The Acer Aspire Vero 16 (AV16-51P-5641) continues Acer’s commitment to eco-conscious computing. This 2024 model retains the distinctive recycled-plastic design and colorful accents of its predecessors. Priced at $749 for a well-configured model, it offers an attractive budget-friendly option. While not a groundbreaking system, the Aspire Vero 16 delivers solid everyday performance. However, the competition offers some compelling alternatives.
A Closer Look at the Acer Aspire Vero 16
The Acer Aspire Vero 16 boasts a respectable set of specifications for its price. The $749 model includes a 12-core Intel Core Ultra 5 125U processor, 16GB of soldered LPDDR5X RAM, a 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD, and a 1920×1200 IPS display. Upgrade options include a 1TB SSD and a Core Ultra 7 155U processor, pushing the price to $900. A configuration with a 2560×1600 display has been mentioned but wasn’t available at the time of this review.
Here’s a breakdown of the key specs:
- CPU: Intel Core Ultra 5 125U
- Memory: 16GB LPDDR5X (Soldered)
- Graphics: Intel Graphics
- Display: 16-inch 1920×1200 IPS
- Storage: 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD
- Webcam: 1440p
- Connectivity: 2x Thunderbolt 4/USB-C (Power Delivery, DisplayPort), 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 2.1, 3.5mm Combo Audio, Kensington Lock Slot
- Networking: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Biometrics: Windows Hello Fingerprint Sensor
- Battery: 53Wh
- Dimensions: 14.16 x 10.1 x 0.78 inches
- Weight: 4.0 pounds
- Price: $749 (as tested)
Design and Build
The Aspire Vero 16 stands out from other Acer Aspire models with its unique aesthetic. The use of recycled plastics creates a distinctive chassis with more personality than typical laptop designs. The textured surface also enhances comfort. While the chassis has some flex, it’s not excessive, and the laptop meets several Mil-Spec durability standards. The 16:10 aspect ratio display minimizes bezels, resulting in a modern look. The laptop’s size and weight are reasonable for a 16-inch model.
Acer Aspire Vero keyboard
The colorful rubber feet add a playful touch. However, the hinge design can pinch fingers when opening the laptop. The bottom-mounted vents can also make the base feel hot, particularly during charging. Overall, the Aspire Vero 16 is an attractive laptop, though some minor design improvements could enhance the user experience.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The keyboard offers good tactility and key travel, but the convex keycaps can be a hindrance to typing speed and accuracy. The white backlighting is helpful in low-light conditions. However, the keyboard backlights default to on after waking up, even if previously turned off, which seems counterintuitive for an eco-conscious device.
The trackpad is functional, though not particularly large. The integrated fingerprint sensor is convenient but can occasionally impact trackpad performance. Latency issues and click rejection with two fingers on the trackpad can also be frustrating.
Display and Audio
The 1920×1200 display is a highlight of the Aspire Vero 16. While not exceptionally sharp, it’s adequate for most tasks. The anti-glare IPS panel offers good brightness and a strong contrast ratio. Impressively, the display boasts excellent color accuracy and coverage of the DCI-P3 color space.
Acer Aspire Vero display
The down-firing speakers are quiet but offer decent sound quality and balance. They are suitable for casual listening in quiet environments, but headphones or external speakers are recommended for a better audio experience.
Webcam, Microphone, and Biometrics
The 1440p webcam provides clear detail but struggles with light management, leading to overexposure or underexposure. The wide field of view is useful for group calls but may require close proximity for solo use. The hardware shutter provides privacy.
Acer Aspire Vero webcam
The microphone array excels at noise cancellation, even eliminating nearby fan noise. However, users may need to speak close to the microphone for optimal volume levels. The fingerprint scanner is functional but can be unreliable.
Connectivity
The Aspire Vero 16 offers a good selection of ports, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB-A ports, and an HDMI port. The absence of an SD card reader is a minor drawback. Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 ensure reliable wireless connectivity, although connection delays after waking from sleep were observed.
Acer Aspire Vero connectivity
Performance and Battery Life
The Core Ultra 5 processor handles everyday tasks effectively but struggles with demanding workloads. The integrated Intel Graphics are sufficient for casual use but fall short of dedicated graphics solutions. Sustained performance is limited by thermal constraints.
The battery life exceeds 12 hours in video playback tests, which is respectable. However, competitors offer even longer battery life.
Acer Aspire Vero 16 Review Performance Chart
Conclusion
The Acer Aspire Vero 16 is a decent, eco-friendly laptop with a reasonable price tag. While not a standout performer, it offers satisfactory everyday performance, a good display, and impressive battery life. Though some minor flaws exist, the Aspire Vero 16 remains a viable option for budget-conscious consumers seeking an environmentally responsible laptop. However, shoppers should consider competing models that offer superior performance and features for a slightly higher price.
