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Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261 Notebook Review

A rounded bundle. Acer's slim laptop pleases with an elegant aluminum casing. The configuration is also fitting: IPS panel, fast processor, SSD. The good battery life, backlit keyboard, and a three-year warranty supplement this.

For the original German review, see here.

We are facing an interesting laptop in the form of the TravelMate X349 by Acer. With the 14-inch business computer, Acer is targeting small businesses, self-employed, pupils, and students. The device looks and feels like a premium-range business laptop. Its configuration and price level correspond to the entry-level of the business sector. We have the top model of the lineup that is priced at around 1050 Euros (~$1155). The prices within the series start at just under 600 Euros (~$660). Devices like Lenovo's ThinkPad 13Acer's TravelMate P238-MAsus' ZenBook UX303/UX305, and Apple's MacBook Air 13 are among its competitors.

Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261 (TravelMate X 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, 20.19.15.4501
Memory
8 GB 
, DDR4-2133, dual-channel, no memory banks, soldered memory
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
Liteonit CV3-8D512, 512 GB 
, 440 GB free
Soundcard
Realtek ALC255 @ Intel Sunrise Point PCH - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: combo audio, Card Reader: SD, 1 Fingerprint Reader, TPM 2.0
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): 17.9 x 341 x 236.6 ( = 0.7 x 13.43 x 9.31 in)
Battery
48.9 Wh, 3220 mAh Lithium-Ion, 15.2 V
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HD
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, MS Office (trial), 36 Months Warranty
Weight
1.53 kg ( = 53.97 oz / 3.37 pounds), Power Supply: 268 g ( = 9.45 oz / 0.59 pounds)
Price
1099 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

The casing of the TravelMate is made entirely of aluminum with one exception: The hinge cover is made of plastic. Acer speaks of "brushed aluminum" in its advertising text, but we cannot confirm this. There is nothing "brushed" in sight. Acer relies on a dark, charcoal black color and matte surfaces for its device. The laptop makes a very high-quality impression in terms of looks and feel. A maintenance hatch is not installed, and the casing has to be opened for accessing the hardware. More about this later. The battery cannot be removed.

Acer does not mess up in terms of the build, and the stability does not give any major reasons for complaint. Only the base unit's stability could have been slightly higher for our taste. However, this is still within limits. The lid's robustness is satisfactory. Pressure on the lid's back does not cause image distortions. The hinges keep the lid firmly in position and rock only slightly. The maximum opening angle is 180 degrees, and the lid can be opened with one hand.

The TravelMate is slightly larger and thicker than its rivals since the latter have 13.3-inch screens. However, the TravelMate can compete in terms of weight.

Size Comparison

341 mm / 13.4 inch 236.6 mm / 9.31 inch 17.9 mm / 0.705 inch 1.5 kg3.37 lbs327 mm / 12.9 inch 228 mm / 8.98 inch 19.65 mm / 0.774 inch 1.5 kg3.31 lbs323 mm / 12.7 inch 223 mm / 8.78 inch 19.2 mm / 0.756 inch 1.5 kg3.2 lbs325 mm / 12.8 inch 227 mm / 8.94 inch 17 mm / 0.669 inch 1.4 kg3.01 lbs322.2 mm / 12.7 inch 222.8 mm / 8.77 inch 19.8 mm / 0.78 inch 1.4 kg3.17 lbs324 mm / 12.8 inch 226 mm / 8.9 inch 12 mm / 0.4724 inch 1.5 kg3.2 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity

The TravelMate's interfaces are no surprise. The laptop comes with two Type-A USB ports, one of which supports the USB 3.0 standard. In addition, a Type-C USB port (USB 3.1 Gen 1) is present. This port can be turned into a DisplayPort via a corresponding adapter (not included). Acer mentions this in the TravelMate's manual. The laptop's interfaces are distributed over the rear areas on both sides. Consequently, cables will not clutter the areas beside the wrist rest.

Left: Power-in, HDMI, USB 3.0 (Type A), USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type C)
Left: Power-in, HDMI, USB 3.0 (Type A), USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type C)
Right: Memory card reader (SD), combo audio, USB 2.0 (Type A), cable lock slot
Right: Memory card reader (SD), combo audio, USB 2.0 (Type A), cable lock slot

SD Card Reader

The installed memory card reader is one of the slow representatives of its kind. A maximum transfer rate of 26.1 MB/s is achieved when copying large data blocks. Transferring 250 JPG image files (approx. 5 MB each) is performed at a speed of 19.1 MB/s. We tested the memory card reader with a Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II reference card.

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
 
64 MB/s +235%
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
 
29 MB/s +52%
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
 
25.3 MB/s +32%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
 
19.4 MB/s +2%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
 
19.1 MB/s
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
 
85.6 MB/s +228%
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
 
37.4 MB/s +43%
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
 
29.6 MB/s +13%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
 
27.1 MB/s +4%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
 
26.1 MB/s

Communication

The Wi-Fi module in the TravelMate carries a chip by Intel (7265). In addition to the 802.11 a/b/g/h/n Wi-Fi standards, it also supports the fast ac standard. The ascertained transmission rates in ideal conditions (no other Wi-Fi devices in the vicinity, short distance between laptop and server PC) are very good. The connection between the router and laptop remained stable even a story away.

