Acer Aspire 3: Intel Alder Lake-N models now available in 14-inch and 15.6-inch sizes

Acer has announced a new version of the Aspire 3 series powered by Alder Lake-N processors. While Intel's Raptor Lake architecture replaces Alder Lake processors for the most part, Intel showcased the Alder Lake-N series during CES 2023 as a low-powered alternative to its new U- and P-series parts. For example, MSI has used Alder Lake-N processors in the new Cubi N ADL mini-PC.

So far, Acer has released the new Aspire 3 in 14-inch and 15.6-inch variants. While the pair differ in size, keyboard layout and display type, both rely on the Core i3-N305 processor. For reference, the Core i3-N305 has eight E-cores clocked at 3.8 GHz, no P-cores and does not support Intel Hyper-Threading. The processor also has a 15 W TDP, as well as a UHD Graphics Xe 750 iGPU with 32 Execution Units. Acer complements the processor with 8 GB of LPDDR5 RAM, likely LPDDR5-4800. Both Aspire 3 models come with 256 GB of NVMe SSD storage, a 3-cell Li-Polymer battery that supports 45 W charging and the following ports:

• 1x 3.5 mm jack
• 1x DC power-in
• 1x HDMI
• 1x Kensington lock slot
• 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A
• 1x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C

Acer adds that the 15.6-inch edition has an RJ45 Ethernet connection, but we cannot see one in any marketing images. Supposedly, the larger version ships with an IPS panel too, which should provide superior viewing angles and colour reproduction than the TN equivalent in the 14-inch variant. Both are 1080p displays with 16:9 aspect ratios; Acer has not confirmed any other display specifications like peak brightness or colour accuracy yet. Unsurprisingly, the 15.6-inch is larger and heavier than its 14-inch counterpart, although Acer has used the added width for a dedicated number pad.

According to Acer's website, the Aspire 3 14 measures 32.7 x 21.6 x 1.9 cm and weighs 1.4 kg, which is only marginally smaller than the Aspire 13 15 at 36.3 x 23.9 x 1.9 cm and 1.7 kg. There is little between their prices either, with Acer charging US$479.99 for the 14-inch version and US$499.99 for the 15.6-inch edition. More details about both laptops can be found on Acer's website. 

Purchase the LG TONE Free earbuds on Amazon