Asus Zenbook Prime UX32VD Ultrabook Review

[@marramharram]

Hi Lisa! Once again, great review. In Norway this is priced about 1786 USD whereas the UX32VD is priced at 1415 USD. So for the difference in price I can buy a 256GB SSD and 8GB ram and I'm still a few dollars below the retail price of UX31A. And I too really feel they should've gone for the GT640M or 640M LE as the 620M is quite weak. Btw for OS install on the iSSD. It's on the notebookreview forums, title "how to install w7 on integrated SSD" or something like that.

[@OffroadGeekDxb]

I love your reviews. Very informative and detailed. Please consider making a short review with the main points if possible. For me as a buyer, its hard to sit through a 20min review and if I skip through I fear of missing on something important. Thanks.

[@mobiletechreview]

CPU and GPU temps are Celsius and external (case) temps are Fahrenheit.

[@thany3]

Lisa, a friendly suggestion: in future reviews, can you please also say measurements of size and weight in metri units please? I'm from Europe and "0.67 inches" or "3.2 pounds" means pretty much nothing to me... We would have to go and get a unit converter. But thanks for this awesome review again. Your reviews are always very in-depth, especially when compared to others who sometimes even shamelessly make a slideshow with music and onscreen specs and be done with it :)

[@mobiletechreview]

Here in the US, the Vaio S13A is actually a little cheaper than the UX32VD ($1,199 vs. $1,299).

[@ffchack]

Yes. I read up on it and agree with what you are saying. Guess I can't make it look good and work good at the same time :( Thank You. Your reviews are really informative! Keep it up!

[@mobiletechreview]

The UX31 and UX32VD power adapter design is the same, but the 32's is a little bit bigger with higher output.

[@JohnPrentice95]

As always fantastic review, very professional Lisa. :)

[@mobiletechreview]

The 620M will help a bit, but honestly if you do a lot of HD video editing (1080p), a faster CPU, particularly a quad core i7 M rather than ULV will make a bigger difference. But Ultrabooks run on ULV CPUs only.

[@mobiletechreview]

The X230 has a full mobile CPU and it's seriously rugged. But the resolution is much lower and it's quite a bit thicker. It's a performance vs. portability decision.

[@TheSlipKnot981]

in many ways it's a good thing that it looks like the macbook air, because that means that it is equivalent in terms of build quality (unibody aluminum), but highly superior in terms of specs

[@austinwachukwu]

Finally. Thanks Lisa.

[@mobiletechreview]

Depends on just how much graphics and processing power you need. For moderately demanding tasks this is fine. For more serious power, the Sony Vaio S 13.3 is a better bet though the screen isn't as good as the Zenbook Prime's.

[@bussurum]

Hi Lisa. A lot of thanks for your review. I want to buy the Zenbook UX32VD through Amazon, but it appears in the website that it is I-7 1.7 GHz., and not 1.9. I am confused. Are they selling another model? Where can buy this model that you just reviewed online for US $1,299?

[@Bornmirri]

yep, all the ones with discrete/dedicated graphics (GT620) have replaceable RAM. I think some of them have parts of the ram soldered onto the mobo, but there is still room for at least one sd-ram slot :)

[@shawngee1]

Hi Lisa, Can you show the comparison between the two power adapters? Have you gotten your hands on the UX32a? I am looking at purchasing one on Friday, but was hoping to watch your review first. :/ Thanks,

[@mobiletechreview]

We'll have a video of the UX32VD playing Skyrim, Civ V and Left 4 Dead 2. Skyrim tests demanding graphics, Civ V tests high CPU demand and Left4Dead 2 to show moderately demanding games.

[@9krausec]

It might be a long shot, but have you tested any 3d development software with the prime (3ds Max, Maya, softimage, zbrush, mudbox etc...)? Was looking at getting an ultrabook for modeling on the go and for client demonstrations... Saw the Asus Slate perform pretty well in higher poly situations. Once again, excellent review.

[@Jackall4ever]

Will there be a review on the Samsung Series 9? I would love to see a thorough review+comparison.

[@ZyanDotMy]

Hi, between this or hp folio 13 which is better????????

[@theradiantchild]

great detail oriented reviews! What laptop/ultrabook would you recommend for someone who will use the laptop for school, business, media streaming, music and light gaming? I'd like an IPS panel and I'm not too crazy about gloss screens either. i5 would work fine I think. Looking to spend 800 max. Maybe there will be some black Friday deals? Thanks for any help offered!

