In a world where people primarily think of Mac and Windows as the two main operating systems for computers, there are other options available for those with specific needs or who want to break free from the constraints of these operating systems. Linux has remained a popular choice for developers, tech enthusiasts, and privacy-conscious users, and the demand for high-quality hardware in this realm has never been greater.
Like all the best Linux laptops we've tested, the Darter Pro is designed with these users and Linux in mind, making it a strong option in a market filled with alternatives. System76, a company known for its dedication to open-source software and user empowerment, offers a machine that not only meets the technical requirements of its users but also reflects the principles of the Linux community. Whether you need a robust development environment, a secure computing experience, or a reliable laptop that works seamlessly, the Darter Pro offers a top-notch solution that distinguishes it from other Linux-compatible laptops.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
System76 Darter Pro: Unboxing & first impressions
The Darter Pro comes in standard, minimalistic packaging that includes the laptop, charger (with a barrel connector, though this can also be charged via USB-C), and standard documentation. It's well-packaged, secure, and straightforward. The laptop is constructed from alloy and plastic, giving it a sturdy yet lightweight feel. The lid and bottom panels are made of magnesium, while the bezel and palm rest are plastic.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Setting up the Darter Pro is straightforward, with options to configure the system upon the first boot. Users can opt to set up full-disk encryption and select their preferred language and keyboard layout. Even for users less familiar with the System76 proprietary OS, Pop!_OS, or Linux, setup is easy to start.
Processor: Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 with 16 cores RAM: Up to 96GB DDR5 Storage: Dual M.2 slots supporting up to 8TB SSD Display: Available in 14” and 16” FHD+ (1920x1200) with a 16:10 aspect ratio and matte finish Graphics: Integrated Intel Arc graphics, sufficient for most tasks but not suitable for demanding gaming Battery: 73 Wh Li-Ion battery, providing up to 9 hours of usage Operating System: Pre-installed with Pop!_OS or Ubuntu
The Darter Pro is not an ultralight laptop like some computers. It's made of a magnesium alloy and plastic combination, which balances weight and durability well. However, users should be cautious with the hinges. It's a bit heavy but easy to toss in a backpack and take wherever you go. The 14-inch variant weighs around 3.5 lbs and the 16-inch variant around 4.25 lbs. The sleek, minimalistic design with a matte finish looks clean, though a giant System76 logo is in the center of the laptop's lid. Regardless, it appeals to professional users with the sleek look many laptop manufacturers seek. This laptop will fit right in with the other available options.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
System76 Darter Pro: In use
At this point, I've had this laptop in rotation for a couple of days, and I've used it as my dedicated computer for my entire day without any problems. The overall UI is responsive and fast, programs load quickly, and multitasking is a breeze.
My Darter Pro has 32GB of RAM, an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, and 500GB of Storage. I am still looking for the limits of what this workhorse can do. I've run my daily tasks here, and I am barely even breathing under the load. I've run tests through Basemark, and it scored 1017.69. This laptop should handle even demanding tasks, virtual machines, and coding and easily crush general multitasking and business tasks.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
The matte display reduces glare and offers vibrant colors, making it suitable for both work and media consumption, even though it has a lower resolution screen than other laptops. I experienced around 8.5-9 hours of battery life under light to moderate usage. However, high-performance tasks might reduce this significantly, especially if you push the RAM more than I am.
The keyboard is responsive, though some might find the minor right shift key inconvenient. Typing all day on this keyboard is comfortable. It might not be the best laptops for programming in the world - admittedly, it's not my favorite keyboard I've ever used - but it's plenty comfortable for all-day usage. This keyboard showed me that I rarely use the right shift key, which is surprising since I've been typing for 10+ years, and though I don't have faster typing, I can type most of my peers out -- but perhaps a tale for another time.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
The trackpad is functional but may require some getting used to. I am pressing through the trackpad to click, but the tapping functionality works seamlessly. The overall size is pretty comparable to a MacBook, with a right-angle corner adjustment compared to the Mac's rounded corners.
Port-wise, System76 did a good job of port placement, though, in a perfect world, I'd prefer Thunderbolt on both sides, especially in 2024. The Darter Pro has a USB-A, headphone jack, and microSD slot on the left side. On the right, there is the power barrel connector, a USB-A, a Thunderbolt port, and a USB-C port. On the back, System76 included an HDMI and a network port.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
System76 Darter Pro: Final verdict
The System76 Darter Pro is a well-rounded Linux laptop that excels in performance, portability, and user freedom. Its open-source firmware and customizable hardware make it a top choice for developers and tech enthusiasts who prioritize control over their computing environment. While it might not be the best option for gamers or those needing ultra-high-resolution displays, it stands out as a reliable, efficient machine for most professional tasks. If you wanted one of the best business laptops running Linux, this is worth consideration.
For more Linux hardware, we tested out the best Linux PC
Yesterday a rumor claimed all iPhone 17 models would come with 12GB of RAM, as opposed to 8GB on the iPhone 16 family. Today, TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has chimed in with some clarificaations.
According to him, only the iPhone 17 Pro Max will have 12GB of RAM, whereas the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Slim will get 8GB, just like the next iPhone SE).
With this in mind, Apple is likely to turn enhanced on-device AI capabilities into a major selling point specifically for the iPhone 17 Pro Max, and not the entire range.
The Pro Max will also get an...
Apple is announcing the iPhone 16 series on September 9, and a new rumor claims all four models will get 8GB of RAM. In contrast, the iPhone 17 family coming next year will jump to 12GB of RAM.
That is a pretty significant jump and it's apparently all to do with AI - this time around the Apple Intelligence features will be mostly cloud-based, but once the iPhone 17 models launch, a lot more AI will be on-device, hence the need for more RAM.
Google has already upped the RAM of its devices with the Pixel 9 family that launched earlier this month, and it's even using a chunk of RAM...
The HP EliteBook 845 G11 is a sleek, silver 14in enterprise laptop that means business. This premium WIndows 11 unit features an AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processor and Radeon 780M Graphics, 32GB RAM, and 512GB storage - which is more than enough to power productivity throughout the day.
As one of the best business laptop lines out there, the EliteBook is smart and professional, with MacBook pretensions once you crack open the lid to expose a well-spaced, backlit keyboard of black against the silver frame. In use, it’s comfortable and intuitive (any typos are strictly my own), although as with so many thin laptops, key travel can feel stubby and shallow.
I’ve always had a hit-and-miss experience with HP laptops - they often feel cheap and plasticky, lids soft and hollow, keys shallow. So there was relief taking hold of the all-metal EliteBook 845 G11. In hand, it doesn’t feel quite as nice or durable as the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s I recently reviewed, but there’s a comforting robustness and weightiness to the device.
Performance-wise, this laptop offers exactly what you’d expect, and everything you hoped. It blazes through the likes of web browsing, Microsoft Office and G Suite apps. I experienced no performance-related issues, whether writing and editing in the notoriously resource-hungry Chrome or taking conference video calls. Having said that, during prolonged use, both the underside and palm rests get fairly warm, which is especially noticeable when the device is charging.
Overall, an excellent business laptop, with plenty of scope for coding, use on campus, and regular home use, too. The lack of decent GPU renders this laptop less useful for high-resolution video editing and 3D rendering. But CPU and RAM are more than sufficient to deliver a smooth experience for everyday office tasks.
(Image credit: HP)
HP EliteBook 845 G11: Price & availability
You should have no difficulty picking up the HP EliteBook 845 G11, which is widely available from online retailers and direct from HP. Even older EliteBooks are readily available. Prices for the laptop start at $1790 / £1200.
(Image credit: HP)
HP EliteBook 845 G11: Design & features
Specs
Processor: Up to AMD Ryzen 7 Pro RAM: Up to 64GB Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe Gen4x4 NVMe M.2 SSD Display: 14" WUXGA IPS (1920 x 1200) Graphics: AMD Radeon Graphics Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio jack, 1x smart card reader, 1x nano-sim slot, 1x security lock slot Operating System: Windows 11 Pro Weight: From 1.42 kg (3.14 lb) Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Weighing in at 1.42kg, measuring 12.4 x 8.83 x 0.64in, the HP EliteBook 845 G11 has a good weight and feel. Constructed with an all-metal chassis “based on high quality aluminum and magnesium” according to the manufacturer, I felt this was a laptop that can take a few knocks on the commute, or being shunted from hot-desk to hot-desk.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, 14in is the ideal size for a business laptop. Not too small, not too bulky, perfect for extended use without weighing you down too much. This EliteBook fits nicely into this category. Here, the display on the base model is a 14in anti-glare rocking a 1920x1200 resolution and a disappointingly average 300nits brightness. That’s fine in the home and office, but you’ll struggle more to see the screen outdoors in bright light. On the other hand, HP offers a range of alternative panels, with low blue light and touch features, and 400, 500, and 800nits options.
Above the panel is a 5MP webcam that does the job but not much more. Again, you can upgrade to the 5MP IR webcam, or strip out the camera if you never again want to endure another Zoom presentation. What I especially like here is the physical camera cover - fast becoming a necessity for business laptops. Neatly sliding the ridged switch to the left ‘grays out’ camera, disabling it in the settings rather than simply masking the lens.
(Image credit: HP)
Using the keyboard is a comfortable experience. It features a backlight of soft white, which automatically turns off to preserve the battery after a few minutes of inactivity, for low-light and night-time use. Keys are not too spongy like for instance the Microsoft Surface, but gentle and firm enough to take a battering when bashing out a report, spreadsheet, or writing a laptop review. While it can’t quite compare to the excellent keyboards you typically find on the best Lenovo ThinkPad laptops - by far the best I’ve used on any business laptop - the spacious design really lets the fingers flow, creating a good rhythm when typing. The welcome addition of a keyboard backlight of soft white, which automatically turns off to preserve the battery after a few minutes of inactivity. I did experience a few near-misses with the arrow and Pg Up/Pg Dn keys so clustered together, but these were few and far between.
