Notebookcheck Logo

Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575 Subnotebook Review

Endurance runner. Acer's 13.3-inch subnotebook shines with an outstanding battery life and a fast SSD. However, the screen is disappointing.

For the original German review, see here.

Acer's TravelMate P238-M is the  successor of the TravelMate P236-M that we have already tested. At a first glance, the devices look very similar. However, some differences are noticeable on closer inspection. A structurally identical sister model of the TravelMate P238-M is found within Acer's latest laptop lineup in the Aspire V3-372. The TravelMate has plenty of rivals, for example HP's ProBook 430 G3Asus' ZenBook UX303UASchenker's S306Lenovo's IdeaPad 500S-13ISKApple's MacBook Air 13.

Since the TravelMate and Aspire V3-372 feature an identical build, we will not go into details about casing, connectivity, input devices and speakers. The corresponding information can be found in the review of the Aspire V3-372.

Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575 (TravelMate P238 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-6200U 2 x 2.3 - 2.8 GHz, Skylake
Graphics adapter
Intel HD Graphics 520, Core: 950 MHz, dual-channel, 20.19.15.4312
Memory
8 GB 
, DDR3-1600, dual-channel, two memory banks (both filled)
Display
13.30 inch 16:9, 1366 x 768 pixel 118 PPI, AU Optronics B133XTN01.6, TN LED, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Skylake-U Premium PCH
Storage
Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP, 256 GB 
, 180 GB free
Soundcard
Realtek ALC255 @ Intel Skylake PCH - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
2 USB 2.0, 1 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 USB 3.1 Gen2, 1 HDMI, Audio Connections: combo audio, Card Reader: SD, TPM 2.0
Networking
Realtek RTL8168/8111 Gigabit-LAN (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265 (a/b/g/h/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.0
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 19.65 x 327 x 228 ( = 0.77 x 12.87 x 8.98 in)
Battery
49.7 Wh, 3270 mAh Lithium-Ion, 15.2 V
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 7 Professional (64 Bit) + Windows 10 Pro (64 Bit)
Camera
Webcam: HD webcam
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: no, McAfee LiveSafe - Internet Security (trial), MS Office (trial), 24 Months Warranty
Weight
1.5 kg ( = 52.91 oz / 3.31 pounds), Power Supply: 275 g ( = 9.7 oz / 0.61 pounds)
Price
749 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

Since it does not have a maintenance hatch, the laptop's base tray has to be dismantled for maintenance/upgrade purposes. All screws on the underside have to be released before levering off the base tray with a thin putty knife or spatula. Care is needed because the base tray is fixed with plastic hooks that could break. Two filled memory banks are found inside the laptop. The SSD (M.2 2280) is easy to replace, and it is possible to clean the fan.

Display

Pixel grid
Pixel grid

It is assumed that a 13.3-inch laptop such as the TravelMate should be suitable for mobile use. Therefore, we do not understand why Acer has equipped the laptop with such a dark (215.7 cd/m²) and low-contrast (461:1) panel. Acer has literally sabotaged its device because this restricts its application fields. Furthermore, the screen installed here does not match the laptop's price range. At least the panel never displays PWM flickering.

219
cd/m²
215
cd/m²
226
cd/m²
208
cd/m²
226
cd/m²
213
cd/m²
209
cd/m²
220
cd/m²
205
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
AU Optronics B133XTN01.6 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 226 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 215.7 cd/m² Minimum: 17 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 91 %
Center on Battery: 223 cd/m²
Contrast: 461:1 (Black: 0.49 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 13.15 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 14.47 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
56% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
36% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
38.49% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
56.1% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
37.25% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.73

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM not detected

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18110 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

TravelMate vs. sRGB
TravelMate vs. sRGB
TravelMate vs. AdobeRGB
TravelMate vs. AdobeRGB

The panel's color reproduction is not compelling, either. It has a DeltaE 2000 color deviation of 13.15 in the state of delivery. Even many low-cost laptops do not achieve these poor rates. In any case, a color deviation of less than 3 would be desirable. In addition, the screen suffers under an evident bluish tint.