[@allexmasterA007]

I bought an UX32A model and didn't receive the accessories with it and Asus UK says they are not included so if you need them think twice before buying this model. I wasn't expecting such an attitude from Asus considering that on their website it shows them included in the specifications.

[@mranthonymcneil85]

Thank you very much for the reply. If I may ask, would you have particular recommendations?

[@mobiletechreview]

I have used the Samsung Series 9 with the 1600 x 900 IPS display. I honestly do prefer the UX31A's display. Not just for the resolution: I find it sharper and brighter.

[@flybriur]

Amazing, thorough review as usual, Lisa. In your opinion, do you think the 1080p screen is really worth getting a Zenbook over other ultrabooks? I'm deciding between the Zenbook and the Samsung Series 9, and while I do like the design and build quality of the Samsung Series 9, and it's screen is very good as well, the res is only 1600x900. If you have used the Samsung Series 9 at all, I just wanted to get your opinion on which one you would personally choose. Thanks!

[@CarlGuyenette]

Hi Lisa :) Would you say I should buy the UX32VD or the UX31A? I'm really lost as to which one would be better for me! Which one do you prefer? Thanks for helping me!

[@ffchack]

This might be a silly question. But after watching both your new Zenbook reviews I'm really impressed. But my question is will I be able to run apps like Adobe AfterEffects and render videos in Premier Pro with HD 4000? And will the mediocre GT620M graphics make it any better? I'm currently running them fairly well on my old HPG6 with ATI Radeon HD 6470M and I do not know how to compare Nvidia versions with ATI.

[@iwanhaniyoto]

My wife still use this laptop too. And coupe months ago, I do little trial, do a clean install, and use the onboard 32GB Sandisk SSD cache as a primary boot. It's working perfectly with Windows 8.1 Pro. Then I swap the 2.5 harddrive with 240Gb Intel 530 SSD as a data storage.

[@SergiyPlygun]

Same there, but I left windows on the primary drive (512G ssd replacement) while cache ssd is given for linux which fits there perfectly well.

[@dexie135]

How is it now ?

[@thatotherdroid]

Hi Lisa, I'm looking at getting this Zenbook but I was wanting your opinion. My needs are simple except for the desire to run Photoshop & Chrome at the same time. Do you find this ultra-book to be more than adequate, just average or slightly poor to meet these demands? I GREATLY appreciate your time and opinion!!! - Jared

[@AndroidBugler]

It can be upgraded to 6 or 10GB. 2GB are soldered to the motherboard, to you can change the 2GB DIMM into a 4 or 8GB DIMM

[@mranthonymcneil85]

Was is a certain deciding factor that made you feel that way or did you tell yourself it was not worth it?

[@anniestokes22]

Lisa, Is there an Asur support group for some of us beginners. I mean where you can call for help with the laptop?

[@sleepsilver]

I'm confused. I have read other reviews and after watching a 1080p video people have reached 50 degrees celsius. How has she only reached 105 degrees fahrenheit 40.556 degrees celisus while playing games?

[@iSlaya90]

Hi Lisa, Which computer do you think would be a better purchase: Asus ZenBook Prime UX31A or the Asus Zenbook Prime UX32VD? Is the UX31A noticeably faster? Does the UX32VD have 2GB of RAM because that is what they say on the Asus website? Are there any major downfalls by buying wither machine? I don't mind the extra weight and size and the extra ports added by the UX32VD. If you could answer these questions I would be grateful.

[@FluffyCOLDBLOOD]

hey Lisa can you review the Samsung series 9 13 inch and 15 inch ultra books please also, love your reviews!

[@SergioBlackDolphin]

Guys, you are so lucky to have these models available in the US! In the UK they cannot be found..

[@Love369A]

your reviews are the best,, thank you

[@numex106]

hey lisa, could you do a comparison between the macbook air 13, dell xps 13 and the zenbook ux31a (not this one). i don't know which to get as there specs are kinds similar and i'm not too worried about different os's. prices are within 200 bucks so that's fine too. i know you have comparisons between two of them but what about all three? thanks for the great reviews

[@Oscar7Skipper]

And also what the big difference between the UX31E and the UX32VD without looking on the HD

[@fshamshad]

Hi Lisa, how is the keyboard flex on the UX32VD? I hate keyboard flex. I am currently using the HP spectre touchsmart 15" and love it except for the relatively weird behavior that happens sometimes when it doesnt wake up from sleep mode.

[@comengmetu]

hello lisafor all the reviews. Are you also going to review the new asus n series n56vz?

[@sleepsilver]

I love how all the review units have the Ivy Bridge that has the 1.9 GHz processor but the rest have the 1.7 GHz processor.

