Some of our readers will remember the new Asus UX21 ultra-thin laptop that was announced recently. It is part of Intel’s new ‘Ultrabook’ laptop class and is designed to be thin and light. Asus is obviously hoping it will be able to take on Apple’s MacBook Air.
It looks like the Asus UX21 will retail for under $1,000, and according to a recent report, Asus is intending to price the UX21 at around 80 to 90 percent of the cost of Apple’s MacBook Air.
The Asus UX21 will come with Intel’s latest Core i7 processor and it features an ultra-slim design, and looks very good from the photos we have seen so far. If Asus is able to price the UX21 at 80 or 90 percent of Apple’s MacBook Air, then we suspect that this could end up being a very popular laptop.
Design and Build Quality
The design of the Asus UX21 is one of its most striking features. With a sleek aluminum body, it exudes a premium feel that rivals the MacBook Air. The ultra-thin profile makes it highly portable, perfect for professionals and students who are always on the go. The build quality is robust, ensuring that the laptop can withstand the rigors of daily use. The keyboard is backlit, which is a boon for those who work in low-light conditions. The touchpad is spacious and responsive, making navigation a breeze.
Performance and Features
Under the hood, the Asus UX21 is powered by Intel’s latest Core i7 processor, which promises top-notch performance. This makes it suitable for a variety of tasks, from everyday computing to more demanding applications like video editing and gaming. The laptop also comes with SSD storage, which significantly speeds up boot times and application loading times.
One of the standout features of the UX21 is its battery life. Despite its slim profile, the laptop boasts impressive battery longevity, allowing users to work for extended periods without needing to recharge. This is particularly useful for those who travel frequently or work in environments where power outlets are not readily available.
The UX21 also includes a range of connectivity options, including USB 3.0 ports, HDMI output, and a headphone jack. This ensures that users can easily connect their peripherals and external devices without any hassle. The inclusion of USB 3.0 is particularly noteworthy as it offers faster data transfer speeds compared to the older USB 2.0 standard.
Market Position and Competition
Asus is clearly positioning the UX21 as a direct competitor to Apple’s MacBook Air. By pricing it at 80 to 90 percent of the cost of the MacBook Air, Asus is making a bold statement. They are offering a high-quality, high-performance laptop at a more affordable price point. This strategy could attract a significant number of customers who are looking for a premium laptop experience without the premium price tag.
The Ultrabook category, introduced by Intel, aims to combine the performance and capabilities of today’s laptops with tablet-like features such as instant-on and long battery life. The UX21 fits perfectly into this category, offering a blend of performance, portability, and design.
The Asus UX21 is shaping up to be a formidable contender in the ultra-thin laptop market. With its sleek design, powerful performance, and competitive pricing, it has the potential to give the MacBook Air a run for its money. Whether you’re a professional looking for a reliable work machine or a student in need of a portable yet powerful laptop, the Asus UX21 is definitely worth considering.
Source Engadget
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
