Highlights
- Both laptops are available in a range of colors, with the Swift 3 offering a more vibrant palette and the Modern 14 emphasizing a professional and understated look.
- The Swift 3 offers a Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel with a standard 60Hz refresh rate, while the Modern 14 upgrades to a higher-resolution Quad HD+ (2560 x 1440) IPS panel with a smoother 90Hz refresh rate.
- The Acer Swift 3 has a slightly longer battery life with its 56Wh battery, providing up to 12 hours of runtime compared to the Modern 14’s 52Wh battery and 10 hours of usage.
In the realm of ultraportable laptops, the Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 stand as formidable contenders. Both devices boast sleek designs, powerful processors, and competitive price points. However, discerning the subtle differences between these two laptops can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of the Acer Swift 3 vs MSI Modern 14, allowing you to determine the ideal choice for your computing requirements.
Design and Build Quality
The Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 share a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic. The Swift 3 features a lightweight aluminum chassis that weighs a mere 2.65 pounds, while the Modern 14 is slightly heavier at 3.1 pounds but boasts a more durable magnesium-aluminum alloy construction. Both laptops are available in a range of colors, with the Swift 3 offering a more vibrant palette and the Modern 14 emphasizing a professional and understated look.
Display
The Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 both sport 14-inch displays, but their specifications differ. The Swift 3 offers a Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel with a standard 60Hz refresh rate, while the Modern 14 upgrades to a higher-resolution Quad HD+ (2560 x 1440) IPS panel with a smoother 90Hz refresh rate. The Modern 14’s display also boasts wider color coverage and brighter maximum brightness, providing a more immersive and vibrant viewing experience.
Performance
The Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 are both powered by Intel’s 11th-generation processors. The Swift 3 offers a choice between the Core i5-1135G7 and Core i7-1165G7, while the Modern 14 features the more powerful Core i7-1195G7. In terms of graphics, the Swift 3 relies on Intel’s integrated Iris Xe graphics, while the Modern 14 boasts dedicated NVIDIA GeForce MX450 graphics. For general productivity and light gaming, both laptops perform admirably, but the Modern 14 offers a slight edge in demanding applications and games.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for ultraportable laptops, and both the Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 deliver respectable endurance. The Swift 3 boasts a 56Wh battery that provides up to 12 hours of runtime, while the Modern 14’s 52Wh battery offers up to 10 hours of usage. In real-world scenarios, both laptops can comfortably power you through a full day of work or study without requiring charging.
Connectivity and Ports
The Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options. Both laptops feature Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and a USB-C port with Thunderbolt 4 support. However, the Swift 3 includes an additional USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 port, while the Modern 14 offers a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The keyboard and touchpad of a laptop can significantly impact the user experience. Both the Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 feature backlit keyboards with comfortable key travel and responsive feedback. The Modern 14’s keyboard has a slightly more premium feel, but the Swift 3’s keyboard offers dedicated number keys. Both laptops also provide spacious touchpads with smooth tracking and support for multi-touch gestures.
Verdict: The Best Choice for Your Needs
Choosing between the Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 ultimately depends on your individual preferences and requirements. If you prioritize lightweight design, affordability, and a balanced performance, the Acer Swift 3 is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you value a higher-resolution display, dedicated graphics, and a more durable construction, the MSI Modern 14 justifies its slightly higher price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which laptop has the better display?
A: The MSI Modern 14 boasts a higher-resolution Quad HD+ display with a smoother 90Hz refresh rate, providing a more immersive and vibrant viewing experience.
Q: Which laptop is more powerful?
A: The MSI Modern 14 features a more powerful Intel Core i7-1195G7 processor and dedicated NVIDIA GeForce MX450 graphics, offering better performance in demanding applications and games.
Q: Which laptop has better battery life?
A: The Acer Swift 3 has a slightly longer battery life with its 56Wh battery, providing up to 12 hours of runtime compared to the Modern 14’s 52Wh battery and 10 hours of usage.