Table of Contents
amazon Asus ExpertBook B9450FA reviews
At the CES 2020 event earlier this year, the big Taiwanese introduced the new Asus ExpertBook B9450FA laptop. Its most outstanding feature is its super light of just 865 grams. But the machine is still 14 inches and the configuration is quite powerful.
Asus ExpertBook B9450FA record weight of 865 grams
Normally, the laptop we usually use will weigh from 1.2kg to 2kg depending on the product. Models are considered compact and light, suitable for the need to move more than 1kg. When compared to other ultralight competitors. The LG Gram was also recently released weighing 995g. The Asus ExpertBook is more impressive than that, weighing 865g. To achieve this weight, the chassis is mostly made from super-light premium magnesium alloy. The thickness of course is also proportional, only 14.9 mm thick. However, there is one point to note, this is the lighter version of the machine. Asus also has a 995g version that is equal to the LG Gram. The light version only has a 33Wh battery capacity because obviously, the battery is the part that takes up a large area and weight with every laptop.
The powerful, stylish design of the Asus ExpertBook B9450FA
Thin and light are so, but contrary to the thinking of many people, Asus ExpertBook B9450FA is not a slim, elegant type for women. In contrast, the product has strong, sturdy features with masculine black. Overall the product is very trendy and luxurious, suitable for many ages. In the hinge part, the machine can be lifted to a 3-degree angle to create a better typing posture for the user. This design is also intended to make the heat sink better. On the hover of the machine, a virtual numeric keypad is very handy.
Strong configuration, good security
Inside the compact Asus ExpertBook B9450FA, but inside it is a bunch of perfect specs. It is equipped with high-end 10th generation Intel Comet Lake processors. You can choose from 2 chip versions between Core i5-10210 (1.6 GHz – 4.2 GHz) 8GB RAM and 16GB Core i7-10510 RAM. The SSD hard drive supports up to 4TB.
Besides, this ultra-light laptop also has many advantages. The laptop’s security modes and software have achieved Project Athena certification. You can log in to Windows Hello via infrared sensor or fingerprint recognition. The device has a switch covering the camera to avoid being tracked and avoid being hacked. Despite the thin edge, Asus ExpertBook still has a full range of ports for GbE Thunderbolt 3, USB Type A, Type C, 3.5mm audio jack, …
Display Quality
Technical Specifications
The ExpertBook B9450FA features a 14-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display. The screen has a 16:9 aspect ratio and a brightness level of 300 nits, providing a good balance between visibility and battery efficiency. The display also covers 100% of the sRGB color gamut, making it suitable for tasks that require accurate color representation.
Visual Experience
The IPS panel ensures wide viewing angles, maintaining color accuracy and brightness from different perspectives. The anti-glare coating minimizes reflections, making it easier to work in brightly lit environments. The display’s thin bezels provide an immersive viewing experience, and the high contrast ratio enhances the clarity of text and images.
Colors are vibrant and well-saturated, offering a rich visual experience for multimedia consumption and professional work. Text appears sharp and clear, reducing eye strain during long hours of use.
Performance
Processor and Memory
The Asus ExpertBook B9450FA is powered by the 10th Generation Intel Core i7-10510U processor. This quad-core processor with Hyper-Threading technology ensures smooth multitasking and handles demanding applications efficiently. Coupled with 16GB of LPDDR3 RAM, the laptop can manage multiple applications simultaneously without any noticeable slowdown.
Storage
For storage, the ExpertBook B9450FA comes with a 1TB NVMe SSD. This storage solution offers fast read and write speeds, significantly reducing boot times and application load times. The ample storage capacity is sufficient for most users, though those needing more storage can utilize external solutions or cloud storage.
Graphics
The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 provides adequate performance for everyday tasks and light photo editing. While it is not designed for heavy gaming or intensive 3D rendering, it is more than capable for business applications and multimedia consumption.