The trackpad is broad, allowing for sweeping gestures without being hindered by physical buttons here. Just be careful not to brush the palm of your hand against it while typing, as I did on occasion, sending the cursor to all kinds of unwanted places.
For everyday usage, connectivity is good. It’s a thin laptop, and thin laptops typically mean as few ports as possible, but you’ll still find a HDMI, two USB Type-A 5Gbps ports, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, nano-SIM card slot, and a 3.5mm audio jack. You may still need to invest in any of the best laptop docking stations, although there’s plenty of space here to connect key peripherals or hook up a second monitor.
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(Image credit: HP)
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HP EliteBook 845 G11: Performance
I tested this laptop for normal business use - the type the HP EliteBook 845 G11 is built for, straight out of the box. Running plenty of Google Docs and Sheets, jumping into the odd meeting, light photo editing, opening more tabs than necessary open in the web browser. And, of course, in time honored tradition, writing this review on the laptop. Equipped with all that RAM, the EliteBook breezed through all these tasks in almost total silence.
I can’t say it’s the best laptop for photo editing. If you’re a pro, a dedicated content creation station like the MacBook Pro will serve you better - not least because the screen’s brightness and 100% sRGB color space coverage leaves something to be desired in a professional design setting. But for undemanding Photoshop work, social media imagery, lower resolution video editing for your website, HP’s machine capably serves its purpose.
Battery life was ok - I got around 6-7 hours of use, getting through most of the day before I needed to charge up. And that was under standard operation - mostly Google Docs and content management systems. That’s pretty standard for a laptop like this, which has to balance heavy batteries with portability, but I would’ve liked to see it last a bit longer.
As mentioned, the laptop did run warm after a lot of use, even more so than the Lenovo T14s. This was the only real issue I found, and an expected one at that for a powerful business laptop like this. Otherwise, for productivity and performance, the EliteBook 845 G11 shines.
(Image credit: HP)
HP EliteBook 845 G11: Final verdict
There’s a lot to like about the HP EliteBook 845 G11, and not much to dislike here. It’s well-built, well-designed machine that easily handled all the tasks I threw at it. I also found the keyboard very comfortable to use even over long periods - and while it’s not quite up to ThinkPad standards in this department, in almost every other way, the EliteBook gives Lenovo’s business line-up a serious run for its money.
The screen may be a deal-breaker for some - with its average 300nits brightness and low color space coverage, it’s not going to suit those who need to do more than basic image editing and creating online assets. But with plenty of RAM and a powerful CPU, my whole experience using this as a day-to-day business laptop was seamless and silent. At times, it did get hot around the underside and palm rests, but not to the point where the laptop became unusable or too uncomfortable. Elsewhere, though, this is a very well-built machine that, though not a rugged device with an assortment of IP and MIL-STD ratings, feels reliable and robust.
(Image credit: HP)
Should I buy the HP EliteBook 845 G11?
Buy it if…
You want a reliable device for business
The HP EliteBook 845 G11 is built for business, with the specs to prove it. For processor-intensive work that requires plenty of RAM for a seamless experience, this laptop delivers.
You want a robust laptop
It may not be a true rugged laptop, but with an all-metal chassis, this EliteBook feels good in the hand and ready to tackle the fiercest of commutes.
Don’t buy it if…
You’re on a budget
The EliteBook 845 G11 has a large price-tag with specs to suit - if you’re on a budget or simply don’t need this sort of power, HP’s offering may not be the best choice.
You want the best keyboard on a laptop
It’s subjective, of course, and there’s nothing wrong with the EliteBook’s layout and design - but as a professional writer, I still gravitate towards ThinkPads when it comes to the best typing experience on a business laptop.
When I was sent the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 4, I thought it would be the easiest review in the world.
A few months prior, I’d bought the exact same model, with more or less the same specs, for personal use. At the time, I was looking for one of the best business laptops I could find. Fast, reliable, capable of running all the usual Office apps and browsers and nothing too strenuous. A key requirement was a comfortable keyboard for typing. It was probably the best money I ever spent on a device. So, being very familiar with the performance of the T14s, I thought I could draw on my months-long experience and spend the rest of the time playing Mario Kart. Then I cracked open the lid of the new laptop - and fell in love all over again. I can’t stay away from this ThinkPad. I admire its purity.
The model reviewed here is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 7840U with Radeon 780M Graphics, 32GB RAM, and 512GB storage. However, unlike older ThinkPads, it’s worth noting that while you can expand SSD storage, the RAM is soldered to the board and can’t be upgraded, so choose wisely. Ports and connectivity is fair, with a smart card reader, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, two Thunderbolt 4 ports (one of which is used for charging the device), HDMI, 3.5mm audio jack, and a nano-sim slot around the back.
On paper, the T14s may not be the best Lenovo ThinkPad out there. The P14 is superior for graphically intensive use, the X1 Carbon beloved for its ultra-lightweight design, the T480 is widely considered the pick of the bunch. And the Intel version of this model reportedly suffers cooling issues, so opt for the AMD version if you can get it. But this is a beautiful machine in its own right - thin, light, sleek, its all-black chassis accented with Lenovo red across the trackpad and trackpoint. For standard business use - think emails, internet, Microsoft Office, Google Docs - there’s little to beat this light, compact, commuter-friendly machine.
(Image credit: Lenovo)
Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 4: Price & availability
The Lenovo T14s is widely available, retailing at around $1000 / £1000 for the base model. Intel T14s tend to be priced higher than AMD models, and again, we stress that if you can, go for AMD, which will help keep the laptop cooler.
With the recent release of the Gen 5 and Snapdragon-powered Gen 6 versions, it should mean you’ll be able to get some good deals here as stores begin to get rid of the older stock.
(Image credit: Lenovo)
Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 4: Design & features
Specs
Processor: 13th generation Intel Core i5 - i7 / AMD Ryzen 5 - 7 Pro RAM: Up to 32GB RAM Storage: Up to 2TB SSD Display: 14" WUXGA IPS (1920 x 1200) Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics / AMD Radeon Graphics Ports: 1x smart card reader, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 2x Thunderbolt 4 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio jack, 1x nano-sim slot Operating System: Windows 11 Pro Weight: From 1.25 kg (2.76 lbs) Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
Lenovo’s flagship business machine feels good in the hand. This is a sturdy laptop, built from premium-grade materials - magnesium for the keyboard frame, carbon fiber for the top cover - that you’d expect from the S variants in the company’s line-up. If you’re wondering, the S stands for slim, and at 12.50 x 8.93 x 0.65in the T14s is certainly that. The suffix also means these laptops are lighter (this one clocks in at 1.26kg) and more durable than plastic-based counterparts like the T14 and P14. The only real downside in construction is that the T14s is undeniably a finger-print magnet.
In my experience, 14in is the perfect size for a business laptop. A 13in feels too cramped, while 15.6in models tend to be heavier and less easy to transport. Here, the base screen is a 14in 1080p anti-glare IPS panel with 300 nits brightness, in the 16:10 aspect ratio. You can also upgrade to touchscreen versions, a 400 nits lower power display, and a 2.8K OLED version that boasts 400 nits, HDR 500, and 100% DCI-P3 color space coverage. That might be of interest to anyone looking for the best video editing laptop, but it drains the battery a lot faster and you can find better bang for your buck elsewhere if editing is your main concern. Helpfully, the T14s display can also be laid flat, letting you literally share your screen and collaborate with colleagues. Above this, one of my favorite features: a physical camera cover (Lenovo calls it the ThinkShutter) that slides into place.
(Image credit: Lenovo)
The keyboard is the real reason I chose a ThinkPad over rivals like the Dell XPS 15 or Microsoft Surface. I’ve never understood the love these laptops get for their keyboards, which feel light and spongy, with very little key travel. Fine, perhaps, for writing emails or messages on Slack and Teams, though not for any extended writing and editing. The T14s features the same backlit keyboard you’ll find on other modern ThinkPads, well-spaced and slightly curved for greater ergonomics. Yes, at 1.5mm the key travel is shallower than older 1.8mm models, and it is a noticeable downgrade, but it doesn’t detract from the relaxed typing experience compared to similar laptops.
The device was more or less ready to go out of the box, although I had to add the UK keyboard layout in the Windows settings and solve that famous Lenovo quirk: swapping over Fn and Ctrl buttons. Using the Lenovo Vantage app, I headed into Settings > Device > Inputs & accessories. Here, a toggle switch lets you change the function of the Fn and Ctrl keys to mirror most other keyboards.
The ThinkPad’s most famous feature is alive and well in the T14s. The trackpoint, that nippled red circle nestled between the G-H-B keys, acts as an off-hand cursor, so you can keep your fingers on the keys. Once you adjust to the required sensitivity - firm and gentle does the trick, lightly moving with purpose - it becomes a breeze to use. And if you don’t use it, you’ll never notice it’s there. In day-to-day use over months, I’ve never once accidently jostled it when typing.
(Image credit: Lenovo)
Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 4: Performance
When it comes to business, my laptop use is the sort replicated in offices across the globe. Chrome, Slack, occasional photo editing, the whole Google G Suite, and a handful of video meetings via Google Meet, Teams, and Zoom. The ThinkPad T14s is tailored to these sorts of tasks, powering through them in near-silence thanks to its CPU and the bountiful RAM. In use, the trackpad is smooth, responsive, with three physical buttons above for additional cursor control. Running basic photo editor tools proved no problem for the laptop, and while best photo editing laptops offer a bit more for the money, this is more than capable of tackling those sorts of tasks as it caters to a broad range of business needs.
Without a decent GPU, the laptop will struggle with triple-A games. But then, you shouldn’t be playing games at work, my friend, where this laptop was chiefly designed for use. And while you shouldn’t have too many issues editing HD videos, that GPU limitation also rules out high-resolution video editing and 3D rendering, where a graphics-led ThinkPad like the P14s will shine.
