The Asus Zenbook series, while offering quality and unique features, has often played second fiddle to laptop giants like HP and Dell. Inconsistent performance, battery life woes, or unusual configurations have held them back. The new Zenbook S 13 OLED (2023) might just change that, posing a serious challenge to the MacBook Air’s dominance. A refreshed design and a stunning OLED display set it apart. While comprehensive testing is still underway, initial impressions are exceedingly positive.
Specifications and Configurations
Components of the Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED.Image: Internal components of the Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED.
The Zenbook S 13 OLED receives a significant spec boost. It’s powered by an Intel Core i7-1355U processor, coupled with a generous 32GB of LPDDR5-5200MHz RAM and a 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD.
| Feature | Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED (2023) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 11.66 x 8.51 x 0.42 inches |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-1355U |
| Graphics | Intel Xe Graphics |
| RAM | Up to 32GB LPDDR5 5200MHz |
| Display | 13.3-inch 2,880 x 1,880 OLED |
| Storage | Up to 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Ports | 2x Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x HDMI 2.1 |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Webcam | 1080p + IR |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro |
| Battery | 63 watt-hour |
| Price | $1,400 |
The previous generation offered 12th-gen Intel processors only in the 2-in-1 model, while the clamshell version featured AMD Ryzen 6000 processors. This return to Intel is noteworthy. RAM is doubled compared to the last generation, while storage remains the same. The port selection is also revised, now including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a single USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, and a full-sized HDMI 2.1 port. This offers greater flexibility compared to laptops like the MacBook Pro 13-inch or MacBook Air. Currently, the UX5304 is the only configuration available, priced at $1,400, comparable to the MacBook Pro 13 or Dell XPS 13 Plus. Additional configurations may be released later.
A Refined Zen Design
HDMI port on the Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED.Image: Highlighting the HDMI port on the Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED.
The Zenbook S 13 OLED’s design is more than just a cosmetic refresh. Available in Ponder Blue or the new Basalt Gray, the lid is crafted using a plasma ceramic aluminum process. This innovative technique hardens the aluminum, making it resistant to scratches up to an 8H pencil hardness, surpassing traditional anodized aluminum (5H). This process also gives the lid a unique, soft micro-texture and contributes to a cleaner manufacturing process.
Lids for the Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED.Image: Comparing the color options for the Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED lid.
Maintaining the feather-light 2.2-pound weight of its predecessor, the Zenbook S 13 OLED is even slimmer at just 1cm, thinner than the M2 MacBook Air. The hinge design, similar to the Asus ROG Zephyrus M16, improves heat dissipation and provides a more comfortable typing angle. The keyboard design, with its black island backdrop, echoes Apple’s recent MacBook Pro. This combination of design elements makes the Zenbook S 13 OLED stand out in the crowded 13-inch laptop market.
An Exceptional OLED Display
Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED sitting on a table.Image: The Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED showcased on a table.
Continuing Asus’ tradition of incorporating OLED technology, the Zenbook S 13 OLED boasts an Asus Lumina OLED display, meeting the company’s stringent quality standards. Asus claims a color error of less than 1 and a 0.2ms response time, alongside certifications like DisplayHDR True Black 500, Dolby Vision, and Pantone Validated.
Displays of the Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED.Image: Close-up view of the Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED display.
The 2,880 x 1,880 resolution with a 16:10 aspect ratio on a 13.3-inch screen delivers a higher pixel density than even the MacBook Pro 14’s Liquid Retina XDR display. The OLED technology ensures vibrant colors and perfect black levels, offering a significant visual upgrade over the MacBook Air.
Further Testing Required
Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED sitting on a table.Image: Another perspective of the Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED on a table.
While initial impressions are promising, further testing is needed to evaluate performance and battery life, which Asus claims to be 14 hours. The upgraded 1080p webcam also requires a thorough assessment. The Zenbook S 13 OLED’s stunning display and unmatched portability are undeniable highlights. A full review will follow after comprehensive testing.