CalMAN - ColorChecker
CalMAN - ColorChecker
CalMAN - Grayscale
CalMAN - Grayscale
CalMAN - Saturation Sweeps
CalMAN - Saturation Sweeps

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
28 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 10 ms rise
↘ 18 ms fall
The screen shows relatively slow response rates in our tests and may be too slow for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 67 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
42 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 22 ms rise
↘ 20 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 63 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

The TravelMate is equipped with a viewing angle dependent TN panel. Thus, the screen is not legible from every position. Changing the vertical viewing angle quickly leads to image distortions. It looks better horizontally, and even several people can look at the screen simultaneously. The laptop is not really suitable for outdoor use and at most is possible in cloudy conditions or shaded environments.

The TravelMate outdoors
The TravelMate outdoors
Viewing angles
Viewing angles
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
TN LED, 1366x768
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
IPS, 1920x1080
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
TN LED, 1366x768
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
TN LED, 1440x900
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
IPS, 1920x1080
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
TN, 1366x768
HP Envy 13-d020ng
IPS, 1920x1080
SCHENKER S306
IPS, 1920x1080
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
TN LED, 1366x768
Display
5%
-4%
8%
7%
11%
69%
76%
16%
Display P3 Coverage
37.25
39.05
5%
35.87
-4%
40.1
8%
40.74
9%

38.91
4%

41.26
11%
63.7
71%
68.1
83%
43.08
16%
sRGB Coverage
56.1
58.7
5%
54
-4%
59.8
7%
60.6
8%

58.5
4%

62.1
11%
93
66%
93.4
66%
64.8
16%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
38.49
40.35
5%
37.06
-4%
41.51
8%
42.15
10%

40.21
4%

42.64
11%
65.1
69%
68.4
78%
44.52
16%
Response Times
2%
-24%
6%
17%
-2%
46%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
42 ?(22, 20)
46 ?(19, 27)
-10%
54.4 ?(33.2, 21.2)
-30%
46 ?(16, 30)
-10%
34 ?(11, 23)
19%
46 ?(13, 33)
-10%
23 ?(7, 16, Spikes in between)
45%
Response Time Black / White *
28 ?(10, 18)
24 ?(5, 19)
14%
32.8 ?(18, 14.8)
-17%
22 ?(4, 18)
21%
24 ?(5, 19)
14%
26 ?(7, 19)
7%
15 ?(8, 7, Spikes in between)
46%
PWM Frequency
192 ?(90, 176)
208 ?(40)
1020 ?(90)
192 ?(90)
Screen
23%
-9%
40%
24%
-16%
68%
56%
23%
Brightness middle
226
250
11%
212
-6%
329
46%
219
-3%
188
-17%
345
53%
347
54%
203
-10%
Brightness
216
247
14%
205
-5%
310
44%
212
-2%
187
-13%
335
55%
333
54%
193
-11%
Brightness Distribution
91
87
-4%
90
-1%
82
-10%
82
-10%
78
-14%
95
4%
80
-12%
84
-8%
Black Level *
0.49
0.43
12%
0.71
-45%
0.405
17%
0.35
29%
0.777
-59%
0.25
49%
0.39
20%
0.49
-0%
Contrast
461
581
26%
299
-35%
812
76%
626
36%
242
-48%
1380
199%
890
93%
414
-10%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
13.15
4.51
66%
12.06
8%
3.96
70%
4.95
62%
12.21
7%
4.94
62%
3.66
72%
3.2
76%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
21.96
7.51
66%
11.17
49%
8.85
60%
6.48
70%
4.13
81%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
14.47
3.18
78%
13.41
7%
3.51
76%
3.45
76%
13.1
9%
5.85
60%
4.18
71%
2.77
81%
Gamma
2.73 81%
2.43 91%
2.41 91%
3.83 57%
2.34 94%
2.66 83%
2.25 98%
2.79 79%
2.46 89%
CCT
19989 33%
6743 96%
15382 42%
6711 97%
6815 95%
17666 37%
7105 91%
6670 97%
7176 91%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
36
37
3%
34.3
-5%
38.4
7%
37
3%
39.4
9%
60
67%
61
69%
41
14%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
56
58
4%
54.2
-3%
59.8
7%
58
4%
93
66%
93
66%
65
16%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
10% / 16%
-12% / -10%
24% / 32%
12% / 16%
-3% / -8%
51% / 61%
43% / 52%
28% / 25%