Battery life was fair but not jaw-dropping. With the screen set to average brightness (I also prefer leaving Night Light on to off-set the harshness of the whites), it lasted around 6 hours. You can extend it by turning off the backlit keyboard or upgrading to the low power display, which in my experience will add an hour or so before you need to recharge. At least the batteries are replaceable. After extended use, I did find the laptop can run warm. With exhaust ports to the right and underneath, you’ll certainly feel the warmth when using a mouse or on the lap.
Overall, the performance is excellent for its use-case. Fast with no frustrating lags and slow-downs - even when opening multiple tabs in the memory-hogging Chrome (admittedly, your mileage may vary on this one).
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Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 4: Final verdict
I enjoyed my time with the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s - just as much this time around as the first time I cracked open the lid of one. When it came to taking one laptop with me while working away from home, confronted with the choice of the T14s, HP EliteBook 845 G11, and the 13in Microsoft Surface Laptop, it was Lenovo’s machine I reached for every time. It felt like a natural fit for working on the go, but then again, it was my literal Editor’s Choice just a few months before.
Throughout this review, I’ve been calling the T14s a business machine - and it’s certainly built for the job. But I’ve found this is just as suitable for regular home use (as in my case), as a future-proofed student laptop to last throughout school or college, and as a laptop for programming thanks to those hardy specs and glorious keyboard that will make coding on the go a breeze. Robustly constructed, the device feels like it should last a long time, too.
The lack of upgradeability - a defining factor in the popularity of ThinkPads past - may limit the appeal of the T14s, but for most, the soldered RAM and performance-driven processor will be more than enough to power users through the working day.
(Image credit: Lenovo)
Should I buy the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s?
Buy it if…
You want a fast, reliable business laptop
Powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 CPU and equipped with a base 32GB RAM, the T14s breezes through office tasks and light photo editing and video editing.
You want one of the best keyboard experiences on a modern laptop
Keyboards can be hit and miss, but a comfortable, ergonomic typing experience is essential on a business or student laptop - on that score, the ThinkPad still reigns supreme.
Don’t buy it if…
You use CAD software
While the T14s specs are respectable, the laptop lacks a GPU sufficient for 3D computer-aided design or high-resolution video editing.
You want limitless upgrade options
Like many modern ThinkPads, the T14s shies away from total upgradeability. You can boost the SSD, for example, but not the RAM. For more upgrade options, try older models like the T480s.
There's something very pleasing about Lenovo's ThinkBook line-up - a series aimed at prosumers - and the ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 IMH fits well within that space.
From the ThinkBooks we've reviewed, they're not quite up there with the best Lenovo ThinkPad laptops, but they're leaps and bounds ahead of the company's consumer devices. ThinkBooks are famed for offering good power and cost, filling the gap between a machine for casual web browsing and the best business laptops.
The Lenovo ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 IMH is a beautiful example of just how good the range can be. First, it's ultra-portable, only made more notable by its 13-inch, 3:2 screen. Second, it's crazy powerful, partly due to the Intel Core Ultra 9 185H 2.3 GHz processor and partially because of the 32GB of RAM. Regardless of the reasoning, this laptop is impressive all around.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
If I had to pick a downside, it would be the lack of ports. However, it is becoming increasingly common to have only a couple of Thunderbolt ports on a laptop and call it good, especially in something as thin as the ThinkBook 13x Gen 4. Gratefully, unlike even the best MacBook Pro laptops, the ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 IMH puts one Thunderbolt port on either side of the laptop rather than both on the left side as Apple does.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 IMH: Unboxing & first impressions
The Lenovo ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 IMH is very well packaged in minimalist packaging, emphasizing its premium computer status from the beginning. The laptop's dual-tone Luna Gray aluminum body immediately caught my eye, and then, as fast as it caught my eye, my eyes jumped to the Magic Bay area -- more on that later.
I kept unboxing, and when I lifted the computer from the box, I was shocked and thrilled with just how lightweight the ThinkBook was. And it's easy to carry as it's smooth and doesn't feel bulky or rough. It's a beautiful machine with premium materials and an excellent design.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 IMH: Design and Build Quality
Specs
as tested
CPU: Intel Core Ultra 9 185H Graphics: Integrated Intel Arc Graphics RAM: 32GB Screen: 13.5-inch IPS, 2880 x 1920 pixels, 500 nits, 100% sRGB Storage: 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD Ports: 3 x Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C), 1 x Headphone / Microphone combo jack (3.5mm), Connector for accessories, E-shutter switch Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 Camera: 1080p IR camera with Windows Hello, AI features (auto-framing, background blur) Audio: Four Harman Kardon speakers, Dolby Atmos support Battery: All-day battery life, up to 24 hours Dimensions: 0.5 x 11.6 x 8.1 inches (H x W x D) Weight: 2.7 pounds (1.22 kg) Operating System: Windows 11 Pro Additional Features: Power button with fingerprint reader, Magic Bay Light accessory for video calls
The fourh-generation ThinkBook 13x is a masterclass in modern laptop design. It's clean, simple, elegant, professional, and yet exciting and exciting. It has a 13.5-inch display with a 3:2 aspect ratio framed by ultra-thin bezels. Thanks to the aspect ratio, the taller screen gives more room for productivity tasks than the more common 16:9 aspect ratio. Despite its compact size and lightweight overall package, this laptop still feels premium, solid, and ultra-powerful.
The display boasts a 2880x1920 resolution, producing sharp and vibrant colors and text. So far, color accuracy has been great when using this laptop. I've enjoyed the beautiful display on this computer for a couple of weeks now, and in that time, the refresh rate has been smooth, the colors have been stunning, the text has been crisp, and the brightness has been pretty good.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
The speakers were also surprising, especially for how thin the laptop is. Four Harman Kardon speakers within the ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 are decently loud and relatively clean audio until you get to max volumes. For virtual meetings, I was able to hear the other people clearly, and music for quick videos or voicemails or anything like that is just fine on these speakers, However, as an amateur audiophile with a background in music performance, I'll stick to my high-end headphones for listening to music. For others who may care less about the specific quality of the music, these speakers will be plenty.
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 IMH: In use
The Lenovo ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 IMH is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor with an Intel Arc integrated graphics card. So far, even with heavy business use, I have yet to reach the limit. With high-end video editing, you could make this beast of a business machine begin to breathe a bit harder, but with my day-to-day work on it, I have not noticed any slowdowns, nor have I noticed long loading times or processing times. This laptop will be more than sufficient for most users for office work, business work, online work, and so on.
The laptop’s standout feature, the Magic Bay Light, magnetically attaches to the screen, utilizing the Magic Bay previously mentioned, and significantly improves visibility during video calls in low-light environments. It is a perfectly placed soft light to help light you as the subject for a virtual meeting. The 1080p IR webcam supports Windows Hello, and its AI features, like background blur and auto-framing, enhance video calls further, making this a fantastic computer for remote workers with many virtual meetings.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
The keyboard, however, was not my favorite, though it was excellent. I expected the typing experience to be better. The trackpad/touchpad had a slightly odd click if you choose to click in rather than tap, but I am also used to the gold standard of trackpads with a MacBook, so it is my preference.
Lenovo claims the ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 has the largest battery of any 13-inch laptop and delivers impressive all-day battery life. In testing, the laptop lasted well over 10 hours on a single charge, making it an excellent choice for users who need a reliable device for extended work sessions.
Given how light it is, I have genuinely forgotten that this laptop is in my bag day to day. I'll pick up my backpack for the day and double-check that I have my laptop of choice loaded up. I love not worrying about sitting near an outlet or having my portable batteries charged up for an all-day workday outside my home office. The overall usage and power have been fantastic, and the form factor has been excellent for my daily laptop.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 IMH: Final verdict
The Lenovo ThinkBook 13x Gen 4 IMH is a stylish and capable ultraportable that will appeal to business users who prioritize design and portability. However, its high price and lack of some ports might make it less attractive compared to other ultraportables that offer better port offerings. If you are okay with only having Thunderbolt ports, this laptop is an absolutely fantastic option for most people, especially business professionals looking for a great all-around laptop.
CPU: AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 370 Processor; AMD XDNA™ NPU up to 50TOPS Graphics: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070 Laptop GPU, 8GB GDDR6; AMD Radeon™ 890M Graphics RAM: 64GB LPDDR5X on board Storage: 2TB M.2 NVMe™ PCIe® 4.0 SSD Left Ports: DC-in, HDMI 2.1 FRL, USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack Right Ports: SD Express 7.0 card reader, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) (Triple band) 2x2, Bluetooth® 5.4 Audio: Built-in array microphone, Harman/Kardon (Premium) Camera: FHD camera with IR function to support Windows Hello Size: 35.49 x 24.69 x 1.49 ~ 1.73 cm (13.97" x 9.72" x 0.59" ~ 0.68") Weight: 1.85 kg (4.08 lbs) OS Installed: Windows 11 Home Accessories: Stylus (Asus Pen SA203H-MPP2.0 support)
The Asus ProArt P16 is one of the fastest 16-inch laptops available with AI processing used to boost performance for demanding applications like Premiere Pro, After Effects, and DaVinci Resolve. ASUS has essentially designed this laptop to rival the Apple MacBook Pro, with features tailored specifically for creatives.
The ProArt P16 design supports easy connectivity to various accessories, monitors, projectors, and devices, making it ideal for travelling professionals. The intuitive keyboard and trackpad layout, along with the Asus DialPad, enhance usability in apps like Photoshop, with for example, the quick adjustments of brush sizes.
The touchscreen's 4096 pressure sensitivity and included stylus offer precise control for drawing and creative work. The Asus suite of creative software also provides AI-driven organisation of digital images and videos.
At its core, the ProArt P16 boasts superior power, outpacing many competitors, including the MacBook Pro. This is evident when handling 4K and 6K video footage from cameras like the Canon EOS R5C and Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K. While an external SSD is necessary for large files, the processor and graphics card handle advanced editing seamlessly.
