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Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N Notebook Review

Balanced bundle. With the TravelMate, Acer offers a well-made 14-inch alternative to the business models from the established brands HP, Dell and Lenovo. The TravelMate looks the same as its predecessor. However, the manufacturer has refreshed the hardware: Skylake, DDR4, and Thunderbolt 3 are on board. An already good computer has been made even better. Positive: The battery runtimes are excellent.

For the original German review, see here.

When you think about business notebooks, it is HP, Lenovo, and Dell that first come to mind. However, Asus and Acer also offer such models. With the Acer TravelMate P648-M, we have a top-of-the-range 14-inch device under review. It competes with the Lenovo ThinkPad T460, the HP EliteBook 840 G3, and the Dell Latitude 14 E5470. The TravelMate is already familiar to us: We have already reviewed the TravelMate P645-S predecessor with the same design, which achieved a "very good" (88%) rating. Our review will reveal whether the new model can also accomplish this.

Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N (TravelMate P6 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i7-6500U 2 x 2.5 - 3.1 GHz (Intel Core i7)
Graphics adapter
Intel HD Graphics 520, Core: 1000 MHz, Dual-Channel, 20.19.15.4390
Memory
8 GB 
, DDR4-2132, Dual-Channel, one RAM slot (used), 4 GB soldered
Display
14.00 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 157 PPI, AU Optronics B140HAN02.1, IPS, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Skylake-U Premium PCH
Storage
Lite-On CV1-8B256, 256 GB 
, 170 GB free
Soundcard
Realtek ALC282 @ Intel Skylake PCH-H - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 USB 3.1 Gen2, 1 Thunderbolt, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, 1 Docking Station Port, Audio Connections: audio combo, Card Reader: SD, 1 Fingerprint Reader, NFC, TPM 1.2
Networking
Intel Ethernet Connection I219-V (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, Huawei LTE, LTE
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 21.2 x 328.7 x 235.5 ( = 0.83 x 12.94 x 9.27 in)
Battery
54 Wh, 4850 mAh Lithium-Ion, 11.1 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: yes, Foxit PhantomPDF, McAfee LiveSafe-Internet Security (trial version), MS Office (trial version), 36 Months Warranty
Weight
1.6 kg ( = 56.44 oz / 3.53 pounds), Power Supply: 392 g ( = 13.83 oz / 0.86 pounds)
Price
1299 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

The TravelMate's case has remained unchanged compared to the predecessor: Acer uses a clean, no-frills design. The matte black case is made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic and aluminum. The underside of the computer features a maintenance hatch, which covers the single RAM slot and a hard drive bay. However, it is not possible to insert a hard drive, since a compatible slot is missing. You can get to the rest of the hardware after removing the underside (see below). The battery is fixed.

You cannot complain about the build quality or the stability of the case. The gaps are even and the computer appears high-end. It is not possible to twist the base unit. However, the lid is a little too easy to twist. Nevertheless, the case meets all the requirements of a mobile companion. Pressure against the lid does not lead to image distortions. The metal hinges hold the display firmly in place and bounce minimally at best. The maximum opening angle is about 120 degrees. It is possible to open the lid with one hand.

339 mm / 13.3 inch 232 mm / 9.13 inch 21 mm / 0.827 inch 1.7 kg3.81 lbs338 mm / 13.3 inch 236 mm / 9.29 inch 20.4 mm / 0.803 inch 1.5 kg3.24 lbs335 mm / 13.2 inch 231 mm / 9.09 inch 23 mm / 0.906 inch 1.8 kg4.03 lbs338 mm / 13.3 inch 237 mm / 9.33 inch 18.9 mm / 0.744 inch 1.6 kg3.48 lbs329 mm / 13 inch 235 mm / 9.25 inch 21 mm / 0.827 inch 1.5 kg3.31 lbs328.7 mm / 12.9 inch 235.5 mm / 9.27 inch 21.2 mm / 0.835 inch 1.6 kg3.53 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity

