Category: Computers

  • Razer Blade Laptops Unavailable in US After Trump Tariff Announcement

    Razer Blade Laptops Unavailable in US After Trump Tariff Announcement

    Key Takeaways

    1. Trump’s new tariffs are impacting the laptop industry, affecting brands like Razer that rely on production in Asian countries.
    2. The Razer Blade gaming laptops are currently out of stock in the US, with no updates from Razer on restocking plans.
    3. Framework has been more transparent about their response to tariffs, pausing sales of certain models while keeping others available.
    4. Manufacturers face tough choices due to tariff impacts, with many pausing sales instead of raising prices.
    5. Razer laptops remain available on the Canadian site without price increases, but this situation may change as tariffs continue to affect the global market.

    The recent announcement about additional tariffs from Trump is starting to impact the laptop industry more and more. Several brands, including Razer, depend heavily on production in countries like China, Taiwan, or Vietnam. Currently, the popular Razer Blade gaming laptops are out of stock at the US online store. Razer has not commented on the situation, leaving customers curious about their plans regarding tariffs.

    Changes Noticed

    The Verge was among the first to spot these updates on Razer’s site. Just before the Trump tariffs made news on April 2nd, the Razer Blade 16 was available for purchase. Now, buyers can’t customize it anymore, and other laptop models only show a “Notify Me” option without any information on when they might be back in stock.

    Transparent Responses

    Framework, another laptop manufacturer, has been more open about how they are dealing with the tariffs. On April 7th, the company from California posted on X that they were stopping sales of several 13-inch models. Nevertheless, some of the more expensive models are still available.

    Dilemma for Manufacturers

    Even though companies like Framework and Razer have bases in the US, they still depend on manufacturing and parts from Asian countries. Since the Trump tariffs target imports from these regions, these manufacturers are faced with a tough choice. At this moment, many brands are opting to pause sales, hoping that negotiations will help lower the extra costs. The last option would be to increase prices, but most companies are hesitant to take that step.

    Interestingly, Razer laptops can still be found on the brand’s Canadian site without increased prices. However, this may change soon. With factories located in China and Vietnam, Nintendo made headlines by delaying the pre-orders for the Switch 2 in the US. Shortly after, they announced the same decision for Canada. Nintendo stated that it was part of a plan to better coordinate the console release. Regardless, the impact of Trump’s tariffs is affecting the global market, putting consumers everywhere at risk.

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    Razer Blade Laptops Unavailable in US After Trump Tariff Announcement

     

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  • Aoostar GT37: Affordable Competitor to Minsiforum EliteMini AI370

    Aoostar GT37: Affordable Competitor to Minsiforum EliteMini AI370

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aoostar GT37 offers better specifications than Minisforum EliteMini AI370 at a lower price ($879 vs. $1,099).
    2. The GT37 includes an OCuLink port, making it suitable for eGPU setups, though the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU may reduce the need for it.
    3. The Radeon 890M in the GT37 effectively manages most AAA games at 1080p with medium settings.
    4. The mini PC features Ice Glacier Cooling 3.0 for reliable performance during demanding tasks.
    5. Other features include a USB4 port, WiFi 7, modern metal chassis design, two PCIe 4.0 slots, 8,000 MHz RAM, and support for triple display outputs.

    Aoostar has now opened pre-orders for the GT37, which is a mini PC that offers better specifications than the Minisforum EliteMini AI370, and it comes at a lower price. To be more specific, the AI370 with 32 GB RAM and 1 TB storage costs $1,099, while the new GT37 is available for pre-sale at just $879 with the same memory and storage options.

    Enhanced Features

    What sets the Aoostar GT37 apart from the Minisforum EliteMini AI370 is the inclusion of an OCuLink port. This feature makes the GT37 a more suitable option for those looking to use an eGPU setup. However, it’s worth noting that with the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU included, many users might not feel the necessity to utilize that port at all.

    Performance Insights

    Inside the Strix Point APU, you will find the Radeon 890M, which has proven itself to be quite effective at managing most AAA games at 1080p with medium settings. Aoostar points out that the Strix Point APU is combined with Ice Glacier Cooling 3.0, ensuring reliable performance even during demanding tasks.

