Master of multitasking Asus X550LB

Asus takes its expertise in building powerful, sturdy laptops and unveils the X550LB. As part of Asus’ X Series line, the X550LB slots right into that mix easily as an all-around machine.

The X550LB’s spun-circle finish and patterned palm rests reminds us a bit of the company’s Zenbook Ultrabook line. With a 15.6-inch display, this laptop has a generally large footprint. However, Asus has managed to make the X550LB’s profile five percent thinner than the previous X Series model and it doesn’t feel quite as heavy to carry around.

The X550LB is host to a full chiclet keyboard with numberpad and a large touchpad with multi-point Smart Gesture input capability. The touchpad will come in handy for executing Windows 8 gestures since the display isn’t touch-screen panel.

The X550LB doesn’t just look like a powerhouse. It is built like one, too. You will breeze through normal internet, word processor, and audio and video playback use. Video and photo editing and casual gaming on the side is possible, too.

This machine can certainly work as a desktop replacement for those who need a more powerful machine with a bigger display. And while it might not be a Full HD display, the panel still has pretty good outdoor visibility (if brightness is maxed out, that is).

Of course, the X550LB comes with Asus’ SonicMaster audio technology. The feature adds greater entertainment value to the device with the loud and clear audio it produces. You only get the tinny quality if you set volume to high. You don’t really need to do so as the audio is more than adequate at modest volumes.

We’ve also noticed that even after extended hours of use, the laptop doesn’t heat up as much. You can place it on your lap and not worry about burning yourself. Asus’ IceCool technology looks like it’s keeping the palm rest cool as well.

If we had to gripe about anything with the X550LB, then that would have to be the battery life of this device. It can just last around six hour or less if you use it to edit documents while you listen to music and surf online. Video loop test only lasted for around four hours until the battery died down.

The verdict:

The Asus X550LB would’ve been the perfect laptop and/or desktop replacement. But it proves that power and quality comes with a price and a bit of sacrifice when it comes to battery life.

Price: P42,995 (with Microsoft Windows 8 pre-installed)

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Spec sheet:

Processor: Intel Core i7-4500U @ 1.80GHz

Memory: 8GB DDR3L

Operating system: Microsoft Windows 8 (upgradeable to Windows 8.1)

Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GT740M

Display: 15.6″ HD (1366×768 pixels)

Connectivity: Built-in Bluetooth 4.0

I/O ports: 1 x Combo audio jack, 1 x VGA port/Mini D-sub 15-pin, 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB 2.0, 1 x RJ45 LAN jack, 1 x HDMI, Kensington lock slot, Super-Multi DVD, 3-in-1 card reader

Camera: HD Web Camera

Audio: Built-in speakers and microphone, SonicMaster technology

Battery: 4-cell, 2600mAh

Dimensions: 38.0 x 2.51 x 2.48 ~3.17cm, 2.3kg