Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406 Review: Sleek, Lightweight, and Performance-Driven
The Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406 blends sleek design, portability, and impressive performance into one package. Equipped with a powerful Intel processor, a 3K OLED display, and a durable build, this laptop is geared toward professionals and creatives who need performance without compromising on portability. This review will dive deep into all aspects of the Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406, from its design to its performance and overall value.
Key Specifications
Before we explore each component in detail, let’s look at the essential specs of the Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406:
- CPU: Intel Core Ultra 9 288V
- RAM: Up to 32GB
- Storage: Up to 1TB SSD
- Display: 14-inch OLED, 3K resolution (2880 x 1800), 120Hz
- Battery: Up to 20 hours of usage
- Ports: HDMI 2.1, Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, USB 3.2 Type-A, audio jack
This configuration promises high performance, suitable for tasks ranging from productivity to light gaming, with added value in the stunning display quality and longevity​.
Design and Build Quality
Ceralumium Finish
One of the first things that stands out is the ceralumium finish—a unique blend of ceramic and aluminum. This finish provides durability while remaining lightweight, making the Zenbook S 14 feel premium and sturdy without the hefty weight often associated with metal designs. Additionally, this material resists fingerprints, keeping the device looking sleek and clean even with daily handling.
Thin and Lightweight
Weighing just 2.7 lbs (1.2 kg) and only 0.5 inches thick, this laptop is ideal for those on the go. Despite its lightweight nature, Asus has engineered the Zenbook S 14 to be durable enough to withstand various environments, meeting MIL-STD 810H military standards for resilience in dust, temperature changes, and altitude​.
Display Quality
OLED 3K Display Features
The 14-inch OLED display with 3K resolution (2880 x 1800) and a 120Hz refresh rate is a major highlight. Colors are vibrant and rich, with deep blacks and high contrast, thanks to OLED technology. This makes the Zenbook S 14 ideal for both content consumption and creation, offering sharp visuals and fluid scrolling. The display supports 82% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and has a Delta-E color accuracy of 0.21, which makes it highly suitable for creative work​.
Brightness and Color Accuracy
While the display is stunning indoors, its brightness maxes out at 400 nits, which might be slightly underwhelming in direct sunlight. However, for regular indoor use, the brightness and color accuracy are more than adequate, providing an immersive visual experience for most tasks.
Keyboard and Touchpad
Keyboard Experience
The keyboard on the Zenbook S 14 features a backlit, chiclet-style design with a 1.1mm key travel. While the short travel may take some getting used to for those who prefer deeper keystrokes, it remains comfortable for extended typing sessions. However, the feedback is on the softer side, which might not appeal to everyone.
Touchpad Performance
The touchpad is spacious and responsive, with effective palm rejection that prevents accidental touches. It’s smooth and supports Windows Precision drivers, providing a precise and fluid navigation experience. While the touchpad size is an advantage, it can occasionally result in ghost touches when used on uneven surfaces like a couch​.
Read Also: Asus ExpertBook P5 (P5405) Review
Audio Quality
With Smart Amp Technology and Harman Kardon tuning, the Zenbook S 14’s audio system delivers impressive sound for an ultraportable laptop. The speakers handle mid and high frequencies well, though the bass might feel a bit lacking. It’s more than sufficient for casual listening and watching videos, making it a pleasant surprise in the audio department.
Performance and Benchmark Scores
Intel Lunar Lake Processor
Powered by Intel’s latest Lunar Lake chipset, the Zenbook S 14 boasts strong performance across various tasks. This processor, combined with up to 32GB of RAM, ensures smooth multitasking, whether you’re editing photos, streaming content, or managing multiple browser tabs​.
Real-World Performance
In real-world usage, the laptop remains responsive, handling day-to-day tasks with ease. Benchmarks highlight its strengths: with impressive scores on tests like PCMark 10 (6,954) and Cinebench R23 (9,195 multi-core). These results make the Zenbook S 14 a dependable choice for professionals looking for performance without sacrificing mobility​.
Battery Life
The Zenbook S 14’s battery life is noteworthy, offering up to 20 hours on a single charge under optimal conditions. This longevity is ideal for users who need a reliable device for all-day work or travel without constantly needing a charger.
Connectivity and Ports
Equipped with Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, HDMI 2.1, and a USB 3.2 Type-A port, the Zenbook S 14 covers most connectivity needs for modern users. However, the limited number of USB-A ports might mean you’ll need an adapter if you frequently use older peripherals.
Software and Features
Running on Windows 11, the Zenbook S 14 also includes support for Windows Copilot and a dedicated AI chip for enhanced performance with AI applications. This feature is especially relevant for users interested in future-ready technology and AI integration​.
Price and Value
Though the Zenbook S 14 is on the premium end, its combination of design, display quality, and performance makes it a valuable investment for professionals and creatives. It offers a competitive alternative to pricier models like the MacBook Air while still providing a high-quality user experience​.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-quality OLED display | Limited USB-A ports |
| Lightweight, durable build | Slightly dim for outdoor use |
| Strong multitasking performance | Keyboard may feel shallow |
| Long battery life | Price may be high for some users |
Conclusion
The Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406 stands out in the ultraportable laptop market with its blend of sleek design, impressive display, and robust performance. While it’s not the cheapest option, the laptop’s high-quality materials, long battery life, and vibrant display make it a compelling choice for anyone who values both style and substance. This laptop is a fantastic pick for professionals, students, and creatives who prioritize portability without sacrificing productivity.
In summary, the Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406 is more than just a pretty device. It’s built to last, equipped to perform, and designed to fit seamlessly into the lifestyle of users who are always on the go.
FAQs
- Is the Asus Zenbook S 14 UX5406 good for gaming?
- It handles light gaming well, especially with its 120Hz refresh rate, but it’s not optimized for high-end gaming.
- Does the Zenbook S 14 have a good battery life?
- Yes, it can last up to 20 hours under optimal usage, making it ideal for extended use without charging.
- How portable is the Zenbook S 14 UX5406?
- With a weight of 2.7 lbs and a thickness of 0.5 inches, it’s highly portable and easy to carry.
- Does the display support HDR?
- The OLED display does provide excellent contrast and deep colors, though it lacks official HDR certification.
- Can the Zenbook S 14 handle video editing?
- Yes, it’s capable of handling video editing tasks, especially in HD, thanks to its powerful Intel CPU and ample RAM.
- Is the keyboard comfortable for typing?
- The keyboard is backlit with 1.1mm key travel, which may feel shallow but is comfortable for most users.
- What type of ports does it have?
- It includes Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, HDMI 2.1, USB Type-A, and an audio jack.
- How does it compare to the MacBook Air?
- It offers a similar high-end design and portability, with a focus on Windows users and additional connectivity options.
- Does it come with a stylus?
- While it’s a touchscreen device, the Zenbook S 14 does not include a stylus in the box.
- What warranty does Asus offer?
- Asus typically offers a one-year warranty on its Zenbook series, with options for extended coverage.