Like all the best video editing laptops and best laptops for graphic design we've reviewed, the ProArt P16 is targeted at videographers, photographers, designers, and content creators. It meets the high demands of the creative sector. It stands out as a great alternative to the best MacBook Pro laptops, not just for budget reasons but for its performance and features.
Asus ProArt P16: Introduction
The Asus ProArt P16 is marketed as a laptop designed for and aimed at the creative sector—ideal for anyone needing a portable, powerful machine capable of content creation. This is no small feat, as the processing and graphics power required to edit, manipulate, and enhance the latest 4K and 8K video footage, high-resolution photography, AI content, and traditional sketching and drawing is immense for one machine to handle.
With the ProArt P16, you have a machine capable of handling the latest video files from cameras such as the Canon EOS R5 and the Sony Alpha 7 Mark IV. This laptop's ability to easily manage files from these high-end mirrorless hybrid cameras highlights just how powerful the ProArt P16 is.
What truly sets this machine apart is not just its processing power, which enables it to handle large and complex file formats, but its design, which is fine-tuned for creatives. The large monitor, which is 100% P3 compliant, ensures that the colours you see on the screen will be accurately reproduced elsewhere. Small details, such as the Asus DialPad and an extensive array of ports around the sides, will all provide easy connectivity. Additionally, the full touchscreen and supplied stylus all add to the desirability of this laptop for creatives.
Compared with a traditional laptop, the Asus ProArt P16 seems to be in a league of its own, but can a laptop designed for a niche sector really live up to the demands of creatives?
Asus ProArt P16: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The Asus ProArt P16 isn't cheap, with the standard model starting at $2700 / £2600. When it comes to availability, you can purchase it directly through the Asus website, and it is also widely available at most major retailers and online stores.
Price: 5/5
Asus ProArt P16: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The Asus ProArt P16 boasts an incredibly sleek design, considering the size of the monitor and the powerful hardware it contains. The laptop measures 35.49 x 24.69 x 1.49 cm and weighs 1.85 kg, making it relatively easy to slip into a standard laptop or camera backpack or laptop bag. While the weight is on the heavier side compared to typical laptops, it is quite reasonable given its capabilities and on par with the MacBook Pro.
One important consideration is that this laptop requires a proprietary power adapter, which is especially crucial for intensive tasks like video editing that can drain the battery quickly. This adapter is needed as the laptop cannot be charged via a standard USB Type-C charger.
The laptop is extremely well-built and feels tough and durable. It meets the US MIL-STD 810H military-grade standard for durability, so it should withstand more than a knock or two out in the field.
When it comes to some of the standard laptop features, the sides of the laptop offer a good variety of ports. On the left side, there is the DC-in, HDMI 2.1, a USB 4 Type-C, a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, and an audio combo jack. Flipping over to the right-hand side, there's an SD Express 7.0 card reader, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, and a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C. The only thing missing here is a standard Ethernet port, so if you need to connect to a wired network, you will need a USB Type-C to Ethernet adapter.
The design of the keyboard is nice and large, with a full layout and all the usual keys that you would want for general admin and office work, as well as shortcuts when using creative applications. A nice feature is the large touchpad, which is really sensitive. You can pop into the settings and adjust its sensitivity as needed. Integrated into this touchpad is the Asus DialPad, which is essentially a circular indent that acts as a touch-sensitive control wheel. A nice function of this is that you can adjust its options and functions through the ProArt Creator Hub and settings.
Another notable design feature is the two speaker panels located on either side of the keyboard. These panels house powerful, high-quality Harman Kardon speakers.
When it comes to the screen, it has an almost edge-to-edge design, which is really nice to see, giving you a big and clear, distraction-free workspace. The monitor itself meets the P3 display standard to 100%, and if you want to delve into the settings, there's plenty of adjustment available if you need to calibrate the monitor using tools like the DataColor SpyderX2. Another nice feature of the monitor is that it is fully touchscreen enabled and a stylus is included in the package. While this makes the screen relatively glossy, it is not overly so, and reflections are kept to a minimum.
Overall, the slim and relatively lightweight build, combined with its powerful capabilities, makes the Asus ProArt P16 an ideal option for creatives on the move who need a powerhouse of a machine to run the best video editing software or best graphic design software. When sitting down and working at the machine, the full keyboard, trackpad, control dial, and touchscreen with stylus support all contribute to a very appealing laptop for anyone working in the creative sector.
Design: 5/5
Asus ProArt P16: Features
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Many laptops are tuned for raw power, especially with the evolution of AI chips. The Asus ProArt P16 exemplifies this, featuring an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor coupled with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU. The processor offers 50 TOPS, up to 70W CPU TDP, and 5.1 GHz with 12 cores, while the GPU delivers 321 TOPS and 8GB GDDR6 VRAM for real-time ray tracing and AI-augmented computing. Supporting these components is 64GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD for fast storage.
A notable addition is a dedicated AI NPU chip that powers AI features like Copilot in Windows and the Asus AI applications. Support from Adobe and others for this chip is growing, enhancing capabilities in Photoshop and Premiere Pro. The AI-powered apps MuseTree and StoryCube add further value.
The ProArt P16 boasts a large 16-inch OLED touchscreen with 4096 levels of sensitivity and meets the P3 colour standard at 100%. It offers a 4K (3840 x 2400) resolution and supports MPP 2.0. The screen is protected with Corning Gorilla Glass 11, providing durability. Audio is impressive, too, with Harman Kardon speakers featuring Dolby Atmos and three array microphones.
Designed to be equally effective in the studio and field, the laptop meets US military-grade durability tests. Weighing 1.85 kg and measuring up to 14.9 mm thick, it is portable and robust, withstanding up to 95% humidity and temperatures from -32°C to 70°C.
The DialPad integrated into the touchpad and the ProArt Creator Hub software offer precise control for various tools, which is beneficial for photo retouching and other creative tasks. MuseTree allows AI-powered sketch realization, and StoryCube aids in managing digital assets. The ProArt Creator Hub provides access to all features, including a Pantone-developed colour management tool.
Despite its power, the laptop's advanced cooling system remains quiet, even under high-demand tasks like Adobe Premiere Pro. The ProArt P16 runs on Windows 11 Home, with an option to upgrade to Pro. It includes dedicated Asus applications like ProArt Creator Hub, MuseTree, and StoryCube, along with Asus DialPad control panel access.
Features: 5/5
Asus ProArt P16: Performance
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks
Crystal Disk Read: 5001.01MB/s Crystal Disk Write: 3955.26MB/s GeekBench CPU Single: 15197 GeekBench CPU Multi: 2882 GeekBench Compute: 1000704 PC Mark: 8149 CineBench CPU Multi: 21915 CineBench CPU Single: 1948 Fire Strike Overall: 238909 Fire Strike Graphics: 26226 Fire Strike Physics: 31027 Fire Strike Combined: 11672 Time Spy Overall: 9953 Time Spy Graphics: 9791 Time Spy CPU: 10988 Wild Life: 45337 Windows Experience: 8.3
Testing out the laptop involved some creative work in the field. We took it along on a video shoot and used it with Premiere Pro to edit footage shot on the Canon EOS R5 C in Canon Log 3 format. The footage was copied over to a Samsung T5 Evo 1TB SSD for storage from an OWC Atlas CFExpress Type-B Card. The initial handling of the footage was impressive, allowing us to copy the S-Log files directly into the timeline and start editing and grading. For a 15-minute production, the laptop handled the processing with ease and quickly rendered out the file after three hours of editing, ready for uploading to YouTube.
Editing using just the keyboard and the Asus DialPad was intuitive, making it a nice alternative compared to using an accessory like the Monogram Creator Kit that we usually use. While not quite as intuitive, the small pad works incredibly well, allowing customization so it does exactly what you need, which is great for adjusting settings with a finger touch. The full-size keyboard is also a nice addition, and anyone used to a MacBook Pro will find that the layout isn't too dissimilar. The transition, especially for a shortcut wizard, isn't too much of a leap.
Another noticeable feature of the ProArt P16 is its battery life. Even when editing footage in a high-demand application, we were able to get
an hour and eighteen minutes of power before needing to plug into a Bluetti AC200 for portable power for the rest of the edit. For Photoshop and general administration work, the battery life was between three and a half to four and a half hours.
Switching over to using Adobe Photoshop, the laptop handled applications, including Lightroom, with ease. Even with the 45-megapixel images from the Canon EOS R5 C, there was absolutely no slowdown, even as the layering of images increased during focus stacking for an upcoming book. Used on a two-day shoot, the laptop worked well for tethered shooting, taking the images directly into Photoshop, stacking, and then exporting them out, and wirelessly transferring them to the designer, who was able to layout pages on the fly. It was a nice workflow, and the transition from usually using a MacBook Pro to this ASUS ProArt P16 wasn't as large a leap as we had initially anticipated.
When it came to creative apps, the ProArt P16 was finely tuned. The power of those AI chips made easy work of extremely heavy processing tasks. What was impressive was that even when editing large 4K video files and the machine was drawing maximum power, the noise from the fans remained minimal.
Another point to note is that while monitoring audio for video is best done through headphones, the small internal speakers had clarity, quality, and decent volume, allowing us to hear the audio even when working outdoors in a busy environment.
To double-check performance, this review was written using Microsoft Office on the machine, and some work on Excel spreadsheets was done to check the computer's ability to handle general admin tasks. As expected, since this computer can easily handle 4K video editing with ease, there were no issues with administration tasks. Browsing the internet and streaming video content were equally well handled.
Finally, for downtime, we checked out the gaming performance with titles like Hogwarts Legacy and Tekken 8. Once both games were loaded, the machine handled the processing and graphics exceptionally well, far beyond what you'd usually expect from a non-gaming laptop.
After testing and being impressed by the laptop's performance, especially with creative applications, it was time to switch our attention to benchmarking tests to see if the performance of this laptop really was as good as it seemed.
Performance: 5/5
Should you buy the Asus ProArt P16?