Real-world Performance
In real-world usage, the ExpertBook B9450FA handles everyday tasks with ease. Whether you’re working on large spreadsheets, editing documents, or streaming videos, the laptop performs smoothly. Benchmark tests reflect this, with the laptop scoring well in productivity and creative application tests. It is particularly adept at handling multitasking, allowing users to switch between multiple applications without any lag.
Battery Life
Longevity
Battery life is a standout feature of the Asus ExpertBook B9450FA. The laptop is equipped with a 66Wh battery, which provides impressive longevity. Under typical usage conditions, such as web browsing, document editing, and media consumption, the laptop can last up to 24 hours on a single charge. This extended battery life ensures that professionals can work through a full day and beyond without needing to recharge.
Charging Speed
Fast charging is another highlight, with the ExpertBook B9450FA capable of reaching up to 60% charge in just 39 minutes. This feature is incredibly useful for users who need a quick power boost between meetings or during travel.
Keyboard and Trackpad
Typing Experience
The keyboard on the ExpertBook B9450FA is designed for comfort and efficiency. Despite the laptop’s slim profile, the keys offer a good amount of travel (1.5mm) and tactile feedback. The layout is spacious, with well-sized keys and appropriate spacing, reducing the chance of typos. The backlit feature ensures visibility in low-light conditions, making it easier to work at night or in dim environments.
Trackpad
The trackpad is large and responsive, supporting Windows Precision drivers. This ensures smooth and accurate tracking, with multi-touch gestures like pinch-to-zoom and three-finger swipes working flawlessly. The trackpad surface is smooth, providing a pleasant tactile experience. Additionally, it includes the Asus NumberPad 2.0, an LED-illuminated numeric keypad integrated into the touchpad, which can be activated with a simple tap.
Connectivity and Ports
Port Selection
The Asus ExpertBook B9450FA offers a good selection of ports, considering its slim profile. It includes:
- 2 x Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C): These ports support high-speed data transfer, power delivery, and video output, providing versatility for various peripherals.
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A: Useful for connecting traditional USB devices.
- 1 x HDMI: Allows for easy connection to external displays or projectors.
- 1 x Micro HDMI: For Ethernet connection via a micro HDMI to RJ45 adapter.
- 3.5mm Audio Jack: For headphones and microphones.
This variety of ports ensures that users have multiple connectivity options, reducing the need for dongles or adapters.
Wireless Connectivity
The laptop supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), ensuring fast and stable wireless internet connections. Bluetooth 5.0 is also included, providing reliable connectivity for wireless peripherals like mice, keyboards, and headphones.
Audio Quality
Speakers
The ExpertBook B9450FA features stereo speakers certified by Harman Kardon. The speakers produce clear and balanced sound, making them suitable for media consumption and video calls. While the bass is understandably limited due to the laptop’s slim profile, the overall audio quality is satisfactory for a laptop of this size.
Microphone and Webcam
The built-in microphone performs well during video calls, providing clear audio transmission. The 720p webcam is decent for video conferencing, though it lacks the high-definition clarity seen in more premium laptops. However, it is equipped with a physical privacy shutter, adding a layer of security for users concerned about unauthorized access.
Software and User Experience
Operating System
The ExpertBook B9450FA runs Windows 10 Pro, offering robust security features and advanced management tools that are particularly beneficial for business users. The Pro version includes BitLocker for data encryption, Remote Desktop for accessing your computer from anywhere, and Hyper-V for running virtual machines.
Pre-installed Software
The laptop comes with minimal bloatware, which is a significant plus. Essential utilities like MyASUS provide tools for system updates, hardware diagnostics, and battery management. Users will appreciate the clean software environment, which allows for maximum storage and performance.
Security Features
Biometric Security
The ExpertBook B9450FA includes a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button, supporting Windows Hello for quick and secure logins. This biometric authentication method adds a layer of security without sacrificing convenience. Additionally, the laptop features an IR camera for facial recognition, providing an alternative method for secure and fast logins.
TPM Chip
The laptop is equipped with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip, which enhances security by encrypting sensitive information. This is particularly valuable for business users who handle confidential data.
