Inexpensive 15-inch laptops have always been popular with fans of mobile devices. Even statistics show that 85% of all laptops produced are in this particular segment. Series X from "Asus" just belongs to this inexpensive category.
The hero of today's review is the Asus X50Sl laptop . Let's try to identify all the pros and cons of the model, taking into account the opinions of experts and reviews of ordinary users.
The task that was set before the developers of this model is simple: you need a device suitable for games and entertainment, but with the lowest possible cost. The best option in this case is a solution from AMD with an integrated graphics core, which is famous for its low cost and acceptable level of performance along with ergonomics.
But in the case of the Asus X50Sl model, engineers departed from the usual plan and equipped the device with an Intel processor, giving an advantage in speed and power consumption, coupled with the middle-class Radeon video card. Let’s figure out what came of it.
Design
XxSl series can not be attributed to any specific configuration. Models were built on various motherboards and were equipped with a variety of processors, a variety of chipsets, video accelerators and interfaces. The whole series is related by a single concept and distinctive design of the device.
Many users who are familiar with Asus products know that brand laptops always have high build quality and a strict design, which, by the way, is not without a kind of classic gloss. Model Asus X50Sl was no exception: it is made in a restrained style, in black and gray colors with high-quality plastic.
The device has a semi-matte cover with the already familiar company logo with silver embossing. Around the perimeter of the laptop is bordered by a dark silver side, which gives the device a touch of elegance and solidity.
Ergonomics
The interior of the Asus X50Sl is made in a similar style with a matte finish, and the keyboard has a black border over which a strip with buttons and indicators is conveniently located. The touchpad has the same rich black color, but contrasts with the aluminum panel, where the integral control buttons are located. A little lower you can see 4 indicators on a chrome strip (power, network, bluetooth and battery charging). At the moment when the lid is closed, a light-conducting strip is visible at the end, which beautifully signals in idle mode.
The very quality of the material and the convenience of using input elements at a high level, which many users are surprised: to meet such a combination in budget models is a great success. Numerous reviews in a positive way about the quality of the assembly speak for themselves.
There is an optical drive on the right side of the Asus X50Sl, and on the left side the interfaces are conveniently located in a “one-story” order: two audio outputs, an ExpressCard slot, three ports for USB connection, and the network outlet with an interface for the modem closes all this.
Many users respond very positively to the decision of the designers to place the VGA and DVI video outputs on the back of the device. There you can also see the fourth USB type port and the connector that charges the power supply for the Asus laptop.
Input Devices
The buttons on the keyboard are made in a translucent style of plastic, which seems slightly rough to the touch. The move is relatively elastic, and the response is clear, but with a slight rattle, which is not very pleasing.
The layout is standardized, but in the user reviews there are always three main problems with the Asus X50Sl keyboard : the characteristics and functionality of the bottom row of buttons are different from the usual ones in laptops - the Fn key comes first, and then Ctrl, which is confusing. The second is a shortened Shift due to the absolutely unnecessary "<" button. And the third problem is the Windows menu button to the left of the space, which is often offended by habit. You can get used to these features, but why are they needed?
Touchpad
The touchpad in its characteristics is not much different from similar models: moderately large, easy to respond, allows you to freely control with the main software without involving other manipulators.
Screen
Even though we have a budget model, the laptop screen was pleased with its capabilities: bright, with a good supply of contrast and fine adjustment of almost all parameters. Of course, it could not do without flaws - the viewing angles are clearly not intended for watching movies or photos together with friends, and you won’t be able to work outdoors in the sunny day.
LG's branded software in the face of SplendidView, which allows you to significantly expand the capabilities of the screen with a few keystrokes, brightens the roughness. Some users in their reviews advise replacing the power supply for the Asus laptop, which comes bundled, with a more expensive one, which will allow for an optimal increase in voltage on the screen, which means to increase the color saturation and temperature.
Summarizing
It is difficult to give an unambiguous assessment of this model, as well as the segment of inexpensive laptops, to which it belongs. On the one hand, having a video card on board rather than a chip, you can play normal games, albeit with minimal settings. But on the other, it also reduces the battery life of the device, coupled with noise and heating of the case.
The value of the Asus X50Sl laptop (the price ranges from 20 thousand rubles) is a big question. If you want to play a modern shooter, then maybe you can start the game and succeed, but only at the minimum setting, and in some difficult cases there will be friezes and subsidence on the FPS.
Therefore, this model is not worth buying for games. The device, rather, is designed for office and multimedia work, rather than as a gaming platform. Therefore, it can be recommended to undemanding users who appreciate a good picture on the screen and excellent sound. Also pleasing is the presence of numerous interfaces that allow you to connect your laptop to a TV, monitor and other diverse peripherals. So lovers of modern games pass by, and home and office people are your option. In any case, the Asus equipment has proven itself in terms of price and quality, and the assembly and design will surely appeal to any admirer of mobile equipment.