Notebookcheck Logo

Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU Notebook Review

Disappointing screen. Acer launches a well-equipped 15.6-inch all-rounder on the market with the TravelMate P259-MG-71UU. The GeForce 940MX graphics core (GDDR5 version) allows playing many up-to-date computer games. Acer ruins the overall good impression with a poor screen and only middling battery life.

For the original German review, see here.

Acer offers entry-level business laptops that are primarily made for small businesses, self-employed people, as well as pupils and students within its TravelMate P2 lineup. After testing two 14-inch models in the forms of the TravelMate P249-M-5452 and TravelMate P249-M-3895 from this series, we are now looking at a 15.6-inch model dubbed TravelMate P259-MG. All three laptops are still based on Skylake processors. The present review sample also sports a dedicated GeForce graphics core. HP's ProBook 450 G4, Lenovo's ThinkPad E560, and Dell's Latitude 15 3570 are some of its competitors.

Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU (TravelMate P2 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i7-6500U 2 x 2.5 - 3.1 GHz (Intel Core i7)
Graphics adapter
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX - 2048 MB VRAM, Core: 863 MHz, Memory: 1253 MHz, GDDR5, 64-Bit interface, ForceWare 376.33, Optimus
Memory
16 GB 
, DDR4-2134, dual-channel, two memory banks (one filled)
Display
15.60 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 141 PPI, BOE NT156FHM-N41, TN LED, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Skylake-U Premium PCH
Storage
Liteonit CV3-8D256, 256 GB 
, + Toshiba MQ01ABD100 (1 TB, 5400 RPM), 1100 GB free
Soundcard
Realtek ALC255 @ Intel Sunrise Point PCH - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
1 USB 2.0, 3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, 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
Optical drive
Slimtype DVD A DA8AESH
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 24 x 382 x 259 ( = 0.94 x 15.04 x 10.2 in)
Battery
41 Wh Lithium-Ion, Battery runtime (according to manufacturer): 8 h
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 7 Professional (64 Bit) + Windows 10 Pro (64 Bit)
Camera
Webcam: HD
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: no, Adobe Reader, McAfee Live Safe (trial), MS Office 365 (trial),, 36 Months Warranty
Weight
2.3 kg ( = 81.13 oz / 5.07 pounds) ( = 0 oz / 0 pounds)
Price
999 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

A conservative look is normally standard for laptops that are used in a professional environment. This is also true for the TravelMate. Acer relies on a completely black casing made mostly of plastic. Only the base unit's upper side is made of one piece of metal (brushed aluminum). The lid's back and the base tray are structured with a line pattern. A maintenance hatch on the laptop's bottom allows accessing the hard drive, SSD, and both working memory banks (both filled). The battery cannot be removed.

The laptop does not show any major shortcomings in build. A slight transition of materials can be felt at the display bezel's upper edge. The gaps are regular. The base unit does not present any weaknesses in terms of stiffness. The lid is also largely within an acceptable range here. Image distortions are visible mostly in the screen's center when pressure is applied on the lid's back. The hinges keep the lid firmly in position but rock after being adjusted. A bit of jerking is necessary to open the lid with one hand.

The size difference between the TravelMate and its rivals is not big. HP's ProBook 450 G4 can boast with the lowest weight. It weighs roughly 300 grams less than Acer's laptop.

Size Comparison

382 mm / 15 inch 259 mm / 10.2 inch 24 mm / 0.945 inch 2.3 kg5.07 lbs382 mm / 15 inch 263 mm / 10.4 inch 24 mm / 0.945 inch 2 kg4.5 lbs377 mm / 14.8 inch 256 mm / 10.1 inch 27.1 mm / 1.067 inch 2.4 kg5.18 lbs378 mm / 14.9 inch 256 mm / 10.1 inch 26 mm / 1.024 inch 2.2 kg4.92 lbs380 mm / 15 inch 260 mm / 10.2 inch 23.25 mm / 0.915 inch 2.1 kg4.54 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity

The TravelMate offers the standard variety of interfaces. Two of the three type-A USB ports support the USB 3.0 standard. Beyond that, a USB type-C port (USB 3.1 Gen.1) is present. Monitors can be connected via two video sockets (HDMI, VGA). The interface distribution is unfavorable as they are all on the level of the wrist rest.

