Zenbook Duo UX8406: A Symphony of Screens
ASUS, known for its flair in device design, has once again brought something quite special to the table with its latest iteration of the Zenbook Duo. The 2024 model of this dual-screen marvel packs a punch with its pair of 14-inch 3K OLED touchscreens, each running at a silky smooth 120Hz. Beneath the surface, this AI-capable 2-in-1 laptop hums with the power of Intel’s newest Core Ultra 9 processor, setting the stage for what promises to be a productivity powerhouse.
Expanding the dual screens gives users an expansive 19.8-inch workspace, cleverly designed to charm and captivate, despite the inevitable seam that comes with such innovation. The question on everyone’s lips is whether the Zenbook Duo will secure its place as a leading figure in the realm of the best 2-in-1 laptops or if it will stumble on some unforeseen hurdle. Let’s delve into a thorough examination.
Zenbook Duo UX8406: Price, availability, and specs
ASUS has set the starting price for the 2024 Zenbook Duo (UX8406) at a competitive ,499, available through its official storefront and various third-party retailers. The laptop comes in two main variants, with my review unit being the UX8406MA-PS99T model designed for the United Kingdom market, complete with the appropriate AC adapter.
Those considering this high-tech marvel will have several powerful CPUs from Intel’s Core Ultra range to choose from, including the top-tier Core Ultra 9 185H and the more modest Core Ultra 7 155H. Each CPU is paired with Intel’s AI Boost Neural Processing Unit (NPU), which is dedicated to handling AI tasks with finesse. For graphics, the integrated Intel Arc chips clock in at either 2.25GHz or 2.35GHz depending on the processor model.
The Zenbook Duo’s main attraction, the dual-touchscreen setup, comes with a detachable keyboard and touchpad, offering support for the ASUS Pen 2.0 stylus. With configurations boasting up to 64GB of LPDDR5X memory and up to 2TB of PCIe Gen4x4 SSD storage, the laptop is as versatile as it is powerful.
Zenbook Duo UX8406: Design and build quality
The Zenbook Duo stands out with its thick and chunky bottom chassis, housing the secondary touchscreen and a solid metal kickstand. While its design might be considered bulky at first glance, the detachable keyboard and touchpad combo is remarkably thin and light, balancing out the overall heft of the device.
Opening the laptop raises it slightly at the rear, aiding airflow and providing a more comfortable typing angle on the slightly inclined membrane keyboard. The touchpad, while serviceable, features invisible physical click buttons and is generous in size. Aesthetically, the device keeps it classy with sharp lines and a minimalist logo on the outer chassis.
On the topic of thermals, the Zenbook Duo impresses with its side-mounted vents that prevent overheating even when the laptop is used on your lap. The absence of a physical webcam privacy shutter might be a minor gripe for some, but the inclusion of Windows Hello for facial recognition is a modern touch. Port selection is generous, offering a suite of USB-C and HDMI connections, though the lack of an Ethernet port is noted.
Zenbook Duo UX8406: Dual screen modes
The dual-screen mode is where the Zenbook Duo truly shines. This mode turns the lower OLED touchscreen into a virtual touchpad and keyboard or an extra workspace for apps and tools, depending on your needs. The Bluetooth keyboard, secured by magnets, remains firmly in place yet is easy to detach when required.
While the vertical dual-screen mode is the least intuitive, it’s expected that users will find unique and productive ways to utilize this feature. The laptop’s ergonomic design, solid build, and beautiful OLED panels contribute to a premium user experience that’s hard to replicate.
In conclusion, the ASUS Zenbook Duo UX8406 is an inventive and capable 2-in-1 laptop that stands out in a crowded market. Its dual-screen design, powerful internals, and thoughtful construction make it an enticing option for those seeking a laptop that breaks the mold and caters to the multitasking needs of the modern user.