Acer delivers a good set of interfaces. The computer features two video outs (VGA, HDMI) and three USB-3.0 ports. The Thunderbolt 3 port is new. This is a universal interface with USB-3.1 functionality, which can turn into a DisplayPort with an adapter. Thanks to a docking port on the underside, further interfaces can be added. Acer offers compatible docking stations.

left: Gigabit-Ethernet, VGA-out, HDMI, USB 3.0, Thunderbolt 3, audio combo
left: Gigabit-Ethernet, VGA-out, HDMI, USB 3.0, Thunderbolt 3, audio combo
right: 2x USB 3.0, Kensington lock slot, power-in
right: 2x USB 3.0, Kensington lock slot, power-in
front: card reader
front: card reader

Communication

The Wi-Fi module houses a chip from Intel (Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265). Apart from the Wi-Fi standards 802.11 a/b/g/h/n, it also supports the fast ac standard. The connection did not drop within 15 m (~49 ft) of our Wi-Fi router. Wired network connections are also handled by an Intel chip (I219-V), which works flawlessly. In addition, our test model comes with an LTE modem. Thus, it is possible to connect to the Internet via mobile phone network.

Webcam

The built-in webcam features a maximum resolution of 1280x720 pixels. The camera does not record impressive images.

The webcam produces noisy images.
The webcam produces noisy images.

Security

The TravelMate comes with TPM 1.2 and a fingerprint reader. The latter allows biometric access control. There is a Kensington lock slot for discouraging quick grab-and-run thefts. In terms of software, the computer features Acer's ProShield Software.

The memory card reader is one of the faster ones of its kind. Transferring 250 jpg files (5 MB each) is done at 72.6 MB/s. We test memory card readers with our reference card (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II).

Accessories

The TravelMate comes with the standard accessories: a quick start poster and warranty information. Acer offers an optional docking station for the notebook. For example, the Acer ProDock II costing about 180 Euros (~$202) increases the number of interfaces significantly. Moreover, the Thunderbolt 3 port of the TravelMate allows using universal docking solutions.

The optional Acer ProDock II...
The optional Acer ProDock II...
... brings many interfaces.
... brings many interfaces.

Maintenance

The underside of the TravelMate houses two maintenance hatches. The small one covers the SIM card slot, while the larger maintenance hatch allows access to the RAM slot and the hard drive bay (2.5-inch). However, it is not possible to add such a drive, since a SATA slot is not available. The underside has to be removed to get to the rest of the hardware. This is easy. After removing all the screws you can simply take it off. There is a M.2 SSD inside, which can be easily replaced. In case of a defect, it is possible to replace the battery. It is fixed with a few screws. Furthermore, it is possible to clean the fan.

Warranty

Acer includes a three-year warranty. The warranty period can be increased. For example a five-year warranty costs about 130 Euros (~$146).

Input Devices

Keyboard

Acer has equipped the TravelMate with a Chiclet keyboard with backlight, which features only one brightness level and can be turned on and off with a function key. The flat, smooth keys feature a short travel, a crisp pressure point, and a very comfortable resistance. All things considered, Acer delivers a well-made keyboard, which is suitable for prolific writers. The space bar, the enter key, the backspace key and the right caps lock key require improvement. They clatter audibly when pressed. This should not occur in a premium keyboard.

Touchpad

The multi-touch touchpad measures 9.8 x 5.4 cm (~3.8 x 2.1 in). Thus, there is plenty of space for gesture control. The gestures can be individually enabled and disabled in the context menu of the touchpad. Fingers glide easily on the slightly roughened surface. The touchpad does not respond to inputs in the corners. There are two mouse buttons in front of the touchpad. They feature a medium travel and a crisp pressure point.

input devices
input devices

Display

Pixel grid
Pixel grid

Acer has equipped the TravelMate with a matte 14-inch display and a native resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. Cheaper variants of the notebook come with an HD display. The Full HD display features a very good contrast (1337:1). However, the brightness (243.1 cd/m²) is too low. Considering the price range and field of application, computers such as the TravelMate should deliver brightness of 300 cd/m² and above. Positive: The display never shows PWM flickering.

