The ASUS ExpertBook B5 (B5404CMA) makes a strong impression in the premium business laptop segment. With a starting price of ₹1,10,200, Asus has targeted professionals seeking a harmonious blend of portability, durability, and advanced productivity features. After thorough testing, it’s clear the ExpertBook B5 delivers on these expectations, offering a polished experience that justifies its premium tag.
Design and Build: Minimalist Yet Durable
The ExpertBook B5 doesn’t rely on flashy aesthetics to stand out, but its aluminum chassis exudes understated elegance. Weighing just 1.29 kg, it’s impressively portable while maintaining exceptional durability, backed by its MIL-STD-810H certification. This ensures resilience against extreme temperatures, vibrations, and shocks, making it an ideal companion for professionals frequently on the move.
The 14-inch 16:10 WQXGA touchscreen display is a highlight, offering sharp visuals, vibrant colors, and 500-nit brightness. The extended vertical real estate of the 16:10 aspect ratio enhances multitasking, while stylus support makes it a versatile option for creators and note-takers. Features like the lay-flat hinge and ErgoLift design further enhance usability, whether for presentations or extended typing sessions.
Connectivity and Productivity: Thoughtful Features
The connectivity options on the ExpertBook B5 are robust but slightly imbalanced, with most ports placed on the right and only a LAN port on the left. It includes two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, HDMI 2.1, and support for Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring fast and stable connections. However, the lack of Thunderbolt ports on both the sides limits charging flexibility, which could be a drawback for some users.
Asus has also incorporated productivity-enhancing AI features, such as AI Noise Canceling for calls and a smart webcam with 3D noise reduction and auto-focus. The webcam includes a physical privacy shutter, a welcome addition for security-conscious professionals.
The ExpertWidget system deserves special mention. The translucent 1-4 hotkeys allow users to assign frequently used Windows actions, like toggling Wi-Fi or accessing a specific folder, when used with the Fn key. This customization streamlines repetitive tasks, saving valuable time during a busy workday.
Performance: Power Meets Efficiency
At its core, the Intel Core Ultra 7 processor delivers impressive performance, easily handling demanding tasks. Paired with 16GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB SSD, the ExpertBook B5 excels at multitasking, from running numerous browser tabs to light video editing in OpenShot. The inclusion of dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots with RAID 0/1 support adds flexibility for storage upgrades and ensures data security.
Benchmark tests back up the laptop’s performance, with scores of 16,625 in 3DMark Night Raid and 5,667 in PCMark 10, indicating solid handling of productivity workloads and some capability for light graphical tasks.
The AI-powered webcam and noise-canceling technology make virtual meetings effortless, while the spill-resistant keyboard and responsive trackpad contribute to a smooth overall experience.
Battery Life: A Workday Powerhouse
Battery life is a standout feature of the ExpertBook B5, with one full day of operation on a single charge. The 65W USB-C fast charger further enhances convenience, minimizing downtime and making it a practical choice for professionals with demanding schedules.
Verdict: Premium Performance for Premium Users
The ASUS ExpertBook B5 delivers a compelling package for business professionals. Its lightweight design, durable build, vibrant display, and advanced AI-driven features make it a reliable tool for modern work environments. While its port placement and lack of Thunderbolt ports on both sides could have been more practical, these are minor trade-offs for an otherwise well-rounded device.
For professionals seeking a laptop that balances portability, performance, and productivity, the ExpertBook B5 is an excellent choice. It’s not just a premium business laptop; it’s an investment in productivity and efficiency, perfectly suited for those who demand more from their tools.