The ProArt P16 is specifically designed for the creative industry, offering a range of features finely tuned for this sector. Creatives—from illustrators and textile designers to photographers and videographers—will appreciate the ability to use a stylus accurately with various creative applications. This is a huge benefit, providing precision and enhancing workflow.
From the outset, this laptop impresses. It is slim, with a large screen and relatively light weight, making it highly portable. Its processing power and GPU capabilities enable the use of the best photo editors, design apps, and editing tools. If you're running high-end creative applications like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Premiere Pro, and DaVinci Resolve, it's an appealing option for professionals.
The laptop includes a variety of ports, allowing easy connectivity to accessories, cameras, monitors, and more. This feature enhances its appeal to creatives who require a versatile and flexible workspace.
Durability is another strong point. With military-grade certification, the ProArt P16 can withstand knocks and bumps, ensuring it survives fieldwork. The full keyboard is excellent for shortcuts and navigation, though an application-specific keyboard for programs like Photoshop or video editing would be a welcome addition.
The Asus DialPad is a standout feature. While it takes some getting used to, it becomes a massive asset for adjusting settings and brush sizes in creative applications. The touchscreen display, with its high sensitivity, allows for direct interaction with artwork, providing precision and a more traditional feel compared to a keyboard and mouse.
Ultimately, the power of this laptop makes the user experience seamless. There is no waiting around, and the workflow is fluid and intuitive. While the Apple MacBook Pro has been a long-standing choice for creatives, the ProArt P16 challenges this dominance. With its powerful features, touchscreen, dial, and creative software suite—including MyAsus, MuseTree, and StoryCube—the ProArt P16 offers a compelling alternative that meets and exceeds the quality and functionality of its Apple counterpart.
The Pixel 9 Pro line in Rose Quartz and Porcelain (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)
If you feel like new Pixel phones arrived sooner this year, you're right. Google's AugustPixel hardware event gave us not a duo, but a quartet of new phones; starting at one end with the new baseline Pixel 9, and freshly topped with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
Into larger phones? Then the 'XL' nomenclature should tip you off as to where you might want to spend your money. This is the direct successor to last year's 6.7-inch Pixel 8 Pro.
It's the biggest (flat) Pixel yet and it sports a new design that marks a relatively significant shift in the series' aesthetic; the camera bar introduced with the Pixel 6 series is gone and instead we have the camera 'pill.'
The fit and finish have unquestionably been elevated, with the phone's polished frame adopting a much flatter form that's decidedly iPhone-like in its execution, and Google says new construction methods and material choices make it twice as durable as its predecessor.
In reality, the Pixel 9 Pro XL feels great, with the best build quality I've seen from Google to date; not to mention it looks superb, thanks to an updated Super Actua Display that boasts higher peak brightness than anything Apple or Samsung has to offer. The move to an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor is welcome too, delivering on Google's promised speed improvement.
The same seven-year commitment to OS and security updates helps the Pixel 9 series stand apart from rivals from Apple and Motorola. The phones' earlier-than-usual arrival in the calendar year means that this is the first generation of Pixel in a long time that doesn't debut with a new build of Android. It will benefit from the same future releases of Android as the Pixel 8 line, and likely no more.
Beyond the usual fare of a clean Pixel experience, AI is all Google is talking about. With an updated Gemini Nano model that is multi-modal and three times more capable running on-device, you'll find AI-generated features throughout the user experience.
Most notably, there are three new apps to play with: a new Weather app that's richer and more customizable, with AI-generated weather reports; a new Screenshots app that – as well as helping organize your captures – allows for semantic search; and Pixel Studio, which allows for on-device text-to-image generative AI that Google pitches as a new creative tool. Feel free to reconcile your feelings about using AI-generated imagery in your own time.
The cost of the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL also includes a year's access to Google One AI Premium with Gemini Advanced and its new Gemini Live feature. Gemini Live is a decidedly ChatGPT 4o-like conversational experience with Google's off-device AI. It works well for things like how-to guidance and recipe help, but still comes with limitations surrounding how it can actually action on-device tasks for you.
All the on-device AI experiences are powered by Google's new Tensor G4 SoC, paired with a new higher RAM ceiling of 16GB. Previous Pixels already felt fast in day-to-day use, but existing users will notice speed improvements for things like image processing and app load times; even if these gains are seemingly slight. Benchmarks only put the Tensor G4 about 10% ahead of the G3, in terms of CPU performance, with more noticeable graphical gains and, of course, NPU gains for AI tasks.
The other big aspect of any modern, AI-enhanced Pixel phone is the camera experience. The hardware looks, for the most part, similar to the Pixel 8 Pro, albeit with a much higher resolution selfie snapper and a tweaked ultrawide on the back. However, Google claims to have reworked its HDR+ pipeline end-to-end, meaning more true-to-life imagery.
In daylight, I had few complaints, and the Pixel 9 Pro delivers great detail and accurate colors and with dynamic range. Night Sight ensures low-light shooting is almost always rescued from unusable to usable, even if it can still be a little heavy-handed in its post-processing.
The expansion of that HDR+ pipeline to panoramas (paired with a new capture UI), means much better results, especially as Night Sight is now supported here too, although I do wonder whether this upgrade will simply manifest as a Feature Drop update for previous Pixel models in the near future.
Another Pixel 9 Pro exclusive is Video Boost, which can now scale 4K footage up to 8K and proves particularly useful when zooming up to the phone's 20x limit.
Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)
There's another side to the imaging experience on recent Pixels: Magic Editor. Beyond moving elements around in a shot or turning a blue sky to golden hour, the new Reimagine button lets you enter text to generate completely new elements in a shot. It's unquestionably fun and creative, but it also throws out any semblance of authenticity to shots you've captured yourself. Unlike Samsung, there's no AI watermarking going on with edited images, either.
Although that Tensor G4 chipset doesn't mark a huge leap forward in raw horsepower, it certainly has helped with power efficiency, with the Pixel 9 Pro XL serving up almost 70% more screen-on time compared to the Pixel 8 Pro.
The jump from 30W to 37W wired fast charging speeds is a small but welcome bump too, although it looks like you'll have to grab Google's 45W charger for the absolute quickest recharge times, based on my testing with similar chargers.
Perhaps the biggest benefit the Pixel 9 Pro line offers is that – beyond the XL's larger screen and physically bigger battery – there's no compromise across both sizes. If you're happy with the premium, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is the most unapologetic, bombastic Pixel experience you can have right now, outside of foldable land.
Even if the jump from the Pixel 8 Pro isn't as significant as I would have liked, and it feels like this is more a means for Google to cultivate new Gemini Advanced subscribers, I can't help but appreciate the Pixel 9 Pro XL for being greater than the sum of its parts. It may only be just enough of an upgrade, but it is enough.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review: Price and availability
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Priced from $1,099 / £1,099 / AU$1,849
On sale from August 22, 2024
Pro Pixels now start above $/£1,000
While Google announced four phones at its August 2024 event, the standard Pixel 9 and the Pixel 9 Pro XL are the two that hit the market first, on August 22. Meanwhile, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold arrive on the scene September 4.
In the UK, you can pick up the Pixel 9 Pro XL directly from Google, with double the storage at no extra charge on purchases made before September 5. US buyers can nab $200 in-store credit if ordering before August 28, and Australian buyers can pick up a limited edition poster with purchases made before August 25 (tough break, Australia).
The addition of the new smaller Pro model this year (which starts at a similar launch price to the larger Pixel 8 Pro), helps Google justify its decision to render the Pixel 9 Pro XL the most expensive candy bar Pixel to date: it starts at $1,099 / £1,099 / AU$1,849. It's practically like for like, when compared to equivalent storage options of the iPhone 15 Pro Max, truly putting an end to the notion that the Pixels are the 'affordable' flagship option.
For the asking price, you also get a year's access to a Google One AI Premium (2TB) plan which, as well as granting access to Gemini Advanced (which leverages the Gemini Pro 1.5 model) and Gemini Live, includes more general Google benefits like Fitbit Premium access, Nest Aware, 10% back on Google Store purchases, and unlimited Magic Editor saves in Google Photos.
Value score: 4 / 5
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review: Specs
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review: Design
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
New Pixel aesthetic: the camera bar is dead
100% recycled aluminum frame
Improved build quality
A Pixel in iPhone font – that's the shorthand I keep coming back to with the new Pixel 9 series' design language. The size and feel of the XL's new squared aluminum frame immediately reminds me of Apple's current iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone 15 Pro Max in the hand. Does that polished metal attract fingerprints? Absolutely, but not anywhere near as badly as expected.
This new squared form, paired with the heaviest build of any candy bar Pixel yet (221 grams, the same as an iPhone 15 Pro Max), leads to a more premium look and feel overall. This is helped further by the Pixel 9 Pro XL's slimmer profile compared to the Pixel 8 Pro, and side by side with my wife's old Pixel 6 Pro, the jump in build quality is truly impressive.
One update I'm not sure I love quite so much is the loss of the camera bar, which is replaced in this generation with a camera 'pill' that protrudes out of the phone's rear panel at 90 degrees. It makes for a more bold and confident aesthetic, but it's not as quickly identifiable as the bar.
As well as the cosmetic changes, Google also claims that the Pixel 9 Pro XL's new mid-frame design, not to mention its 100%-recycled aluminum outer frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 front and rear panels, and IP68-certified protection against dust and water ingress, make the new phone twice as durable as its predecessor. In my time with the Pixel 9 Pro XL, by trying to keep it out of harm's way as much as possible, the finish has remained unscathed, but whether it'll age as gracefully as its titanium-clad competition from Apple and Samsung remains to be seen.
Both sizes of Pixel 9 Pro come in four colorways, with Obsidian pictured most prominently in this review. The Hazel finish most closely apes the iPhone 15 Pro's Natural Titanium look and the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Titanium Gray, while Porcelain and Rose Quartz offer decidedly more vivacious options.
