Design
Go like a pro
Portability is the key word when designing an ultrabook. What's the point of sacrificing component space if you can't take the smaller machine with you?
When we opened up the lid, we might've heard angels sing. The backlit keys just begged to be tickled like the last true Steinway. They had good action too, not mushy.
Ultrabooks are often used in the business world because of their portability. But if you're taking your laptop with you everywhere it's bound to get scratched and scuffed. That client meeting could be a little embarrassing if your computer isn't pristine. The UX302LG seeks to solve that problem: Corning Gorilla Glass coats the exterior of the lid while keeping the iconic concentric ring design.
When looking at those endless rings on the back of the Zenbook it's like staring into infinity. Combined with that full HD screen, the entire chassis is just gorgeous. Design alone makes the UX302LG a pleasure to use. Whether you bring it into a boardroom or dorm room, you'll be turning heads and taking e-mails.
Features
This ultrabook fights above its weight
Our demo unit had a 4th generation Intel processor, 13.3inch full HD display, NVIDA GeForce GT 730M graphics, and 4GB of memory. That's some pretty heavy hardware for an ultrabook. We were unable to get a definite price, but based on pass releases we estimate an MSRP of $2,000 or more. That 13.3inch screen has IPS which means that it has a wider viewing angle, so if you're watching a movie a few friends can join in.
{{ gallery "gallery" }}
Under the most ideal conditions, this Zenbook could restart in five seconds and wake from sleep in two seconds. If you're using this as a business machine, then time is money, and additional HDMI ports are for closers. Other connectivity of note include three USB 3.0, one HDMI, and one mini-Display.
Given that this machine only weighs 3.3 pounds, it's punching above its class. Having a discreet graphics card opens up many opportunities, especially for gaming—because people work hard should play hard.
Conclusion
There's no doubt that the Asus Zenbook UX302LG will be expensive, but it has the style and substance to back that up. The sleek Gorilla Glass lid is attractive and will remain so for the life of the machine. Under the hood, the UX302LG holds its own against laptops twice its weight, including NVIDA GeForce graphics and 4th generation Intel on the higher-end model. Even though it's pricy, this ultrabook will give a good first impression to... well, people who want to make a good first impression.
Meet the tester
Jonathan Chan currently serves as the Lab Manager at Reviewed. If you clean with it, it's likely that Jon oversees its testing. Since joining the Reviewed in 2012, Jon has helped launch the company's efforts in reviewing laptops, vacuums, and outdoor gear. He thinks he's a pretty big deal. In the pursuit of data, he's plunged his hands into freezing cold water, consented to be literally dragged through the mud, and watched paint dry. Jon demands you have a nice day.
Checking our work.
Our team is here for one purpose: to help you buy the best stuff and love what you own. Our writers, editors, and lab technicians obsess over the products we cover to make sure you're confident and satisfied. Have a different opinion about something we recommend? Email us and we'll compare notes.
Shoot us an email