Right: combo audio, USB 2.0 (Type A), DVD burner, power socket
Right: combo audio, USB 2.0 (Type A), DVD burner, power socket
Left: cable lock slot, USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type C), Gigabit Ethernet, VGA-out, HDMI, 2x USB 3.0 (Type A)
Left: cable lock slot, USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type C), Gigabit Ethernet, VGA-out, HDMI, 2x USB 3.0 (Type A)
Front: SD-memory card reader
Front: SD-memory card reader

SD-Card Reader

The memory-card reader in the TravelMate is situated in the midfield. Transmitting 250 JPG image files (approx. 5 MB each) is performed at a speed of 68.1 MB/s. The readers in the competitors achieve similar rates. Only the memory-card reader in Dell's Latitude 15 3570 lags clearly behind. We test the memory-card reader with a reference card (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II).

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
 
72.7 MB/s +7%
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
 
68.1 MB/s
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
 
66.3 MB/s -3%
Dell Latitude 15-3570
 
22.24 MB/s -67%
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
 
89 MB/s
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
 
85.6 MB/s
Dell Latitude 15-3570
 
24.15 MB/s

Communication

A Wi-Fi module that carries a chip by Intel (Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265) is inside Acer's laptop. In addition to the 802.11 a/b/g/h/n standards, it also supports the fast ac standard. The transmission rates that we measured under ideal conditions (no other Wi-Fi devices in the vicinity, short distance between the router and server PC) were very good. The router-to-laptop connection was also always stable. A Gigabit Ethernet chip from Realtek's RTL8168/8111 family is responsible for cabled network connections, and it did an impeccable job.

Networking
iperf Server (receive) TCP 1 m
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
595 MBit/s
iperf Client (transmit) TCP 1 m
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
535 MBit/s
iperf3 receive AX12
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
628 MBit/s
iperf3 transmit AX12
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
583 MBit/s

Webcam

The webcam in the TravelMate produces blurred and faded images. It has a maximum resolution of 1280x720 pixels.

Security

The TravelMate cannot offer many security features. A Trusted Platform Module (2.0) is onboard, which is the only hardware-based security feature. A fingerprint scanner, for example, is not installed. Acer's ProShield security software is preloaded.

Accessories

The TravelMate comes with the usual accessories: A quick-start leaflet and warranty conditions. A USB type-C docking station is optionally available. It can expand the TravelMate's interface variety. The station costs approximately 170 to 180 Euros (~$180 to ~$190).

Maintenance

The TravelMate's large maintenance hatch allows easily accessing the two working memory banks, SSD, and HDD. Thus, replacing these components would not be a problem. The casing has to be opened to access the other hardware, for example, cleaning the fan or replacing the battery.

Maintenance hatch
Maintenance hatch

Warranty

Praiseworthily, Acer includes a three-year warranty on the TravelMate - including a pick-up service. That distinguishes the company from its competitors. For example, HP's ProBook 450 G4 is only furnished with a one-year warranty. The TravelMate's warranty period can be extended to five years for approximately 150 Euros (~$158).

Please see our Guarantees, Return Policies & Warranties FAQ for country-specific information.

Input Devices

Keyboard

The lightly roughened keys of the installed chiclet keyboard have a medium drop and a clear pressure point. The letter and number keys are concave. The key resistance could be a bit crisper in our opinion. The keyboard at most yields in the center when typing on it. However, this was not annoying. In total, Acer delivers a very decent keyboard that also allows frequent typing sessions. Acer has not installed a keyboard backlight into the laptop. This should actually be standard for a device like the TravelMate.

Touchpad

The multitouch ClickPad has a surface area of approximately 10.6x7.8 cm. Thus, it offers enough room for gesture control. The various gestures can be turned on and off individually in the configuration menu. The pad's sleek surface does not stop the fingers from gliding. The pad responds to inputs even in the corners. It has a short drop and clear pressure point.

Input devices
Input devices

Display

Pixel grid
Pixel grid

The matte 15.6-inch screen in the TravelMate has a native resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. This is also pretty much all of its positive qualities. The brightness (178 cd/m²) and contrast (400:1) are much too low for the demanded price. A brightness rate of 300 cd/m² and contrast of 1000:1 would be appropriate here. To illustrate the quality level of the screen installed here: The same panel is used in the 400-Euro (~$423) Acer Aspire ES1-533 that we recently tested. At least the screen does not exhibit PWM-flickering. The TravelMate is also available with an HD panel (1366x768 pixels).

