Quick summary
- The MacBook Air M1 features a more limited selection of ports, with two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports and a 3.
- The MacBook Air M1 runs on Apple’s macOS Big Sur, which offers a user-friendly interface, seamless integration with Apple devices, and a wide range of productivity and creative applications.
- Ultimately, the choice between the Asus ZenBook 13 UX325EA and the MacBook Air M1 depends on your specific needs and preferences.
In the realm of ultraportable laptops, the Asus ZenBook 13 UX325EA and the MacBook Air M1 stand out as formidable contenders. Both devices boast exceptional performance, sleek designs, and impressive battery life. However, subtle differences in their features and capabilities set them apart. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each device to help you make an informed decision about which ultraportable best suits your needs.
Design and Build Quality
The Asus ZenBook 13 UX325EA boasts a premium aluminum chassis with a sophisticated Pine Grey finish. Its compact dimensions (11.9 x 8.1 x 0.6 inches) and ultralight weight (2.5 pounds) make it incredibly portable. The MacBook Air M1, on the other hand, features an iconic unibody design crafted from 100% recycled aluminum. With its slim profile (11.9 x 8.4 x 0.6 inches) and slightly heavier weight (2.8 pounds), it offers a balance of portability and durability.
Display: Color Accuracy and Resolution
Both the ZenBook 13 UX325EA and MacBook Air M1 feature 13.3-inch displays. However, the ZenBook’s OLED panel delivers superior color accuracy and contrast, making it ideal for color-sensitive tasks such as photo and video editing. Its 1920 x 1080 resolution provides sharp details. The MacBook Air M1’s Liquid Retina display boasts a slightly higher 2560 x 1664 resolution, resulting in even crisper images and text. Its wide color gamut ensures vibrant and accurate colors.
Performance: M1 vs Intel
The MacBook Air M1 is powered by Apple’s revolutionary M1 chip, which offers unparalleled performance in an ultraportable device. Its 8-core CPU and 7-core GPU deliver lightning-fast speeds and efficient multitasking. The ZenBook 13 UX325EA relies on Intel’s 11th-generation Core i5-1135G7 processor, which provides solid performance but falls short of the M1’s exceptional capabilities.
Battery Life: Endurance on the Go
Battery life is crucial for ultraportable laptops, and both the ZenBook 13 UX325EA and MacBook Air M1 excel in this area. The ZenBook offers up to 10 hours of battery life, while the MacBook Air M1 boasts an impressive 18 hours. This extended battery life empowers users to stay productive and entertained for extended periods without worrying about power depletion.
Connectivity: Essential Ports and Wireless
The ZenBook 13 UX325EA offers a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, an HDMI port, and a microSD card reader. The MacBook Air M1 features a more limited selection of ports, with two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Both devices support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity.
Keyboard and Touchpad: Comfort and Precision
The Asus ZenBook 13 UX325EA features a full-size backlit keyboard with a comfortable key travel and responsive feedback. The MacBook Air M1’s Magic Keyboard provides a similar level of comfort and precision, with its scissor-switch mechanism ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Both devices offer spacious and responsive touchpads for effortless navigation.
Operating Systems: macOS vs Windows
The MacBook Air M1 runs on Apple’s macOS Big Sur, which offers a user-friendly interface, seamless integration with Apple devices, and a wide range of productivity and creative applications. The ZenBook 13 UX325EA comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Home, providing access to a vast library of software and customization options.
Which Ultraportable Reigns Supreme?
Ultimately, the choice between the Asus ZenBook 13 UX325EA and the MacBook Air M1 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize exceptional color accuracy, a compact form factor, and ample connectivity options, the ZenBook 13 UX325EA is an excellent choice. However, if raw performance, unparalleled battery life, and a premium build quality are your top priorities, the MacBook Air M1 is the clear winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which device has a better webcam?
A: Both the ZenBook 13 UX325EA and MacBook Air M1 feature 720p webcams, offering comparable video quality for video calls.
Q: Does the ZenBook 13 UX325EA support Thunderbolt 4?
A: No, the ZenBook 13 UX325EA does not support Thunderbolt 4.
Q: Is the MacBook Air M1 compatible with Windows?
A: No, the MacBook Air M1 is not compatible with Windows. It runs exclusively on Apple’s macOS operating system.
Q: Which device is more suitable for gaming?
A: Neither the ZenBook 13 UX325EA nor the MacBook Air M1 is specifically designed for gaming. However, the MacBook Air M1 with its more powerful M1 chip may offer slightly better gaming performance.
Q: Can the ZenBook 13 UX325EA be upgraded with more RAM or storage?
A: No, the ZenBook 13 UX325EA’s RAM and storage are not upgradeable.