ASUS N56VZ laptop: description

In 2012, Asus introduced an updated line of laptops powered by Ivy Bridge processors, starting with the Intel Core i7-3610QM series in the ASUS N56V. The graphics in this computer meets the time-tested solution from Nvidia in tandem with integrated graphics from Intel, and this circle of hardware closes 8 GB of RAM. In pursuit of a complete immersion in games and films, computer developers are increasingly collaborating with well-known brands in the field of digital sound. ASUS products were no exception. The external design of the laptop has also undergone many changes. In an attempt to give the gadget a premium look, ASUS decided to use more metal in the design. Was ASUS able, with so much effort, creating a worthy competitor in the multimedia notebook market? Let's try to find out in the review below.

Housing and communications

The build quality of the computer has increased significantly in comparison with the ASUS N55, which was offered in the previous generation. Metal is used as the main material, which favorably affects both the visual component and tactile sensations. The work area is made of similar material. The case is quite sturdy, the parts are fitted close to each other, there are no gaps. Squeaks, crackling and backlash are completely excluded. The hinges of the cover are compact, but they look quite reliable, the cover is resistant to changing the position of the computer.

The laptop is equipped with a full set of ports. On the front edge is only a slot for memory cards. On the left you can find a VGA, Ethenet, HDMI port and two third-generation USB-A ports. On the right side there is an audio input and an audio output - two third-generation USB-A ports, a DVD drive and a charger jack. Wireless interfaces include Wi-Fi, operating at b / g / n frequencies, and Bluetooth 4.0, which provides connection to wireless peripherals for ASUS N56V.

Keyboard and touchpad

In previous models, the manufacturer experimented with a keyboard layout, for which it was often criticized by users. This time, ASUS decided to abandon unnecessary changes and returned the classic layout, which everyone is used to. The keyboard itself is high-quality, stable, does not bend. The keys are flat, between them there is a sufficient distance necessary for comfortable work without erroneous clicks. The key travel is average, rather sharp, which is quite unusual for the keyboard design used in the ASUS N56V. The keyboard backlight allows you to easily use it in the dark.

The touchpad is indecently large compared to those commonly used on Windows laptops with their tiny touch panels. It perfectly recognizes any touch and gesture. Gestures, by the way, can be customized to your preferences.

Characteristics

Display and sound

The laptop is equipped with a display panel with a diagonal of 15.6 inches and a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, which is the standard for Full HD-video. This pixel density will have a positive effect not only on watching movies, but also on image quality in general. Small text will look more clearly, and detailed interface elements will not be blurred. High resolution allows you to fit a larger number of objects on the screen, which favors comfortable work with several side-by-side applications.

The maximum brightness level of the display reaches 310 cd / m2. Roughly speaking, this figure is higher than that of any average laptop, which means it will be sufficient for the vast majority of users. Color reproduction at a decent level. The matrix copes with a wide color range without any problems, the picture looks bright and saturated. Only the absence of a polarizing coating spoils the impression. Under the tilt of the monitor, the image looks like a negative, so you have to look directly at the laptop.

For sound is the built-in speaker system. As in most other cases, it provides clean, sharp, and rich highs, but can play low and mid. To fix this, ASUS created a mini sub-woofer, which should tighten low frequencies, bass and give the sound a certain responsiveness. All together sounds very worthy. The sound becomes deeper.

Performance and autonomy

Being the owner of a multimedia laptop, you always count on high performance and lack of restrictions. Here ASUS N56V copes with a bang. The heart of the computer is the Intel Core i7-3610QM, whose maximum frequency is 3300 GHz, which even by modern standards is an excellent result. The system works smoothly, responsively, instantly responding to user actions.

Responsible for the graphics performance: the built-in module from Intel and the discrete graphics of the Nvidia GeForce GT650M, which is used when using demanding applications and games with complex 3D graphics. The video card supports working with DirectX 11 libraries, which means it is perfect for gamers.

The processor is supplemented by 8 GB of RAM and a 500 GB hard drive with a rotation speed of 5400 r / m. The amount of RAM, along with other characteristics, is enough to work comfortably with the Windows 10 system and launch modern gaming projects with a frame rate per second that is comfortable for playing.

In the test, the built-in Windows 7 (pre-installed OS), the computer showed the following results:

• processor - 7.6;
• memory (RAM) - 7.7;
• graphics - 7.1;
• graphics for games - 7.1;
• the main hard drive is 5.9.

Based on the results, we can say that the only component that reduces the performance of the device is a hard drive, which should be replaced with a more modern SSD-drive. Such an upgrade will double the speed of the laptop.

One more question remains: how much energy do such powerful components consume? The answer is a lot. Under load, the laptop is able to live no more than 2 hours, and at rest for up to 6 hours. When working in gentle mode (web surfing, working with text), you can expect a little more than 3 hours.

Summary

The first impression of the laptop is pleasant and promising. High-quality assembly, almost impervious to fingerprints and minor damage to the body. The keyboard is quite stable and comfortable. Many interfaces and powerful components speak in favor of the monitored device. The catch is its cost, the ASUS N56V will cost its future owner at least $ 1250, and this is a serious reason to think. Is a computer worth the money? Yes, it is. The question remains only how much you are willing to spend.

Pros: high-quality assembly; high performance; great sound.

Minus one - high cost.