This $800 OLED laptop is incredible value, but it does have one glaring weakness

As a seasoned tech enthusiast with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M) is a real gem for those seeking a reliable and well-balanced laptop without breaking the bank. Having reviewed high-end devices in the past, it’s always refreshing to see companies like ASUS focusing on delivering quality at an affordable price point.

Creating a valuable mid-priced or affordable product involves skillful balancing, deciding which features to reduce to lower the cost. This task might be more challenging than jamming every feature into an extravagant, high-end device, but ASUS has almost perfectly achieved this with the ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M). This is a compact and light Ultrabook, sold for only $800.

This laptop boasts a robust aluminum frame, a user-friendly backlit keyboard, an exceptional touch-sensitive OLED screen, and an Intel Core Ultra processor, which makes it an outstanding choice for many individuals, particularly considering its affordable price. However, there’s a potential drawback that might be a deal-breaker for some: the device comes with 8GB of RAM pre-installed, and unfortunately, it cannot be upgraded post-purchase. If you frequently run numerous applications or keep multiple browser tabs open, you may quickly reach this limit.

Zenbook 14 (Q415M) review: Pricing and specifications

Pricing highlights

The ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M) retails for $799.99 at Best Buy with an Intel Core Ultra 5, 8GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage.
Considering the display, feature set, and overall quality, this Zenbook 14 is actually a fantastic value.
If you need more RAM and SSD storage, the ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q425M) is one step above this laptop for $1,049.99 at Best Buy.
Value rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M) model offers a single setup featuring an Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor (no Intel Core Ultra Series 2 available), along with 8GB of fixed RAM and a 512GB SSD. This configuration is complemented by its sleek aluminum body and OLED touchscreen display, making it quite appealing. However, for those who might be worried about the fixed RAM, there’s also a Q425M model that shares most of its features but includes some upgrades.

The ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q425M) operates with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, boasts 16GB of RAM, and sports a 1TB SSD. It shares the same design and OLED screen as its counterpart, but its price point may not be as enticing compared to its more budget-friendly sibling, the Zenbook 14 (Q415M). The Q415M model is available for just $799.99 at Best Buy, making it a fantastic purchase. On the other hand, the Q425M retails for $1,049.99 at Best Buy, which is an upgrade, but exceeding the $1,000 mark might discourage certain buyers.

In the box, you get the ASUS Zenbook 14 and a 65W USB Type-C fast charger.

Zenbook 14 (Q415M) review: Design and build quality

Design highlights

The Zenbook 14 (Q415M) is constructed almost entirely of aluminum and glass, and overall looks and feels more premium than its price would suggest.
There is some flex and creaks, but you really have to look for them. This is a well-built machine.
There’s also a solid selection of ports despite the compact design, including a full-sized HDMI 2.1 port.
Design rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

As an observer, I noticed that even at the $800 price point, the ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M) manages to present a surprisingly premium design and construction. Despite not being ASUS’ top-tier model, this laptop boasts an all-aluminum chassis and lid, along with an all-glass display and touchpad, which certainly sets it apart.

This 14-inch laptop, measuring merely 15mm thick and weighing less than three pounds, offers a sleek and lightweight construction that exudes reliability despite some slight flexing and creaks in certain areas. Although these issues may seem unexpected for a $2,000 device, I remain confident that the ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M) will withstand the test of time. While its design might be considered simple, ASUS has not compromised on the use of quality materials, craftsmanship, or practicality in its creation.

That last point is because the ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M) actually has a solid port selection. You get a legacy USB Type A 3.2 Gen 1 port on the left side, and two full-blown USB Type-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, and even a full-sized HDMI 2.1 port on the right side. Oh, and there are two LED indicators on the right side, too. I wish one of those Thunderbolt 4 ports was also on the left, but that’s a very minor qualm.

Zenbook 14 (Q415M) review: Display quality

Display highlights

The OLED display of the Q415M is absolutely one of this laptop’s highlights.
It’s not the fastest or sharpest screen by any means, but pure image quality is excellent.
This is also a shockingly accurate display, easily hitting 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut without calibration or changing screen modes.
Display rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

There’s no denying my affection for the rich hues found on high-quality OLED screens. However, just having the technology isn’t quite sufficient. Thankfully, ASUS stands out among many for effectively incorporating OLED panels into their laptops. Essentially, their “Lumina” and “NanoEdge” labels signify improved color precision and slimmer borders.

Once more, ASUS demonstrates their mastery with the ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M), where its OLED panel stands out as a top feature. Despite not boasting the highest resolution at FHD+, and my preference leaning towards a 90-120Hz dynamic refresh rate, it’s challenging to find significant issues when considering this laptop retails for $800. In fact, it outperforms most competitors in its class with exceptional image quality.

On this screen, the brightness is more than sufficient for easy viewing, reaching a maximum of around 400nits; however, when you need to reduce it, the Q415M becomes quite dim. The white balance remains consistent throughout, starting with a slightly cool tone that gradually warms as the brightness increases. In essence, this display looks fantastic at any brightness level, boasting vivid and saturated colors. I never found the FHD+ resolution to be problematic.