Thermal Management
Cooling System
Despite its slim profile, the ExpertBook B9450FA has an efficient cooling system. The laptop utilizes a combination of heat pipes and a fan to dissipate heat effectively. During normal usage, the laptop remains cool and quiet. Even under load, the temperature levels are kept within a comfortable range, and the fan noise, while audible, is not disruptive.
User Experience
Everyday Use
The ExpertBook B9450FA excels in everyday use scenarios. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, and the high-resolution display enhances productivity and entertainment. The combination of a comfortable keyboard, responsive trackpad, and robust performance ensures a pleasant user experience.
Professional Use
For professionals, the ExpertBook B9450FA offers the reliability and performance needed to handle demanding tasks. The security features, coupled with the power of the Intel Core i7 processor and ample RAM, make it a suitable choice for business users who require a dependable work machine.
Comparisons with Competitors
Dell XPS 13
The Dell XPS 13 is one of the closest competitors to the ExpertBook B9450FA. Both laptops offer premium build quality, high-resolution displays, and powerful performance. However, the ExpertBook B9450FA is lighter, making it more portable. The XPS 13, on the other hand, often comes with a higher resolution 4K display option, which might appeal to users who prioritize display quality.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon is another strong competitor. It is known for its excellent keyboard and robust build quality, similar to the ExpertBook B9450FA. The ThinkPad X1 Carbon emphasizes durability with its carbon fiber chassis and offers unique features like the TrackPoint pointing device. However, the ExpertBook B9450FA stands out with its exceptionally long battery life and lightweight design, which are advantageous for frequent travelers and professionals on the move.
Future Considerations
Looking ahead, there are a few areas where future iterations of the Asus ExpertBook B9450FA could potentially improve:
- Display Options: While the Full HD display on the B9450FA is excellent for most users, offering a higher resolution or a touchscreen option could cater to a broader audience, especially creatives and those who prioritize multimedia consumption.
- Audio Enhancement: While the current speakers are adequate, improving bass response and overall sound quality would enhance the multimedia experience. Collaboration with premium audio brands could elevate the laptop’s audio capabilities.
- Webcam Quality: Upgrading the webcam to 1080p resolution would provide sharper video quality for video conferencing and remote meetings, aligning with the growing demand for high-quality video communication.
- Port Selection: While the current selection of ports is sufficient for most users, adding more USB-A ports or an SD card reader could improve connectivity options, catering to professionals who rely on legacy peripherals.
Conclusion
The Asus ExpertBook B9450FA sets a high standard for business ultrabooks with its combination of sleek design, lightweight construction, robust performance, and exceptional battery life. It excels in providing a productive and efficient computing experience for professionals who require reliability, portability, and long-lasting battery performance.
From its durable magnesium-lithium alloy chassis to its powerful Intel Core i7 processor and generous RAM, every aspect of the ExpertBook B9450FA is designed to enhance productivity and streamline workflow. The vibrant Full HD display, comfortable keyboard, and responsive trackpad further contribute to its appeal, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable user experience.
With security features like the fingerprint reader and TPM chip, coupled with the convenience of Windows Hello facial recognition, the ExpertBook B9450FA prioritizes data security without compromising user convenience. The inclusion of fast charging technology and extensive connectivity options makes it an ideal companion for business travelers and professionals who need to stay connected and productive on the go.
Overall, the Asus ExpertBook B9450FA stands out as a top choice in the competitive landscape of business ultrabooks. It strikes a balance between performance, portability, and durability, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals seeking a reliable and efficient laptop for their daily work demands. Whether you’re a corporate executive, entrepreneur, or creative professional, the ExpertBook B9450FA is poised to meet your expectations and exceed them with its impressive blend of features and functionality.
where can you get a Asus ExpertBook B9450FA online
ASUS ExpertBook B9450 Thin and Light Business-Laptop, 14” FHD, Intel Core i7-10510U-Processor, 512GB PCIe SSD, 16GB-RAM, Windows 10 Pro, Up to 24 Hrs-Battery Life,-Sleeve, B9450FA-XS74: Buy it now