    In addition to the OCuLink port, the Aoostar GT37 is equipped with a USB4 port that enhances its compatibility with eGPUs (like the GMKtec AD-GP1, currently priced at $469.99 on Amazon). The other available ports on this mini PC include:

    For wireless connections, the mini PC features WiFi 7, although Aoostar hasn’t confirmed if Bluetooth is included. As for its design, the GT37 boasts a modern metal chassis that measures 11.2 cm in width and stands 6 cm tall. Additional features of the system are two PCIe 4.0 slots, 8,000 MHz RAM, and it supports triple display outputs. Be sure to look at the images below for more details.

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    Aoostar GT37: Affordable Competitor to Minsiforum EliteMini AI370Aoostar GT37: Affordable Competitor to Minsiforum EliteMini AI370

     

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  • ESR Unveils Magnetic Mouse with Built-in Charging Cable

    ESR Unveils Magnetic Mouse with Built-in Charging Cable

    Key Takeaways

    1. ESR has introduced a new mouse, the MagMouse, featuring a unique HaloLock dock for easy access.
    2. The MagMouse offers up to 160 hours of battery life and recharges in just 45 minutes.
    3. It includes 6 DPI settings, quieter buttons, and a tilting scroll wheel for enhanced navigation.
    4. ESR aims to provide a smarter and faster scrolling experience with the MagMouse.
    5. The MagMouse will launch on Kickstarter on April 8, 2025, with a promotional offer for early backers.

    ESR is widely recognized for its magnetic accessories designed for iPhones and smartphones. However, the company has now applied its expertise to introduce a new mouse.

    Innovative Docking System

    According to the brand, this mouse is unique because it features a HaloLock dock that attaches to a laptop’s lid, ensuring that the device is always within easy reach.

    The MagMouse boasts an impressive battery life, allowing up to 160 hours of usage via Bluetooth or 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. It can recharge in just 45 minutes with its built-in cable.

    Enhanced Features

    This accessory comes with 6 different DPI settings, although the highest sensitivity level has not been disclosed yet. The buttons are designed to be up to 90% quieter compared to standard mice, and the scroll wheel can tilt both right and left to navigate the cursor in those directions.

    ESR emphasizes that users will “scroll smarter and work faster,” all while enjoying a comfortable experience with the new mouse.

    Launch and Pricing

    Unlike its iPhone cases that are available on Amazon, ESR has chosen to launch the MagMouse through Kickstarter, which will happen in approximately 19 days (April 8, 2025).

    In the meantime, the company is offering an opportunity to “lock in $8 off” the innovative accessory, but this requires a $1 deposit.

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  • GPD Pocket 3 Refresh: New Intel Processor Upgrade Available

    GPD Pocket 3 Refresh: New Intel Processor Upgrade Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. GPD has updated the Pocket 3 with a new Core i3-1125G4 processor, replacing the previous Pentium Gold 7505.
    2. The new processor is expected to provide a 33% performance increase compared to the Pentium Gold 7505.
    3. GPD has discontinued the Pocket 3 model with the higher-performing Core i7-1195G7 processor.
    4. The updated Pocket 3 is available for HKD $5,422 (~$698) on Indiegogo, featuring 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD.
    5. Shipping for new Pocket 3 orders is expected to start from April 15, 2025.

    GPD has refreshed yet another of its older devices, recently updating the Win Mini, Win Max 2, and Win 4 with AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU. This time, the company has taken another look at the Pocket 3, even though the Pocket 4 was released about six months ago (curr. $1,481 on Amazon).

    A Brief Overview

    GPD first launched the Pocket 3 in November 2021, offering options between the Intel Core i7-1195G7 and the Pentium Silver N6000 processors. Last year, the company upgraded the Pentium Silver N6000 to the Pentium Gold 7505, providing a 33% performance increase along with Thunderbolt 4 support.

    New Changes

    Now, the Pentium Gold 7505 has been replaced by the Core i3-1125G4, which is expected to deliver another 33% boost in performance. However, GPD has stopped selling the Pocket 3 with the Core i7-1195G7, which outperformed the Core i3-1125G4 by nearly the same amount. The graphics capabilities will also be noticeably inferior on the Core i3-1125G4 compared to the Core i7-1195G7. For more detailed information, check out our benchmarks comparison.

    Availability and Pricing

    The updated Pocket 3 can currently be found on Indiegogo for HKD $5,422 (~$698) and comes with 16 GB of LPDDR4x-3733 RAM, a 512 GB PCIe 4.0 (M.2 2280) SSD, an active stylus, and two expansion modules. As of the time this was published, GPD aims to start shipping new Pocket 3 orders from April 15, 2025, onwards. For further details, refer to GPD’s Indiegogo campaign page.