250
cd/m²
228
cd/m²
245
cd/m²
251
cd/m²
254
cd/m²
250
cd/m²
228
cd/m²
253
cd/m²
229
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
AU Optronics B140HAN02.1 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 254 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 243.1 cd/m² Minimum: 22 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 90 %
Center on Battery: 254 cd/m²
Contrast: 1337:1 (Black: 0.19 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 4.93 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 2.71 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
53% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
34% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
36.72% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
53.3% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
35.53% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.36

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 display has a DeltaE-2000 deviation of 4.93 out-of-the-box. This is not too far from the target range (DeltaE smaller than 3). The display does not suffer from a blue tint. It cannot cover the AdobeRGB and sRGB color spaces. The coverage is 34% (AdobeRGB) and 53% (sRGB), respectively.

CalMAN - Color Checker
CalMAN - Color Checker
CalMAN - Gray levels
CalMAN - Gray levels
CalMAN - Color saturation
CalMAN - Color saturation

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
25 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 7 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. » 53 % 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
44 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 16 ms rise
↘ 28 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. » 69 % 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 has equipped the TravelMate with a viewing-angle stable IPS panel. Thus, you can read from the screen from every position. The notebook can also be used outdoors. However, it should not be under a bright  sunshine. Otherwise, the low display brightness renders it impossible.

outdoor use
outdoor use
viewing angles
viewing angles
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
IPS, 1920x1080
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
IPS, 1920x1080
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
IPS, 1920x1080
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
IPS, 1920x1080
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
TN LED, 1920x1080
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
TN, 1366x768
Display
80%
69%
18%
38%
13%
Display P3 Coverage
35.53
66.7
88%
64.8
82%
42.09
18%
48.93
38%
40.06
13%
sRGB Coverage
53.3
90.8
70%
84.4
58%
62
16%
73.7
38%
60.3
13%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
36.72
66.5
81%
61.7
68%
43.6
19%
50.5
38%
41.42
13%
Response Times
12%
3%
1%
-22%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
44 ?(16, 28)
32.8 ?(12.8, 20)
25%
42.4 ?(16, 26.4)
4%
43 ?(20, 23)
2%
56.8 ?(35.6, 21.2)
-29%
Response Time Black / White *
25 ?(7, 18)
25.2 ?(11.6, 13.6)
-1%
24.8 ?(7.6, 17.2)
1%
25 ?(9, 16)
-0%
28.8 ?(19.6, 9.2)
-15%
PWM Frequency
204 ?(90)
Screen
-2%
-5%
-35%
-64%
-82%
Brightness middle
254
331
30%
269
6%
230
-9%
366
44%
229
-10%
Brightness
243
309
27%
257
6%
216
-11%
336
38%
207
-15%
Brightness Distribution
90
82
-9%
86
-4%
85
-6%
87
-3%
80
-11%
Black Level *
0.19
0.4
-111%
0.52
-174%
0.26
-37%
0.65
-242%
0.69
-263%
Contrast
1337
828
-38%
517
-61%
885
-34%
563
-58%
332
-75%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
4.93
4.07
17%
3.45
30%
7.32
-48%
10.26
-108%
10.16
-106%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
10.14
9.34
8%
18.14
-79%
17.18
-69%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
2.71
4.86
-79%
2.28
16%
6.98
-158%
11.51
-325%
10.87
-301%
Gamma
2.36 93%
2.49 88%
2.38 92%
2.5 88%
2.4 92%
2.41 91%
CCT
6914 94%
6109 106%
6230 104%
6683 97%
12725 51%
12881 50%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
34
59
74%
55.24
62%
39.97
18%
47
38%
38.4
13%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
53
90.6
71%
84.32
59%
61.55
16%
74
40%
60.4
14%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
39% / 18%
25% / 12%
-5% / -19%
-8% / -33%
-30% / -55%

* ... smaller is better

Performance

With the TravelMate P648-M, Acer offers a 14-inch business notebook with usual business features such as TPM 1.2, fingerprint reader, docking port and LTE modem (optional). Our test model is priced at about 1250 Euros (~$1404). Other configurations are available. Prices start from about 900 Euros (~$1011). Those who want to save money can buy the TravelMate P645-S predecessor (from 800 Euros/~$899).

