In today's tech-driven world, the demand for powerful graphical capabilities is escalating rapidly, particularly among creative professionals. However, accessing laptops equipped with robust discrete graphics often poses a financial challenge due to their typically high prices. Fortunately, the Asus Vivobook Pro 15 emerges as an affordable alternative, positioning itself as a viable contender in the creator laptop market, reminiscent of high-end options like the MacBook Pro. My anticipation to test this laptop was high, given its promising specifications.

Upon delving into the performance and features of the Asus Vivobook Pro 15, I found that it manages to deliver a commendable amount of power alongside an impressive display. Yet, it comes with a few quirks that aspiring users should consider. Notably, the laptop features a dated 16:9 aspect ratio screen, which may feel somewhat behind the curve compared to the more modern 16:10 screens that have become increasingly popular in recent years. Additionally, the battery life left much to be desired, raising questions about its practicality for on-the-go creators. However, if one can overlook these peculiarities, there is undeniable value in the performance it offers.

Photograph: Julian Chokkattu

Dated Design

One notable aspect of the Asus Vivobook Pro 15 is its design, which, despite featuring a newer Asus logo on the lid, evokes a sense of nostalgia for a time when laptop aesthetics were less prioritized. The dark gray chassis is rather unremarkable, characterized by large plastic bezels framing the screen both above and below. These thick bezels, which contribute to the overall bulky appearance, serve as a reminder that the design has remained largely unchanged for many years. At a thickness of 0.7 inches, the chunky plastic chassis does not present a sleek profile. In an age where slim and stylish designs are the norm, the Vivobook Pro 15 falls short.

The choice of a 16:9 aspect ratio screen further underscores its outdated design. While this format was once standard, the transition to 16:10 has gained momentum in recent years, with many laptops adopting this configuration to enhance user experience. The 16:10 aspect ratio provides additional vertical space, allowing for more content to fit on the screen at once, thereby reducing the need to scroll. This feature has been particularly favored by professionals who value efficiency in their workflow. Given the prevalence of 16:10 laptops, returning to the wider 16:9 format can be a jarring adjustment for users accustomed to the more modern interface.