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Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2-M-5625 Laptop Review

Remake with a turbo-SSD. Acer issues a Kaby Lake upgrade for their slim TravelMate in an inconspicuous aluminum case. It is faster, and its battery runs for up to 14 hours. The 512 GB SSD storage is not only massive, but it is also extremely fast. With the rest of the equipment, like the IPS screen, a fast processor, the backlit keyboard and a three-year warranty, Acer holds up their established class.
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2

For the original German review, see here.

Would you like to own last year's Acer TravelMate TMX349 top-end model for $200 less? Brand-new, of course. With an even longer battery life? In this case, the current iteration might be the right thing for you. Last year, we tested the top-end configuration of this device sporting a Skylake Core i7 processor. For the update, we have the mid-range version with a Kaby Lake Core i5 at hand. Except for the new processor and its integrated graphics unit, Acer basically left the equipment untouched. Hence, the statements of last year´s review continue to apply for most components.

The TMX349 is a product that attracts interest both from consumers and the lower business range of users. It is light, sturdy and offers adequate performance reserves. The 512 GB SSD of our test device is generously designed. The battery life is exemplary. Screen sizes of 14-inches emerge as welcoming alternatives for the usual 13.3-inch laptops. The base model starts with an updated i3-7100U backed by 4 GB RAM and a 128 GB SSD. At the other end, there is an i7-7500U model backed by 16 GB RAM and a 512 GB SSD storage. Street prices range between 600 Euros (~$660) and 1100 Euros (~$1209); however this year's iterations are not yet fully available to the American market and consumers are only offered the i5 model with 8 GB RAM and 256 SSD storage.

We are going to let the aluminum laptop compete against its predecessor and also against rivals from HP (ProBook 440) and Lenovo (ThinkPad E470 and IdeaPad 510S).

Acer TravelMate X349-G2 (TravelMate X Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-7200U 2 x 2.5 - 3.1 GHz, Kaby Lake
Graphics adapter
Intel HD Graphics 620, Core: 400 MHz, Memory: 1050 MHz
Memory
8 GB 
, DDR4-2133 SO-DIMM soldered
Display
14.00 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 157 PPI, ChiMei CN14C9, IPS, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Kaby Lake-Y Premium PCH
Storage
Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7, 512 GB 
Soundcard
Realtek ALC255 @ Intel Kaby Lake-U/Y - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 0 USB 3.1 Gen2, 1 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: Headset, Card Reader: SD, 1 Fingerprint Reader
Networking
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): 18 x 341 x 237 ( = 0.71 x 13.43 x 9.33 in)
Battery
48.9 Wh, 3220 mAh Lithium-Ion, Battery runtime (according to manufacturer): 10 h
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HD webcam
Primary Camera: 1.3 MPix
Additional features
Speakers: Stereo, Keyboard: German keyboard layout, Keyboard Light: yes, 36 Months Warranty
Weight
1.548 kg ( = 54.6 oz / 3.41 pounds), Power Supply: 326 g ( = 11.5 oz / 0.72 pounds)
Price
850 €
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

The casing matches the already tested Skylake CPU model. It is entirely manufactured from sturdy, anthracite-toned aluminum with a matte finish. The laptop can be opened one-handedly and the screen can be rotated 180 degrees. A rubberized screen frame makes for keeping a small distance between the screen and the base unit. There is no maintenance flap, but opening up the case completely goes with ease and allows for access to all components. 

The quality remains to be exemplary in the new version: the casing is torsionally rigid and there is no creaking. The slim cover is not as rigid, but neither is that the case with comparable devices.  

Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2
Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2

Size and weight remain unchanged compared to the Skylake version. Except for the IdeaPad, the competitors with almost identical casing measures are significantly heavier at 1.7 kg (3.75 lbs) and 1.9 kg (4.19 lbs), respectively. 

