Key points
- The world of portable computing has witnessed a surge in the popularity of ultra-slim laptops, with the Asus Vivobook and MSI Modern 14 emerging as two formidable contenders in the market.
- The Vivobook features a traditional clamshell design with a brushed metal finish, while the Modern 14 adopts a more modern and angular aesthetic with a sleek aluminum chassis.
- However, if you prefer a more modern aesthetic and slightly better multi-core performance, the MSI Modern 14 is a solid option.
The world of portable computing has witnessed a surge in the popularity of ultra-slim laptops, with the Asus Vivobook and MSI Modern 14 emerging as two formidable contenders in the market. These sleek and lightweight devices offer a compelling blend of performance, portability, and style. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of these laptops to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Asus Vivobook and MSI Modern 14 boast a slim and compact design, weighing under 3 pounds. The Vivobook features a traditional clamshell design with a brushed metal finish, while the Modern 14 adopts a more modern and angular aesthetic with a sleek aluminum chassis. Both laptops offer a sturdy and durable construction, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of everyday use.
Display
The display is a crucial aspect of any laptop, and the Asus Vivobook and MSI Modern 14 offer comparable viewing experiences. Both feature 14-inch IPS panels with Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. The Vivobook’s display exhibits slightly better color accuracy and contrast, making it more suitable for content creation and media consumption.
Performance
Under the hood, the Asus Vivobook and MSI Modern 14 are powered by different processors. The Vivobook is equipped with an Intel Core i5-1135G7, while the Modern 14 features an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U. Both processors offer solid performance for everyday tasks, including web browsing, document editing, and video streaming. However, the Ryzen 5 5500U has a slight edge in multi-core tasks, making it more suitable for demanding applications.
Graphics
For graphics, the Asus Vivobook relies on integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, while the MSI Modern 14 utilizes AMD Radeon Vega 6 graphics. Both graphics solutions provide adequate performance for basic gaming and video editing. However, if you plan on playing more intensive games or engaging in heavy graphics work, you may want to consider a laptop with a dedicated GPU.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for portable laptops. The Asus Vivobook is equipped with a 50Wh battery, while the MSI Modern 14 boasts a slightly larger 52Wh battery. In real-world usage, both laptops offer similar battery life, lasting around 8-10 hours on a single charge. This makes them suitable for all-day computing without the need for frequent charging.
Connectivity and Ports
Connectivity is essential for modern laptops. The Asus Vivobook and MSI Modern 14 provide a comprehensive range of ports, including USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and a microSD card reader. Both laptops also feature Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity. Additionally, the Vivobook offers a fingerprint scanner for added security.
Price and Availability
The Asus Vivobook and MSI Modern 14 are priced competitively in the market. The Vivobook typically starts around $600, while the Modern 14 is slightly more expensive, with a starting price of around $700. Both laptops are widely available from various retailers and online stores.
Verdict: The Ultimate Choice
Choosing between the Asus Vivobook and MSI Modern 14 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize color accuracy and a more traditional design, the Asus Vivobook is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a more modern aesthetic and slightly better multi-core performance, the MSI Modern 14 is a solid option. Both laptops offer a balance of portability, performance, and value, making them ideal for students, professionals, and anyone seeking a compact and reliable laptop.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Which laptop has a better keyboard?
Both laptops offer comfortable and responsive keyboards. However, the MSI Modern 14 has slightly larger keycaps and a more ergonomic layout, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions.
2. Is the MSI Modern 14 upgradable?
Yes, the MSI Modern 14 allows you to upgrade the RAM and SSD, providing flexibility for future performance enhancements.
3. Which laptop is better for gaming?
Neither laptop is ideal for intensive gaming due to their integrated graphics. However, if you plan on playing casual games or light esports titles, the MSI Modern 14 with AMD Radeon Vega 6 graphics may offer slightly better performance.