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

Processor

The TravelMate is powered by a Core i7-6500U (Skylake) dual core processor from Intel, which is one of the most powerful ULV processors (TDP: 15 watts) in Intel's current line-up. It delivers enough performance for all the usual application scenarios. However, for many users TravelMate models with Core i5-6200U processors might prove more suitable. A 100 to 150 Euros (~$112 to ~$168) cheaper price makes up for the only slightly lower CPU performance.

The Core i7 CPU installed in our test model clocks at a base speed of 2.5 GHz. The clock rate can increase to 3 GHz (two cores) and 3.1 GHz (single core) thanks to the Turbo. We emphasize the word "can", since the TravelMate uses the Turbo inconsistently. This can be seen in the benchmarks: Unlike the Geekbench 3 and PC Mark 8, the Turbo is hardly used, if at all, in the Cinebench benchmarks. In battery mode, the CPU does not even reach its base clock in multi-thread applications: The laptop achieves only 201 points in the multi-thread test of the Cinebench R15 benchmark. A BIOS option which allows enabling or disabling the Turbo is not available.

The CPU is soldered.
The CPU is soldered.
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
8102
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
9478
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
4198
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
39.17 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
3.11 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.26 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.8 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
43.09 fps
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
284 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
110 Points
Help
Cinebench R15
CPU Multi 64Bit
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Samsung SSD PM851 256 GB MZNTE256HMHP
322 Points +13%
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
311 Points +10%
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSFJ256GCSU
287 Points +1%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
284 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
250 Points -12%
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NY
184 Points -35%
CPU Single 64Bit
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
124 Points +13%
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Samsung SSD PM851 256 GB MZNTE256HMHP
119 Points +8%
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSFJ256GCSU
115 Points +5%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
110 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
91 Points -17%
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NY
70 Points -36%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Multi 64Bit
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
3.44 Points +11%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
3.11 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
2.5 Points -20%
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NY
2.4 Points -23%
CPU Single 64Bit
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
1.42 Points +13%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
1.26 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
1.04 Points -17%
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NY
0.94 Points -25%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
10705 Points +13%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
9478 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
7683 Points -19%
Rendering Single 32Bit
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
4805 Points +14%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
4198 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
3449 Points -18%
Geekbench 3
32 Bit Single-Core Score
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
3110 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
2270 Points -27%
32 Bit Multi-Core Score
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
6714 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
4691 Points -30%
Sunspider - 1.0 Total Score
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
129.6 ms * -23%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
105 ms *
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
85.9 ms * +18%
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Samsung SSD PM851 256 GB MZNTE256HMHP
197.5 Points +59%
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSFJ256GCSU
195 Points +57%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
124.4 Points
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NY
112.3 Points -10%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
2966 ms * -39%
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NY
2438 ms * -15%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
2127 ms *
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSFJ256GCSU
1236 ms * +42%
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
1168 ms * +45%
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Samsung SSD PM851 256 GB MZNTE256HMHP
1100 ms * +48%
Octane V2 - Total Score
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Samsung SSD PM851 256 GB MZNTE256HMHP
31545 Points +97%
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
30699 Points +92%
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSFJ256GCSU
28219 Points +77%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
15973 Points
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NY
14631 Points -8%
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
11048 Points -31%
Peacekeeper - ---
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
2815 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
2056 Points -27%

* ... smaller is better

System Performance

A powerful processor and a fast solid-state disk ensure a fast system. PCMark results are also very good. The overall performance cannot be improved any further - all tuning options have been exhausted already.

There is a single RAM slot.
There is a single RAM slot.
PCMark 7 Score
4766 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3511 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
3798 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4594 points
Help
PCMark 8 - Work Score Accelerated v2
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
4599 Points 0%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
4594 Points
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NY
4383 Points -5%
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Samsung SSD PM851 256 GB MZNTE256HMHP
4275 Points -7%
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSFJ256GCSU
3956 Points -14%
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
3698 Points -20%
PCMark 7 - Score
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
5125 Points +8%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
4766 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
4046 Points -15%

Storage Device

A solid-state disk from Lite On is used as the system drive. The M.2 model features a capacity of 256 GB. It is partitioned into a system partition (102 GB) and a data partition (102 GB). The rest of the storage space is used by the recovery partition. Overall, the SSD achieves good transfer rates.