* ... smaller is better

Performance

Acer's TravelMate is an enduring, 13.3-inch subnotebook. The installed processor has enough computing power for all common application scenarios. Our review sample is priced at around 750 Euros (~$842). We found only one other model at the time of testing. This should, however, change in the near future. The identically built Aspire V3-372 lineup offers more selection.

CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
GPU-Z
HWInfo
LatencyMon

Processor

Core i5-6200U (Skylake) dual-core processor clocks inside the TravelMate. This CPU is the latest mid-range model among the ULV processors by Intel. Its performance should more than satisfy the needs of most users. The processor clocks at a base speed of 2.3 GHz, which can be boosted to 2.7 GHz (both cores) and 2.8 GHz (one core only) via Turbo. Turbo is utilized in AC mode. According to our benchmark software, the processor also clocks at full speed in battery mode. The scores of the CPU tests that we performed contradict that. When converting the results into speed, the processor clocks at approximately 1.8 GHz in battery mode.

The Skylake processor delivers approximately 10 to 15% better scores than its direct Broadwell predecessor (Core i5-5200U) when Turbo is fully utilized. This is due to the improved Skylake architecture and the slightly higher clock speeds.

The CPU is soldered
The CPU is soldered
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
7775
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
10017
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
4357
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
33.94 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
3.22 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.33 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.8 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
40.48 fps
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
294 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
117 Points
Help
Cinebench R15
CPU Multi 64Bit
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
296 Points +1%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
294 Points
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
291 Points -1%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
287 Points -2%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
286 Points -3%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
286 Points -3%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
285 Points -3%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
276 Points -6%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
271 Points -8%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
257 Points -13%
CPU Single 64Bit
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
123 Points +5%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
117 Points
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
115 Points -2%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
115 Points -2%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
115 Points -2%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
112 Points -4%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
112 Points -4%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
109 Points -7%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
107 Points -9%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
97 Points -17%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Multi 64Bit
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
3.22 Points
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3.2 Points -1%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
3.2 Points -1%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
3.2 Points -1%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
3.19 Points -1%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
3.14 Points -2%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
3.09 Points -4%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
3.07 Points -5%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
3.01 Points -7%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
2.51 Points -22%
CPU Single 64Bit
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
1.47 Points +11%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
1.43 Points +8%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
1.33 Points 0%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
1.33 Points
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1.32 Points -1%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
1.32 Points -1%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
1.32 Points -1%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
1.24 Points -7%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
1.21 Points -9%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
1.13 Points -15%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
10017 Points
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
10008 Points 0%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
9959 Points -1%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
9948 Points -1%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
9942 Points -1%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
9937 Points -1%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
9925 Points -1%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
9543 Points -5%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
9517 Points -5%
Rendering Single 32Bit
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
4980 Points +14%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
4695 Points +8%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
4397 Points +1%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
4391 Points +1%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
4385 Points +1%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
4381 Points +1%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
4376 Points 0%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
4357 Points
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
4148 Points -5%
Geekbench 3
32 Bit Single-Core Score
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
3053 Points +5%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
2899 Points
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
2882 Points -1%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
2878 Points -1%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
2747 Points -5%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
2581 Points -11%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2563 Points -12%
32 Bit Multi-Core Score
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
6406 Points +6%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
6093 Points +1%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
6049 Points
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
6042 Points 0%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
5769 Points -5%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
5595 Points -8%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
5590 Points -8%
Sunspider - 1.0 Total Score
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
107.6 ms * -9%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
98.8 ms *
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
98 ms * +1%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
96.2 ms * +3%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
91.5 ms * +7%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
90.9 ms * +8%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
90.8 ms * +8%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
89 ms * +10%
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
194.6 Points +84%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
192.1 Points +82%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
189.2 Points +79%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
116.6 Points +11%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
105.5 Points
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
102.3 Points -3%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2391 ms * -3%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
2322 ms *
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
2251 ms * +3%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
1311 ms * +44%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
1295 ms * +44%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
1285 ms * +45%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
1255 ms * +46%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
1251 ms * +46%
Octane V2 - Total Score
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
28525 Points +95%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
28194 Points +93%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
28165 Points +93%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
27593 Points +89%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
26374 Points +81%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
14596 Points
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
14491 Points -1%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
13992 Points -4%
Peacekeeper - ---
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
2714 Points +3%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
2668 Points +1%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
2652 Points 0%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
2643 Points
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
2620 Points -1%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2499 Points -5%

