Asus has just announced its first Snapdragon X Elite laptop: the Asus Vivobook S 15. The announcement comes on the heels of Microsoft’s announcement ahead of its BUILD conference kicking off today. The announcement underscores a shift in Microsoft’s strategy for Windows to focus on Copilot integration but more significantly to adopt the ARM-based x64 architecture which could impact both AMD and Intel.
The new laptop complements ASUS’s current Vivobook lineup which champions both performance and affordability. The ASUS Vivobook S 15 is also the first laptop from ASUS to run Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite. The new System on a Chip (SoC) brings a brand new paradigm to Windows unlocking performance a lot of us have been looking for from a thin and light laptop. The new Snapdragon X Elite is the first made-for-PC chipset from Qualcomm to be widely adopted in the new Copilot+ PC label from Microsoft. The SoC is optimised for performance and battery life which includes heavy graphics work and even some gaming.
Qualcomm’s SoC comes with its Oryon CPU and Adreno GPU. More significantly it comes with the company’s Hexagon neural processing unit (NPU) that will enable a number of AI features from both Microsoft’s Copilot and ASUS. The SoC will be complemented by up to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD Memory.
The Vivobook S 15 is replacing the previous model that ran on Intel’s Core processors. The new laptop will be equipped with a 15.6-inch, 3K ASUS Lumina OLED display with a resolution of 2880×1620 pixels. The display is also colour-calibrated to cover 100% of the DCI-P3 colour gamut and is certified with DisplayHDR True Black600 with an average Delta-E of less than 1 and 600 nits peak brightness.
It will also come with an FHD IR camera for Windows Hello. This camera will also come with ASUS AiSense with Windows Studio Effect, ASUS Adaptive dimming and ASUS Adaptive lock. The Viviobook S 15 is also equipped with WiFi 7 paired with Qualcomm FastConnect 7800 and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity. Like all ASUS laptops, it will also have the ASUS ErgoSense touchpad that comes with smart gestures and silent touchpad technology. The ErgoSense keyboard also comes with single-zone RGB backlighting.
The Vivobook S 15 is also coming with a full array of ports including an Audio jack and HDMI 2.1 port and a microSD card reader. It will also have two USB 4.0 ports and two USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports. All of these will be powered by a 70wH battery that is touted to deliver 18 hours of battery life. It will charge with a 90W AC adapter.
Together with all this hardware, the ASUS Vivobook S 15 will also feature a lot of Copilot integration including a dedicated Copilot key. Features like Co-Create and Recall will be available on the laptop together with either Microsoft Windows 11 Home or Pro.
Pricing & Availability
The ASUS Vivobook S 15 will be available soon worldwide. Pre-orders were announced for the US during the live stream. The retail pricing will start at USD$1,299 (RM6,096.40).
ASUS Malaysia indicates that the Vivobook S 15 will be available in Malaysia starting Q3 2024. That would mean sometime between July to September 2024.
Samsung is preparing to upgrade your visual experience with its upcoming 2024 monitor lineup. Whether you’re a passionate gamer pushing your reflexes to the limit, a creative professional demanding colour accuracy, or simply seeking an immersive entertainment experience, Samsung promises a monitor tailored to your needs.
Source: Samsung
The upcoming 2024 Samsung Monitor One series boasts a diverse range of models, each equipped with cutting-edge technology designed to maximize your productivity and enjoyment. For gamers, the upcoming Odyssey OLED series offers stunning visuals and lightning-fast response times, ensuring you never miss a critical detail. For creative professionals, the incumbent ViewFinity series prioritizes exceptional colour accuracy and intricate detail, guaranteeing your work is displayed flawlessly. And for those seeking a more versatile experience, the forthcoming Smart Monitor series integrates smart features, blurring the lines between productivity and entertainment.