Design score: 4.5 / 5
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review: Display
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
6.8-inch Super Actua LTPO OLED
Improved HBM and peak brightness
New ultrasonic fingerprint sensor
The Pixel 8 Pro's Super Actua Display felt like a noteworthy upgrade from the panel on its predecessor and while not as earth-shattering an improvement this generation, the Pixel 9 Pro XL's screen is a great refinement, yet again.
Although it sports the same resolution as the Pixel 8 Pro's panel (technically not as sharp as the Pixel 9 Pro), both high brightness and peak brightness levels have been cranked up to 2,000 and 3,000nits, respectively, meeting or beating key rivals in a spec-for-spec comparison.
Add to that the panel's flat design, its thin, equally-proportioned bezels on all sides, and its excellent viewing angles, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL's Super Actua display is a thing to behold.
As before, the use of an LTPO OLED panel facilitates a dynamic refresh rate from 1 to 120Hz, making it ideal for always-on display functionality, thanks to the implied power saving benefits, while also still serving up a snappy user experience when swiping around the UI.
One of the more prominent changes you might not immediately notice is the fingerprint sensor. Instead of the optical module used since the Pixel 6 series, Google has gone the way of Samsung and instead kitted the Pixel 9 Pro XL's display with an ultrasonic sensor. I didn't notice a huge difference when making the switch from my Pixel 7 Pro, but in side by side comparison is lives up to the promise of a 2x speed improvement. Perhaps more useful is the greater reliability, especially with damp fingers or when used in the rain.
Display score: 4.5 / 5
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review: Software
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Seven years of OS & security updates
Launches with Android 14
Gemini AI is woven throughout the user experience
One side effect of this latest-generation Pixel launch happening earlier than usual is that the whole series runs Android 14. Typically, Google times the arrival of its latest smartphones to coincide with the release of the next Android, but the Pixel 9 debuts on the same Android 14 foundation as the Pixel 8.
At least the company's ever-impressive commitment to seven years of updates persists, meaning the phone's price tag includes excellent long-term support for both future releases of Android and subsequent security patches, an area where many rivals still fall short.
As a long-time Pixel user, the look and feel of Android on the Pixel 9 Pro XL is characteristically clean, easily navigable, pleasantly customizable (without being overwhelming), and dressed with helpful everyday features that aren't guaranteed on other phones.
That said, the Pixel 9 Pro XL does get some Pixel-exclusive additions that up the ante, all of which lean on Gemini AI.
There's a new dedicated Weather app that generates dynamic weather reports to make insights into each day's weather more digestible than ever. The ability to drag and drop the various in-app widgets for things like UV index, ten-day forecast, and air quality is a nice perk too.
Next up is the new Pixel Screenshots app, which seems like an odd addition at first, but for list-makers, students, and journalists (like yours truly), it offers surprising depth. You can add notes to individual screenshots and group them into Collections, too. The app can index screenshot content across text and images, making it searchable. This allows for semantic search and object recognition, as well as recognizing WiFi passwords and QR-code information.
Pixel Studio uses an on-device variant of Imagen 3's diffusion-based text-to-image generative AI, allowing you to create imagery seemingly from scratch. You can remix results using pre-defined style prompts, or sculpt a completely original prompt if you prefer.
At launch, Pixel Studio won't render people, but it's fine with objects and animals. It also managed to render legible text without much artifacting, a challenging test that I've seen other image generators fail. Right now, the application proves novel enough but there's scope for everything from messaging to graphic design work, depending on your feeling towards the use of AI-generated imagery.
Google Gemini
The price of the Pixel 9 Pro XL also includes a year's access to Gemini Advanced, meaning you can interact with its latest off-device model in Gemini 1.5 Pro and gain access to Gemini Live: Google's conversational AI experience.
My family tested it's abilities on a bean salad recipe – including suggestions on preparation and accompaniments – all without any obvious breaks in conversation or AI hallucinations. I also had it explain how to change various Gemini and Android settings, although its inability to take actions on many features feels like a missed opportunity, or at least an area that Google should focus on as its expands the assistant's functionality.
A couple of other sprinkles of AI magic on the Pixel 9 Pro XL include text-based summaries of YouTube videos that I didn't have time to watch and Zoom Enhance image upscaling (although results were mixed). I'm also intrigued by the Call Notes feature shown off at launch, that'll summarize phone calls, however, this wasn't ready during review.
The most obvious criticism of Gemini on the Pixel 9 Pro is that it feels consistently slower when asked to carry out the same tasks I would have previously asked of Google Assistant. The trade-off is much richer results and more insight, provided you trust the source data Gemini's pulling from.
Software score: 5 / 5
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review: Camera
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
50MP-led triple rear camera setup
New 42MP front-facing camera
New AI-supported features like Add Me and Reimagine
Nowhere is AI more prevalent across the Pixel 9 Pro XL's user experience than the camera. While it might have gone by 'machine learning' in the early days of the Pixel camera experience, AI-powered post-processing has been the secret sauce that has helped elevate the reputation of the Pixel cameras over the past four years, to the point where they regularly sit among the best camera phones.
As Google has focused its efforts on AI more directly, the proposition of a Pixel camera has changed somewhat, with capture and editing becoming two distinct facets of the experience.
If you're looking for a great all-round camera phone, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is right up there. A revised HDR+ pipeline puts into practice the company's learnings from previous entries, paired with new training data to create images with a more true-to-life appearance, better exposure, dynamic range, detail, contrast and color.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL camera samples
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High contrast comparison shot on Pixel 9 Pro XL
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(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
High contrast comparison shot on Pixel 7 Pro
There's a little inconsistency when shooting between the updated ultra-wide's macro mode and macro shots taken on the main 50MP wide sensor, for example, but results remain consistent in how appealing and usable they are. I'd have also liked a lighter hand with the default simulated bokeh when shooting portrait mode shots (something the likes of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra nails), but these are minor grievances and fixable on-device.
Night Sight continues to impress in low light, while support has now been expanded to include the oft-overlooked panorama mode. Led by a new UI that ensures you hold the phone still enough for each shot it stitches together, the results generated are far more impressive than anything capable by previous entries; delivering much better detail and color capture than ever before.
Video Boost is another Pro Pixel-exclusive feature worth shouting about, thanks to the addition of 8K upscaling on 4K footage, the results of which can be quite staggering; especially when zooming in on the phone's 20x magnification. Even if you don't see the need for 4K or 8K footage natively, the extra wiggle room those added pixels afford you makes the experience of creating and editing content far more flexible.
Add Me is a great new addition this generation that solves the problem of getting a group shot, when there's no wall to rest your camera on or passer-by to accost and entrust with taking a photo with you and your friends in. If, like me, you're serially the photographer of your friendship group, this could prove to be a game-changer.
There was certainly trial and error involved, but once we and the phone both understood the goal, results improved until we had a usable shot seemingly taken by a fourth unseen photographer who was never there.
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(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
A successful Add Me shot
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(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
A failed Add Me attempt
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(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Part 1 of the successful Add Me shot
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(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Part 2 of the successful Add Me shot
Even more so than the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra's/ Galaxy Z Fold 6's Sketch to Image feature, the generative image tools on the Pixel 9 series unashamedly barge passed the line of authentic photography. At least personally, I'm fine with automated HDR bracketing and tone mapping, in order to produce a photo that's better than I could muster, even if I had full manual control. However, I start to feel uncomfortable with the idea of sharing images shot on the Pixel that have used the full might of the newly-enhanced Magic Editor.
The ability to change a blue sky to that of golden hour and remove unwanted people from the background were novelties that challenged my comfort level, but the new Reimagine feature within Magic Editor doesn't hold back in letting you endlessly rework a shot until it's something entirely different.
In one shot (above), I surrounded my friends and I with sunflowers and then added a scarecrow for good measure. The results don't hold up to close scrutiny, but like most AI-manipulated images, if you don't have prior context, you're less likely to question its authenticity.
A more subtle edit that really impressed/unnerved me was Reimagine's ability to change the ground on a pebbled beach into more ocean (below); creating a rippled mirror surface with an accurate reflection of the clouds in the sky above.
Your mileage with Magic Editor will vary, depending on how scrupulous you feel about using its image-doctoring abilities and whether or not you feel the need to contextualize the results when you share them.
Camera score: 4.5 / 5
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review: Performance
Debut of Google Tensor G4 SoC
New 16GB RAM ceiling
128GB to 1TB storage (non-expandable)
While the Pixel 9 Pro XL feels more than equipped for everything you throw at in right now, including high-fidelity mobile games, there's no getting around the fact that Tensor chips continue to lag behind Apple's iPhone chips and Qualcomm's top-tier Snapdragons in terms of raw processing and graphical grunt.
Whether it's a matter of the shorter turnaround between generations of Pixel, or the fact that it's not Google's focus, the new Tensor G4 chipset powering all of the Pixel 9 series doesn't pack that much more horsepower, even compared to the Tensor G3.
It's built on a similar 4nm process as the Tensor G3, but with new core architecture and one fewer high efficiency cores than its predecessor. The switch from an Immortalis to a Mali GPU means no more ray tracing, a small but notable loss for mobile gamers.
In testing, the Tensor G4 processor produced a 10% bump to CPU performance, a 15% graphical performance improvement and a 16% uptick in NPU performance over the last generation, however, the biggest gains look to be in power efficiency (more on that later).
As with its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro XL can be had in four storage variants, however, the 1TB ceiling appears to be a US exclusive, while other markets, including the UK and Australia, top out at 512GB. Its 16GB of RAM is a range-wide upgrade, likely driven by the phone's newfound AI capabilities, but spec-heads will note that Google isn't using the latest available standards of either LPDDR memory or UFS storage, compared to Samsung's Galaxy S24.