As a researcher studying displays, I can confidently say that color accuracy is where this particular display truly outshines others. It effortlessly covers 100% of both sRGB and DCI-P3 color gamuts without any additional adjustments needed. The ASUS MyASUS apps are packed with display-related features, such as various modes tailored to specific color gamuts and blue light reduction options. However, the default setting is already exceptionally well-balanced.

Zenbook 14 (Q415M) review: Performance and thermals

Performance highlights

The Zenbook 14 (Q415M) doesn’t have the most powerful processor or the fastest SSD, but it’s still a fast and responsive laptop in actual use.
It also runs cool and quiet, and even under heavy load doesn’t get unbearably loud.
This laptop’s biggest weakness is that it’s limited to only 8GB of RAM, which is easy to max out with Windows 11.
Performance rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M) might not seem impressive on paper, nor is it designed to handle demanding tasks such as gaming or creative work. But, it’s perfectly tailored for the intended audience and their specific work requirements. The Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor inside ensures the laptop operates smoothly and swiftly for everyday use, and can boost its performance when necessary.

This laptop is certified under Intel Evo, which signifies that it offers specific promises about startup, wake-up, login times, efficiency, performance, and security. However, not all lapties at this price range necessarily offer these guarantees. The Q415M, however, does live up to those expectations. With Windows 11 installed, it performs exceptionally well in various tasks such as opening applications, transferring files, browsing the web, and more. It’s quite swift!

This model does come with one drawback, however: its RAM is not expandable and is soldered onto the motherboard, which works well for light tasks, but as you open more applications and browser tabs, or move windows around, you’ll certainly feel those constraints. In fact, I couldn’t even run Cinebench 2024, a benchmark used by Windows Central in their tests, due to this limitation. It doesn’t make the laptop unusable, but it does put certain restrictions on its capabilities.

Regarding performance evaluations, the Q415M model holds its ground in the tests that I managed to conduct. The Intel Core Ultra 5, found within devices such as the ASUS ProArt PZ13, stands toe-to-toe with the new Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus. Despite the SSD being on the sluggish side for PCIe Gen 4.0 drives and the laptop having only 8GB of RAM, along with a mid-range processor, the Zenbook 14 (Q415M) maintains its pace with high-end laptops when it comes to general productivity tasks and even casual gaming.

I found it surprising that the laptop lacked the upgraded Intel Arc integrated graphics, since these typically need 16GB or more of RAM. Yet, this laptop performs similarly in GPU terms to a gaming handheld like the ASUS ROG Ally, which is quite remarkable; however, keep in mind that it may not perform as well when it comes to actually playing games at the same level.

Ultimately, the thermal performance is impressive; the fans operate silently and seldom activate, but when they do, they perform exceptionally well at cooling the Q415M. This allows the Core Ultra 5 to match its more powerful counterpart, the Core Ultra 7, in laptops that generate higher heat.

Zenbook 14 (Q415M) review: Battery experience

Battery highlights

The Zenbook 14 (Q415M) isn’t quite a battery champion, falling short of the best Windows on ARM laptops, but it’s reliable.
Performance doesn’t take a noticeable hit on battery power, and I could consistently get at least six hours of usage.
This is largely due to the massive battery inside the Q415M, with endurance not being quite as good as I expected.
Battery rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

With an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor and a 75Whr battery, I anticipated the ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M) to offer exceptional endurance. However, it doesn’t quite reach that level of performance, lagging behind the latest Windows on ARM devices. Nevertheless, this laptop maintains a dependable and constant battery life that can last an entire day of school or work, which is what truly counts.

In the app Procyon, I tested the Q415M device by simulating a Microsoft Office workflow for an hour at around 200 nit brightness. This drained about 9% of its battery. Interestingly, when I played an HD video at half volume through Procyon, it resulted in a 10% decrease (an unanticipated outcome, as the speakers might require more power than I assumed). My personal practical testing, backed up by Windows Battery Report, revealed a screen-on runtime of 6 to 10 hours, depending on the level of my workload activity.

This device is sufficiently powerful for daily work use, especially if you’re frequently using a laptop. It doesn’t require adjustments to features such as keyboard illumination or performance settings. Additionally, it offers fast and convenient charging with a 65W USB Type-C charger.

Zenbook 14 (Q415M) review: Other features

Other highlights

This is a very comfortable and responsive keyboard for the price, and the touchpad is large and precise (although it does suffer from minor phantom double-taps).
Elsewhere, the Q415M is right where I’d expect for $800, with a passable FHD front-facing webcam, solid dual speakers, great wireless performance, and even Windows Hello facial recognition.
ASUS continues to offer one of the better Windows software experiences, too, with few preinstalled apps and the great MyASUS app.
Other features rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

After covering all the primary topics, let’s conclude our discussion. Typically, you don’t anticipate superior performance from a budget or mid-range laptop’s keyboard and touchpad combo, but the Zenbook 14 (Q415M) breaks this norm. The keyboard on this device is comfortable, thoughtfully arranged, and pleasant to type on. Although the keyboard backlighting could be more evenly distributed, it’s still a feature that’s present, which is commendable.