To celebrate the launch, Samsung is offering an exclusive pre-order promotion from May 17th to 31st, 2024. Register your interest and receive a voucher code redeemable during the pre-order window from June 1st to 16th. This voucher entitles you to significant savings of up to RM1,000 on select 2024 monitor models during the pre-order period.
Stay tuned for further announcements as Samsung unveils more details about the exciting new lineup.
For users juggling multiple PCs, the dream of seamless file sharing, screen control, and peripheral access might seem far-fetched. However, Intel‘s latest announcement, Thunderbolt Share, aims to bridge this gap. Let’s delve into this technology and explore its potential benefits and limitations.
Source: Intel
Thunderbolt Share builds upon the robust foundation of Intel’s Thunderbolt technology. Renowned for its high bandwidth and versatility, Thunderbolt allows for blazing-fast data transfer, high-resolution display connectivity, and device charging through a single cable. Thunderbolt Share leverages this existing infrastructure to establish a direct connection between two Thunderbolt-equipped PCs.
Imagine being able to control your work PC from your laptop at home. With Thunderbolt Share, this vision becomes a reality. Users can access and manage files on both PCs, synchronize folders, and even drag and drop content seamlessly. Additionally, the technology allows for shared screen control, enabling users to work on one PC while viewing the display on another.
Source: Intel
While the potential of Thunderbolt Share is enticing, it’s important to acknowledge current limitations. This technology is primarily compatible with PCs equipped with Thunderbolt 4 or 5 ports, potentially excluding older devices. Additionally, not all manufacturers may offer Thunderbolt Share functionality on their PCs, even if they have Thunderbolt ports as it looks to be an add-on feature OEMs will need to pay for. Users should check for specific compatibility details with their PC models.
Interestingly, while initially announced as a Windows-focused solution, Macworld reports that Apple has integrated similar functionality into macOS Sonoma. This integration allows M-series Macs with Thunderbolt ports to connect directly and utilize features like file sharing and screen control between devices, mirroring some of the core functionalities of Thunderbolt Share. Whether this integration represents a shift in strategy for Intel’s technology or a coincidence remains to be seen.
It’s no secret that we’re going to see AI PCs flood the market. After a pretty packed first half of 2024, it looks like the second wave is coming! ASUS is teasing a new event set to happen on May 21, 2024, at 2 a.m. (UTC+8/Malaysian Time) or May 20, 2024, at 11 a.m. Seattle time.
While details remain under wraps until the official launch, it is expected that this is THE event where ASUS will be announcing its stable of Qualcomm-powered PCs. If leaks are any indication, this could be the start of a true AI PC revolution. These laptops could potentially translate to faster processing of AI-powered tasks, improved battery life, and a more streamlined user experience for professionals working in AI development, machine learning, and data analysis.
The Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite SoC has been what we’ve been hearing about most in the leaks. So far, we’ve had inklings that this next-generation chip boasts significant advancements in processing power and efficiency, making it ideal for demanding AI workloads. While specifics haven’t been revealed, industry speculation suggests the ASUS AI PC will leverage the Snapdragon X Elite’s architecture to deliver exceptional performance while maintaining portability and power efficiency.
Of course, the X Elite isn’t just a supercharge when it comes to laptop PCs, it’s also Qualcomm’s second try at penetrating the laptop market. The chip manufacturer has had a setback previously with its Snapdragon 8cx and 7c SoCs. However, if leaks are any indication, we’re in for a show and possibly Apple Silicon level performance and battery life. The implications of the ASUS AI PC extend beyond the realm of technical specifications.
Stay tuned for further updates as we learn more about the specifications, features, and potential impact of this groundbreaking device
With the impending launch of the Huawei Matebook X Pro just round the corner, Malaysian consumers are now able to pre-order Huawei’s flagship laptop. The laptop boasts impressive performance packed into a remarkably lightweight design, making it ideal for on-the-go professionals and those who prioritize portability.