Performance score: 3.5 / 5
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review: Battery
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
5,060mAh battery
Improved 37W wired charging
Impressive 9.5 hours of screen-on time per charge
Google has propelled the Pixel 9 Pro XL from a one to a two-day phone. While Pixel batteries have gotten larger over the years, battery life has never really been a positive talking point for the line. Through presumed optimization led by the new Tensor G4, however, the Pixel 9 Pro XL serves up superb longevity by comparison; significantly longer than any previous Pixel we've tested.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL got 9.5 hours of screen-on time, which clocks in at around 65% longer than the 5.75 hours the Pixel 8 Pro was able to muster, despite packing a battery that's around 10mAh smaller (5,050mAh).
Google hasn't stopped there, with faster 37W charging, promising up to 70% charge in just 30 minutes. The company has introduced a new 45W Pixel charger to facilitate the 9 Pro XL's new top charging speed (which is faster than the smaller 9 Pro's 27W charging), however, this was unavailable during review. Instead, I tried Google's previous 30W wired charger – which pushed the Pixel 9 Pro XL to 55% charge in 30 minutes, while a 65W PD PPS charger got closer to Google's quoted speeds, with 65% charge in 30 minutes, and a full charge in 1 hour 20 minutes.
Battery score: 4 / 5
Should you buy the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL?
Buy it if...
You want the richest mobile AI experience Samsung's Galaxy AI is great, but Google's execution with Gemini Advanced is easier, richer, and more fun to use.
You want an excellent camera phone The Pixel 9 Pro XL's camera system is a small but appreciated upgrade on its predecessors, highlighted by a new bag of AI-supported tricks you can't get outside of the Pixel family.
You plan on using this phone for a long time Still among the best there is, Google's commitment to seven years OS and security updates is, once again, hard to argue with.
Don't buy it if...
You want fast charging Battery life is greatly improved but despite a bump in speed, the Pixel 9 Pro XL's 37W wired charging is still well behind what rivals like OnePlus and Xiaomi offer.
You want the best RAM and memory While Samsung forges ahead, Google seems reluctant to move to the latest, fastest and most power efficient RAM and storage in its phones, which stings when they cost about the same.
You want to play a lot of games Google's mobile silicon isn't built for gaming, and while the Tensor G4 handles intense games well, you'll get a much better experience with a recent iPhone or any flagship rival running the latest Snapdragon chipset.
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review: Also consider
The Pixel 9 Pro XL is a superb large-screened Android phone with a great camera and decent battery life (finally), but its AI-heavy blend won't suit everyone.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra A sharper screen, faster charger, faster storage and memory, more horsepower and stylus input for good measure; not to mention the same impressive software commitment as the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max If you want much of what the Pixel 9 Pro XL has to offer but prefer a phone with more performance and gaming prowess, and less of a focus on AI, the latest and greatest iPhone is your best choice.
How I tested the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Review test period: one week
Testing included: everyday use including web browsing, social media, photography, video calling, gaming, streaming video, music playback
I received the Pixel 9 Pro XL sample directly from Google, the day after the August Pixel hardware event concluded and was testing it as my daily driver everyday since.
I kept track of battery usage each day and run several benchmarking apps for comparison to other devices, but otherwise used the phone as I would my own, in addition to taking time to test all of the key new features of the device.
As a reviewer with 13 years experience, and having reviewed numerous Pixels, not to mention mainlining a Pixel 7 Pro since its launch in late 2022, I felt confident assessing and scoring the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, both relative to other Pixels, and in the context of the wider smartphone market in which it competes.
Lenovo's ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 G4 is an excellent choice for small business owners and professionals seeking an affordable, versatile laptop.
While it doesn't boast the brightest display or the latest Wi-Fi tech found on some of the best business laptops, it makes up for its robust performance, excellent keyboard, and well-rounded features.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo has been a reliable choice for professional computers for many years. They offer several outstanding product lines, with the best Lenovo ThinkPad laptops tailored for the skilled workforce. The ThinkBook, on the other hand, is designed for the prosumer-level, effectively bridging the gap between professional and casual use. These laptops are ideal for freelancers, contractors, and professionals working in various settings.
The ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 G4 is no different. I am quickly falling in love with the 14-inch laptop size. My workhorse is still the M2 MacBook Pro 13-inch. I love it, but it feels small when I need a lot of screen actual state on the go. The 14-inch form factor, even in a standard screen resolution, is a fantastic size for portability and can still get real work done without compromising or needing an external monitor to see anything.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 G4: Unboxing & first impressions
The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 G4 comes in simple packaging for its professional target audience. When I unboxed it, I first noticed its two-tone Luna Gray aluminum chassis, which gives it a sleek and modern look.
The device feels sturdy and well-built, and the hinge supports smooth transitions between laptop and tablet modes. I will not damage the hinge easily when switching between modes, and primary use doesn't cause a lot of wear and tear. As mentioned, I love the size of the laptop. It feels robust without feeling bulky, minimalist, and accessible without feeling frail or limited.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 G4: Design and Build Quality
Specs
Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 155U RAM: 16GB Storage: 512GB SSD NVMe Display: 14" WUXGA IPS touchscreen (1920 x 1200) Graphics: Integrated Intel Graphics Ports: 2 x USB-A, 1 x USB-C, 1 x Thunderbolt 4, 1 x HDMI, microSD slot, headphone/mic jack Operating System: Windows 11 Pro Weight: 3.61 pounds Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
The ThinkBook 14 G4 sports a durable aluminum chassis with a slightly heavier build than other portable laptops, coming in at 3.61 pounds. Its compact dimensions (0.66 x 12.3 x 8.8 inches) make it a practical choice for on-the-go professionals. It's easy for me to throw in even my smaller backpacks, and I barely notice it once I throw them on my back. The 360-degree hinge is robust, allowing for flexible usage modes. The display is framed by slim bezels on three sides, giving it a modern look, though the bottom bezel is slightly thicker.
Overall, the design of this laptop will age well since it's sleek and modern yet not overly trendy. In addition to aging well, I have found more uses where this 2-in-1 design is handy than I thought I would. Of course, this works just fine as a standard laptop. In addition, though, I have found it to be a great tool to mark up documents on, even in portrait orientation; I have found myself keeping the laptop open but bending the keyboard back and under while plugging into my monitor so that I have a secondary display essentially popped right up and easy to use. This is a way that I never thought I'd want to try, but then, after attempting it, I get the best of both worlds; I still get to use my monitor, and now I get a highly intelligent screen added that doesn't cost any extra nor does it take up space and clutter my minimalist desk space.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 G4: In use
Performance-wise, the ThinkBook 14 G4 handles everyday tasks, from browsing to running productivity apps. The Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, paired with 16GB of RAM, ensures smooth multitasking. The keyboard is one of the standout features, offering a responsive and comfortable typing experience, further enhanced by its thoughtful layout. The trackpad, while not the largest, is sufficient and responsive.
For anything beyond mostly word processing or administrative tasks, I suggest bumping to at least these 16GB of RAM, especially on Intel chips. That seems to help things run smoother for longer. However, if you are looking for a cheap option and you don't think of yourself as running more than one thing at a time, nor are you going to be doing any heavy work on the machine, 8GB will be just fine for those like this that are a bit more casual with their work computer needs.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 G4: Final verdict
The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 G4 may differ from the flashiest or lightest convertible. Still, it delivers where it counts—reliable performance, excellent build quality, and a versatile design at a price that makes it accessible for small businesses and professionals. While it could benefit from a brighter display and newer Wi-Fi standards, these are minor trade-offs for what is otherwise a solid and dependable work companion.
Altogether, I have enjoyed using this computer. It's quick, a great size, does what I need it to do, Is powerful enough to handle the vast majority of tasks quickly, has excellent ports, looks sharp, and is at a fantastic price for the specs.
CPU: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 Processor Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU RAM: 32GB LPDDR5X Storage: 2TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD Left Ports: DCI-in, HDMI 2.1 FRL, USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C, 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack Right Ports: Micro SD 4.0 card reader, USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) (Triple band) 2x2, Bluetooth 5.4 Audio: Built-in speakers with Harman/Kardon premium audio, Smart Amp technology, built-in array microphone Camera: FHD camera with IR function to support Windows Hello Size: 29.82 x 20.99 x 1.58 ~ 1.77 cm (11.74" x 8.26" x 0.62" ~ 0.70") Weight: 1.38 kg (3.04 lbs) OS Installed: Windows 11 Home Accessories: Includes stylus support with up to 4096 pressure levels
The Asus ProArt PX13 is a compact and powerful laptop designed for creatives. While its hybrid design, enabling it to flip from a laptop to a tablet, isn't unique, its power and features tailored to the creative sector are.
It comes equipped with an AI-enhanced AMD CPU and NVIDI GPU, Windows 11 Home, a 2TB SSD, and 32GB of RAM, it can handle almost anything you throw at it. And if you need additional storage, the PX13 provides extensive connectivity options, including ultra-fast 40GB/s USB4.
Having reviewed the best laptops for photo editing, best laptops for graphic design, and the best video editing laptops, we were impressed with the ProArt's performance. It excelled when running demanding applications like Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Photoshop, and Lightroom, demonstrating its ability to power through intensive tasks effortlessly.
Alongside the AI-enhanced hardware is suite of Asus AI Apps, with the ProArt Creator Hub at its heart. These useful apps, such as MuseTree, which enables you to turn sketches into AI-generated creations, and StoryBoard, a powerful media manager, help you organize your images and videos automatically. The laptop's dual functionality as both a laptop and a tablet, combined with added features like the Asus DialPad for intuitive adjustments, all fine-tune its creative appeal.
Then there's the rugged design that meets military-grade durability standards, ensuring it can withstand more than a knock or two if you're involved with fieldwork or travel. Coupled with that compact and lightweight design, it makes this laptop perfect for if you're a creative professional who needs a portable, powerful computer to handle the latest media files, admin tasks, and even a bit of high-end gaming during work down times.
Few laptops can compete with the ProArt PX13 at this price point and power level. While alternatives like Windows tablets and the MacBook Pro exist, they don't offer the unique features that make the PX13 an excellent choice for creatives.