The glass touchpad operates with Microsoft Precision drivers, offering comprehensive multitouch functionality, and its spacious surface along with tactile buttons make it a delightful user experience. However, there are instances where the touchpad mistakenly recognizes multiple taps, leading to unintended actions such as opening additional tabs or activating the right-click menu instead of scrolling, among others. While not a significant problem, the touchpad can be a bit too responsive at times.

In other places, the FHD webcam may not be remarkable enough for praise, but it delivers accurate color representation and performs fairly well in dim conditions, albeit with a tendency to lose detail quickly. At the minimum, Windows Hello biometric authentication is included, offering facial recognition; although not as swift or dependable as more costly laptops, it’s significantly superior to typing a PIN or password each time. This is an impressive feature at this budget level.

Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 support deal with all your wireless connectivity woes, and I had zero issues with performance or stability. The dual speakers, which are apparently tuned by Harman Kardon and support Dolby Atmos, also punch slightly above their weight in this price range. I never expected the kind of excellent audio quality you can get with other laptops like the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024), but these speakers get shockingly loud and sound surprisingly clear and detailed. Above average (but not exceptional) audio is another win for $800.

Ultimately, the ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M) does operate on Windows 11, and it’s great to see that ASUS continues to deliver one of my preferred software experiences. There are only a few additional apps preinstalled, mainly from ASUS, Intel, and audio manufacturers, with McAfee thankfully absent. MyASUS is a fantastic software center for managing the Q415M’s settings and firmware. However, it’s important to note that since this laptop is driven by an Intel Core Ultra Series 1 processor, it won’t be eligible for the Copilot+ AI PC upgrade coming later this year.

Zenbook 14 (Q415M) review: Competition

There’s no shortage of laptops in the sub-$1,000 range from companies like Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, Acer, and others. Right now and in my personal experience, I’d give the edge in the category to Lenovo and ASUS, though, and in particular the biggest direct competition for this laptop is… another Zenbook.

The ASUS Zenbook 14 UM3406 shares many similarities with the Q415M, notably their initial price tag of $800. However, it differs by using AMD instead of Intel and boasts an additional 8GB of RAM. This extra RAM could be decisive when making a choice; nonetheless, either laptop is a solid pick.

Another option to consider is the ASUS Zenbook 14 Q425M, which is similar to this laptop but priced $250 higher. It boasts double the RAM and SSD storage, along with a more potent CPU and GPU. However, if you’re looking to spend around $1,000, the Lenovo Slim 7i 14 (Gen 9) is a standout choice within that price range.

It would be negligent not to mention that some strong competitors for the Q415M might soon become available. The recently introduced Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus 8-core could pave the way for powerful and energy-efficient computers to cost around $800-$900, making laptops like the Lenovo IdeaPad 5x 14 2-in-1 (Gen 9) quite appealing. If you’re simply looking for a reliable laptop for casual web browsing, it might be worth checking out.

Zenbook 14 (Q415M) review: Final thoughts

You should buy this if …

✅You’re a casual user that just needs a well-balanced laptop

The Zenbook 14 (Q415M) appears to be tailored not for heavy-duty users, but rather for individuals seeking a dependable, versatile laptop suited for office work, web browsing, and lighter computing duties. It offers a more upscale experience than budget devices, catering to those who desire additional features.

✅You don’t want to spend more than $800

For around $800, you can find a good quality laptop, but as you move away from this price range, you’ll notice a rapid decrease in features, comforts, and overall quality. On the other hand, you could spend more than $800, but at this point, you’re starting to see diminishing returns. If your budget is around $800, this laptop strikes a great balance by making most of the appropriate compromises.

You should not buy this if …

❌You do a lot of multitasking that requires lots of RAM

The main weakness of this laptop lies in its relatively small amount of Random Access Memory (RAM), which is only expandable up to 8GB. While it remains an efficient device for light users, those who frequently multitask by running multiple applications and browser tabs simultaneously may encounter performance issues due to the RAM limitation.

Exploring budget and mid-range laptops instead of high-end ones can be quite intriguing, especially when you’re accustomed to top-tier, pricey devices. This is because manufacturers approach affordability and cost-saving differently. The ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M) stands out as it focuses on offering a dependable and high-quality experience across all aspects, and Asus has truly mastered this under the $1,000 price point.

This 14-inch Ultrabook boasts impressive construction, diverse connectivity options, reliable performance, and long-lasting battery life. Its OLED touchscreen display exceeds expectations for its price bracket, even outperforming the screens in pricier laptops. However, it’s not without its minor flaws – specifically, it could greatly benefit from an increase in RAM.

As an analyst, I’ve noticed that when running Microsoft Edge with approximately ten tabs, Outlook, Slack, Sticky Notes, and the Photos app simultaneously on the ASUS Zenbook 14 (Q415M), the performance noticeably dips, which can be attributed to the device’s 8GB of RAM. While it would be ideal for devices in today’s market to come with 16GB of RAM as standard, the Q415M’s limitations don’t completely diminish its value. This laptop appears to be targeted at casual users, and given its affordable price point of $799.99 at Best Buy, it’s easy to understand why it appeals to many consumers.

2024-09-16 17:10