Ahead of the launch, Huawei is opening pre-orders for the laptop. The blind pre-orders kick off on May 8th and runs until May 12th, 2024. To secure a unit, you can place a deposit of just RM70. When you do, you will also be eligible for a whole bunch of freebies valued at up to RM4,582 with each early booking.
Marrying Cutting Edge Technology with Minimalist Durability
The MateBook X Pro is one of Huawei’s best looking laptops yet. It come with a sleek chassis, constructed from a lightweight yet durable magnesium. Huawei isn’t holding back when it comes to the display either, the MateBook X Pro comes with a stunning, near-borderless Flexible OLED display. It’s also a mere 13.5mm thin.
Despite its deceptively slim design, the MateBook X Pro packs a serious punch. It comes with the Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 Processor ensures smooth operation and responsiveness. It has up to 32GB RAM and 2TB storage provide ample resources for demanding tasks. Also coming along for the ride is a whole bevvy of AI features including AI noise cancellation, AI camera enhancements, and AI search. The MateBook X Pro also comes with effortless connectivity with other Huawei devices. Huawei is also touting hours of battery life and fast charging with 90W Huawei SuperCharge technology. The Dual Shark Fin fan system ensures efficient heat dissipation for optimal performance.
Early booking can be done through the Huawei Official Website, Huawei Official Store on Shopee, or the Huawei Flagship Store on Lazada. Stay tuned for the latest updates on the Huawei Official Website, Facebook page, or Instagram.
Huawei is set to expand its technological offerings in Malaysia with the upcoming launch of two innovative products – the Huawei MateBook X Pro laptop and the Huawei Watch Fit 3 smartwatch – scheduled for May 13th, 2024. This launch underscores Huawei’s focus on integrating advanced technology with user-centric design, catering specifically to the Malaysian market.
Sleek Performance Coming Soon with the MateBook X Pro
First unveiled at a global event in Dubai, the Huawei MateBook X Pro pushes the boundaries of laptop design. The ultra-lightweight magnesium alloy chassis, measuring only 13.5mm thin and weighing under 1kg, prioritizes portability with little compromise on durability. The near-borderless Flexible OLED display boasts exceptional visuals with vivid colours and brightness for better immersion.
Powering this sleek device is the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 Processor, complemented by up to 32GB of RAM and up to 2TB of storage. This combination promises smooth operation and responsiveness, even for demanding tasks. The MateBook X Pro further enhances user experience with its Super Device capabilities, allowing for seamless integration and collaboration with other Huawei devices. Additionally, the 90W Huawei SuperCharge technology facilitates rapid charging to keep users productive throughout the day.
Stylish Fitness Coming with the Huawei Watch Fit 3
The Huawei Watch Fit 3 is the latest wearable from Huawei that looks to strike a balance between stylish aesthetics and comprehensive health and fitness tracking features. It comes with a sleek, elegant square design and some of the most advanced health monitoring technology promising to keep health-conscious users fashion-forward.
Like other Huawei fitness devices, the Watch Fit 3 comes with over 100 workout modes, menstrual cycle tracking for women, and comprehensive sleep monitoring. It is geared to be a go-to device for fitness enthusiasts and lifestyle-focused individuals alike. The device features next-generation Huawei health monitoring technology, delivering precise heart rate and SpO2 tracking. This robust functionality is backed by a long-lasting battery that promises up to 10 days of use on a single charge.
Early Bird Offers Ahead of the Grand Launch on May 13 2024
Huawei is offering attractive early-bird promotions for Malaysian consumers. Customers who place a deposit of just RM70 for the HUAWEI MateBook X Pro between May 8th and 12th will receive freebies valued at up to RM4,582.
Similarly, early adopters of the Watch Fit 3 can benefit from an exclusive RM30 early bird voucher valid from today until May 17th, 2024. Additionally, they will receive a gift package worth RM89.