It is possible to replace the SSD.
It is possible to replace the SSD.
Lite-On CV1-8B256
Sequential Read: 531 MB/s
Sequential Write: 358.8 MB/s
512K Read: 384.8 MB/s
512K Write: 363 MB/s
4K Read: 31.3 MB/s
4K Write: 80.3 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 239.4 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 225.3 MB/s

Graphics Card

Graphics output is performed by Intel's HD Graphics 520 GPU, which supports DirectX 12 and clocks at up to 1000 MHz. Thanks to the dual-channel RAM, the 3D Mark results are better than in comparable computers with only a single RAM module. Anyone requiring significantly more graphics performance can also find TravelMate models with dedicated GeForce 940M, the TravelMate P648-MG.

The Skylake graphics core features a decoder for video playback. It supports common formats such as H.264 and its successor (H.265). The latter makes it possible for smaller videos files to have the same image quality. During playback of our test video (4k, 60 fps, H.265), the CPU load remained below 10%. A video software which supports hardware accelerated playback of H.265 videos is required for playing H.264 videos. The Windows Media Player does not support this. Thus, third-party software is required under Windows 7, for example the DivX-Player. Windows 10 already brings compatible software with the Movie & TV app.

3DMark 06 Standard Score
9508 points
3DMark 11 Performance
1447 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
53073 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
5599 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
767 points
Help
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Samsung SSD PM851 256 GB MZNTE256HMHP
1468 Points +1%
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
1447 Points
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
1418 Points -2%
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NY
1269 Points -12%
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSFJ256GCSU
1263 Points -13%
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
1183 Points -18%
3DMark
1280x720 Ice Storm Standard Score
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
53073 Points
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
50690 Points -4%
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
48758 Points -8%
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NY
40187 Points -24%
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSFJ256GCSU
35373 Points -33%
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Score
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
5599 Points
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Samsung SSD PM851 256 GB MZNTE256HMHP
5346 Points -5%
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
5176 Points -8%
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
5000 Points -11%
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSFJ256GCSU
4165 Points -26%
1280x720 Sky Diver Score
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
3398 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
2759 Points -19%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Score
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
767 Points
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Samsung SSD PM851 256 GB MZNTE256HMHP
751 Points -2%
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
741 Points -3%
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
734 Points -4%
3DMark 06 - 1280x1024 Standard Score AA:0x AF:0x
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Lite-On CV1-8B256
9508 Points
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8100S3256GD
7419 Points -22%

Gaming Performance

The TravelMate is primarily a device for work. However, the computer can also run many games smoothly, albeit with low resolutions and low to medium quality settings. The maximum display resolution (Full HD) cannot be used in games. Overall, it is only possible to run games with moderate hardware requirements. Demanding games such as “Rise of the Tomb Raider” never reach smooth frame rates. A TravelMate P648 MG model has to be selected for higher gaming performance. These models come with a GeForce 940M.

low med. high ultra
Tomb Raider (2013) 67.3 33.8 23.4 10.9
BioShock Infinite (2013) 48.3 26 22.2 6.7
Battlefield 4 (2013) 35.4 26.7 17.1 5.4
Just Cause 3 (2015) 21.6 16.7 6.2 3.8
Far Cry Primal (2016) 15 7 6 4
The Division (2016) 19.8 11.4 5 3.7
Mirror's Edge Catalyst (2016) 27.4 13.7

Emissions

System Noise

The TravelMate works quietly regardless of the load. The fan usually stands still while idling and the system is silent then. The fan hardly accelerates during the stress test. We measured a noise level of only 32.4 dB(A). This value is surprising, since CPU and GPU work at high speed. In addition, the fan is slightly louder under medium load.

