Every so often, a product emerges that captivates the market with its audacity and innovation, and ASUS’s ROG Flow Z13 (2025) is no exception. This 2-in-1 convertible device, which initially appears to be a competitor to the Surface Pro, quickly reveals itself as a powerhouse designed for gaming and creative endeavors.
What do I need to know about this laptop?
The ROG Flow Z13 embodies a design philosophy reminiscent of the Surface Pro, featuring a Windows-powered tablet with a large touch-enabled display, an adjustable kickstand, and a magnetically attached keyboard that also serves as a protective cover. Unlike Microsoft, ASUS includes this keyboard in the box, presenting a complete package right from the start.
This tablet is notably robust, equipped with ample ports and substantial vents to manage the heat generated by its powerful internals. At its core lies the new Ryzen AI MAX platform, a cutting-edge chipset that integrates a powerful CPU, a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), and AMD’s most advanced integrated GPU. This means the ROG Flow Z13 can deliver exceptional performance without relying on additional, power-hungry components.
Currently available for purchase starting at ,099.99, the ROG Flow Z13’s configurations and pricing can be somewhat perplexing, with preorders reportedly out of stock. However, broader availability is anticipated as the year unfolds.
What’s the unboxing experience like?
Unboxing the ROG Flow Z13 is a premium experience. It arrives in a sleek silver box, accompanied by a substantial 200W charger tucked away in its own compartment. The design of the box itself is unconventional, featuring a cut corner that adds a touch of uniqueness.
Upon lifting the lid, users are greeted by the tablet’s striking matte black metal back and a glass window that showcases its impressive internals. While the unboxing experience is visually appealing, there is a noticeable amount of unused space within the packaging, raising questions about its design intent.
Can you really consider this a tablet?
Despite its chunky build, the ROG Flow Z13 remains true to its tablet roots. The solid kickstand allows for versatile positioning, and the keyboard cover impresses with its spacious layout and responsive typing experience. The glass touchpad is expansive and smooth, complete with customizable RGB lighting for added flair.
While the device’s 13.4-inch display may feel substantial in hand, Windows 11 adapts seamlessly, ensuring a user-friendly interface whether the keyboard is attached or detached.
Just how powerful is the ROG Flow Z13 with AMD?
AMD’s Ryzen AI MAX series has made bold promises, and the ROG Flow Z13 delivers on them. Equipped with the Ryzen AI MAX+ 395, a 16-core CPU, and an integrated Radeon 8060S GPU, this tablet showcases remarkable graphical capabilities. With 1TB of PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD storage and the option to configure up to 128GB of RAM, the ROG Flow Z13 is engineered for high-performance tasks, including demanding AI workloads.
Early impressions suggest that this tablet is exceptionally fast, with the integrated GPU rivaling dedicated graphics cards found in traditional laptops. While comprehensive performance testing is forthcoming, initial observations indicate that the ROG Flow Z13 can handle modern gaming at high settings with impressive frame rates.
How long can the ROG Flow Z13 last on a charge?
Gaming devices often struggle with battery life, and the ROG Flow Z13 is no exception. However, the integration of a 70Whr battery and the efficiency of the Ryzen AI MAX chipset offer a glimmer of hope. Preliminary tests suggest that the device can sustain several hours of use, even while streaming games at high settings.
While it may not qualify as an “all-day” laptop, the ROG Flow Z13’s battery performance is surprisingly respectable, providing a satisfactory experience for gaming enthusiasts on the go.
Should I buy the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 (2025)?
As intriguing as the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 (2025) may be, potential buyers should carefully consider its practicality. For many, a traditional clamshell gaming laptop might offer better value. However, the ROG Flow Z13 caters to a niche audience—those who appreciate innovative hardware and require substantial power in a portable form factor.
While the price point is significant, the unique capabilities of the Ryzen AI MAX platform and the device’s overall performance make it a compelling option for tech enthusiasts. As further testing unfolds, insights into whether the ROG Flow Z13 justifies its cost will become clearer. For now, it stands as a remarkable testament to ASUS’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of portable computing.