LG Electronics has recently unveiled its latest addition to the acclaimed UltraGear monitor lineup – the LG UltraGear GS95QE. This high-performance monitor targets serious gamers seeking an immersive and responsive experience, boasting top-tier specifications and a premium design.
The LG UltraGear GS95QE boasts an impressive IPS panel with a native resolution of 3840 x 1440 (WQHD). The monitor is curved at 800R and has a 21:9 with a peak brightness of 1,300 nits. This will allow the stunning visuals with sharp details and vibrant colours of the monitor to properly immerse you in your content. Ideal for enjoying the latest AAA titles in all their glory. Gamers seeking an edge in fast-paced competitive titles will appreciate the monitor’s rapid refresh rate of 240Hz and 0.03ms GtG response time.
It’s not just about the resolution and refresh rate with the LG UltraGear GS95QE, LG is looking to deliver a truly immersive visual experience. NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility eliminates screen tearing and stuttering for seamless visuals, while AMD FreeSync Premium technology ensures compatibility with a wider range of graphics cards. HDR support with DisplayHDR 400 certification further enhances the visual experience with deeper blacks, brighter whites, and a wider colour gamut, bringing games to life with stunning contrast.
The LG UltraGear GS95QE is designed to seamlessly blend into any setup. The sleek and virtually borderless design minimizes visual distractions, allowing players to focus on the in-game action. Ergonomic features like tilt, swivel, and height adjustments provide a comfortable viewing experience during extended gaming sessions. Additionally, customizable RGB lighting allows gamers to personalize the aesthetics of their setup, creating a truly immersive gaming environment.
Price and Availability
The LG UltraGear™ GS95QE is expected to be available in Malaysia starting from May 2024, with a starting price of RM5,999. It will be available in 34- and 39-inch sizes. Pre-orders are ongoing and will end on May 19, 2024.
Lenovo is showing off its latest line up of laptops at MWC 2024! The new laptops come equipped with Intel’s latest generation Core Ultra processors which not only promise top notch performance but also long battery life. The newly refreshed Lenovo ThinkPad T Series, the Think Pad X12 and the ThinkBook 14 are bringing more than just a hardware refresh this year. Together with an updated CPUs, it’s going to be coming with a whole slew of AI-powered features that will utilise the dedicated NPU in Intel’s new Core Ultra processors.
Lenovo ThinkPad T Series
The ThinkPad T series will be coming with new entries into the ThinkPad T14, T14s and T16 lineups. These laptops are built for business users who are looking for reliable, durable devices with some of the latest features for enhanced productivity. The new updates come with a Communications Bar which houses a 5-megapixel webcam and microphones. These laptops also adopt a simple one-handed lip for easy opening and closing of the device. The laptops will also make things a little more accessible with tactile markings making it easier for the visually impaired to navigate the keyboard. These markings were first introduced with the ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2-in-1 Gen 9 and the X1 Carbon Gen 12.
Repairability and sustainability have become core tenets of Lenovo’s product lineup. The new ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 and T16 Gen 3 have been designed to be repair-friendly. Lenovo did this with insights from iFixit Solutions team. These laptops feature a battery without cable connectors, a fully socketed DIMM design and replaceable SSD and WWAN cards. The laptops also have visual indicators to ease the repair process.
Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable Gen 2 & ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4
The Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable Gen 2 is designed to be a sleek productivity partner for life on the move. With a durable 3:2 display, powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra U series processors and an integrated AI engine, it effortlessly adapts to your needs. With up to 32GB Dual Channel LPDDR5x memory, multitasking becomes a breeze. The detachable folio keyboard, three-button TrackPad, and optional magnetic pen enhance versatility for professionals on the go. It comes with a 5-megapixel camera with an Infrared sensor that allows you to sign in to Windows with Windows Hello and an 8MP World-facing camera so you can capture and scan documents. It also comes with CAT16 4G WWAN support.
