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Is the new ASUS ZenBook 3 the (best) MacBook clone for Windows users?
With the launch of its ZenBook 3, ASUSTek Computer Inc. has taken on Apple by designing a MacBook clone that is thinner, lighter and faster. The ZenBook 3 measures just 0.46-inches and weighs just 2lbs. Under the hood, the top-of-the-range ZenBook 3 truly takes on the MacBook by having the latest-generation i7 processor, 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD.
Launched at Computex 2016 in Taiwan, ASUS says the lightness is thanks to the ZenBook 3 being crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy and features the signature ZenBook spun-metal finish.
Here’s a look at how the ASUS ZenBook 3 compares to the Retina MacBook and another ultra-portable contender, the recently unveiled HP Spectre 13.
|
ASUS ZenBook 3 |
Retina MacBook |
HP Spectre 13 |
|
| Processor |
Intel Core i5 and i7 processors |
1.1GHz or 1.2GHz dual-core Intel Core M processor (Turbo Boost up to 2.4GHz) with 4MB shared L3 cache Configurable to 1.3GHz dual-core Intel Core M processor (Turbo Boost up to 2.9GHz) with 4MB shared L3 cache. |
Intel Core i5 and i7 processors |
| Memory |
Up to 16GB |
8GB of 1600MHz LPDDR3 onboard memory |
Up to 8GB |
| Hard Drive / Storage |
Up to a 1TB PCIe SSD |
256GB PCIe-based onboard flash storage, Configurable to 512GB flash storage. |
Up to 512GB PCIe SSD |
| Display and webcam |
High-resolution 12.5-inch display has a wide 72 percent NTSC color gamut. Edge-to-edge display with Corning Gorilla Glass 4. |
Retina display 12-inch (diagonal) LED-backlit display with IPS technology (2304 x 1440 at 226 ppi), Intel HD Graphics 5300, 480p FaceTime camera |
Full HD IPS edge-to-edge display with Corning Gorilla, no detail on webcam as yet. |
| Wireless |
No details available yet. |
802.11ac Wi-Fi wireless networking; IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n compatible, Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology. |
Next-generation 802.11 ac 2×2 Wi-Fi antenna. |
| Audio |
Quad-speaker audio by Harman Kardon |
Stereo speakers, Dual microphones, Headphone port, Support for Apple iPhone headset with remote and microphone |
Stereo speakers by Bang & Olufsen with HP Audio Boost technology |
| Ports and connectors |
One Thunderbolt 3/USB-C port for charging and connecting peripherals. Included in the box is a USB 3.0, USB-C, and HDMI ports. A larger universal dock is available with additional connectivity options. |
One USB-C port with support for: Charging USB 3.1 Gen 1 (up to 5 Gbps) Native DisplayPort 1.2 video output VGA output using USB-C VGA Multiport Adapter (sold separately) HDMI video output using USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter (sold separately) |
Three full function USB Type-C connectors, including two of which support Thunderbolt. |
| Battery |
Up to 9 hours of battery life. |
Up to 9 hours wireless web, Up to 10 hours iTunes movie playback, Up to 30 days of standby time, Built-in 39.7-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery, 29W USB-C Power Adapter; USB-C power port |
Hybrid battery split into two thinner pieces delivers the same wattage as a single battery for up to 9 and half hours of battery life. |
| Dimensions and weight |
0.46” thick, 2 lbs |
11.04” x 0.14–0.52” x 7.74, 2.03 lbs |
0.41” thick, 2.45 lbs “as thin as an AAA-battery” |
| Price |
Starting price at $999. Available in Q3 2016. |
$1,299: 256GB$1,599: 512GB |
Starting price at $1,169.99, pre-orders open April 25. |
Design
The sleek ASUS ZenBook 3 is made from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, which the company says is 50 percent stronger than the standard alloy used in laptops. A slim bezel design provides an 82 percent screen-to-body ratio.
The ZenBook 3 also has an optional built-in fingerprint reader with Windows Hello support, allowing you to quickly and securely sign in. Apple is rumored to be including TouchID into its MacBook Pros that will possibly make an appearance at WWDC on June, 13.
The ZenBook 3 also has a glass-covered touchpad, which incorporates palm-rejection technology, Smart Gestures, and handwriting support.
Lightweight and super thin
The ZenBook 3 is just 0.46-inches or 11.9 mm thick and while the HP Spectre still holds its claimed title of “world’s thinnest laptop” measuring just 0.41-inches, the ZenBook 3 does beat the Retina MacBook that measures in at 0.51-inches.
Where the ZenBook 3 beats both the HP Spectre and Retina MacBook is by being lightweight. The ZenBook 3 weighs just 2lbs, compared to 2.03 lbs of the MacBook and 2.45 lbs for the HP Spectre.
Processor
The ASUS ZenBook 3 matches the HP Spectre’s processors and is available with either an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor. The MacBook, on the other hand, is only available with an Intel Core M option.
When it comes to cooling the company has said it has developed the “world’s thinnest fan design” for the ZenBook 3, measuring in at just 3mm.
Battery
All three machines are pretty much on par when it comes to battery life, offering between 9 and 9.5 hours. The ZenBook 3 also offers fast-charge technology allowing the battery to be charged up to 60 percent capacity in just 49 minutes.
Price and availability
The ASUS ZenBook 3 with Core i5 processor, 4GB of RAM and 256GB SSD will cost $999 while a 512GB SSD will set you back $1,499. The top of the range ZenBook 3 with Core i7 processor, 1TB SSD and 16GB of RAM is priced at $1,999. The company hasn’t released availability details yet, but according to MacRumors, the new ZenBook 3 will be available in the third quarter of 2016.
Images via: ASUS
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