Buzz
Microsoft once left me in awe with the excellent support of the latest Windows version. The practical touch screen laptops fueled my passion for technology. And Zenbook compelled me to reconsider PC systems due to the refined elegance that ASUS has instilled.
1. Review of ASUS Zenbook UX302L: ASUS's Sublime Elegance
What defines a perfect laptop for you? High-end specifications? Exceptional flexibility? Or the overall elegance in design? MacBook Air stands as an epitome of 'all-in-one'. But that's in the realm of Mac OS. In the PC world, there are a few equally remarkable contenders. ASUS's latest Zenbook - UX302 - is the response within the Windows OS ecosystem.
Personally, I've been accustomed to MacBook for quite some time due to work demands. I chose MacBook for its distinct, refined design, unmatched by any other laptop. I chose MacBook for its meticulously crafted aluminum casing, reflecting the appreciation Apple extends to its users. And I chose MacBook for its relatively flawless MAC OS operating system. But I'm reconsidering my preconceptions...
Microsoft once astounded me with the superb support of the latest Windows version. The convenient touch screen laptops stirred my enthusiasm for technology. And Zenbook compelled me to turn back to the PC platform due to the refined elegance that ASUS has instilled.
Zenbook: Sleek and Elegant. The latest Zenbook generation, UX302, is even slimmer, which I know doesn't lag behind Apple's flagship Air model. Weighing just over 1kg, it showcases excellent portability that most avid computer users, like myself, deeply appreciate. While the MacBook Air captivates with its signature silver aluminum chassis, the Zenbook is equally impressive with its meticulously crafted aluminum body. However, the Zenbook stands out with its glossy, eye-catching lid available in various colors.
Scratch-resistant concentric patterns along with the glossy glass surface create a visually pleasing light effect for the Zenbook. But all of this would be meaningless if that glossiness couldn't withstand the test of time. Gorilla Glass 3 ensures durability. ASUS made a sophisticated choice by opting for this toughened glass to shield the most vulnerable part of the laptop. Gorilla Glass 3's Native Damage Resistance (NDR) technology enhances scratch resistance. Combined with precision Diamond-Cutting and CNC manufacturing, the Zenbook adorns itself elegantly on two semantic levels: the beauty of technology and the enduring perfection over time.
Mac OS convinced me with its stability. But that was in the past when Apple upheld simplicity and practicality. Chasing after technology has made Mac OS sluggish, akin to the Windows OS that I once detested. Looking back at Windows, version 8.1 pre-installed on the Zenbook seems a bit daunting, but it also appears quite promising. The Zenbook made me, and perhaps anyone, pause to try using a smartphone on a computer – tapping icons on the screen to execute actions. I favored the MacBook for its lightweight keyboard, responsive touchpad. The Zenbook has it all. Moreover, it features a touchscreen, making software interactions more intuitive and convenient.
Perhaps due to the excellent machine configuration, my apprehension towards 'lagging behind in the Windows world' has diminished. Conversely, it feels quite exhilarating, akin to a child finding a new source of amusement. I'm not overly concerned with any specifications like 'top-notch configuration' or 'high-end equipment'… Press and play, the experience feels satisfying enough. Another feature that made me love Mac OS is the Sleep-Wake function when folding and unfolding the screen. Testing it directly, with the Zenbook, with the new Windows, is quite satisfying.
Besides work, entertainment is also a support that every computer user cares about. The MacBook pleased me with its beautiful, detailed screen and good sound. But I felt slightly disappointed as entertainment support on Mac OS is somewhat limited compared to Windows. Music and video playback software on Mac OS are sufficient, but still lag behind in terms of quantity and extended feature support. Mac OS has very few games despite the emphasis on hardware configuration on devices running Mac OS. Returning to Windows this time – the experience is entirely different, with the Zenbook.
The Zenbook screen may not be the most premium, but it's also not lacking in technology or display capabilities. The 13.3-inch FullHD resolution screen, IPS technology provides detailed, realistic display in any task. The premium sound system with SonicMaster technology delivers standard audio quality. Good machine configuration makes it easy to enjoy many great games on Windows, or simply with the 'small but good' game collection available on the Store. The good thing is that Windows builds a software system compatible with their new products much better than what Apple has. Although the Appstore on iOS is great, on Mac OS, in the entertainment sector, it's rather dull.
Comparatively, Zenbook doesn't surpass my MacBook significantly. However, with Windows and the excellent support of this operating system, coupled with ASUS's meticulous design language 'even more refined than Apple'… Zenbook makes me take a second look…