185
cd/m²
178
cd/m²
178
cd/m²
179
cd/m²
180
cd/m²
178
cd/m²
177
cd/m²
175
cd/m²
172
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
BOE NT156FHM-N41 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 185 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 178 cd/m² Minimum: 15 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 93 %
Center on Battery: 180 cd/m²
Contrast: 400:1 (Black: 0.45 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 9.91 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 11.25 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
58% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
37% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
39.85% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
58% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
38.58% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.35
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
TN LED, 1920x1080, 15.60
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
TN LED, 1920x1080, 15.60
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
IPS-Panel, 1920x1080, 15.60
Dell Latitude 15-3570
TN LED, 1366x768, 15.60
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
1366x768, 15.60
Display
3%
-0%
5%
6%
Display P3 Coverage
38.58
39.89
3%
38.5
0%
40.61
5%
41.18
7%
sRGB Coverage
58
59.5
3%
57.5
-1%
61.1
5%
60.9
5%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
39.85
41.24
3%
39.8
0%
41.96
5%
42.7
7%
Response Times
-28%
5%
-27%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
43 ?(20, 23)
51 ?(23, 28)
-19%
38.4 ?(13.2, 25.2)
11%
37 ?(13, 24)
14%
Response Time Black / White *
22 ?(6, 16)
30 ?(10, 20)
-36%
22.4 ?(6.4, 16)
-2%
37 ?(20, 17)
-68%
PWM Frequency
50 ?(40)
Screen
4%
35%
-7%
-35%
Brightness middle
180
214
19%
257
43%
202
12%
250.7
39%
Brightness
178
201
13%
234
31%
211
19%
249
40%
Brightness Distribution
93
77
-17%
83
-11%
88
-5%
83
-11%
Black Level *
0.45
0.43
4%
0.27
40%
0.62
-38%
1.3
-189%
Contrast
400
498
25%
952
138%
326
-18%
193
-52%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
9.91
10.68
-8%
7.16
28%
12.35
-25%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
18.19
18.07
1%
19.9
-9%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
11.25
11.32
-1%
6.28
44%
13.46
-20%
Gamma
2.35 94%
2.26 97%
2.44 90%
2.44 90%
CCT
12115 54%
12204 53%
6806 96%
15217 43%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
37
38
3%
36.6
-1%
39
5%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
58
59
2%
57.3
-1%
61
5%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-7% / -0%
13% / 23%
-10% / -8%
-15% / -19%

* ... smaller is better

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 screen's color reproduction is not very satisfactory, either. The DeltaE 2000 color shift is 9.91 in delivery state. A rate less than three would be desirable. Furthermore, the screen exhibits a bluish tint. The AdobeRGB and sRGB color spaces cannot be reproduced. The coverage rates are 37% (AdobeRGB) and 58% (sRGB).

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
22 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 6 ms rise
↘ 16 ms fall
The screen shows good response rates in our tests, but may be too slow for competitive gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 42 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is similar to the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
43 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 20 ms rise
↘ 23 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. » 67 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

Acer furnishes the TravelMate with a viewing-angle dependent TN panel. Thus, the screen is not legible from every position. The laptop is not really outdoor suitable due to the screen's low brightness and low contrast.

The TravelMate outdoors (overcast skies)
The TravelMate outdoors (overcast skies)
Viewing angles
Viewing angles

Performance

Acer's TravelMate P249-MG is a 15.6-inch, entry-level business laptop. It has enough computing power for all common application fields. Business-typical features, such as docking port, fingerprint scanner or LTE modem, are neither present nor optionally available. Our review sample costs around 1000 Euros (~$1058) and represents the top model of the lineup. Other configurations exist. The prices start at 750 Euros (~$793). Models without a dedicated graphics card (TravelMate P259-M) are also available. Their prices start at 520 Euros (~$550).

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

Processor

Acer still uses processors from the Skylake generation in its TravelMate. Our review sample comes with a Core i7-6500U dual-core processor. The CPU has enough computing power for applications remote from the office and Internet. Buyers who want to save money can opt for a TravelMate model with a Core i5-6200U. A somewhat lower performance sets off a much lower price. The lower maximum performance is not noticed in everyday use.