The fan can be cleaned.
The fan can be cleaned.
fan noise
fan noise

Noise Level

Idle
31.2 / 31.2 / 31.6 dB(A)
Load
33.3 / 32.4 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 P648-M-757N
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
6200U, HD Graphics 520
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
6300U, HD Graphics 520
Noise
-1%
1%
2%
-6%
3%
off / environment *
31.2
29
7%
29
7%
31.2
-0%
29.2
6%
Idle Minimum *
31.2
29.6
5%
29.8
4%
29
7%
31.2
-0%
29.2
6%
Idle Average *
31.2
29.6
5%
29.8
4%
29
7%
32.1
-3%
29.2
6%
Idle Maximum *
31.6
30.2
4%
29.8
6%
29
8%
33.1
-5%
29.2
8%
Load Average *
33.3
35.6
-7%
32.6
2%
34.2
-3%
36.2
-9%
32.1
4%
Load Maximum *
32.4
35.9
-11%
37.2
-15%
37.8
-17%
37.8
-17%
36.8
-14%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

the TravelMate during the stress test
the TravelMate during the stress test

In our stress test, the TravelMate behaves the same way on mains operation and on battery. The CPU works at 2.6 GHz, and the graphics core clocks at 1 GHz. Nevertheless, the computer does not get particularly warm. During the stress test, the temperatures remain below 40 °C (~104 °F) in all segments.

Max. Load
 35.2 °C
95 F
35.2 °C
95 F
33.2 °C
92 F
 
 31.4 °C
89 F
38.5 °C
101 F
30.1 °C
86 F
 
 27.3 °C
81 F
27.6 °C
82 F
27.8 °C
82 F
 
Maximum: 38.5 °C = 101 F
Average: 31.8 °C = 89 F
33.4 °C
92 F
36.7 °C
98 F
34.7 °C
94 F
30.8 °C
87 F
34.4 °C
94 F
31.9 °C
89 F
27.5 °C
82 F
28.8 °C
84 F
28.2 °C
83 F
Maximum: 36.7 °C = 98 F
Average: 31.8 °C = 89 F
Power Supply (max.)  38.4 °C = 101 F | Room Temperature 22.8 °C = 73 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 31.8 °C / 89 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 38.5 °C / 101 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 36.7 °C / 98 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 27.9 °C / 82 F, compared to the device average of 29.5 °C / 85 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 27.8 °C / 82 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 27.7 °C / 81.9 F (-0.1 °C / -0.1 F).
Load temperature - top side
Load temperature - top side
Load temperature - underside
Load temperature - underside
Idle temperature - top side
Idle temperature - top side
Idle temperature - underside
Idle temperature - underside
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
6200U, HD Graphics 520
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
6300U, HD Graphics 520
Heat
-3%
8%
-3%
8%
-2%
Maximum Upper Side *
38.5
41.6
-8%
35.3
8%
37.3
3%
37
4%
41.5
-8%
Maximum Bottom *
36.7
41.7
-14%
34.5
6%
44.3
-21%
37.1
-1%
41.4
-13%
Idle Upper Side *
31.5
30.6
3%
27.7
12%
29
8%
25.3
20%
26.9
15%
Idle Bottom *
29.6
27.5
7%
27.5
7%
30.1
-2%
26.6
10%
29.6
-0%

* ... smaller is better

Speakers

The stereo speakers are located on the underside of the case. They generate a decent sound, which you can even enjoy listening to for a prolonged period of time. Headphones or external speakers are recommended for a better sound experience.

Speakers
Speakers

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The TravelMate shows a surprisingly high energy demand when running idle with a maximum of 11.5 watts. All competitors are significantly more frugal. During the stress test, the power consumption increases to 32 watts - a normal value. The value would be slightly higher if the maximum Turbo potential was used. The power adapter is rated at 65 watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.15 / 0.5 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 5.3 / 9.3 / 11.5 Watt
Load midlight 30.8 / 32 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 P648-M-757N
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
6200U, HD Graphics 520
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
6300U, HD Graphics 520
Power Consumption
21%
15%
20%
20%
25%
Idle Minimum *
5.3
3.2
40%
4.3
19%
3.5
34%
3.8
28%
3.5
34%
Idle Average *
9.3
6.3
32%
7.6
18%
6.7
28%
6.3
32%
5.3
43%
Idle Maximum *
11.5
8.6
25%
8.3
28%
7.3
37%
6.8
41%
6
48%
Load Average *
30.8
30.3
2%
26.8
13%
28.2
8%
34.4
-12%
26.3
15%
Load Maximum *
32
30.4
5%
32.6
-2%
34.6
-8%
28.3
12%
36.6
-14%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