* ... smaller is better

System Performance

A fast SSD and strong processor ensure a smooth running system. We did not encounter any problems. The PCMark benchmark scores are very good. It is not possible to increase the system performance; Acer has already exhausted everything.

Two working memory banks are present
Two working memory banks are present
PCMark 7 Score
4629 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3589 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
3705 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4748 points
Help
PCMark 8 - Home Score Accelerated v2
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
3589 Points
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
3579 Points 0%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
3246 Points -10%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
3209 Points -11%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
3209 Points -11%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3043 Points -15%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
2920 Points -19%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
2841 Points -21%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
2802 Points -22%
PCMark 7 - Score
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
5205 Points +12%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
5197 Points +12%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
4629 Points
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
4097 Points -11%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
3819 Points -17%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
3767 Points -19%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2984 Points -36%

Storage Device & Memory Card Reader

Data is stored on a solid-state drive by Samsung. It is an M.2 model (2280) that has a capacity of 256 GB. The SSD is divided into an operating system partition (118 GB) and a data partition (85.5 GB). The user has roughly 180 GB for personal use. The rest of the storage capacity is taken up by the Windows installation and recovery partition.

The memory card reader in the TravelMate is relatively sluggish. A maximum of 27.1 MB/s is achieved when copying large data blocks. Transferring 250 JPG image files (approx. 5 MB each) is performed at 19.4 MB/s. We test the memory card reader via a reference card (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II).

The SSD can be replaced
The SSD can be replaced
Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
Sequential Read: 517 MB/s
Sequential Write: 307.6 MB/s
512K Read: 459.9 MB/s
512K Write: 305.1 MB/s
4K Read: 33.03 MB/s
4K Write: 85.2 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 235.6 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 234.4 MB/s

Graphics Card

Intel's HD Graphics 520 is responsible for video output. It supports DirectX 12 and clocks at speeds of up to 950 MHz. The working memory that operates in dual-channel mode allows better GPU utilization and delivers higher scores than models that can only utilize a memory in single-channel mode. The 3DMark benchmark outcomes are not far from those of a dedicated graphics card from the lower mid-range.

The GPU comes with a decoder that unloads the processor when rendering standard video formats. This also includes the H.265 format (successor of the H.264 format often used today). It allows playing smaller video files at the same image quality. The TravelMate rendered our test video (4K, 60 FPS, H.265) with a CPU capacity of less than 10%.