Asus ProArt PX13: Introduction
The Asus ProArt PX13 has been designed specifically for the creative industry, targeting professionals and content creators who demand high processing power, portability, and flexibility from their devices. With a price tag reflecting its premium features, this laptop stands out for its hybrid design, flipping seamlessly from a laptop to a tablet. This functionality, combined with advanced hardware and software, makes it a formidable tool for creatives and content creators.
A standout feature of the PX13 is its ability to transform into a tablet. While this isn't unique, it's the combination of this feature with software applications and hardware additions, such as an array of ports and the Asus DialPad, tailors this to the creative market.
Under the hood, the PX13 boasts an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 Processor 2.0GHz processor, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU, and the AMD XDNA NPU, which significantly boosts performance beyond typical expectations.
The screen is a critical component for creatives. While it's only 13.3 inches, it meets the 100% DCI-P3 colour standard, ensuring vibrant and accurate colour reproduction. The screen's brightness can be adjusted for optimal visibility both indoors and outdoors, making it perfect for fieldwork and studio use.
Durability is another key feature, with the PX13 meeting US MIL-STD 810H military-grade standards. This is particularly reassuring for creatives who know how much wear and tear their equipment can endure, especially during busy photo or video shoots where gear is constantly moved around.
The PX13 is ideal for creators working in the field, allowing them to use it as a standard laptop for administrative tasks and script checks and then switch to editing video and images with ease. Its hybrid design offers the best of both worlds, but does this combination truly meet the practical needs of creatives?
Asus ProArt PX13: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The ProArt PX13 (HN7306WI) costs approximately $2000/£2000 and can be purchased directly from the Asus website and major retailers such as Best Buy and Amazon.
Price: 5/5
Asus ProArt PX13: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The Asus ProArt PX13 is designed to be compact at; 29.82 x 20.99 x 1.58cm, and weighing in at 1.38kg, making it ideal if you work in the field or travel frequently. Despite its size, it houses a powerful CPU and GPU, along with advanced AI capabilities, offering performance far beyond typical 13-inch laptops.
The build quality is exceptional, with a tough, US MIL-STD 810H military-grade standard, casing that protects against rough handling. The robust hinges allow the screen to flip 360 degrees, transforming the laptop into a tablet. This flexibility of being able to flip from tablet to laptop is enhanced by the full-size keyboard and large trackpad, which includes the innovative Asus DialPad for intuitive control in creative applications such as adjusting brush sizes in Photoshop.
Connectivity is well catered for, with multiple ports, including USB Type-A, USB Type-C, and HDMI, making it easy to connect to external devices and display systems; there's also a MicroSD card slot, ideal for downloading footage from GoPro Hero12 Black and DJI Drones such as the Mavic 3 Pro. The keyboard and touchpad with that DialPad complement the 13.3-inch touchscreen, which supports 4096 pressure levels when used with the Asus Stylus, making it perfect for precise creative work, and it's possible to replicate the effects of traditional art tools.
The touchscreen's slightly glossy finish is less reflective than many others, ensuring visibility outdoors, and is designed to minimize fingerprints. The laptop's design is equally suited for studio and outdoor use, allowing for easy tethering to camera systems and monitors indoors, while outdoors its durable build makes it perfect for field use and travel.
Design: 5/5
Asus ProArt PX13: Features
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
For a laptop with a 13.3-inch screen, the PX13 packs an impressive array of features. Weighing just 1.38 kg, it's compact and slim enough to fit into any standard camera backpack or laptop bag. It comes preinstalled with Windows 11 Home, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of apps, and can be used in laptop, tablet, stand, or tent mode. Asus recommends an upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for business use.
The PX13 features an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, providing up to 50 TOPS, 65W CPU TDP, and speeds up to 5.1 GHz with 12 cores. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU with 8GB GDDR6 VRAM supports real-time ray tracing and AI-enhanced computing, ideal for video editing and 3D design. Additionally, the AMD XDNA NPU boosts AI capabilities, working seamlessly with Windows Copilot and Asus AI applications.
The advanced cooling system, with noticeable venting around the body, keeps the laptop cool even under heavy use. With 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM running at 7500 MHz and a 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, the PX13 offers robust performance and storage. For video editors, it's worth noting that this laptop features two USB4 ports to attach card readers and external SSDs with a max transfer speed of 40GB/s.
Software such as the ProArt Creator Hub, StoryCube, and MuseTree help you organize and manage files easily with a little AI assistance. The Asus DialPad, integrated into the touchpad, enhances control in creative applications, and the control and settings for this can be adjusted in the Creator Hub software.
The 3K OLED touchscreen (2880 x 1800) meets the DCI-P3 color standard at 100% and supports 4096 pressure levels with the MPP 2.0 stylus. It also boasts certifications for low blue light and colour accuracy.
Connectivity options include a DC-in port, HDMI 2.1, USB4 Type-C, a 3.5mm headphone jack, an SD card reader, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, and another USB4 Type-C port, which are well spaced along each side of the laptop. Wi-Fi 7 ensures high-speed wireless connectivity, though a USB Type-C adapter is needed for wired LAN networks.
Audio is powered by Harman Kardon with Dolby Atmos, featuring a smart amplifier and three microphones for better audio during video conferencing. When it comes to features, the ProArt PX13 is packed with hardware and software enhancements that have been chosen to appeal to the needs of the creative industry.
Features: 5/5
Asus ProArt PX13: Performance
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks
CrystalDiskMark Read: 5279.99 MB/s CrystalDiskMark Write: 4891.72 MB/s GeekBench CPU Single: 15022 GeekBench CPU Multi: 2852 GeekBench Compute: 110282 PCMark: 7790 CineBench CPU Multi: 19459 CineBench CPU Single: 1952 Fire Strike Overall: 22823 Fire Strike Graphics: 25430 Fire Strike Physics: 27797 Fire Strike Combined: 11203 Time Spy Overall: 9556 Time Spy Graphics: 9491 Time Spy CPU: 9942 Wild Life: 49023 Windows Experience: 8.3
It is a bit surprising that a laptop of this size and price runs on Windows 11 Home rather than Pro, although Asus does recommend an upgrade for business use. Upgrading is easy. However, it does come at an additional cost. During this review, we utilized Windows 11 home and installed various creative apps, including Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom Classic, Premiere Pro, and DaVinci Resolve. To push the graphics capability, we also installed a variety of games alongside less processor-intensive application suites such as the Microsoft Office suite.
Starting with basic tasks like browsing the internet and using office applications, the PX13 performs exceptionally well. The small screen is just large enough for working on documents, checking spreadsheets, and browsing the internet. The touchscreen interaction, especially in Excel, allows for quick navigation and adjustments, making it incredibly intuitive. Using the stylus alongside Excel enhances this experience, making it far easier than without the touchscreen capability. If you're used to larger screens then the size of the small 13.3-inch screen will take a little getting used to.
Moving on to Microsoft Word and other Office applications, the laptop operates smoothly with no issues, providing a pleasant enough experience. The adjustable screen brightness is a nice and standard feature, ensuring comfortable usage in various lighting conditions.
Switching to more demanding tasks like editing images within Adobe Photoshop, the laptop handles high-resolution images from the Canon EOS R5C again with ease. Multiplying layers, making adjustments, and applying effects were all managed seamlessly. The integration of the Asus DialPad made brush adjustments intuitive, allowing for natural control over the adjustments, especially when using the dodge and burn tools.
The ability to adjust the brush size with the dial while adjusting the pressure to alter the intensity of the brush made enhancing images far quicker and a more natural process. The combination of the dial and the stylus make a huge difference to the quality of the work.
The stylus's 4096 pressure sensitivity levels make the experience of both enhancing and drawing more like traditional art, enabling precise control and natural-looking artwork.
For video editing, the PX13 excels. We started with 1080p footage shot on the Sony A7 Mark IV, and the laptop handled it effortlessly. Using an external SSD for additional storage, we edited and graded 15-minute sequences in Premiere Pro without issues. Moving on to 4K footage, the laptop again performed well, enabling smooth editing and grading.
Exporting footage for final output and uploading to YouTube was quick, again showing the laptop's power. It's worth noting that even when the laptop was working at full capacity, the fan noise remained acceptable.
The laptop's battery life is about five hours for general tasks. However, when video editing, this drops to around one hour and 10 minutes per charge.
We also tested gaming performance with titles like Tekken 8, Cyberpunk 2077, and Hogwarts Legacy. The PX13 handled these games well, providing a smooth experience even when connected to a larger TV screen.
Finally, benchmark tests backed up what we had experienced in the real world tests with the results seen in the benchmark tests:
Performance: 5/5
Should you buy the Asus ProArt PX13?
The performance of the Asus ProArt PX13 is impressive from the outset. While some laptops and tablets rival its performance, Asus has struck a perfect balance with the PX13, making it highly appealing to the creative industry. Many creatives rely on Apple MacBook Pros, but the prohibitive cost of these machines has led to an increased interest in Windows alternatives. The PX13 packs desirable features into a compact design.
The laptop's durability will appeal to creatives. The PX13 feels robust, and this is reinforced by its meeting military-grade standards. Its hybrid design enables it to quickly flip from a laptop into a tablet and with the addition of the stylus this becomes and increadibly powerful creative tool. One of the stand out feature is that ability to flip the keyboard and while this enables it to switch from PC to tablet that mechanism can also be used to positioned the screen for various uses, such as watching movies or playing games.
The processing power is impressive for such a small machine. It easily handles Microsoft Office applications and excels in creative applications like Photoshop and Lightroom. It also performs well when editing 4K video in Premiere Pro, although additional storage is necessary for larger projects. The 2TB of internal storage and the option to connect external SSDs via USB4 ports ensure that speed and storage capacity should meet your creative needs.
Like all the best 2-in-1 laptops, the Asus ProArt PX13 is a hybrid that converts to a tablet, giving you the best of both worlds, and making it an excellent solution for creatives. Its combination of power, durability, and flexibility makes it an ideal choice for professionals in the creative sector. Whether in the studio, café or on set, this laptop really does work well in adapting to all situations and uses.