The installed Core i7 belongs to the efficient ULV processors (TDP: 15 watts). It clocks at a base speed of 2.5 GHz, which can be boosted to 3 GHz (both cores) and 3.1 GHz (one core) via Turbo. Turbo is utilized in AC and battery modes. The single-thread tests were always performed at 3 to 3.1 GHz. A difference between AC and battery modes exists in multithread tests (AC: 3 GHz; battery: 2.5 to 3 GHz).

The Kaby Lake successor - Core i7-7500U - of the processor installed here has been available for quite a while now. The CPU is found, for example, in one of the TravelMate's competitors that we tested, namely HP's ProBook 450 G4. The 7500U achieves up to 15% better scores than its predecessor. This is primarily due to the higher clock speeds. The Skylake and Kaby Lake CPUs are identical technically.

Single-thread (AC mode)
Single-thread (AC mode)
Multithread (AC mode)
Multithread (AC mode)
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
6226
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
11200
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
4860
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
57.7 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
3.53 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.48 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
99.6 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
69.8 fps
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
329 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
130 Points
Help
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
Intel Core i7-7500U
146 Points +12%
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
130 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Intel Core i7-6500U
124 Points -5%
Dell Latitude 15-3570
Intel Core i5-6200U
116 Points -11%
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
Intel Core i5-6200U
110 Points -15%
CPU Multi 64Bit
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
Intel Core i7-7500U
355 Points +8%
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
329 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Intel Core i7-6500U
319 Points -3%
Dell Latitude 15-3570
Intel Core i5-6200U
290 Points -12%
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
Intel Core i5-6200U
274 Points -17%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Multi 64Bit
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Intel Core i7-6500U
3.55 Points +1%
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
3.53 Points
CPU Single 64Bit
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
1.48 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Intel Core i7-6500U
1.45 Points -2%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
11200 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Intel Core i7-6500U
11004 Points -2%
Rendering Single 32Bit
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Intel Core i7-6500U
4871 Points 0%
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
4860 Points
Geekbench 3
32 Bit Single-Core Score
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
3239 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Intel Core i7-6500U
2816 Points -13%
32 Bit Multi-Core Score
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
6904 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Intel Core i7-6500U
6092 Points -12%
Geekbench 4.0
64 Bit Single-Core Score
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
3872 Points
64 Bit Multi-Core Score
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
7550 Points
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
Intel Core i7-7500U
238.6 Points +88%
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Intel Core i7-6500U
189.6 Points +50%
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
126.6 Points
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Intel Core i7-6500U
2121 ms *
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Intel Core i7-6500U
1104 ms * +48%
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
Intel Core i7-7500U
998 ms * +53%

* ... smaller is better

System Performance

The very good results in the PCMark benchmarks prove the TravelMate's high total performance. The subjective impression also confirms this. The system runs smoothly. We did not encounter any problems. The overall good configuration also equips the laptop for application fields remote from the office and Internet, such as video editing. Increasing the performance is not possible as Acer has exhausted all resources.

A laptop based on a quad-core processor would be needed for even more power. However, it should be kept in mind that it will hardly bring any advantages in routine use. It can first utilize its two extra cores in applications that have been optimized for multi-core processors. Higher temperature development, higher power consumption, and shorter battery life will also have to be counted with in everyday use.

Two working memory banks are present
Two working memory banks are present
PCMark 7 Score
4890 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3823 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
4112 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4699 points
Help
PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
GeForce 940MX, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-8D256
3823 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Radeon R7 M370, 6500U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
3595 Points -6%
Dell Latitude 15-3570
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung CM871 MZNLF128HCHP
3337 Points -13%
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
GeForce 930MX, i7-7500U, SanDisk SD8SNAT256G1002
3163 Points -17%
Work Score Accelerated v2
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
GeForce 930MX, i7-7500U, SanDisk SD8SNAT256G1002
4725 Points +1%
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
GeForce 940MX, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-8D256
4699 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Radeon R7 M370, 6500U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
4650 Points -1%
Dell Latitude 15-3570
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung CM871 MZNLF128HCHP
4477 Points -5%

Storage Devices

Acer has treated the TravelMate to a solid state drive by LiteOn that serves as the system drive. It is an M.2 model (2280) with a capacity of 256 GB. The transfer rates are good. Room for a conventional 2.5-inch hard drive was also found inside the casing. Here, Acer relies on an HDD by Toshiba. It spins at 5400 revolutions per minute and has a capacity of 1 TB. Both drives are easy to access thanks to the maintenance hatch.

