ASUS, a trailblazer in innovative technology, has unveiled the highly-anticipated Zenbook Duo at CES 2024, a dual-screen laptop that seems to defy compromises. After a series of groundbreaking predecessors like the Zenbook 17 Fold and Project Precog, the Zenbook Duo stands as a testament to ASUS’ commitment to perfecting the concept of a true dual-screen laptop.
Stunning OLED Panels: Similar to Lenovo’s Yoga Book 9i, the Zenbook Duo features two separate screens, accompanied by a detachable Bluetooth keyboard ideal for on-the-go use. ASUS takes the viewing experience to the next level with stunning OLED panels that not only look better but also boast a larger 14-inch size, a remarkable 3K resolution, a fluid 120Hz refresh rate, and stylus support. With a starting price of $1,500, the Zenbook Duo offers a compelling package at a price point that makes it accessible to a broad audience.
Sleek Design with No Compromises: What sets the Zenbook Duo apart is the meticulous attention to detail, making it look and function seamlessly like a regular clamshell laptop. Measuring a mere 0.78 inches thick and weighing in at 3.64 pounds, including its removable keyboard, it aligns closely with the form factor of a typical 14-inch notebook. ASUS has not sacrificed performance either, packing the Zenbook Duo with an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H CPU, up to 32GB of RAM, and a capacious 1TB SSD. The device is a connectivity powerhouse, offering two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a USB-A 3.2 slot, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a full-size HDMI 2.1 socket.
Fit, Finish, and Portability: The Zenbook Duo’s fit and finish are a testament to ASUS’ commitment to craftsmanship. Despite being a pre-production model, it exudes sturdiness. The laptop, even with the keyboard stashed between its dual screens, maintains a seamless and compact profile. The detachable keyboard, with full backlighting and ample key travel, ensures a comfortable typing experience.
Innovative Built-in Kickstand: Addressing a common need, ASUS has incorporated a built-in kickstand, a feature missing in some of its competitors. This clever addition eliminates the need for a separate folding cover, streamlining the user experience when packing up. The kickstand, though promoting a stacked display setup, enhances the overall portability of the Zenbook Duo.
Flexibility and User-Friendly Experience: ASUS’ attention to detail extends to user preferences. The Zenbook Duo can be used in a vertical side-by-side mode, although the kickstand’s fixed orientation limits adjustments in this position. Nevertheless, the device provides flexibility and a range of configurations to suit individual preferences.
The ASUS Zenbook Duo, with its stunning OLED panels, sleek design, powerful performance, and user-friendly features, heralds a new era in dual-screen laptops. The device not only meets expectations but exceeds them, showcasing ASUS’ prowess in delivering cutting-edge technology with finesse.