Size Comparison

343.2 mm / 13.5 inch 239 mm / 9.41 inch 20.3 mm / 0.799 inch 1.7 kg3.75 lbs339 mm / 13.3 inch 242 mm / 9.53 inch 23.7 mm / 0.933 inch 1.9 kg4.12 lbs340 mm / 13.4 inch 240 mm / 9.45 inch 19.5 mm / 0.768 inch 1.5 kg3.4 lbs341 mm / 13.4 inch 237 mm / 9.33 inch 18 mm / 0.709 inch 1.5 kg3.41 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Equipment

For its slim size, the TMX349 is sufficiently equipped. While on the left side there is USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 (Type-C), on the right side there is only USB 2.0. Via the HDMI port the screen can be extended to a 4K monitor. We tried using an Aukey adapter but the Type-C port could not output a display signal. The ports are spaced sufficiently, so the HDMI port and the USB port can easily be used at the same time.

Left side: power connection, HDMI, USB 3.0 (Type-A), USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type-C)
Left side: power connection, HDMI, USB 3.0 (Type-A), USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type-C)
Right side: memory-card reader (SD), combo-audio jack, USB 2.0 (Type-A), cable-lock slot
Right side: memory-card reader (SD), combo-audio jack, USB 2.0 (Type-A), cable-lock slot

SD-Card Reader

The card reader was not improved upon and remains slow. During our standard test with a reference memory card (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II) it reached similarly low transfer rates of 24 MB/s as in our last review. Writing speed has increased to 26 MB/s.

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
 
74.3 MB/s +215%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
 
67.3 MB/s +185%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
 
49.5 MB/s +110%
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
 
23.6 MB/s
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
 
19.1 MB/s -19%
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
 
85.9 MB/s +233%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
 
83.4 MB/s +223%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
 
81 MB/s +214%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
 
26.1 MB/s +1%
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
 
25.8 MB/s

Communication

The new TravelMate utilizes an Intel Wi-Fi module (7265) supporting 802.11 a/b/g/h/n/ac Wi-Fi. In our test the device managed to maintain a stable connection with good transfer speeds between two stories of a building. As in the predecessor, neither an RJ45 port nor 3G are on board. The integrated HD webcam offers 1.3 megapixels (1.280 x 720) and 30 fps. Color reproduction is very pale but the camera fulfills its purpose, more should not be expected.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
672 MBit/s
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
413 MBit/s -39%
iperf3 receive AX12
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
621 MBit/s +15%
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
542 MBit/s

Security

A fingerprint sensor supporting Windows Hello can be found in the remake of the TMX349, as well. A biometrical identification via camera is, however, not possible. Furthermore, a TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) is implemented. The Acer ProShield Manager enables protection of the laptop from BIOS right up to applications via pre-boot authentication. On the right side, a notch for a cable-lock slot can be found, underlining the laptop´s business aspirations.

The fingerprint sensor
The fingerprint sensor

Accessories

Just as its predecessor, the TravelMate comes without special accessories. However, as advertised by Acer, a USB Type-C docking station can be purchased for 180 Euros (~$197). Since it is not specifically customized for the TMX349, USB Type-C docking stations of other manufacturers will do just as well.

Maintenance

There is no maintenance flap to be found in the Acer laptop, but the bottom can be opened up with ease. It is fixed with nine screws and one internally glued plastic mount. After removing the standard cross recess screws the plastic mount can be released using a putty knife, a credit card or a guitar pick. Above the glued-on battery are the easy-to-access dual fans and the SSD. The Wi-Fi module can be changed, as well. The RAM, however, is soldered onto the motherboard.

Interior view of the TMX349
Interior view of the TMX349

Warranty

While Acer ships the TravelMate with a three-year warranty with an included pick-up service and a special Travelers' Warranty in Germany, U.S. customers must settle for a one-year limited mail-in/carry-in warranty. Please see our Guarantees, Return policies and Warranties FAQ for country-specific information.

Input Devices

Keyboard

The integrated keyboard is one-level backlit and can be used for typing in the dark. Acer evidently improved on the keyboard. The aluminum case increased the rigidity of the keyboard, which can only be bent under heavy pressure. Key travel is designed for a convenient typing experience and the stroke-sound volume is tolerable. 

Touchpad

The touchpad size of the new model remained the same at 10.6 x 7.8 cm (~4.2 x ~3.1 in). Thanks to this size it is perfect for gesture control. The pressure point for left and right clicks is precise. Towards the keyboard it gradually gets lost. Just beneath the spacebar the touchpad cannot be clicked anymore, which seems a little odd. The clicking sound is clearly audible, but it is not disturbing. This input device serves well as a mouse replacement. 