The solid state drive...
The solid state drive...
...and HDD are easy to replace.
...and HDD are easy to replace.
Liteonit CV3-8D256
Sequential Read: 478.5 MB/s
Sequential Write: 258.2 MB/s
512K Read: 254.3 MB/s
512K Write: 264.8 MB/s
4K Read: 28.32 MB/s
4K Write: 76.3 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 346.2 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 240.2 MB/s
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
Liteonit CV3-8D256
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
Dell Latitude 15-3570
Samsung CM871 MZNLF128HCHP
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
Toshiba MQ02ABF050H (SSHD 500 + 8 GB)
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
-38%
-44%
-89%
Read Seq
478.5
462
-3%
453.2
-5%
105.8
-78%
Write Seq
258.2
174.5
-32%
137.7
-47%
88.8
-66%
Read 512
254.3
306.8
21%
308.5
21%
29.45
-88%
Write 512
264.8
168.6
-36%
134.1
-49%
36.9
-86%
Read 4k
28.32
16.14
-43%
19.06
-33%
0.428
-98%
Write 4k
76.3
36.24
-53%
21.31
-72%
0.646
-99%
Read 4k QD32
346.2
95.7
-72%
93.5
-73%
0.978
-100%
Write 4k QD32
240.2
36.23
-85%
23.3
-90%
0.615
-100%

Graphics Card

With the GeForce 940MX graphics unit, a GPU from the mid-range has moved into the TravelMate. The GPU finds support in 2048 MB of GDDR5 memory. The memory is much faster than the otherwise often used DDR3 memory. Consequently, the TravelMate scores much better in the 3DMark benchmarks than GeForce 940 MX laptops that rely on DDR3 memory.

Two versions of the GDDR5 940MX graphics unit exist. Tools like GPU-Z can be used to find out which version is inside the TravelMate. Version A carries the internal name GM107-B and is a scion of the GTX-850M and GTX-860M graphics cores. Version A is found inside the TravelMate. Version B (GM108) is based on the GeForce 940M graphics core. Version A (863 MHz) clocks at a lower speed than version B (1189 MHz), but it can more than compensate for this with its higher Shader count (512 vs. 384) and consequently the graphics memory's higher speed (1253 vs. 1000 MHz). Thus, the TravelMate sports the higher-performance version of the GeForce 940MX graphics unit.

3DMark 06 Standard Score
14930 points
3DMark 11 Performance
3027 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
48176 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
5606 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
2025 points
3DMark Fire Strike Extreme Score
953 points
Help
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i7-6500U
2821 Points
Dell Inspiron 17 7778
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i7-6500U
2734 Points -3%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i5-7200U
2556 Points -9%
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
AMD Radeon R7 M370, Intel Core i7-6500U
2522 Points -11%
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
NVIDIA GeForce 930MX, Intel Core i7-7500U
2092 Points -26%
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1344 Points -52%
Dell Latitude 15-3570
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1273 Points -55%
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i7-6500U
13459 Points
Dell Inspiron 17 7778
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i7-6500U
11713 Points -13%
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
AMD Radeon R7 M370, Intel Core i7-6500U
10288 Points -24%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i5-7200U
9501 Points -29%
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
NVIDIA GeForce 930MX, Intel Core i7-7500U
9122 Points -32%
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
8273 Points -39%
Dell Latitude 15-3570
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
5909 Points -56%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i7-6500U
2222 Points
Dell Inspiron 17 7778
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i7-6500U
1889 Points -15%
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
AMD Radeon R7 M370, Intel Core i7-6500U
1760 Points -21%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i5-7200U
1752 Points -21%
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
NVIDIA GeForce 930MX, Intel Core i7-7500U
1637 Points -26%
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
914 Points -59%

Gaming Performance

The CPU-GPU combination in the TravelMate renders most computer games smoothly in the HD resolution (1366x768 pixels) using medium quality settings. Games that only have low hardware requirements allow for more. Only a few performance-drive games, such as Deus Ex Mankind Divided and Ashes of the Singularity are not playable. A look at our comparison chart shows that the TravelMate - as expected - delivers higher frame rates than laptops furnished with a DDR3 GeForce 940MX graphics unit (Lenovo ThinkPad E470) or a version B GDDR5 GeForce 940MX graphics unit (Dell Inspiron 17 7778).

