What to know
- The MacBook Pro, on the other hand, adopts a more classic and professional aesthetic with a unibody aluminum design.
- The MacBook Pro, on the other hand, features the Apple M1 Pro or M1 Max chip with an integrated 16-core or 32-core GPU.
- While the MacBook Pro has a slight edge in terms of the number of Thunderbolt 4 ports, the Zenbook 14X OLED’s microSD card slot provides additional flexibility.
The world of laptops has evolved rapidly, offering a wide range of options for creative professionals. Two standout contenders in this arena are the ASUS Zenbook 14X OLED and the Apple MacBook Pro. Both devices boast impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the superior choice? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each laptop to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Display
Design:
The Zenbook 14X OLED features a sleek and sophisticated design with a premium aluminum chassis. Its thin profile and lightweight construction make it highly portable. The MacBook Pro, on the other hand, adopts a more classic and professional aesthetic with a unibody aluminum design. While both laptops are durable and well-built, the Zenbook 14X OLED’s compact size and stylish appearance may appeal to those who value portability and aesthetics.
Display:
Both laptops offer stunning OLED displays, but with distinct characteristics. The Zenbook 14X OLED boasts a 14-inch 2.8K OLED panel with a 90Hz refresh rate. This display delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional clarity. The MacBook Pro, meanwhile, features a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate. While the MacBook Pro’s display offers a slightly larger screen and smoother motion, the Zenbook 14X OLED’s OLED technology provides superior color accuracy and contrast.
Performance
CPU and GPU:
The Zenbook 14X OLED is powered by the latest Intel Core i7-1260P processor with integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics. The MacBook Pro, on the other hand, features the Apple M1 Pro or M1 Max chip with an integrated 16-core or 32-core GPU. Both laptops offer exceptional performance for demanding tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and 3D modeling. However, the MacBook Pro’s Apple silicon chip provides an edge in terms of overall performance and efficiency.
Memory and Storage:
The Zenbook 14X OLED offers up to 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 1TB of PCIe 4.0 SSD storage. The MacBook Pro comes with 16GB or 32GB of unified memory and up to 8TB of SSD storage. Both laptops provide ample memory and storage for multitasking and storing large files.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery Life:
The Zenbook 14X OLED boasts a 63Wh battery that delivers up to 10 hours of battery life. The MacBook Pro, with its more power-efficient Apple silicon chip, offers an impressive 17-hour battery life. For professionals who need extended battery life on the go, the MacBook Pro has a clear advantage.
Connectivity:
The Zenbook 14X OLED provides a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, an HDMI port, and a microSD card reader. The MacBook Pro offers three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port, and an SDXC card slot. While the MacBook Pro has a slight edge in terms of the number of Thunderbolt 4 ports, the Zenbook 14X OLED’s microSD card slot provides additional flexibility.
Operating System and Software
Operating System:
The Zenbook 14X OLED runs on Windows 11 Home, while the MacBook Pro comes with macOS Monterey. Both operating systems offer a wide range of applications and software support. Windows 11 provides greater flexibility and customization options, while macOS Monterey is known for its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem.
Software:
The Zenbook 14X OLED comes pre-installed with a suite of ASUS software, including MyASUS, which provides device diagnostics and optimization. The MacBook Pro includes Apple‘s suite of productivity apps, such as Pages, Numbers, and Keynote. Both laptops offer access to a vast selection of third-party software through their respective app stores.
Special Features
ASUS ScreenPad Plus:
The Zenbook 14X OLED features an innovative secondary display called the ScreenPad Plus. This 12.6-inch touchscreen can be used as an extended workspace, a virtual numpad, or a customizable control panel for creative applications. The ScreenPad Plus adds an extra dimension of productivity and convenience to the Zenbook 14X OLED.
Apple Touch Bar:
The MacBook Pro features the Touch Bar, a slim OLED display that replaces the traditional function keys. The Touch Bar provides contextual shortcuts and controls that adapt to the application you are using. While some users find the Touch Bar convenient, others may prefer the physical function keys offered by the Zenbook 14X OLED.
Price and Availability
The ASUS Zenbook 14X OLED starts at $1,499, while the Apple MacBook Pro starts at $1,999. Both laptops are widely available from authorized retailers and online stores.
Recommendations: The Ultimate Choice
Choosing between the ASUS Zenbook 14X OLED and the MacBook Pro ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, vivid colors, and an innovative secondary display, the Zenbook 14X OLED is an excellent choice. However, if you require exceptional performance, long battery life, and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, the MacBook Pro is the superior option.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which laptop has a better screen for creative work?
The Zenbook 14X OLED offers superior color accuracy and contrast thanks to its OLED panel, while the MacBook Pro‘s Liquid Retina XDR display provides a larger screen and smoother motion.
2. Which laptop is more powerful for video editing and graphic design?
The MacBook Pro with its Apple silicon chip provides an edge in overall performance and efficiency for demanding tasks.
3. Which laptop has a longer battery life?
The MacBook Pro offers an impressive 17-hour battery life, significantly longer than the Zenbook 14X OLED’s 10-hour battery life.
4. Which laptop is more suitable for Windows users?
The Zenbook 14X OLED runs on Windows 11 Home, providing greater flexibility and customization options.
5. Which laptop is more expensive?
The MacBook Pro starts at a higher price point than the Zenbook 14X OLED.