Keyboard
Keyboard
Touchpad
Touchpad

Display

Subpixels
Subpixels

The matte 14-inch screen reveals itself as a ChiMei CMN14C9, the same one that is used in the Acer Swift 3. It has a native resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. We tested last year's Skylake iteration of the X349 that was furnished with an AU Optronics B14HAN02.1. It may be possible that Acer utilizes displays from different manufacturers within the same laptop series. The display of the current test device with 270 cd/m2 comes off better than the Optronics display with only 230 cd/m2. This brightness is now actually reasonable. The significantly lower contrast of 775:1 compared to 1150:1 for the predecessor negatively affects the black level. PWM-flickering cannot be observed in either of the two models. The display is solid but unremarkable. 

255
cd/m²
257
cd/m²
247
cd/m²
267
cd/m²
271
cd/m²
257
cd/m²
256
cd/m²
226
cd/m²
245
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
ChiMei CN14C9 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 271 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 253.4 cd/m² Minimum: 22 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 83 %
Center on Battery: 271 cd/m²
Contrast: 774:1 (Black: 0.35 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 5.05 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 4.3 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
39% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
42% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
43.26% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
62.3% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
41.81% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.44
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
ChiMei CN14C9, , 1920x1080, 14.00
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
AUO1E3D, , 1920x1080, 14.00
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
N140HCA-EAB, , 1920x1080, 14.00
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
NV140FHM-N41, , 1920x1080, 14.00
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
AU Optronics B140HAN02.1, , 1920x1080, 14.00
Display
-10%
-1%
3%
-12%
Display P3 Coverage
41.81
37.6
-10%
41.23
-1%
42.88
3%
36.97
-12%
sRGB Coverage
62.3
56.6
-9%
61.4
-1%
64.1
3%
55.6
-11%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
43.26
38.85
-10%
42.67
-1%
44.3
2%
38.2
-12%
Response Times
12%
5%
-29%
7%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
43 ?(25, 18)
43.2 ?(21.2, 22)
-0%
40.8 ?(22, 18.8)
5%
45 ?(17, 28)
-5%
42 ?(15, 27)
2%
Response Time Black / White *
32 ?(19, 13)
24.4 ?(7.2, 17.2)
24%
30.4 ?(8.4, 22)
5%
26 ?(7, 19)
19%
28 ?(8, 20)
12%
PWM Frequency
25000 ?(20)
50 ?(60)
-100%
Screen
-31%
-6%
14%
12%
Brightness middle
271
216
-20%
244
-10%
257
-5%
230
-15%
Brightness
253
203
-20%
231
-9%
263
4%
226
-11%
Brightness Distribution
83
83
0%
89
7%
90
8%
86
4%
Black Level *
0.35
0.47
-34%
0.37
-6%
0.24
31%
0.2
43%
Contrast
774
460
-41%
659
-15%
1071
38%
1150
49%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
5.05
8.98
-78%
6.41
-27%
5.44
-8%
5.07
-0%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
11.74
14.07
-20%
13.4
-14%
10.93
7%
10.07
14%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
4.3
9.61
-123%
5.94
-38%
3.95
8%
3.64
15%
Gamma
2.44 90%
2.63 84%
2.28 96%
2.29 96%
2.46 89%
CCT
6726 97%
11265 58%
6101 107%
6896 94%
6521 100%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
42
35.9
-15%
39.3
-6%
40
-5%
35
-17%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
39
56.7
45%
61.1
57%
64
64%
55
41%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-10% / -21%
-1% / -4%
-4% / 4%
2% / 7%

* ... smaller is better

Mixed colors before calibration
Mixed colors before calibration
Grayscales before calibration
Grayscales before calibration
Saturation before calibration
Saturation before calibration
sRGB color gamut coverage
sRGB color gamut coverage
Adobe RGB color gamut coverage
Adobe RGB color gamut coverage
 

Average DeltaE2000 deviations of the sRGB color spectrum and the grayscales are 5.05 and 4.3, respectively. These values are remarkable, although blue tones do exhibit some outliers until up to 12. The slight blue tint is not too apparent. Compared to its predecessor the contrast values worsened significantly and occupy the lower tier in face of its competitors. The color gamut coverage is around 40% for both sRGB and Adobe RGB. Since the devices are not made for professional creative types, this should be fine. Consequently, this device is not desirable for color accurate image-editing.