low med. high ultra
Tomb Raider (2013) 182.8 95.9 62.6 29.4
BioShock Infinite (2013) 117 70.9 61.9 24
Battlefield 4 (2013) 82.7 58.3 42.9 17.4
FIFA 17 (2016) 135.4 105.3 58.3 55
Battlefield 1 (2016) 61.7 40.5 19 17
Civilization VI (2016) 48.8 26 13.5 10.5
Farming Simulator 17 (2016) 146.2 99.6 42.8 28.2
Titanfall 2 (2016) 68.6 44.8 20 16.4
Call of Duty Infinite Warfare (2016) 42.8 39.2 21.8 16.4
Dishonored 2 (2016) 33.4 26 13.6 11.3
Watch Dogs 2 (2016) 33.2 28.6 13.8 8.5
BioShock Infinite - 1366x768 High Preset
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
GeForce 940MX, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-8D256
61.9 fps
Dell Inspiron 17 7778
GeForce 940MX, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-CE512
53.1 fps -14%
Dell Vostro 15 5568
GeForce 940MX, i7-7500U, Transcend MTS400 256 GB M.2 TS256GMTS400
52 fps -16%
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Radeon R7 M370, 6500U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
46.7 fps -25%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
GeForce 940MX, i5-7200U, SanDisk X400 SED 256GB, SATA (SD8TB8U-256G)
43.1 fps -30%
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
GeForce 930MX, i7-7500U, SanDisk SD8SNAT256G1002
41.77 fps -33%
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba MQ02ABF050H (SSHD 500 + 8 GB)
25.3 fps -59%
Dell Latitude 15-3570
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung CM871 MZNLF128HCHP
16.8 fps -73%
Battlefield 4 - 1366x768 Medium Preset
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
GeForce 940MX, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-8D256
58.3 fps
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
Radeon R7 M370, 6500U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
46.7 fps -20%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
GeForce 940MX, i5-7200U, SanDisk X400 SED 256GB, SATA (SD8TB8U-256G)
46.7 fps -20%
Dell Inspiron 17 7778
GeForce 940MX, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-CE512
40.6 fps -30%

Emissions

Loudness
Loudness

System Noise

Normally, the noise of the 2.5-inch hard drive is heard in idle mode. The fan is usually inactive or spins at a low speed. The laptop can run noiselessly when the HDD is swapped for an SSD - in idle. The fan speeds up during load. However, this is still kept within limits. We measured a noise level of 38.3 dB in our stress test. Unfortunately, the laptop produces side noises. For example, it sometimes hisses. This only happened once during our test, though.

Noise Level

Idle
31.6 / 31.6 / 32 dB(A)
DVD
35.8 / dB(A)
Load
35.5 / 38.3 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: 30.5 dB(A)
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
6500U, GeForce 940MX
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
i7-7500U, GeForce 930MX
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
6500U, Radeon R7 M370
Dell Latitude 15-3570
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Noise
-4%
7%
3%
-0%
off / environment *
30.5
31.6
-4%
31
-2%
Idle Minimum *
31.6
32.6
-3%
29.2
8%
31
2%
30.9
2%
Idle Average *
31.6
32.6
-3%
29.2
8%
31
2%
31
2%
Idle Maximum *
32
33
-3%
29.2
9%
31
3%
31.1
3%
Load Average *
35.5
38.9
-10%
33.6
5%
34.2
4%
36.9
-4%
Load Maximum *
38.3
38.9
-2%
35.5
7%
34.3
10%
39.8
-4%

* ... 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 a slightly different manner in AC mode and battery mode. The graphics unit always clocked at full speed. The processor clocked at 1.2 to 2.5 GHz (battery mode) and 2.4 to 2.5 GHz (AC mode). The laptop's temperatures were kept within very tight limits. 40 °C was only surpassed on two measuring points in the fan's area.