3DMark 06 Standard Score
8980 points
3DMark 11 Performance
1461 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
53522 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
5882 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
773 points
Help
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
1849 Points +27%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
1487 Points +2%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
1483 Points +2%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
1461 Points
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
1459 Points 0%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
1401 Points -4%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
1302 Points -11%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
1267 Points -13%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1222 Points -16%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
1014 Points -31%
3DMark
1280x720 Ice Storm Standard Score
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
56687 Points +6%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
56022 Points +5%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
53522 Points
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
52970 Points -1%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
51945 Points -3%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
45983 Points -14%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
44992 Points -16%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
42442 Points -21%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
41862 Points -22%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
39536 Points -26%
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Score
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
6061 Points +3%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
5882 Points
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
5833 Points -1%
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
5778 Points -2%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
5512 Points -6%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
5239 Points -11%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
4976 Points -15%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
4932 Points -16%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
4560 Points -22%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
4488 Points -24%
1280x720 Sky Diver Score
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
4053 Points +18%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
3434 Points
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
3324 Points -3%
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
3169 Points -8%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2918 Points -15%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
2786 Points -19%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Score
Lenovo U31-70 80M5003EGE
GeForce 920M, 5500U, Western Digital WD10S21X SSHD 1TB + 8GB SSD-Cache
1073 Points +39%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
903 Points +17%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
797 Points +3%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
773 Points
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
754 Points -2%
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
630 Points -18%
SCHENKER S306
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
607 Points -21%
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
589 Points -24%

Gaming Performance

The TravelMate's hardware configuration still allows partial use of computer games. The combination of Skylake GPU and the dual-channel working memory pays off here. Of course, primarily games that do not have very high demands on hardware are playable. Smooth frame rates are achieved in low resolutions and low to medium quality settings. Performance-driven games such as "Rise of the Tomb Raider" or "Far Cry Primal" are not playable. Another laptop will be needed for more gaming power. Dedicated GPUs are scarce in slim 13.3-inch laptops. Asus' ZenBook UX303 would be an alternative. Some models of the lineup feature a GeForce 940M graphics unit.

low med. high ultra
Tomb Raider (2013) 74.9 38.1 23.8
BioShock Infinite (2013) 51.8 27.7 22.9
Battlefield 4 (2013) 31.3 24.3 16.9
World of Warships (2015) 80 45.3
FIFA 16 (2015) 62.5 39.4
Need for Speed 2016 (2016) 15.2 13.5

Emissions

System Noise

The TravelMate's fan is often inactive in idle mode, when it is noiseless. The fan does not speed up unduly during load. We measured a noise level of 38.1 dB(A) in the stress test; this rate is acceptable. Unfortunately, the laptop occasionally produces an electronic hiss when a lot of data is moved to the SSD.

Fan
Fan
Fan loudness
Fan loudness

Noise Level

Idle
31.2 / 31.2 / 31.2 dB(A)
Load
35.71 / 38.1 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Audix TM1, Arta (15 cm distance)   environment noise: 31.2 dB(A)
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
6200U, HD Graphics 520
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
5650U, HD Graphics 6000
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
HP Envy 13-d020ng
6200U, HD Graphics 520
SCHENKER S306
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Noise
4%
4%
-3%
-2%
1%
-2%
-6%
1%
off / environment *
31.2
31.3
-0%
31.3
-0%
Idle Minimum *
31.2
31.5
-1%
29.8
4%
29.2
6%
31.3
-0%
29.1
7%
32.5
-4%
31.3
-0%
32.6
-4%
Idle Average *
31.2
31.5
-1%
29.8
4%
29.2
6%
31.7
-2%
29.1
7%
32.5
-4%
31.3
-0%
32.7
-5%
Idle Maximum *
31.2
31.5
-1%
30.9
1%
29.2
6%
31.8
-2%
29.1
7%
32.4
-4%
31.4
-1%
32.7
-5%
Load Average *
35.71
32.4
9%
33.3
7%
40.2
-13%
36.7
-3%
38.7
-8%
36
-1%
38.6
-8%
33.4
6%
Load Maximum *
38.1
32.3
15%
37.4
2%
46.3
-22%
39.4
-3%
40.8
-7%
36.5
4%
48.5
-27%
33.4
12%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

The TravelMate in the stress test
The TravelMate in the stress test

The TravelMate performed our stress test (Prime95 and FurMark run for at least one hour) in the same manner in both AC and battery mode. The CPU (2.7 GHz) and GPU (950 MHz) clock at full speed. Since the CPU ran at only 1.8 GHz while performing our CPU test (battery mode) - although the benchmark software indicates something else - it could also be the case in the stress test (battery mode). Both the temperature and noise development are identical in AC and battery mode. Furthermore, subjectively, there are no differences in the laptop's temperature development. Overall, the TravelMate barely heats up. We measured a maximum temperature of 34.2 °C (~94 °F) on one point during the stress test (AC mode).

