.

Before we dive into the full hands-on review, let’s take a closer look at the specifications of our test model:

Asus Transformer Book T300 Chi
Specifications & Features
Model T300CHI-FH011H
Processor Intel Core M 5Y71 (dual-core, up to 2.9 GHz)
Graphics Intel HD Graphics 5300
Operating System Windows 8.1 64-bit
Display 12.5-inch LED Backlit WQHD (2560x1440) IPS multi-touch
Camera Camera 2MP HD Camera
Memory & Storage 8GB DDR3L-1600
128GB SSD
Micro SDXC (up to 128GB)
I/O Ports 1 x Micro USB 3.0
1 x micro HDMI
1 x headphone out and mic in
Wireless 802.11a/b/g/n (dual-band)
Bluetooth 4.0
Battery Lithium-polymer 31Wh
Up to 8 hours
Size Tablet: 12.5 x 7.5 x 0.3 inches
Tablet + keyboard: 12.5 x 7.5 x 0.4-0.6 inches
Weight Tablet: 1.6 pounds
Tablet + keyboard: 3.2 pounds
MSRP USD $899 - Find It @ Amazon

Asus T300 Chi Hand

As its specifications show, the T300 Chi isn’t designed to be a powerhouse. Instead, it’s targeting users who want the flexibility of a 2-in-1 along with adequate power for everyday computing tasks such as browsing the web, checking email, composing documents, watching videos, and the like.


Related content