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    GPD Pocket 3 Refresh: New Intel Processor Upgrade AvailableGPD Pocket 3 Refresh: New Intel Processor Upgrade AvailableGPD Pocket 3 Refresh: New Intel Processor Upgrade Available

     

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  • CalDigit Launches New TS5 Thunderbolt 5 Docking Stations

    CalDigit Launches New TS5 Thunderbolt 5 Docking Stations

    Key Takeaways

    1. CalDigit has introduced the TS5 and TS5 Plus docking stations, enhancing previous Thunderbolt docks like the TS4, compatible with various Mac and PC devices.
    2. The TS5 features 15 ports, while the TS5 Plus offers 20 ports, both connecting via Thunderbolt 5 with 120Gb/s performance and up to 140W charging.
    3. The TS5 has four Thunderbolt 5 ports; the TS5 Plus has three but includes more USB ports and dual USB controllers for better bandwidth.
    4. The TS5 offers 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, whereas the TS5 Plus upgrades to 10 Gigabit Ethernet; both models include audio jacks and SD/microSD slots.
    5. Pricing is set at $499.99 for the TS5 Plus and $369.99 for the TS5 in the US, with European prices at €469 and €350, respectively.

    CalDigit has revealed the TS5 and TS5 Plus docking stations for markets in North America and Europe. These new accessories enhance the previous Thunderbolt docks, such as the TS4, and can work with a range of Mac and PC devices. The TS5 features a total of 15 ports, whereas the TS5 Plus boasts 20 ports.

    Thunderbolt Connection

    Both docking stations connect to the host devices using Thunderbolt 5, delivering a performance of 120Gb/s and offering up to 140W of charging. Additionally, the PCIe performance has increased, doubling from the TS4 to reach 64 Gb/s. You can connect up to three displays that support resolutions of up to 4K@144Hz or 8K@60Hz for dual displays, depending on the capabilities of the host device. Monitors can be hooked up using Thunderbolt 5 or DisplayPort (available only on TS5 Plus).

    Port Differences

    The TS5 has four Thunderbolt 5 ports, while the TS5 Plus contains three. Nonetheless, the Plus model has a greater number of USB-C and USB-A ports, featuring five of each, allowing for a data transfer speed of 10 Gb/s. It’s interesting to note that the TS5 Plus includes dual USB controllers, which enhance the bandwidth. The TS5 provides 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, whereas the TS5 Plus upgrades to 10 Gigabit Ethernet. Both models come with a DC power supply and have three audio jacks, and also offer SD 4.0 (UHS-II) and microSD 4.0 (UHS-II) slots.

    Pricing and Availability

    The CalDigit TS5 Plus docking station is set to launch in the US later in April at a price of $499.99, while the TS5 will be available in May for $369.99. This pricing makes the TS5 a bit less expensive than the TS4, which is currently listed on Amazon for $379.99. In Europe, the TS5 Plus will arrive in May with a price tag of €469, followed by the TS5 in June, which will retail for €350.

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    CalDigit Launches New TS5 Thunderbolt 5 Docking StationsCalDigit Launches New TS5 Thunderbolt 5 Docking Stations

     

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  • Framework Halts Laptop Sales Due to New US Tariffs

    Framework Halts Laptop Sales Due to New US Tariffs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Framework has paused sales of two laptop models in the US due to new 10% tariffs affecting electronics from Taiwan.
    2. The company stated that the pricing was based on previous 0% tariffs, making it unfeasible to sell the least powerful model without incurring losses.
    3. Current laptop models with the Intel Ultra 7 processors are still available at discounts, while those with the AMD 7640AU processor remain listed with a slight price reduction.
    4. Other companies, including Nintendo and Jaguar Land Rover, are also reacting to the tariff hike by delaying product launches and reassessing strategies.
    5. The tariff impact is widespread, with luxury brands like Rolex and automotive manufacturers like Stellantis pausing operations and shipments.

    Modular laptop maker has shared on their X account that they are halting sales in the US due to new tariffs. Framework indicated that sales have been paused for two Framework Laptop 13 models that include Intel’s Core Ultra 5 125H and AMD’s Ryzen 5 7640AU.

