While Asus is largely known for their “value-for-money” computers, the company has not been one to steer clear of stylish units either. The latest of their fashionable efforts is a 15.6-inch laptop called the Asus UX50V, which marries ultra-slim lines with a low-voltage CPU.
The machine is as predictable as any of the recent slim-and-light notebooks we’ve recently seen. Hardware details include a choice of low-power CPUs (choice of a 1.4GHz Intel SU3500 Core 2 Solo or an Intel Core 2 Duo SU9300), integrated Intel GMA 4500MHD chipset, discrete Nvidia Geforce G105M graphics, 4GB of RAM and a 500GB HDD.
With specs like that, you can’t really expect much out of the machine. It breezes through most regular applications, especially those you’ll encounter performing daily office tasks. It can even manage 720p video playback and a few gaming talents, most of which look good on the bright and glossy LCD screen with a 1366 x 768 resolution. Don’t try pushing it, though – the machine’s just gonna tip over.
As with other slim portable computers, the UX50V comes with a very appealing design, measuring 29mm at its thinnest point. The majority of ports have been relegated to the back of the unit, which helps preserve the laptop’s flowing lines; only a USB port, an SD card slot and a Wi-Fi button sit on the left side; the right side rocks a full-featured DVD writer. Of course, this makes plugging and removing accessories more difficult than it has to. Aaah, the things we do for style.
The chiclet-style keyboard is good, but it takes some getting used to. I’m sure many will appreciate the addition of the number pad, but it leaves things a little too tight, in my opinion. The touch pad is excellent, as well.
Overall, the Asus UX50V is a nice-looking, moderately capable laptop. It’s a bit heavier than most ultraportables (5.5 lbs), but comes in just a tad thinner. Priced at $1,149, it’s an interesting purchase with some heavy competition. While I think this machine can hold its own, it pales a little next to a few similar units, such as the Dell Studio 15.
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