Lenovo’s ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4 redefines portable computing with its sleek design and intelligent features. The innovative drop hinge design, measuring just 16.85mm in thickness and weighing 1.64kg, sets a new standard for portability. The 14-inch display, with a four-side narrow bezel, achieves an impressive 90% screen-to-body ratio, delivering an immersive visual experience. Enhancements like a 1.5mm key travel on the keyboard and a glass-like Mylar touchpad contribute to comfortable and precise user interaction. The Magnetic Slim Pen adds a touch of convenience, while security features like the Match-on-Chip fingerprint reader and optional Infrared camera ensure data safety. Intelligent computing is at the forefront with features like Smart Power for balanced performance and Smart Meeting for improved conferencing. Lenovo’s commitment to sustainability is evident through the use of recycled aluminium and Post Consumer Content plastic materials. The ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4 seamlessly blends powerful performance with a thoughtful and eco-friendly design.
AI-Imbued for Maximum Battery Life and Productivity
Powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra processors and equipped with Windows 11, these laptops create an advanced AI ecosystem. They prioritize security, energy efficiency, and immersive user experiences, seamlessly integrating with a variety of software applications leveraging dedicated AI acceleration support. Notable features include Copilot in Windows and a physical Copilot key, optimizing daily tasks for unparalleled ease and speed.
This marks a significant step in the AI PC revolution, showcasing Lenovo’s commitment to delivering tailored AI solutions. The laptops redefine personalized PC experiences, elevating collaboration, customer interactions, and data analysis. With AI-enabled software tools, these ThinkPad and ThinkBook laptops set a new standard, enhancing creativity and efficiency across diverse workflows. Lenovo’s innovation reflects a transformative approach, ushering in a new era of intelligent and engaging computing solutions.
Pricing & Availability
The new slate of Lenovo laptops will be available starting from March 2024. The ThinkPad T14 will also be available with AMD’s Ryzen 8040 series processors with Ryzen AI.
Model
Availability
Starting Price (USD$)
Starting Price (RM)*
ThinkPad T14 i Gen 5
Starting April 2024
$1,199
RM5,727.51
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 AMD
Starting May 2024
$949
RM4,533.28
ThinkPad T14s Gen 5
Starting April 2024
$1,399
RM6,683.13
ThinkPad T16 Gen 3
Starting April 2024
$1,219
RM5,823.25
ThinkPad X12 Detachable Gen 2
Starting April 2024
$1,399
RM6,683.13
ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4
Starting March 2024
$1,169
RM5,584.40
*Pricing in Malaysian Ringgit (RM) isestimated based on conversion rates on XE.com on 26 February 2024 [USD$1 : RM4.7771]
Lenovo‘s innovation is taking centre stage as the company is showing off a proof of concept device at MWC 2024. The concept? A transparent display on a laptop; more specifically, the company calls it the “ThinkBook Transparent Display” Laptop.
Being a ThinkBook, the device is a larger form laptop with a 17.3-inch display. It really brings that cyberpunk or “Minority Report” aesthetic by going all in on the transparent aesthetic. The display is a completely transparent, borderless 17.3-inch Micro-LED. The transparent keyboard area also adopts this aesthetic.
Lenovo is touting that the ThinkBook Transparent Display Laptop is a glimpse of the future as companies continue to leverage micro-LED technology. The technology allows companies like Lenovo to create transparent displays thanks to the high colour saturation and contrast and its 1000-nit brightness. The combination provides good visibility in both indoor and outdoor environments.
That said, the laptop is also a proof of concept that integrates virtual and real environments. Lenovo believes that the transparent surface provides an excellent surface for AI-generated content and collaboration. The transparent surface allows users to overlay digital information naturally within its environment. You’ll even be able to switch between a keyboard and a drawing board that supports input from a stylus. You’ll even be able to interact with data and applications in new ways according to Lenovo.
The HP Pavilion Plus 14 (2023) AMD 7840U is a noteworthy mid-range laptop with integrated 780M graphics. The laptop includes a gorgeous 14” OLED 2.8k 120hz HDR display. This means watching the latest shows, movies, and anime is a blast.
