Our Rating : Price when reviewed : £1199.99 inc VAT
The Acer Swift 14 AI: A Blend of Performance and Longevity
The Acer Swift 14 AI stands out in the realm of compact laptops, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus processor. This device, while not boasting the latest 12-core architecture, still delivers commendable performance thanks to its 10-core configuration. The Adreno 741 GPU ensures that graphics capabilities remain competitive, and the reduced core count translates into impressive energy efficiency. Coupled with a robust 75Wh battery, the Swift 14 AI offers battery life that is hard to rival.
Acer Swift 14 AI: Key Insights
Microsoft deserves recognition for successfully reintroducing Windows on ARM, steering clear of the pitfalls associated with Windows RT. This success can be attributed to the effective Prism Windows x64 emulation software and a growing library of ARM64 native applications. The Snapdragon X platform has proven adept at running most Windows programs, with the notable exception of Google Drive’s desktop sync, which remains a sore point for users.
Moreover, ARM laptops are now synonymous with AI capabilities, as they are the only devices eligible for the Copilot Plus branding due to their Neural Processors, which can handle over 40 TOPS (trillion operations per second). However, this landscape is poised for change with the upcoming Intel Core Ultra 200V CPUs.
Acer Swift 14 AI Review: Pricing and Competition
Configuration tested: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus X1P-64-100 CPU, Qualcomm Adreno 714 iGPU, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, 14.5in, 120Hz, 2,560 x 1,600 IPS display. Price when reviewed: £1,199 inc VAT
The Swift 14 AI is available in a single configuration in the UK, priced at £1,199. This includes a 2.5K display, a spacious 1TB SSD, and 16GB of RAM, presenting a solid value proposition. In comparison to other ARM-based laptops, such as the Apple MacBook Air, the Swift 14 AI holds its ground.
- Samsung GalaxyBook 4 Edge: Features a stunning 16in 2.8K OLED display but suffers from slow eUFS storage.
- Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Available in multiple sizes, it boasts excellent battery life but is slightly heavier.
- Asus Vivobook S15: A well-rounded option with a fantastic OLED display and solid performance.
- Apple MacBook Air: The benchmark for lightweight laptops, offering exceptional performance starting at £950.
Acer Swift 14 AI Review: Design and Build Quality
- Well-constructed yet unremarkable in appearance.
- Offers a commendable array of ports.
- Limited opportunities for upgrades.
The design of the Acer Swift 14 AI may be described as understated, lacking the flair seen in competitors like the Microsoft Surface 7 and Asus Vivobook S15. However, the build quality is solid, featuring an aluminum chassis that feels durable. Weighing in at 1.24kg, it is comparable to the MacBook Air, and its matte grey finish resists fingerprints effectively.
In terms of connectivity, the laptop includes two USB-C ports (supporting DisplayPort video output) and two USB-A ports, along with a bundled USB-C to HDMI adapter, compensating for the absence of a built-in HDMI port. Wireless capabilities are up to date, featuring Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi 7 support.
Acer Swift 14 AI Review: Keyboard, Touchpad, and Webcam
- Impressive 1440p webcam.
- AI Activity indicator adds a modern touch.
- Includes facial recognition and a fingerprint scanner for security.
The keyboard of the Swift 14 AI is user-friendly, with a two-stage backlight and a satisfying typing experience. The touchpad, crafted from Corning Gorilla Glass, provides a smooth interface for navigation. The laptop’s webcam, featuring 1440p resolution, excels in low-light conditions and supports Windows Hello for secure logins.
Acer Swift 14 AI Review: Display and Audio
- 120Hz refresh rate on a 2.5K IPS display.
- Average color gamut coverage.
- Sound quality is adequate but not remarkable.
The display, while functional with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600, lacks the vibrancy of OLED alternatives. It achieves a maximum brightness of 386cd/m2 and covers 106% of the sRGB gamut. The audio experience, powered by a 2 x 2W speaker system, falls short of expectations, delivering a sound profile that could use more depth.
Acer Swift 14 AI Review: Performance and Battery Life
- Performance comparable to Snapdragon Elite machines.
- Exceptional battery longevity.
- Fast SSD speeds.
In benchmark tests, the Snapdragon X Plus X1P-64-100 performs admirably, rivaling many competitors. Its battery life, however, is the standout feature, lasting over 24 hours during video playback tests, a remarkable achievement that surpasses even the MacBook Air.
While the Swift 14 AI may not be the most stylish option on the market, its impressive battery life and solid performance make it a compelling choice for those prioritizing longevity and efficiency in their computing experience.