Max. Load
 26.2 °C
79 F
34.2 °C
94 F
27.1 °C
81 F
 
 30.5 °C
87 F
31.2 °C
88 F
23.1 °C
74 F
 
 24.1 °C
75 F
23.1 °C
74 F
22.8 °C
73 F
 
Maximum: 34.2 °C = 94 F
Average: 26.9 °C = 80 F
27.3 °C
81 F
28.6 °C
83 F
27.2 °C
81 F
22.4 °C
72 F
25.6 °C
78 F
31 °C
88 F
23 °C
73 F
24 °C
75 F
25 °C
77 F
Maximum: 31 °C = 88 F
Average: 26 °C = 79 F
Power Supply (max.)  43.5 °C = 110 F | Room Temperature 21.9 °C = 71 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 26.9 °C / 80 F, compared to the average of 30.7 °C / 87 F for the devices in the class Subnotebook.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 34.2 °C / 94 F, compared to the average of 35.9 °C / 97 F, ranging from 21.4 to 59 °C for the class Subnotebook.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 31 °C / 88 F, compared to the average of 39.4 °C / 103 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 25.4 °C / 78 F, compared to the device average of 30.7 °C / 87 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 24.6 °C / 76.3 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(+) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.3 °C / 82.9 F (+3.7 °C / 6.6 F).
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
6200U, HD Graphics 520
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
5650U, HD Graphics 6000
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
HP Envy 13-d020ng
6200U, HD Graphics 520
SCHENKER S306
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Heat
-35%
-25%
-18%
-10%
-18%
-20%
-20%
-7%
Maximum Upper Side *
34.2
49.3
-44%
42.1
-23%
43.8
-28%
35.9
-5%
33.5
2%
51
-49%
44.2
-29%
39.7
-16%
Maximum Bottom *
31
53.3
-72%
44.1
-42%
42.1
-36%
39.1
-26%
44.8
-45%
46
-48%
42.3
-36%
34.8
-12%
Idle Upper Side *
27.1
28.2
-4%
31.1
-15%
28.5
-5%
27.8
-3%
29.5
-9%
25.5
6%
29.6
-9%
27.4
-1%
Idle Bottom *
27.7
32.6
-18%
32.9
-19%
28.9
-4%
29.1
-5%
33
-19%
24.4
12%
29.2
-5%
27.7
-0%

* ... smaller is better

Energy Management

Power Consumption

We measured a maximum idle power consumption of 6 watts - a very good rate. The requirement does not climb into unforeseen regions during load either. We measured a rate of 30.8 watts during the stress test. A comparison with the identically built Aspire V3-372 sister model to illustrate the impact of the screen on power consumption would seem logical at this point. The Aspire is equipped with the same CPU-GPU combination and also has an SSD. However, a Full HD panel is installed in the Aspire. This leads to an approximately 2 watt higher consumption in both load and in idle modes compared with the TravelMate (HD panel; 1366x768 pixels). The power supply has a nominal output of 45 watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.45 / 0.46 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 3.2 / 5.5 / 6 Watt
Load midlight 29.5 / 30.9 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
6200U, HD Graphics 520
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
5650U, HD Graphics 6000
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
HP Envy 13-d020ng
6200U, HD Graphics 520
SCHENKER S306
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Power Consumption
-13%
-22%
-3%
-18%
-6%
-32%
-67%
-10%
Idle Minimum *
3.2
3.8
-19%
4.7
-47%
2.7
16%
5.2
-63%
3
6%
4.2
-31%
6.3
-97%
4.2
-31%
Idle Average *
5.5
5.8
-5%
7.2
-31%
5.7
-4%
6.9
-25%
5.7
-4%
7.4
-35%
10.1
-84%
6.2
-13%
Idle Maximum *
6
8.1
-35%
8.3
-38%
6
-0%
7.2
-20%
6.3
-5%
10.1
-68%
12.6
-110%
6.4
-7%
Load Average *
29.5
30.2
-2%
26.4
11%
32.1
-9%
26.7
9%
30.2
-2%
33.4
-13%
34.6
-17%
29
2%
Load Maximum *
30.9
32.4
-5%
32
-4%
36.2
-17%
28.2
9%
39.1
-27%
34.7
-12%
38.7
-25%
31
-0%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Runtime