A light and thin laptop, portability is quite good and should last you most of the day. With a 68Wh battery pack paired with an efficient Ryzen 7 U-series chip, expect 6-8 hours of mixed usage.
Great for general work (typing and browsing), photo editing, casual video editing, light to moderate gaming, traveling, and watching videos, the HP Pavilion Plus 14 AMD 7840U doesn’t breaking the bank. Perfect for those who move about a lot for work and students, especially when on sale.
Comes in multiples colours: EY0027AU moonlight blue, EY0028AU tranquil pink, and EY0029AU natural silver
2 USB Type-C 10Gbps signaling rate (USB Power Delivery, DisplayPort 1.4, HP Sleep and Charge); 1 USB Type-A 10Gbps signaling rate; 1 USB Type-A 5Gbps signaling rate; 1 headphone/microphone combo; 1 HDMI 2.1
Operating System
Windows 11
Battery
68Wh cell with 65W Type-C power adapter
Dimensions
31.39 x 22.71 x 1.75 cm (front) – 1.88 cm (hinge back) / 12.36 x 8.94 x 0.69 in (front) – 0.74 in (hinge back)
Weight
1.4 kg (3.09lbs)
General Usage
HP Pavilion Plus 14 AMD 7840U 65w power adaptor type-C
Coming in at 1.4kg and under 2cm thickness, the HP Pavilion Plus 14 AMD 7 7840U, is a good thin and light laptop that fits the ultraportable category of laptops. The included 65W power adapter is relatively small and lightweight and is easy to carry. Though it should be noted that you could get away from leaving the power adaptor at home. Easily you should be getting a good 6-8 hours of general continuous usage with simple power management.
One thing to note about battery life, the OLED display is able to handle HDR content and has a refresh rate of 120Hz which can drain the battery when on full brightness of 400 nits. By default HDR doesn’t turn on if on the laptop battery and only turns on when plugged in. With HDR turned on, all screen settings on max, and while streaming hi-res video, battery life was about 5 hours. As for when trying to conserve power, we achieve 10+ hours. We are sure we can push more, but few want an overglorified type writer.
Design & Connectivity
HP Pavilion Plus 14 AMD 7840U right side ports
HP Pavilion Plus 14 AMD 7840U left side ports
Coming to charging the laptop, the laptop has two USB Type-C ports for charging on the right side. Now we believe it would have been nice if HP had design the laptop with a Type-C port on each side. This would have been easier and convenient charging, but it is a relatively small nitpick. Luckily there is support for battery fast charge. This means the laptop can charge 50% in 30 minutes when the laptop is completely shut down. So no tether unless you are doing long gaming or binge watching sessions. Generally it took 2 to 2 and a half hours to charge the laptop fully when in light use.
Coming to the all metal chassis design, it is pleasant and sleek. We do wish there was a slight recess for easier one handed lid opening. The overall build quality is pretty solid, with good hinges. There was noted ability to flex for the screen lid, but nothing drastic or out of the ordinary. Some minor flex on the base of the laptop while using the keyboard. Nothing most would generally notice in daily usage.
The most notable thing about the connectivity is that the HP Pavilion Plus 14 AMD 7840U lacks thunderbolt 4 (40Gbps signaling rate) certification. This is something generally inherent of AMD laptops. The laptop comes with 2 USB Type-C 10Gbp (USB Power Delivery, DisplayPort 1.4, HP Sleep and Charge), 1 USB Type-A 10Gbps, 1 USB Type-A 5Gbps, 1 headphone/microphone combo, and 1 HDMI 2.1 port. If thunderbolt 4 is a must, do look at the Intel variants with i7-1355U or i5-1335U from HP.
Work Usage
With the Radeon 780M, the HP Pavilion Plus 14 can handle most general media creation and light editing tasks. It will also edges out the comparable Intel variants of the HP Pavilion Plus 14 models.
