Summary
- The ASUS ZenBook 14 is equipped with a 63Wh battery, while the MacBook Pro comes with a 58.
- In real-world usage, the ZenBook 14 can last up to 14 hours on a single charge, while the MacBook Pro can last up to 20 hours.
- If you’re looking for a portable laptop that’s easy on the wallet, the ASUS ZenBook 14 is a solid choice.
The world of ultraportable laptops is dominated by two heavyweights: the ASUS ZenBook 14 and the MacBook Pro. Both devices offer exceptional performance, portability, and style. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the ASUS ZenBook 14 against the MacBook Pro to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The ASUS ZenBook 14 boasts a sleek and sophisticated design with its diamond-cut edges and anodized aluminum chassis. Its compact size makes it easy to carry around, while the sturdy construction ensures durability. The MacBook Pro, on the other hand, is known for its iconic unibody design and premium materials. Its aluminum chassis is both lightweight and robust. Both laptops offer a premium look and feel, but the ZenBook 14 has a slight edge in terms of portability.
Display
The ZenBook 14 features a 14-inch NanoEdge display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The IPS panel provides wide viewing angles and accurate colors. The MacBook Pro comes with a 13.3-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. Its higher pixel density results in sharper images and text. While both displays are excellent, the MacBook Pro’s Retina display offers superior resolution and clarity.
Performance
The ASUS ZenBook 14 is powered by Intel’s latest 11th-generation Core i5 processor, while the MacBook Pro features Apple‘s M1 chip. The M1 chip is known for its exceptional performance and efficiency, while the Core i5 processor offers solid performance for everyday tasks. Both laptops come with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD storage. In terms of raw performance, the MacBook Pro has a clear advantage with its M1 chip.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for ultraportable laptops. The ASUS ZenBook 14 is equipped with a 63Wh battery, while the MacBook Pro comes with a 58.2Wh battery. In real-world usage, the ZenBook 14 can last up to 14 hours on a single charge, while the MacBook Pro can last up to 20 hours. The MacBook Pro has a significant advantage in battery life, making it the better choice for users who need extended usage time away from an outlet.
Ports and Connectivity
The ASUS ZenBook 14 offers a wider range of ports than the MacBook Pro. It features a USB-C port, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, an HDMI port, and a microSD card slot. The MacBook Pro has two Thunderbolt 3 ports, two USB-C ports, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. While the MacBook Pro’s Thunderbolt 3 ports provide faster data transfer speeds, the ZenBook 14’s wider selection of ports offers greater versatility.
Operating System
The ASUS ZenBook 14 runs on Windows 10 Home, while the MacBook Pro runs on macOS Big Sur. Both operating systems have their advantages and disadvantages. Windows 10 offers greater flexibility and customization options, while macOS is known for its stability and ease of use. Ultimately, the choice between Windows and macOS depends on personal preference.
Price
The ASUS ZenBook 14 is priced around $999, while the MacBook Pro starts at $1,299. The MacBook Pro is more expensive, but it offers superior performance, battery life, and display quality. If you’re looking for an affordable ultraportable laptop, the ZenBook 14 is a great choice. If you’re willing to spend more for the best possible performance and features, the MacBook Pro is the way to go.
Which One is Right for You?
The ASUS ZenBook 14 and MacBook Pro are both excellent ultraportable laptops. The ZenBook 14 offers a great balance of performance, portability, and affordability. The MacBook Pro, on the other hand, excels in performance, battery life, and display quality.
If you’re looking for a portable laptop that’s easy on the wallet, the ASUS ZenBook 14 is a solid choice. If you’re willing to invest in the best possible ultraportable experience, the MacBook Pro is the clear winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which laptop has a better display?
A: The MacBook Pro has a higher resolution Retina display, offering sharper images and text.
Q: Which laptop has longer battery life?
A: The MacBook Pro has a longer battery life of up to 20 hours, compared to the ZenBook 14’s 14 hours.
Q: Which laptop is more powerful?
A: The MacBook Pro with its M1 chip offers superior performance compared to the ZenBook 14’s Core i5 processor.
Q: Which laptop has more ports?
A: The ASUS ZenBook 14 has a wider range of ports, including USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI, and microSD.
Q: Which laptop is more affordable?
A: The ASUS ZenBook 14 is priced lower than the MacBook Pro, starting at $999.