[@thany3]

So I reaaaaly want a Zenbook, because of its screen. The Vaio Z3 is also a really good option, but I can't find anywhere what screen technology that one's using. So my bets are on this AZP. Now, what if I don't need the dedicated graphics? Is it disabled while not playing games to achieve a battery endurance more similar to the UX31A? The thing is, I really do want 8GB, and Asus only has 4GB models (in my country at least)... Any advice?

[@TheLawDogDiaries]

Lisa, I attempted to purchase this however newegg says it is DISCONTINUED. Is there a newer version? What is a comparable ultrabook? When is the Haswell coming out and when Haswell comes out, will these become cheaper?

[@alexanderfritsche6377]

Hi Lisa, I'm debating between the UX32VD and the Lenovo X1 Carbon. I need it for school as well as some Photoshop Work (bit of a hobby photographer). Priced out the Lenovo at $1400 after deals (i7, 4GB ram, 256 SSD). Would be tempted to stick an SSD into the Asus to make it faster, so cost will be roughly similar. How much extra power will I get in PS from the dedicated graphics of the Asus vs the X1? How would you compare the screens? Build Quality? Track Pad? Which one do you recommend?

[@mobiletechreview]

I'd pick something a little more powerful for Maya and 3D Max.

[@KhaleelMalki]

Lisa you are the best, i need your advice &opinion should i got "Asus Zenbook Prime UX32VD" OR "Lenovo thinkpad t430" OR "Sony S" by the way i well get it with high configuration Thnaks... : )

[@g.gekko.7949]

could you please do a review of the lenovo s431. there are almost no reviews for it

[@mobiletechreview]

Personally I'd pick the Zenbook Prime over the Vaio T because of the much better display and nicer build materials.

[@3tjrunner3]

then you have to buy Windows OS? to install it on your new SSD?

[@gabbygabgabsters]

would you pick this over the Lenovo ideapad yoga 13 ultrabook?

[@probandikoon]

Hi, I'm looking for an ultraportable laptop for college. I've sort of narrowed it down between this and the sony S13 Premium. Which one would be better if I wanted to do occasional gaming? And also, is the battery life of each of these laptops comparable?

[@111tato]

Hey Lisa. I really need your help. If you had to choose between Macbook air and this Asus Zenbook prime ultrabook, which one would you choose?

[@Boss3n]

Is this user-upgradable regarding ram and if you wanna upgrade your ssd?

[@mirifaithful]

This ultrabook is absolutely amazing. After the upgrades of adding an ssd and 8gb of ram in place of the 2gb that is up-gradable, you really can't beat this laptop. Especially if you buy it refurbished or used from ebay or amazon. I only paid around 800 dollars total, including the upgrades.

[@3tjrunner3]

Can you buy zenbooks straight from ASUS online or where? Thanks!

[@jadirvalenzuela1658]

hi i am from colombia and thanks for that video, but i would like to know what is better between asus ux32a BHI3N61 and ux32vd BHI5N57, thanks for your answer.

[@NecopostTV]

Excellent review

[@benjaSs93]

i think the desktop background is in Normandy France

[@anubiez1265]

Hi Lisa, ASUS UX32Vd (Ultrabook) Intel Core i7-3517U, 1.9 GHz (I have 8gb of ram so i don't care about how many rams have) or Samsung 550P5C-T01EE Intel Core i5-3210M, 2.6GHz NVIDIA GeForce GT 630M 2gb of ram I buying new laptop i gonna use a lot of programs like fl studio 10 and video editoring. So wich one of these two would be better and faster? And off course i gonna use for some games at the free time.

[@WinterWolv]

Hey Lisa, thanks so much for your video's! They've helped me learn a lot and make better decisions! Keep it up :D I was wondering if you could consider doing a review for the Asus n56vz =) I've been thinking of getting the machine but I've been a bit hesitant whether I should >.< Thanks!

[@mranthonymcneil85]

Is this Zenbook good for working with 3D programs like Maya and/or 3ds Max? I will be taking some classes in game design and I am looking for something that will able to handle programs as such pretty well. Thanks.

[@Oscar7Skipper]

Hey Lisa! In two weeks i'm gonna start on gym and i need a computer. I think i'm going to buy this one or the Toshiba Satellite Z830. I can't make the dicision pleas help

[@Raghesh_K]

lisa plz do a review of Dell Special Edition Inspiron 14R or 15R.... Plz lisa...

[@comengmetu]

thank you for the review Lisa. Although I still think to buy the ux32vd but I think the sony vaio s13a products are better the then zenbooks. The bad thing in the vaio is that it is more expensive than the zenbook.