The screen is not the brightest there is, but thanks to the matte surface it is still readable in direct sunlight as long as it is set on maximum brightness. Usage in the shade is recommended, though.

Outdoor usage (shade)
Outdoor usage (shade)
Outdoor usage (direct sunlight)
Outdoor usage (direct sunlight)

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
32 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 19 ms rise
↘ 13 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 84 % 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
43 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 25 ms rise
↘ 18 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).

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 detected 25000 Hz ≤ 20 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 25000 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) Flickering detected at a brightness setting of 20 % and below. There should be no flickering or PWM above this brightness setting.

The frequency of 25000 Hz is quite high, so most users sensitive to PWM should not notice any flickering.

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.

The viewing angles of the FHD panel are characteristic for IPS displays. The reference image is well displayed from almost every angle. The image darkens only from the top left and top right viewing angles. Further color inaccuracies cannot be observed. The display performance is well-made for its intended purpose.

Viewing angles
Viewing angles

Performance

We have the mid-range Kaby Lake X349 with i5-7200U processor and Intel HD Graphics 620 at hand. The rest of the equipment (fast SSD and 8 GB RAM) is nominally identical. The new model achieves performance improvements compared to its Skylake predecessor. The benchmarks of the tested i5 model show around the same values as last year´s top-end model. Thus, the laptop can be counted among the sophisticated all-rounders and is appropriate for both small companies as well as students. If you consider the price too steep for your wallet you may be advised to grab a cheaper Core i3 model once it is available in the U.S. Except for the lower processing power, which is completely sufficient for office applications, buyers of this lower-end model do not have to fear any compromises. Weight and build quality are identical.

Overview
CPU infos
Caches
Mainboard
Memory
Graphics

Processor

The Intel Core i5-7200U replaces the i5-6200U (Skylake). The new Kaby Lake processors compute around 10% faster than the Skylake units of yesteryear. This is mostly achieved through higher clock speeds. The employed i5-7200U has a base clock speed of 2.5 GHz and is able to boost up to 3.1 GHz, a value that was reached by last year´s top-end i7 Skylake unit. The clock speeds of the current i7-model are likely to have increased by 10%, as well. This effect is verified by our measured values. The ThinkPad E470 that employs the same processor is on the same clock-speed level as the old X349. 

The processor constantly runs at the maximum clock speed of 3.1 GHz during the Cinebench R15 loop. A speed slump cannot be observed, although the fans do become quite audible. When idling or during normal usage the fans remain mostly inactive.

In battery mode, there is no CPU-throttling, either. Only when the graphics unit is employed simultaneously does the CPU throttle down to 2.9 GHz.

0102030405060708090100110120130140150160170180190200210220230240250260270280290300310320330Tooltip
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64 Bit
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
Intel Core i7-7500U
145 Points +17%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Core i7-6500U
130 Points +5%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
Intel Core i5-7200U
129 Points +4%
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
Intel Core i5-7200U
124 Points
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U
123 Points -1%
CPU Multi 64Bit
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
Intel Core i7-7500U
335 Points +5%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
Intel Core i5-7200U
331 Points +4%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Core i7-6500U
324 Points +2%
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
Intel Core i5-7200U
318 Points
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U
314 Points -1%

System Performance

System performance was improved, but during Cinebench it could not quite keep up with the ThinkPad E470. It seems as if the devices cannot fully utilize their full potential, although clock speeds remain at a constantly high level and do not throttle. When using office applications these slight differences should not show. PCMark values give a similar impression. The TravelMate cannot quite keep pace and falls back in the field when compared to its direct competitors. The new TravelMate is ahead of its top-end i7-predecessor in Work Score and Home Score. 

It must be stressed, though, that these small differences, while evident in benchmark tests, are hardly noticeable during everyday use. Thus, the perceived working performance is convenient at all times.

PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Iris Graphics 550, 6267U, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
3710 Points +1%
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
3668 Points
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
GeForce 930MX, i7-7500U, SanDisk SD8SNAT256G1002
3614 Points -1%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
GeForce 940MX, i5-7200U, SanDisk X400 SED 256GB, SATA (SD8TB8U-256G)
3546 Points -3%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-8D512
3545 Points -3%
Work Score Accelerated v2
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
GeForce 930MX, i7-7500U, SanDisk SD8SNAT256G1002
4837 Points +6%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
GeForce 940MX, i5-7200U, SanDisk X400 SED 256GB, SATA (SD8TB8U-256G)
4642 Points +1%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Iris Graphics 550, 6267U, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
4579 Points 0%
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
4574 Points
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-8D512
4361 Points -5%
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3668 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
4531 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4574 points
Help

Storage Device

Concerning mass storage, the device is at its best. The utilized Intel SSD allows for sequential reading of 1134 MB/s and outperforms the competition with ease. These values impress and can usually only be seen in laptops of a higher price range. This is mostly thanks to the SSD´s PCIe 3.0 connection. Normally, devices in this range, e.g. the competitors, have SSDs on a SATA-III level and reach typical speeds of 400-500 MB/s. The predecessor exhibited reading speeds of 400 MB/s and was the fastest by comparison, already back then. Admittedly, the SSD does not differ that much from its competitors, but it is ahead or at least at the same level in most tests. We cannot say a bad word about the SSD speed, it is very good.

For home and office applications the memory and the mass storage are among the most important components and Acer did not fail to utilize them exceptionally well. This strategy pays off.

Acer TravelMate X349-G2
Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
SanDisk SD8SNAT256G1002
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
SanDisk X400 SED 256GB, SATA (SD8TB8U-256G)
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Liteonit CV3-8D512
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
-47%
-37%
-26%
-28%
Read Seq
1818
491.2
-73%
476.5
-74%
510
-72%
484.1
-73%
Write Seq
582
322.2
-45%
458.7
-21%
458.8
-21%
449.8
-23%
Read 512
1134
310.1
-73%
346.4
-69%
399.7
-65%
399.1
-65%
Write 512
586
276
-53%
291.1
-50%
299.3
-49%
355.1
-39%
Read 4k
34.93
19.57
-44%
35.15
1%
35.27
1%
33.44
-4%
Write 4k
133.4
77.8
-42%
78.8
-41%
90.2
-32%
67.5
-49%
Read 4k QD32
373.7
146.3
-61%
276
-26%
397.7
6%
368.5
-1%
Write 4k QD32
210.8
241.4
15%
178.3
-15%
257.3
22%
280.6
33%
Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
Sequential Read: 1818 MB/s
Sequential Write: 582 MB/s
512K Read: 1134 MB/s
512K Write: 586 MB/s
4K Read: 34.93 MB/s
4K Write: 133.4 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 373.7 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 210.8 MB/s

Graphics Card

The Acer TravelMate is not built for gaming and is only available with Intel integrated HD Graphics 620. It can only be used for older titles or for low-end games. This seems reasonable as a more performant graphics card would require more energy and drain the battery quicker. The laptop can be seamlessly connected to a 4K display during which the graphics card accesses the working memory as it has no memory of its own. Thanks to the generously large RAM this does not pose any difficulties. Compared to its Intel HD Graphics 520 predecessor, the performance was improved, but clock frequency remains the same.

3DMark - 1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, Intel Core i5-7200U
9501 Points +15%
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
NVIDIA GeForce 930MX, Intel Core i7-7500U
9056 Points +10%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Intel Core i5-6267U
8885 Points +8%
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7200U
8237 Points
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
7407 Points -10%
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
57937 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
6262 points
Help

Gaming Performance


With a few outliers to the upper and lower limits, the TMX349 performance is leveled with its identically equipped competitors. What was true for the Skylake generation remains true now: gaming should rather be avoided. GPU clock speed remains at a low but constant level thanks to the good ventilation system. The laptop is still not going to turn into a gaming system. Only those titles with low requirements or those which are set to low quality are playable. Battlefield 4 and current games like Rise of the Tomb Raider work, but they are not really enjoyable. The loud fan noise under load adds to this notion.