    Pricing Adjustments

    In a follow-up post (as seen on Engadget), the company explained that their pricing was based on previous tariffs, which were 0% for Taiwan. With the new 10% rate, they would end up selling their least powerful model at a loss.

    Framework also highlighted that other electronics companies have done similar calculations, although not all have been transparent about their findings.

    Current Listings

    As of now, the SKUs with the Ultra 5 125H seem to be taken down from the listings, but the Ultra 7 155H and Ultra 7 165H models are available at a discount of 8%. The units with the AMD 7640AU processor are still listed, with a price reduction of 4%. Additionally, both variations of the 7840U SKUs are currently available at 13% and 7% off.

    Framework isn’t the only one responding to the new tariffs. Nintendo has recently postponed the pre-orders for the Switch 2 indefinitely as a result of the tariff hike. British car manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover has also stopped shipments to reassess their strategies. Jaguar is among several car makers, including Audi, Porsche, Lotus, and Volkswagen, that have temporarily halted shipments.

    Industry Reactions

    Luxury watch brands like Rolex and Breitling have also declared a pause. Stellantis, which owns Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group, has temporarily shut down its factories in Canada and Mexico.

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  • GMKtec Launches Strix Halo EVO-X2 for Global Availability

    GMKtec Launches Strix Halo EVO-X2 for Global Availability

    Key Takeaways

    1. GMKtec has launched the Strix Halo mini PC, EVO-X2, in China and plans a global release starting April 15, 2025.
    2. The EVO-X2 is priced at CNY 14,999 (approximately $2,053) in China, making it one of the more expensive mini PCs available.
    3. A second configuration option for the global launch may include 64 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, with an estimated lower price.
    4. Previous models suggest the second configuration could be around $400 less than the higher-end version.
    5. The international price of the EVO-X2 is expected to be above $1,500 due to its high initial pricing in China.

    GMKtec has recently introduced its first Strix Halo mini PC, known as the EVO-X2, in China and now has plans for a worldwide release. The system, powered by the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, is set to begin its international pre-sale on April 15, 2025. However, details about the global pricing remain undisclosed.

    Pricing Details

    In China, the EVO-X2 is priced at CNY 14,999, which is approximately $2,053 at the current exchange rate. This positions GMKtec’s new release as one of the pricier mini PCs available, especially considering that this price is for the model equipped with 128 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 2 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage (the 2 TB Samsung 990 EVO Plus is currently listed at $139.99 on Amazon).

    Additional Configurations

    For the upcoming global launch, GMKtec has suggested that there may be another configuration option. The company is conducting a survey that hints at a second model featuring 64 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. While the price for this alternative configuration is uncertain, some estimates can be made based on the previous EVO-X1 options.

    The GMK EVO-X1 was initially priced at $1,299.99 for the version with 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage. The variant that had 64 GB of RAM and the same storage capacity was launched at $1,699.99. This leads to the possibility that the second configuration of the Strix Halo EVO-X2 might be around $400 less expensive.

    Market Expectations

    However, considering that the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395-powered EVO-X2 was launched at a high price in China, it is unlikely that it will be priced below $1,500 in the international market. For more information on this new Strix Halo mini PC, you can refer to our coverage of its launch in China.

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    GMKtec Launches Strix Halo EVO-X2 for Global Availability
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  • Zen 6 CPU Cores Outperform Intel E-Cores in Power Efficiency

    Zen 6 CPU Cores Outperform Intel E-Cores in Power Efficiency

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD’s Zen 6 “Olympic Ridge” processors may feature a maximum core count of 24, utilizing new 12-core CCDs.
    2. Each CCD will have an increased L3 cache of 48 MB and could reach clock speeds up to 6 GHz with TSMC’s N2X process.
    3. The addition of two Zen 5 LP cores in the Olympic Ridge CPUs promises energy-efficient performance, achieving 65-75% IPC and 50-60% clock speeds compared to full Zen 5 cores.
    4. Zen 5 LP cores are expected to have clock speeds between 2.5-3.5 GHz and consume 1 W or less, making them more efficient than Intel’s E-cores.
    5. The launch of Zen 6 processors is anticipated in the second half of 2026, so current leaks should be viewed with skepticism.