[@mobiletechreview]

Seems like a good choice to me.

[@tumdeax]

Actually, you can run Premiere Pro CS6 with the Mercury Playback Engine on. The GT 620M has the 96 CUDA cores, which is the minimum to run MPE. So yes, PP CS6 will run fast when editing. Export times will not be as fast, but I don't care for that really.

[@metalllus]

hey lisa, i have a question. the notebook has two video outputs - hdmi and vga. Is it possible to use them simultaneously to expand the desktop to two separate displays? thx.

[@kombuchasmellsnice]

Can you run cs:go on this device on max settings?

[@jjrosaria]

Hi just wondering. i'm wanting to get a samsung series 9 ultrabook (13 inch i5 model) but I saw this (with the lower res screen, and i5) If I buy this one, I'll swap it for an ssd. However, do you think it would be worth it getting this over the samsung? I really like the design of the samsung. However, i'm having second thoughts and a bit worried about performance. As I intend to use it for some light CAD (solidworks) and photoshop (mainly editing 18mp raw files

[@antiapachi]

when will new asus zenbook series be released in europe?

[@MattGibanzil]

Wheres the fraps gaming comparison?

[@MrDJidZ]

great review

[@9krausec]

We seem to have some Blizzard product placement going on. haha. Nice review! Thanks!

[@thegoonist]

whats the battery life of the ux32vd?

[@mariop16]

nice review

[@CRANKYONE100]

This or Macbook 15' retina forPhotoShop editing?

[@Noob___Noob]

105 degree Celsius or fahrenheit?

[@Pzarkable]

Can you upgrade the mSATA SSD?

[@RoyLFewkes]

Can i put a corsair force gt drive in it if i took out the housing?

[@kiewerleraz]

can this support 3D modelling programs?

[@Mtorrcom]

can this go up to 16gb ram? need for vmware and too lazy to search

[@mranthonymcneil85]

That is true. Hard work pays off in the end. After I just watch my cousin work his ass off with his dream of playing in the NFL it came true when the Chicago Bears drafted him. That was off topic but it shows that if you want to do something you love you have to work hard and never give up on it. We all have to start off somewhere right?

[@BboyasianRonnie]

I bought it like 2012...... and now still using it LOL still rocking games like sleeping dogs in it!

[@JoshCx01]

LISA IS THE GREATEST!

[@itzCraYon]

can i change the 4gb's of ram to 8gb ram?

[@E3Zombie]

It can handle the modelling but do your rendering on something bigger

[@mrBytemare]

Thanks great vid! :) just bought my self a ASUS ZENBOOK UX32LN and really in love with it. i7 with 8GB ram, 128GB SSD and Nvidia 840M installed. However will replace the 128GB SSD with a 256GB sooner or later but, from what I can see its quite tricky getting get back-plate off, without breaking it...thats my only worries :( Love your vids keep it up ! :)

[@mczapk]

Im watching this in headphones and i can hear the person behind camera breathing heavily... quite creepy

[@PessimisticRealist]

It's really just a Zenbook Prime. Going into greater detail to include the model number is optional depending on the circumstances, especially since all of the different models look virtually identical to the naked/untrained eye. (And personally, I don't think the fact that ASUS has a greater number of variations for one product than Apple does is something that should be held against them).

[@HD2935]

When you do the gaming video can you show how minecraft runs it, thanks

[@TRance9988]

This or Macbook air?

[@bucktooth002]

Somebody please help; when I try to plug in headphones they don't go in at all & also the volume on the speakers aren't working at all. is anyone else having this problem?

[@nadsbernardino]

This or Macbook Retina?

[@bucktooth002]

Somebody please help; when I try to plug in headphones they don't go in all way nor fit & also the volume on the speakers aren't working at all. Is anyone else having this problem? What could I do to fix such a problem?

[@sirdavidspagnolo]

105 Celcius is only like 220 degrees Ferenheit? I cant think of anything that burns at 220 degrees.

[@gaivoron]

Celsius??? that would set fire to anything around it lol besides computer temperatures in US are measured in Ferenheit.

[@zladinho]

This one or the vivobook s4000.

[@jusatin]

Tbh there's no slim laptops for 3d designing, sure you can do some smaller projects with low polygon count using them, but you want to get a ~1000€ desktop pc with nvidia gfx card for 3d modelling :)

[@drmedborn]

so, how much better is the gt 620m compared to the hd 4400?

[@christopherfahmy375]

FrootLoop 1gb 640 vs 512mb also the clock speed is alot faster