When playing games while the laptop is on energy-saving mode, the graphics card throttles to 450 MHz and the performance drops down to two-thirds. 

Rise of the Tomb Raider - 1024x768 Lowest Preset
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
GeForce 930MX, i7-7500U, SanDisk SD8SNAT256G1002
34.9 fps +91%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Iris Graphics 550, 6267U, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
23.6 fps +29%
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
18.3 fps
Battlefield 4 - 1024x768 Low Preset
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
GeForce 930MX, i7-7500U, SanDisk SD8SNAT256G1002
66.6 fps +72%
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
GeForce 940MX, i5-7200U, SanDisk X400 SED 256GB, SATA (SD8TB8U-256G)
65.8 fps +70%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Iris Graphics 550, 6267U, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
59.9 fps +55%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-8D512
43.1 fps +11%
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
38.7 fps
BioShock Infinite - 1366x768 Medium Preset
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
GeForce 940MX, i5-7200U, SanDisk X400 SED 256GB, SATA (SD8TB8U-256G)
53.1 fps +72%
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
GeForce 930MX, i7-7500U, SanDisk SD8SNAT256G1002
52.8 fps +71%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Iris Graphics 550, 6267U, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
34 (15.9min - 91.9max) fps +10%
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
30.8 fps
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-8D512
28.3 fps -8%
low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 61 30.8 26.5 7.69
Battlefield 4 (2013) 38.7 25.5 18.4 6.1
Rise of the Tomb Raider (2016) 18.3 12 6 4.4

Emissions

System Noise

In practically relevant environments, i.e. home and office, the system noises are conveniently low. The fan is mostly inactive or spins almost inaudibly at around 30-31 dB (A). Under full load the fan becomes subjectively louder but does not get annoying. At a constant full load the fan might become annoying, though, as the noise will be permanently audible. 

Aside from the fan, no other sources of unwanted noise could be found. There is no beeping or squeaking and the fans exhibit no mechanical irregularities that could potentially be the cause of disturbing noises, as was reported for the predecessor device.

Noise Level

Idle
30.2 / 30.2 / 30.8 dB(A)
Load
31.6 / 33.2 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)
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2037.837.335.736.7392535.534.632.933.734.53131.532.829.731.132.64030.630.23131.131.45032.832.532.129.933.46335.335.137.232.135.98030.829.328.929.830.710029.527.328.629.430.312527.325.826.525.226.716026.624.325.325.227.720026.926.12724.928.125024.421.923.523.228.631524.723.723.922.527.740023.621.722.121.228.650022.820.921.720.731.563021.921.120.419.630.280022.52119.919.230.7100023.121.61918.427.6125021.519.918.617.927.1160021.619.51817.626.2200020.618.817.616.923.7250020.719.517.516.921.8315020.819.117.317.121.1400019.718.417.116.920.1500019.117.416.916.719.4630018.816.917.116.819800018.716.916.816.6191000018.616.616.816.618.81250019.116.61716.418.91600019.21716.916.419SPL33.231.630.830.237.7N21.61.51.42.8median 21.6median 19.9median 18.6median 17.9median 26.7Delta2.72.632.34.634.632.631.130.534.630.731.833.932.230.731.331.634.532.531.328.729.430.730.828.729.531.529.834.329.528.629.628.629.228.627.326.831.127.427.32626.130.925.92625.4252526.125.424.923.724.324.424.923.523.923.723.223.522.722.922.822.822.722.622.123.421.822.620.921.322.721.420.920.220.721.820.220.220.220.22119.620.219.319.12119.119.319.719.226.118.419.719.720.123.518.319.719.419.722.818.619.419.519.323.418.519.518.818.821.618.518.818.81921.518.418.818.919.520.918.818.91919.120.218.8191919.119.6191919.21919.319.119.219.219.119.219.119.219.120.119.218.919.119.322.119.61919.331.631.734.131.231.61.61.62.11.61.6median 19.5median 20.1median 21.8median 19.1median 19.5111.71.51hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseAcer TravelMate X349-G2Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261

Temperature

Temperature remains delightfully low in the TMX349. On the bottom, a maximum of 27 °C was measured during idle. Under load it reaches up to 38 °C, which is noticeable, but it is not bothersome. In the area of the wrist-rest the temperature remained well below 30 °C at all times. This is in accordance to the benchmark measurements. The ventilation system works well. For the new model the average temperatures were decreased.