    It’s apparent to those keeping an eye on the latest Zen 6 leaks that AMD is gearing up for some major enhancements in their Zen 6 lineup. In particular, the “Olympic Ridge” desktop processors are rumored to see a maximum core count boost to 24, thanks to the introduction of 12-core CCDs. Additionally, there’s an increase in L3 cache, now totaling 48 MB for each CCD. The new Zen 6 CCDs will utilize TSMC’s advanced N2X process, which might enable the boost clock to hit a remarkable 6 GHz. The IOD chiplet is expected to use either the N3P or N6 process.

    Noteworthy Changes

    One intriguing detail that might be missed is the anticipated addition of two Zen 5 LP cores in the Olympic Ridge desktop CPUs. According to Moore’s Law Is Dead, these low-power cores are more than just a gimmick. The leak suggests that these Zen LP cores perform well while also being energy-efficient.

    In conversations with Tom, a source from AMD indicated that the Zen 5 LP cores can achieve approximately 65-75% of the IPC and 50-60% of the clock speeds compared to the full Zen 5 “Classic” cores. These performance assessments were reportedly done using the 4 nm process. Therefore, if AMD opts for N3P for the IOD die, the performance of the Zen 5 LP cores in Olympic Ridge CPUs could vary.

    Impressive Performance

    Based on these findings, MLID predicts that Zen 5 LP cores could reach clock speeds between 2.5-3.5 GHz with an IPC that falls “between Zen 3 and Zen 4.” What’s even more remarkable is that achieving this level of performance demands minimal energy.

    According to one of AMD’s internal presentations shared by MLID, the Zen LP cores are categorized as “Client” products aiming for “Peak Core Efficiency.” The presentation shows that each Zen 5 LP core consumes 1 W or less, making them more efficient than Intel’s E-cores.

    In simpler terms, the Zen 5 LP cores not only provide solid performance to enhance multi-core tasks but also do so while being economical with power usage.

    Caution Ahead

    Even with these exciting updates, it’s crucial to remain cautious, as the Zen 6 processors won’t launch until the second half of 2026. Therefore, it’s wise to view MLID’s insights with some skepticism.

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    Zen 6 CPU Cores Outperform Intel E-Cores in Power EfficiencyZen 6 CPU Cores Outperform Intel E-Cores in Power Efficiency
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  • Lenovo Yoga 7 14 Convertible: Cheaper & Better Than Yoga 9

    Lenovo Yoga 7 14 Convertible: Cheaper & Better Than Yoga 9

    Key Takeaways

    1. Both Lenovo Yoga 7 14 and Yoga 9 14 feature an aluminum body, Intel Lunar Lake processors, and vibrant OLED displays, but differ in display specs and quality.
    2. The Yoga 9 has a luxurious design and compact chassis, while the Yoga 7 offers more connectivity options, including an extra HDMI output and microSD card reader.
    3. Performance is similar, with minimal differences in power consumption and quiet operation during typical tasks for both models.
    4. The Yoga 7 has better battery life, but the Yoga 9 excels in audio quality and keyboard performance.
    5. There is a significant price difference of 700 Euros between the two models, which is hard to justify given their similarities.

    We recently evaluated two Lenovo convertibles, the Yoga 7 14 and Yoga 9 14, which are quite alike in many ways. Both devices feature an aluminum body, a state-of-the-art Intel Lunar Lake processor, and vibrant OLED displays. Our premium version of the Yoga 9 came with a stunning 4K OLED display at 60 Hz, while the Yoga 7 showcased a new 2.8K OLED with a 120 Hz refresh rate and improved brightness (especially when in HDR mode, exceeding 1,000 nits), although it does have a minor grid effect. Both models face the same problem with color inaccuracies, as the color deviations are somewhat excessive, and Lenovo fails to provide accurate color profiles for P3 or sRGB color spaces.

    Design and Ports

    When examining the chassis, the Yoga 9 is slightly more compact and aims for a more luxurious look with its shiny side surfaces, yet the Yoga 7’s build quality is also commendable. Additionally, the Yoga 7 comes with more connectivity options, including an extra HDMI output and a microSD card reader. In terms of performance, both models are quite similar; the Core Ultra 7 258V paired with 32 GB of RAM can draw up to 37 Watts. Under sustained workloads, the Yoga 9 shows a slight advantage, consuming 30 Watts compared to Yoga 7’s 25 Watts, but the difference is minimal in real-world use. Both laptops operate quietly during typical tasks, and the fan noise is similar for both.