The TravelMate can boast big in terms of battery life and thus more than justifies its name. One battery charge kept our practical Wi-Fi test running for 10:08 hours. We simulate the load needed for opening websites using the "Balanced" profile, and a screen brightness of approximately 150 cd/m². We test the video playback time by looping the short movie "Big Buck Bunny" (H.265 encoding, 1920x1080 pixels). The wireless modules are disabled and the screen's brightness is set to roughly 150 cd/m². The TravelMate achieved a runtime of 9:17 hours here. The laptop's maximum possible runtime is 21:30 hours.

The battery has a capacity of 49.7 Wh
The battery has a capacity of 49.7 Wh
Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
21h 30min
WiFi Websurfing (IE 11)
10h 08min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
9h 17min
Load (maximum brightness)
2h 27min
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
49.7 Wh
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
51 Wh
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
44 Wh
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
54 Wh
Lenovo IdeaPad 500S-13ISK
35 Wh
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
49 Wh
HP Envy 13-d020ng
45 Wh
SCHENKER S306
45 Wh
Asus Zenbook UX303UA-FN121T
50 Wh
Battery Runtime
-27%
-41%
-3%
-48%
-37%
-46%
-28%
Reader / Idle
1290
906
-30%
449
-65%
1572
22%
615
-52%
H.264
557
337
-39%
311
-44%
WiFi v1.3
608
349
-43%
377
-38%
620
2%
301
-50%
381
-37%
329
-46%
436
-28%
Load
147
135
-8%
118
-20%
97
-34%
81
-45%
WiFi
359

Pros

+ matte screen
+ low temperatures
+ USB 3.1
+ runs quietly
+ fast SSD
+ very good battery life

Cons

- dark screen

Verdict

In review: Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575. Test model courtesy of Cyberport.de
In review: Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575. Test model courtesy of Cyberport.de

Acer's subnotebook comes with a strong Core i5 processor that looks good in all application scenarios. The laptop barely heats up and runs quietly in routine use despite the strong CPU. A fast SSD ensures a quick system. Replacing the SSD would be possible, but the laptop's base tray has to be dismantled first as there is no maintenance hatch.

With the TravelMate P238-M, Acer could have had a very good subnotebook in its lineup if it had not cut so many corners on the keyboard and display. Buyers who can accept this will find an enduring companion for school, studies and job.

Acer has equipped the TravelMate with a decent keyboard that, however, does not belong to the top models. We expect more for the asking price of approximately 750 Euros (~$842). After all, the TravelMate is a mobile typewriter and browsing machine. The screen will not win any awards either. It is dark, low-contrast and viewing angle dependent. A 750-Euro (~$842) laptop has to offer more in this respect.

Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575 - 04/21/2016 v5.1(old)
Sascha Mölck

Chassis
81 /  98 → 82%
Keyboard
74%
Pointing Device
81%
Connectivity
52 / 80 → 65%
Weight
69 / 35-78 → 79%
Battery
92%
Display
74%
Games Performance
55 / 68 → 81%
Application Performance
82 / 87 → 94%
Temperature
96 / 91 → 100%
Noise
91%
Audio
60 / 91 → 66%
Camera
40 / 85 → 47%
Average
73%
81%
Subnotebook - Weighted Average

Pricecompare

static version load dynamic
Loading Comments
Comment on this article
Please share our article, every link counts!
> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575 Subnotebook Review
Sascha Mölck, 2016-04-22 (Update: 2018-05-15)