Full load top
Full load top
Full load bottom
Full load bottom
Idle top
Idle top
Idle bottom
Idle bottom
Max. Load
 33.6 °C
92 F
34.1 °C
93 F
34.5 °C
94 F
 
 30.3 °C
87 F
33.1 °C
92 F
°C
32 F
 
 27.1 °C
81 F
23.8 °C
75 F
25.5 °C
78 F
 
Maximum: 34.5 °C = 94 F
Average: 26.9 °C = 80 F
23.5 °C
74 F
38.1 °C
101 F
37.1 °C
99 F
28.4 °C
83 F
33.2 °C
92 F
32 °C
90 F
26.2 °C
79 F
27.9 °C
82 F
28.6 °C
83 F
Maximum: 38.1 °C = 101 F
Average: 30.6 °C = 87 F
Power Supply (max.)  48.8 °C = 120 F | Room Temperature 20.2 °C = 68 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 34.5 °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 38.1 °C / 101 F, compared to the average of 39.4 °C / 103 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 24 °C / 75 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 27.1 °C / 80.8 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 (+1.2 °C / 2.1 F).

Speakers

Speakers on the bottom
Speakers on the bottom

The speakers match the ones from the previous model technically and qualitatively. Sound volume is sufficient but, as is expected, it is not exceptional. Sound output via headphones is good. A headset with combo-audio jack can be used.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2045.236.745.22544.333.744.33141.731.141.74043.531.143.55043.829.943.86345.332.145.3804629.84610046.129.446.112546.525.246.516048.925.248.920053.324.953.32506023.26031559.722.559.740060.821.260.85006320.7636306819.66880073.119.273.110006618.466125063.217.963.2160059.417.659.4200059.416.959.4250059.716.959.7315065.517.165.5400063.916.963.9500064.116.764.1630055.316.855.3800056.516.656.51000059.316.659.31250060.316.460.31600059.416.459.4SPL76.630.276.6N39.31.439.3median 59.7median 17.9median 59.7Delta4.22.34.235.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseAcer TravelMate X349-G2Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Acer TravelMate X349-G2 audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (70 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 7.4% lower than median
(+) | bass is linear (5.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4.6% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (8.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3.2% away from median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (7.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (13.5% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 17% of all tested devices in this class were better, 6% similar, 77% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 11% of all tested devices were better, 3% similar, 86% 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

Power consumption was moderately improved from the Skylake model. Idle values for the Lenovo and HP competition are almost 1.5 Watts below the values for the TravelMate. However, under full load they do draw more power than the TMX349, which is probably due to their dedicated Nvidia graphics cards. When demand is high, the GPU does require more power than the old Skylake model. The power adapter with 45 Watts nominal power output is sufficiently sized.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.4 / 0.6 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 4.1 / 7 / 8.8 Watt
Load midlight 36.6 / 33.8 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 X349-G2
i5-7200U, HD Graphics 620, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
i7-7500U, GeForce 930MX, SanDisk SD8SNAT256G1002, TN, 1920x1080, 14.00
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
i5-7200U, GeForce 940MX, SanDisk X400 SED 256GB, SATA (SD8TB8U-256G), IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
6267U, Iris Graphics 550, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP, a-Si TFT-LCD, IPS, LED, 1920x1080, 14.00
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
6500U, HD Graphics 520, Liteonit CV3-8D512, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Power Consumption
-1%
-7%
8%
-2%
Idle Minimum *
4.1
3
27%
2.7
34%
3.9
5%
4.9
-20%
Idle Average *
7
5.4
23%
5.5
21%
7.1
-1%
7.3
-4%
Idle Maximum *
8.8
6.3
28%
6.5
26%
8.8
-0%
9.4
-7%
Load Average *
36.6
37.5
-2%
44.2
-21%
27.6
25%
26
29%
Load Maximum *
33.8
61.1
-81%
65.2
-93%
30.2
11%
36
-7%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Runtime

The new processors not only increase the performance of the machine but also the battery runtime. The battery capacity of 48.9 Wh remains the same. 

