Asus Zenbook UX305 Ultrabook Review: Core M Powered
Introduction and Specifications
Asus announced the super slim Zenbook UX305 during the IFA trade show in Berlin in September. This ultrabook will be available in two models: one with a 1920x1080 IPS display and one with a QHD+ display that boasts a resolution of 3200x1800. Asus claims the latter model is the world’s slimmest 13.3-inch QHD+ laptop.
The UX305 is powered by the new Intel Core M processor which was built for ultra-thin, fanless form factors. The Core M offers some significant advances for both power consumption and performance and enables the thin design found on the UX305.
This ultrabook features an all-aluminum chassis that measures 12.3mm at its thinnest point and weighs just 2.6 pounds. Like other Zenbooks, the UX305 has a tapered wedge design. Other key features of the UX305 include Intel HD Graphics 5300, 8GB of RAM, a 256GB solid state drive, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, three USB 3.0 ports, a micro HDMI output, and a 2 -in-1 card reader (SD/ SDHC). A 45Whrs Polymer battery powers the machine.
We had a brief chance to see the UX305 in person at the Intel Developer Forum. But we've since had more time with the machine and have been able to put it through our full testing process. The QHD+ display model will ship in April for $999. In the meantime, we have the 1920x1080 IPS display model in house for testing. Here’s a quick look at the other specifications of the Asus Zenbook UX305 we’ll be testing in this review:
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| OS |
Windows 8.1 |
|
Display |
13.3-inch Auto IPS FHD (1920x1080) |
|
CPU |
Intel Core M 5Y10 Dual Core 800 MHz (2 GHz Turbo) |
|
GPU |
Intel HD Graphics 5300 |
|
RAM |
8GB LPDDR3 1600 MHz SDRAM |
|
Storage |
256GB SSD |
|
Networking |
802.11n + BT4.0 |
|
Keyboard |
chicklet |
|
Webcam |
1.2MP HD |
|
Ports |
3xUSB 3.0 2 -in-1 card reader (SD/ SDHC) 1 x Microphone-in/Headphone-out jack 1 x micro HDMI 1X AC adapter plug |
|
Dimensions |
12.8 x 8.9 x 0.5 inches |
|
Weight |
2.6 pounds |
|
Battery |
45 Whrs Polymer Battery |
|
Battery Life |
Up to 10 hours |
|
MSRP |
$699 - Find It @ Amazon |