As for using the laptop included generously large touchpad and keyboard, we found it pleasant. Sadly there is special features and is pretty basic overall. There is no numpad for number entry but does come with dedicated page up and down buttons. The overall typing experience is nice but a bit basic, it gets the job done without any fuss.
Another huge plus point that makes the HP Pavilion Plus 14 a great laptop for work is its 5-megapixel 1440p video resolution webcam. It comes an with IR sensor (facial recognition login) and built-in physical privacy shutter. So not only will your web video calls/conferences be a better experience, but you can also ensure no one can see you when you don’t want them to. Additionally there are function keys on the keyboard to mute your microphone and sound. Both have a small led indicator light to easily see if they are on/off.
Multimedia Usage
For consuming media, this laptop does fantastically well with their gorgeous 2.8K 120HZ OLED display with HDR and 400 nits peak brightness. This basically translates to great vibrant colours, deep blacks and a pretty bright screen for your viewing pleasure. Clearly the star feature of this laptop, watching movies and tv shows is a super enjoyable experience. This does of course come at the expense of battery life. At full tilt streaming movies on max settings you should get about 5 hours out of the HP Pavilion Plus 14 AMD 7 7840U.
The only two real things that might mar your viewing experience are the reflective glossy screen and downward facing speakers. This is one laptop you can’t put on your lap or in bright lights. You will get muffled sounds and reflective glare easily. This is a laptop best used on a hard surface/table indoors.
Sound overall is good for a mid range laptop and has good volume but lacks bass. Another issue is that while using the laptops keyboard we were able to feel the speakers vibrate and dampen if we put any weight onto the laptop bottom chassis.
Gaming
As for gaming, the laptop will allow you to play most casual games and older titles without issues. I mean we don’t expect hardcore gamers to buy this laptop, but for integrated graphics, the Radeon 780M is probably the best at the moment. If you must, you can still play the newer graphically intensive games on the lowest settings at 1080P and get a respectful 20-30 fps.
Overall games like Hades will be a blast to play on the HP Pavilion Plus 14 AMD 7 7840U with a controller. With the OLED screen the colours really pop and the laptop has no problem playing the game smoothly. While playing Borderlands 3 we also noted that you definitely can’t use your native screen resolution.
As a side note on heat, we notice significant uncomfortable heating on the right side of the laptop keyboard when under high loads. Luckily for most gamers who need to use the laptop, the left side of the keyboard is unaffected. Using the WASD keys shouldn’t be a problem, just that it is still a laptop keyboard.
Benchmarks
*We are currently standardizing our benchmarking process into two parts. We test both in a controlled setting and via our hands-on experience through daily normal usage. For laptops, we use benchmarking software while plugged in and at max performance settings. We are currently using PCMark 10, PCMark 10 Extended, Time Spy, Wild Life Extreme, Cinebench 2024, and Borderlands 3.
In all the controlled testing, the HP Pavilion Plus 14 AMD 7 7840U shows great performance as a laptop for general productivity, photo editing, video conference calls, and light video editing. With an average score of 6457 in PCMark10 and 5615 in PCMark10 Extended.
Now in the gaming department, it is totally understandable that the 780M performance is lacking for a laptop. Though as an integrated graphics processor, its performance is top tier. The 780M is essentially the Ryzen Z1 Extreme found in ROG Ally and Legion Go, gaming handhelds running Windows OS.
Note that the Borderlands 3 benchmarking was run at the laptops native screen resolution of 2.8K
Final Thoughts
Overall the HP Pavilion Plus 14 AMD 7 7840U is a great light and thin laptop that has great overall productivity performance. Not a feature rich or gimmicky laptops, but a solid one that gets the job done well. The great OLED screen add much to the experience of this laptop. A highly recommend laptop to keep an eye on, especially when it goes on sale.