The laptop lasts almost one entire business day on Wi-Fi and medium brightness. For working weeks involving workdays with longer hours, the user should not forget their power supply. Otherwise, overtime work can only be done with partial online abstinence.

In our Wi-Fi test the TravelMate keeps well ahead of the competition, although when idling it falls behind. Acer has some potential for improvement here, but a battery runtime of 14 hours is still a very respectable value. The practically more relevant value is the Wi-Fi usage. Here, the TMX349 offers one hour more usage than the competition. 

Under load, the higher energy consumption of the graphics unit becomes evident. In comparison to its predecessor, the runtime drops 20 minutes down to 1.5 hours. With this, the TMX349 comes in last in our group of test devices.

A script simulates connecting to websites during our Wi-Fi test. The "Balanced" energy profile is activated, energy-saving options are turned off and the display is set to 150 cd/m2.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
13h 49min
WiFi Websurfing
7h 36min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 30min
Acer TravelMate X349-G2
i5-7200U, HD Graphics 620, 48.9 Wh
HP ProBook 440 G4-Y8B51EA
i7-7500U, GeForce 930MX, 48 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad E470-20H2S00400
i5-7200U, GeForce 940MX, 45 Wh
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
6267U, Iris Graphics 550, 30 Wh
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
6500U, HD Graphics 520, 48.9 Wh
Battery Runtime
30%
12%
-9%
-4%
Reader / Idle
829
1083
31%
1043
26%
638
-23%
675
-19%
WiFi v1.3
456
414
-9%
326
-29%
384
-16%
392
-14%
Load
90
151
68%
124
38%
100
11%
109
21%

Verdict

Pros

+ matte IPS screen
+ Full HD resolution
+ aluminum case
+ constant processor speed
+ extremely fast and large SSD
+ backlit keyboard
+ enhanced battery life
+ hardly gets warm
+ three years warranty

Cons

- slow card reader
- average screen brightness
- fan noise under load
The Acer TravelMate X349-G2, supplied by: Acer Germany
The Acer TravelMate X349-G2, supplied by: Acer Germany

The Acer TravelMate TMX349 is a mid-range subnotebook suitable for small offices as well as for students. Thanks to its convenient weight and the good battery life it is ideal for mobile usage. The screen contributes to this notion, although the maximum brightness could be slightly higher. With 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB storage, it is well-prepared for the intended purpose. In contrast to Germany, there is currently no 512 GB option in the U.S.

For those of you who are into multiple open windows and browser tabs, 8 GB RAM definitely helps smoothing your user experience. The build quality is good and sturdy thanks to the aluminum case. The processor performance was increased and is around the same level as last year´s top-end model, only with a 200-300 Euro cheaper price tag (~$220-$330). During Wi-Fi operation, the battery lasts almost one entire workday. The matte screen enables outdoor use. Overall, Acer has done a competent job with this device - for an attractive price.

Acer was able to improve a product that was already convincing last year with new processors and a turbo-SSD.

There are only some details, like the unconvincing card reader or the notably audible fan during CPU-intensive tasks, which blur the overall good impression of the TravelMate.

If you want to save some money and don´t care so much for having 20 open browser tabs and you store all of your photographs on an external hard drive anyway, you might be well-advised to opt for one of the cheaper models with an i3 processor. These start at around 600 Euros (~$660).

If you are looking for a performant, slim, robust machine to get work done on-the-go with enough reserves for the next few years you can easily grab this one for around $780 (256 GB SSD).

Acer TravelMate X349-G2 - 04/28/2017 v6(old)
Florian Schaar

Chassis
86 /  98 → 88%
Keyboard
85%
Pointing Device
85%
Connectivity
60 / 80 → 75%
Weight
68 / 35-78 → 78%
Battery
90%
Display
84%
Games Performance
56 / 68 → 82%
Application Performance
86 / 87 → 99%
Temperature
95 / 91 → 100%
Noise
90%
Audio
50 / 91 → 55%
Camera
42 / 85 → 49%
Average
75%
85%
Subnotebook - Weighted Average

Pricecompare

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Acer TravelMate TMX349-G2-M-5625 Laptop Review
Florian Schaar, 2017-05- 6 (Update: 2020-05-19)