Max. Load
 32.2 °C
90 F
29.5 °C
85 F
25.4 °C
78 F
 
 32.3 °C
90 F
35.1 °C
95 F
25.5 °C
78 F
 
 31.2 °C
88 F
34 °C
93 F
26.3 °C
79 F
 
Maximum: 35.1 °C = 95 F
Average: 30.2 °C = 86 F
23.8 °C
75 F
30 °C
86 F
46.7 °C
116 F
24.4 °C
76 F
33 °C
91 F
41.7 °C
107 F
25.1 °C
77 F
33.5 °C
92 F
32.1 °C
90 F
Maximum: 46.7 °C = 116 F
Average: 32.3 °C = 90 F
Power Supply (max.)  52.8 °C = 127 F | Room Temperature 21.7 °C = 71 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 30.2 °C / 86 F, compared to the average of 29.5 °C / 85 F for the devices in the class Office.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 35.1 °C / 95 F, compared to the average of 34.2 °C / 94 F, ranging from 21.2 to 62.5 °C for the class Office.
(-) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 46.7 °C / 116 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 25.1 °C / 77 F, compared to the device average of 29.5 °C / 85 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are reaching skin temperature as a maximum (34 °C / 93.2 F) and are therefore not hot.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 27.7 °C / 81.9 F (-6.3 °C / -11.3 F).
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
6500U, GeForce 940MX
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
i7-7500U, GeForce 930MX
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
6500U, Radeon R7 M370
Dell Latitude 15-3570
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Heat
-7%
-3%
-10%
14%
Maximum Upper Side *
35.1
44.3
-26%
45
-28%
36.1
-3%
33.2
5%
Maximum Bottom *
46.7
46.3
1%
39.8
15%
47
-1%
30.1
36%
Idle Upper Side *
27
27.8
-3%
26.1
3%
31.7
-17%
25.3
6%
Idle Bottom *
27.4
27.7
-1%
27.7
-1%
32.9
-20%
25
9%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature development upper side (load)
Temperature development upper side (load)
Temperature development underside (load)
Temperature development underside (load)
Temperature development upper side (idle)
Temperature development upper side (idle)
Temperature development underside (idle)
Temperature development underside (idle)

Speakers

The stereo speakers are situated in the front area of the TravelMate's underside. They produce a decent sound that audibly lacks bass. It is possible to listen to them for prolonged periods. However, using external speakers or headphones is recommendable for a better sound experience.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2033.631.633.62531.230.731.23135.131.835.14031.930.731.95029.829.629.8632827.5288030.426.530.410031.925.931.912526.824.826.816028.123.728.120033.922.833.925044.722.344.731549.721.149.740056.120.456.150054.419.754.463062.81962.880068.518.868.5100064.618.464.612505717.557160056.317.656.3200059.817.559.8250062.617.762.6315064.417.964.4400071.21871.2500073.118.373.1630067.418.267.4800065.618.365.61000069.718.369.71250072.218.272.21600060.318.260.3SPL79.230.579.2N41.41.441.4median 60.3median 18.3median 60.3Delta10.41.310.435.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseAcer TravelMate P259-MG-71UUApple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (73 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 24.4% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (11.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4.1% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (11.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 7.5% higher than median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (8.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (26.8% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 80% of all tested devices in this class were better, 7% similar, 13% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 22%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 79% of all tested devices were better, 4% similar, 17% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (83.6 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 11.3% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (14.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 2.4% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (5.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (10.2% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 5% of all tested devices in this class were better, 2% similar, 93% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 3% of all tested devices were better, 1% similar, 96% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Frequency diagram in comparison (checkboxes above can be turned on/off)

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The power consumption does not exhibit any irregularities. We measured a maximum idle consumption of 10.6 watts. The power consumption climbed up to 51.9 watts during the stress test - a normal rate for the hardware platform installed here. The requirement ranged at around 40 watts in gaming routine. The power supply has a nominal output of 65 watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.24 / 1.2 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 7 / 8 / 10.6 Watt
Load midlight 39.7 / 51.9 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 P259-MG-71UU
6500U, GeForce 940MX
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
i7-7500U, GeForce 930MX
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
6500U, Radeon R7 M370
Dell Latitude 15-3570
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Power Consumption
15%
3%
30%
23%
Idle Minimum *
7
3.8
46%
4.2
40%
4.9
30%
4.5
36%
Idle Average *
8
6.6
17%
7.5
6%
7.2
10%
6.1
24%
Idle Maximum *
10.6
11.3
-7%
8.2
23%
7.5
29%
10.5
1%
Load Average *
39.7
38
4%
49.6
-25%
25.4
36%
29.9
25%
Load Maximum *
51.9
45
13%
65.8
-27%
28
46%
37.2
28%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Runtime