Overall, the battery runtimes of the TravelMate are excellent and on par with the TravelMate P645-S predecessor's. The Acer lasts 9:03 h in our Wi-Fi test, which simulates opening web pages via a script. The profile "balanced" is active, the energy saving settings are disabled, and the display brightness is set to about 150 cd/m². In our video test, the computer achieves a similarly high value of 9:05 h. In order to test the video runtime, we play the short film Big Buck Bunny (H.264 coding, 1920x1080 pixels) in a loop. The Wi-Fi modules and the energy saving settings are deactivated and the display brightness also is reduced to 150 cd/m².

The battery is rated at 54 Wh.
The battery is rated at 54 Wh.
Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
18h 03min
WiFi Websurfing (IE 11)
9h 03min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
9h 05min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 50min
Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N
54 Wh
Acer TravelMate P645-S-58HK
54 Wh
Toshiba Tecra Z40-C-106
64 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad T460-20FN003LGE
46 Wh
HP EliteBook 840 G3 T9X59ET#ABD
46 Wh
Dell Latitude 14 E5470
62 Wh
Battery Runtime
1%
15%
-17%
3%
29%
Reader / Idle
1083
1143
6%
1045
-4%
953
-12%
1020
-6%
1304
20%
H.264
545
525
-4%
512
-6%
645
18%
WiFi v1.3
543
535
-1%
539
-1%
338
-38%
453
-17%
667
23%
Load
110
113
3%
164
49%
98
-11%
146
33%
172
56%

Pros

+ contrast-rich IPS screen
+ Full HD resolution
+ fast SSD
+ works quietly
+ does hardly get warmer
+ good input devices
+ LTE modem
+ excellent battery life
+ 3 years warranty
+ Thunderbolt 3

Cons

- display is slightly too dark
- inconsistent use of the CPU Turbo

Verdict

In review: Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N. Test model provided by Notebooksbilliger.de
In review: Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N. Test model provided by Notebooksbilliger.de

With the TravelMate P648-M, Acer offers a well-made 14-inch business notebook. The built-in processor brings enough performance for all usual application scenarios. The computer always works quietly and hardly gets warm. The fast solid-state disk ensures a fast system. It is possible to replace the SSD. This requires removing the underside of the computer, which is done easily. Thanks to an LTE modem, you can connect to the Internet via mobile phone networks. You can add interfaces to the computer by connecting an Acer docking station to the docking port on the underside of the computer. The notebook delivers good input devices and excellent battery runtimes. The IPS display of the TravelMate features wide viewing angles and a high contrast. However, the brightness is too low. We expect more from a computer at this price range.

Acer has primarily brought the computer up-to-date: Skylake processor, DDR4 RAM, and a Thunderbolt-3 port. These reasonable changes have made this notebook even better.

Anyone looking for an alternative to the established brands of Lenovo, HP, and Dell should consider the TravelMate. Acer proves that they can indeed produce business notebooks.

Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N - 06/13/2016 v5.1(old)
Sascha Mölck

Chassis
93 / 98 → 95%
Keyboard
88%
Pointing Device
92%
Connectivity
70 / 80 → 87%
Weight
68 / 20-67 → 100%
Battery
91%
Display
86%
Games Performance
55 / 68 → 81%
Application Performance
83 / 92 → 90%
Temperature
93%
Noise
92%
Audio
66%
Camera
37 / 85 → 43%
Average
78%
89%
Office - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Acer TravelMate P648-M-757N Notebook Review
Sascha Mölck, 2016-06-15 (Update: 2018-05-15)