The new ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-XS74 is a 13-inch ultralight all rounder laptop. I’ve written a more in-depth review of the ZenBook UX325EA-DS51 model which you can read by clicking the link. There are differences between the two, but not in terms of design, size, weight, or display quality. However, these differences makes this model significantly more expensive, but not that much when compared to direct competitors.
A more powerful flagship
Now, the ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-XS74 features more in terms of processing power, available system memory and storage space. Sure, you’ll end up paying around $1,100 for this flagship device. In my book, the price hike (of around $300 or so) is well worth it.
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You’ll get an Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor, 16 gigabytes of system memory and a more roomy 512-gigabyte solid state drive. I especially endorse those 16 gigs of RAM compared to just 8 gigs you’ll get from the more affordable model. It makes for a significantly more future proof laptop. Not to mention you’ll be able to multitask more efficiently. If you need a bigger screen, the ZenBook 14 UX435EG-XH74 features the same exact hardware specs.
For average users, the increase in processing power shouldn’t be that noticeable, although some will appreciate getting things done faster. I’m thinking at video editing, photo processing, lightweight gaming, and so on.
The ZenBook 13: an ultraportable companion
The ZenBook 13 UX325EA series excels when it comes to portability and battery life. Its reduced weight of just 2.45 pounds, coupled with a small and slender body and good battery stats make the ZenBook a favorite among daily commuters and seasoned travelers alike. What’s more, it’s affordable and dependable enough not to break the bank in the long run.
And although features are modest, its fantastic and bright OLED display will allow for excellent visuals on the go. As for ports, they’ve managed to fit a full sized HDMI port and a Type-A USB 3.2 port alongside two Type-C Thunderbolt 4 ports. The ZenBook features the latest in terms of wireless and Bluetooth technology. Using it on an airplane, or in a coffee shop is real pleasure.
A budget friendly alternative
It’s always advisable to see how a laptop compares to its direct competitors. The ASUS ZenBook UX325EA-XS74 has two. The LG gram 14 and the Dell XPS 13. While the gram is more lightweight, you’ll end up paying around $300 more for a similar model in terms of specs. The XPS also costs about the same as the LG, but is heavier than the ZenBook, although its screen is brighter.
In my opinion, the ZenBook 13 UX325EA-XS74 is the better choice of these three. In part because of how much more affordable it is, but also how it manages to be a dependable, lightweight companion, while offering you more power than you’d probably need for all your daily tasks, and them some more.
ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-XS74 Specs
| Processor | Intel Core i7-1165G7 4 cores, 12MB cache up to 4.7 GHz max clock speed |
| Memory | 16GB DDR4 RAM |
| Storage | 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD |
| Display | 13.3″ FHD IPS 400nit OLED |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics 1.3 GHz max dynamic frequency |
| Interface | 2 x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A 1 x HDMI |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Bluetooth 5.0 |
| OS | Windows 10 Pro |
| Battery | 4-cell Li-polymer 67 Whr battery up to 13 hours of battery life |
| Weight | 2.45 lbs (1.1 kg) |
| Dimensions | 11.98″ x 7.99″ x 0.55″ |
ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-XS74