    Audio and Battery Life

    The Yoga 7 does have a slight edge regarding battery life, but it lags behind in audio quality and keyboard performance, where the Yoga 9 excels a bit. Now, let’s talk about pricing; there’s a significant gap of 700 Euros between our two similarly configured review units, which is difficult to justify. For comprehensive insights, including benchmarks and measurements, check out our detailed review of the Yoga 7 14 2in1 G10.

    Lenovo Yoga 7 14 Convertible: Cheaper & Better Than Yoga 9Lenovo Yoga 7 14 Convertible: Cheaper & Better Than Yoga 9
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  • Asus Zenbook S16 & Vivobook 16 Launch in India with Ryzen AI

    Asus Zenbook S16 & Vivobook 16 Launch in India with Ryzen AI

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has launched two new AI-powered laptops in India: the Zenbook S16 and the Vivobook 16, both featuring AMD’s Ryzen AI 7 350 processor.

    2. The Zenbook S16 offers a premium 16-inch 3K OLED touchscreen, a sleek design, and advanced features like Dolby Vision and AI acceleration capabilities.

    3. The Vivobook 16 is a budget-friendly option with a 16-inch IPS display, maintaining essential features of the Ryzen AI 7 350 processor and Copilot+ support.

    4. Both laptops include a variety of connectivity options, with the Zenbook S16 offering more advanced ports and a dedicated Copilot key for AI functions.

    5. Pricing for the Zenbook S16 is ₹1,49,990, while the Vivobook 16 is available for ₹75,990, with availability through various online and offline retailers.

    Asus has broadened its AI PC offerings in India by introducing two fresh laptops—the Zenbook S16 and the Vivobook 16. Both models are equipped with AMD’s latest Ryzen AI 7 350 processor, aiming to provide AI-enhanced productivity along with next-generation Copilot+ PC features. Let’s dive into the specifics.

    Asus Zenbook S16

    The Zenbook S16 (UM5606KA) stands as the higher-end model of the two. It comes with a 16-inch 3K OLED touchscreen that has a 16:10 aspect ratio, a refresh rate of 120Hz, a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, and Dolby Vision support, delivering 500 nits of HDR brightness. Even with its sizeable display, the laptop keeps a sleek profile of just 1.1cm and weighs only 1.5kg, crafted from CNC-machined C-part and a Ceraluminum lid.

    Internally, the laptop operates on the AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 processor that boasts 8 cores and 16 threads, along with a 50 TOPS-capable XDNA 2 NPU for tasks accelerated by AI. The Ryzen 7 350 integrates an AMD Radeon 860M iGPU, and memory options include 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD.

    Connectivity and Features

    The S16 provides a variety of connectivity options, including two USB4 Type-C ports, one HDMI 2.1 port, a USB 3.2 Type-A port, an SD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack. It is powered by a 78Wh battery that supports fast Type-C charging. Additional features comprise Dolby Atmos-enabled six-speaker audio, as well as IR facial recognition facilitated by Microsoft Pluton hardware security. As an AI-centric laptop, it also features a dedicated Copilot key located beneath a spacious ErgoSense touchpad.

    Vivobook 16

    On the other hand, the Vivobook 16 (M1607KA) presents a more budget-friendly option, yet it still contains the same Ryzen AI 7 350 processor and supports Copilot+ features. This model is paired with 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD.

    The cost-effectiveness of this model is noticeable in its other specifications. It features a 16-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200, a 16:10 aspect ratio, and 300 nits of peak brightness, complete with an anti-glare coating. While it lacks the OLED flair of the Zenbook, it covers the essential needs adequately.

    Design and Audio

    The design emphasizes military-grade durability, and the weight is 1.88 kg with a thickness of 1.79 cm. An extra perk is the hinge that opens flat to 180 degrees, providing added flexibility for usage. Asus has also included ample ports: two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C ports (which support Power Delivery and display output), an HDMI 2.1 port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

    For sound, it comes with a stereo speaker setup enhanced with Dirac sound and SonicMaster tuning. Powering all of this is a 42Wh battery that supports 65W fast charging.

    Price and Availability

    The ASUS Zenbook S16 is priced at ₹1,49,990 in India, whereas the Vivobook 16 is available for ₹75,990. Both laptops can be purchased through Asus Exclusive Stores, Amazon, Flipkart, and select offline retailers.

    Asus Zenbook S16 & Vivobook 16 Launch in India with Ryzen AIAsus Zenbook S16 & Vivobook 16 Launch in India with Ryzen AI
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