The TravelMate achieved a runtime of 4:40 hours in our Wi-Fi test. We simulate the load needed for opening websites via a script. The "Balanced" profile is enabled, the energy-saving features are disabled, and the screen's brightness is set to approximately 150 cd/m². The laptop shut down after just 4:05 hours in our video test. Here, we loop the short movie Big Buck Bunny (H.264 encoding, 1920x1080 pixels). The radio modules and energy-savings features are disabled and the screen's brightness is dimmed to 150 cd/m².

Windows 7 Professional is preloaded on the TravelMate in delivery state. We performed the runtime test using this operating system. Subsequently, we installed Windows 10 and reran the Wi-Fi and video tests. The TravelMate gained roughly 25 minutes of runtime in Windows 10 (Wi-Fi: 5:05 h; video: 4:30 h).

The TravelMate cannot really be called a member of the mobile devices category. The battery life is too mediocre for this. A device can first be called mobile when it achieves a minimum runtime of well over 6 hours in our Wi-Fi and video tests. Buyers looking for an enduring device will be better served with HP's ProBook 450 G4 or Dell's Latitude 15 3570.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
10h 15min
WiFi Websurfing (IE 11)
4h 40min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
4h 05min
Load (maximum brightness)
0h 56min
Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU
6500U, GeForce 940MX, 41 Wh
HP ProBook 450 G4 Y8B60EA
i7-7500U, GeForce 930MX, 45 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad E560-20EWS00000
6500U, Radeon R7 M370, 48 Wh
Dell Latitude 15-3570
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 65 Wh
Fujitsu LifeBook A556 PL
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 45 Wh
Battery Runtime
75%
55%
114%
-5%
Reader / Idle
615
746
21%
884
44%
1024
67%
587
-5%
H.264
245
413
69%
WiFi v1.3
280
513
83%
342
22%
542
94%
Load
56
123
120%
104
86%
157
180%
WiFi
349

Pros

+ matte screen
+ Full HD resolution
+ high computing performance
+ high gaming performance
+ SSD + HDD
+ maintenance hatch
+ ac Wi-Fi
+ 3-year warranty

Cons

- dark, low-contrast, viewing-angle instable screen
- interface distribution

Verdict

In review: Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU. Test model courtesy of Cyberport.de
In review: Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU. Test model courtesy of Cyberport.de

Kaby Lake has not yet found its way into the TravelMate. The installed Core i7 processor from the Skylake generation, however, provides more than enough application performance. Thanks to the GeForce graphics unit, many up-to-date and most older computer games can be played. The laptop does not produce much noise over the entire load range. It even runs noiselessly when idling under certain conditions. The temperatures are also moderate. A fast solid state drive ensures a fast-running system. Plenty of storage capacity is also available. The present maintenance hatch allows easily replacing both drives. The installed keyboard is satisfactory in total. This is rounded off by a three-year warranty.

Acer has done a good job with the TravelMate P259-MG-71UU, but its poor choice of screen thwarts a better rating.

The installed screen is dark, low-contrast, and viewing-angle dependent. We expect a much better IPS panel in a 1000-Euro (~$1058) device like the TravelMate. A backlit keyboard should also be part of the basic configuration. The middling battery life also has to be mentioned: A laptop that is explicitly aimed at professional users should have more to offer in this regard. The TravelMate P259-MG has to sooner be seen as a 15.6-inch all-rounder for the desk at home than a business laptop.

Acer TravelMate P259-MG-71UU - 01/01/2017 v6(old)
Sascha Mölck

Chassis
78 / 98 → 80%
Keyboard
74%
Pointing Device
84%
Connectivity
48 / 80 → 60%
Weight
61 / 20-67 → 87%
Battery
77%
Display
74%
Games Performance
68 / 68 → 99%
Application Performance
83 / 92 → 91%
Temperature
92%
Noise
90%
Audio
54%
Camera
25 / 85 → 29%
Average
70%
79%
Office - 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 P259-MG-71UU Notebook Review
Sascha Mölck, 2017-01-10 (Update: 2019-04-21)