Performance: Overall this laptop's performance was excellent. Tasks like email, word processing and web browsing will be speedy. Compared to other tested laptops, it was fast for common tasks such as web browsing and video conferencing. Applications start up quickly. It was among the fastest when composing multiple documents with images, calculating large complex data spreadsheets, and running other demanding productivity tasks, and it was among the fastest for manipulating filters on multiple images, converting and editing videos, and rendering 3D models and calculating simulations. In addition, demanding video games will show smooth graphics and have a quick response.
Portability: This laptop is an excellent choice for traveling. Battery life lasted 16 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 15.75 hours in a heavier load of 4K video playback tests. Results were outstanding enough to last well beyond a typical day of mixed use, lasting longer than most other similar laptops. In heavier loads, the battery lasted longer than expected, so you're less likely to need a charge as you run more performance intensive tasks. At 4.7 lbs, weight was typical for a laptop of this size category.
Ergonomics: The laptop features, such as its keyboard, touchpad, and labeling were well-designed, making it comfortable and convenient to use. The keyboard has large keys and was comfortably sized. Its high contrast letters were easy to read, and the backlighting can be useful in dark rooms. The power button was conveniently located, but its labeling was hard to read when the laptop is off. The touchpad was among the largest of those tested, and provides ample space for different touch gestures. Testers liked the sturdy build of the chassis.
Display: The display quality was excellent overall. Colors were accurately reproduced, realistic, and natural looking. The laptop's display was brighter than most and it's anti-reflective, a plus for viewing in a brightly lit room or outdoors. The display has a wide viewing angle, especially important if more than one person needs to see the screen at a time, say, for a video or presentation. Its OLED display has better contrast than on most other tested laptops. This has a Liquid Retina XDR (Extreme Dynamic Range) display that uses OLED technology with high peak brightness and contrast ratio.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: The 512GB solid-state drive uses less power and accesses data more quickly than conventional hard-disk drives. You can connect common external devices such as hard drives and Blu-ray burners using Thunderbolt 4 (40 Gbps) for maximum performance. The fingerprint reader lets you log into your computer without typing in a password. This laptop has a full-size HDMI port and supports DisplayPort over USB-C for connecting to an HDTV or monitor.
Downsides: There's no optical drive like a CD or DVD reader, so you'll have to buy an external drive if you need one. At about 6.8 ft length, the power cable is shorter than most others, so you'd need to be mindful of power outlet locations. It has a shorter-than-typical 3 months of free tech support by telephone.
