Are you in the market for a new laptop and feeling overwhelmed by the options? The Asus Zenbook S16, powered by AMD’s latest Ryzen AI9 HX 370, might just be the answer. This laptop promises high performance, sleek design, and cutting-edge technology, all wrapped up in a super-thin package. Let’s dive into what makes this device stand out and help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Key Takeaways
- Powerful New Chip: AMD’s Ryzen AI9 HX 370 delivers impressive performance and efficiency.
- Sleek and Thin Design: At just 12-13 mm thick, it’s one of the thinnest x86 laptops on the market.
- Excellent Display: A 16-inch OLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate for stunning visuals.
- Solid Battery Life: Thanks to AMD’s energy-efficient chips.
- Premium Build: High-quality materials and unique design features.
Cutting-Edge Performance with AMD Ryzen AI9 HX 370
The Zenbook S16 is one of the first laptops to feature AMD’s new Ryzen AI9 HX 370 chip, and it does not disappoint. This chip comes in two versions: the high-end 370 and the base 365 model. The 370 variant, in particular, offers exceptional performance and energy efficiency, a combination that is rare in such a thin laptop.
Why is this important? For years, thin laptops have struggled with performance because of thermal constraints. However, the Ryzen AI9 HX 370 manages to keep the laptop slim without compromising power. With this chip, you can expect robust performance whether you’re multitasking, working on demanding projects, or even gaming to some extent.
Design and Build Quality: Sleek and Practical
Ultra-Thin Profile
The Zenbook S16 is remarkably thin, measuring between 12 and 13 mm in thickness. This sleek design is made possible by the advanced Ryzen AI9 chip, which allows the laptop to perform well even with minimal thickness.
What’s the catch? Despite its slim profile, the Zenbook S16 incorporates essential ports, including two USB-C, HDMI, USB-A, and a full-size SD card reader. This range of connectivity options ensures you won’t be left scrambling for adapters.
Unique Materials and Aesthetics
The top of the Zenbook S16 features what Asus calls a “Ser aluminum finish.” This ceramic polymer bonded to the aluminum gives it a polished stone-like feel. It’s available in two colors: dark gray and a stylish cream. The design also includes a distinctive grill pattern with tiny holes, which not only looks unique but is also slightly more spill-resistant.
In other words: The Zenbook S16 combines beauty with functionality. Its design is not just about aesthetics but also about practical features like spill resistance and effective cooling.
Stunning Display: A Visual Treat
The 16-inch OLED panel of the Zenbook S16 is a highlight of the device. It boasts a 120Hz refresh rate and an ultra-fast response time, making it perfect for both professional work and entertainment.
What’s so special? OLED technology provides vibrant colors and deep blacks, enhancing the overall visual experience. Plus, the touch screen and optional pen support add versatility for creative tasks.
Performance and Battery Life: Efficiency Meets Power
Impressive Performance
The Zenbook S16 delivers solid performance thanks to the AMD Ryzen AI9 HX 370 chip. In everyday use, the laptop handles tasks efficiently, whether you’re browsing the web, editing documents, or working on more intensive projects.
Gaming and Editing: For light gaming and video editing, the onboard Radeon GPUs (880M and 890M depending on the model) perform well. However, for high-end gaming, you might need a laptop with a discrete GPU.
Battery Longevity
With a 78Wh battery, the Zenbook S16 offers excellent battery life, particularly when performing less demanding tasks. This longevity is a big plus for those who need a reliable laptop for all-day use.
Why does this matter? AMD’s energy-efficient chips ensure you won’t be constantly tethered to a charger, making the Zenbook S16 a great choice for on-the-go professionals.
Keyboard and Trackpad: Comfort Meets Functionality
Keyboard Experience
The keyboard on the Zenbook S16 is backlit and features a bright, easy-to-see light. While it is comfortable to type on, the key travel is somewhat shallow, which might affect typing speed and comfort over long sessions.
What’s the issue? The keyboard can get warm during intensive use, like gaming or video editing. A slightly thicker design could have helped with heat dissipation, but it would compromise the laptop’s sleek profile.
Trackpad Features
The trackpad is spacious and centrally located. It also includes features for controlling brightness and volume through touch-sensitive areas along the edges. However, these controls are a bit finicky and might require some software updates to improve responsiveness.
In short: The trackpad is functional but could benefit from refinement. The keyboard, while effective, might not be the best for extended typing sessions due to its warmth and shallow key travel.
Audio and Other Considerations
Speaker Quality
Asus has a reputation for good laptop speakers, and the Zenbook S16 continues this trend. The speakers deliver clear, rich sound that is superior to many other thin laptops and comparable to some larger models.
Comparatively: While the Zenbook S16’s speakers are impressive, they still fall short of the audio quality found in larger laptops like the 16-inch MacBook Pro.
Final Thoughts: Is the Zenbook S16 Right for You?
The Asus Zenbook S16 with AMD Ryzen AI9 HX 370 is a powerful, sleek, and visually stunning laptop that stands out in the crowded market of thin laptops. Its design combines high performance with energy efficiency, making it a great option for those who need a thin device that doesn’t sacrifice power.
Consider this: If you’re on a budget, the Zenbook S16’s price of $1,399 might be a bit steep. However, if you value cutting-edge design and performance in a thin form factor, this laptop delivers beyond expectations.
For those who can afford it and are looking for a high-performing, stylish laptop, the Zenbook S16 is a compelling choice. But if cost is a concern, waiting for alternative options might be a prudent decision.