Networking
iperf Server (receive) TCP 1 m
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265 (jseb)
563 MBit/s
iperf Client (transmit) TCP 1 m
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265 (jseb)
547 MBit/s

Security

The TravelMate is equipped with a fingerprint scanner that supports the Windows Hello function. A Trusted Platform Module (2.0) is also present. In addition, the laptop comes with Acer's ProShield software ex-factory, which enables securing the device.

Accessories

The TravelMate is shipped with the usual accessories: A quick start poster and warranty conditions. The TravelMate's interface diversity can be expanded via a USB docking station when required. Every manufacturer has corresponding options in its lineup. Acer also advertises a USB Type-C docking station in connection with the TravelMate. It is priced at roughly 180 Euros (~$198).

Travelmate X349 and Windows 7

In addition to Windows 10, Acer's laptop also supports Windows 7. The corresponding drivers can be found on Acer's website. Note: Users who want to install Windows 7 will have to extend the Windows 7 installation media with a driver for the Skylake memory controller. Otherwise, installing the OS is not possible. Users who want to install Window 7 via a USB flash drive and their laptops have only USB 3.0 ports should also incorporate the corresponding USB 3.0 driver. Windows 7 does not come with any USB 3.0 drivers. The software NTLite, for example, is a possibility to integrate the drivers in the installation files.

Maintenance

The base tray has to be removed for accessing the innards. This is not a problem: all screws on the underside will have to be released and the base tray can then be removed with the aid of a putty knife. The battery, SSD, Wi-Fi module, BIOS battery, and fans can then be accessed. Working memory banks are absent; the memory is soldered.

Innards
Innards

Warranty

Acer ships the TravelMate with a three-year warranty, including a pick-up service. The warranty period can be extended. A five-year on-site warranty will cost approximately 170 Euros (~$187).

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

Keyboard

The backlight of the installed chiclet keyboard is controlled via a function key. It has only one brightness level. The TravelMate's keys have a short drop and clear pressure point. The letter and number keys are concave and the other keys are flat. All keys have a smooth surface. The keyboard visibly yields in its center when typing on it. This, however, does not affect the typing experience. Overall, it is a very decent keyboard that is also suitable for frequent typing.

Touchpad

The multi-touch ClickPad has a surface area of 10.6 x 7.8 cm (~4.2 x ~3.1 in). Thus, there is plenty of room for gesture control. The smooth surface makes it easy for the fingers to glide. The pad responds to inputs over its entire surface - including the corners. It also pleases with a very audible and palpable 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. The panel achieves a good contrast (1150:1), but unfortunately, the screen's brightness is too low (225.6 cd/m²). We expect a minimum rate of 300 cd/m² here. The laptop's price level and field of use both demand this. After all, the TravelMate is a slim, mobile device that will be used in different places and consequently under a variety of light conditions. Positive: The screen never displayed PWM flickering.

221
cd/m²
205
cd/m²
221
cd/m²
237
cd/m²
230
cd/m²
232
cd/m²
235
cd/m²
222
cd/m²
227
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
AU Optronics B140HAN02.1 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 237 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 225.6 cd/m² Minimum: 16 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 86 %
Center on Battery: 230 cd/m²
Contrast: 1150:1 (Black: 0.2 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 5.07 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 3.64 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
55% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
35% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
38.2% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
55.6% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
36.97% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.46
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
TN LED, 1440x900, 13.30
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
1920x1080, 13.30
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
TN LED, 1366x768, 13.30
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Display
8%
4%
1%
72%
75%
Display P3 Coverage
36.97
40.1
8%
38.35
4%
37.25
1%
65.1
76%
66.9
81%
sRGB Coverage
55.6
59.8
8%
57.4
3%
56.1
1%
92.8
67%
92.3
66%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
38.2
41.51
9%
39.66
4%
38.49
1%
66.3
74%
67.6
77%
Response Times
1%
0%
20%
-44%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
42 ?(15, 27)
43.2 ?(19.6, 23.6)
-3%
42 ?(22, 20)
-0%
25 ?(15, 10)
40%
68 ?(25, 43)
-62%
Response Time Black / White *
28 ?(8, 20)
26.8 ?(9.6, 17.2)
4%
28 ?(10, 18)
-0%
28 ?(8, 20)
-0%
35 ?(15, 20)
-25%
PWM Frequency
50 ?(20)
178 ?(90)
Screen
1%
-7%
-78%
-4%
20%
Brightness middle
230
329
43%
233
1%
226
-2%
358
56%
385
67%
Brightness
226
310
37%
227
0%
216
-4%
351
55%
394
74%
Brightness Distribution
86
82
-5%
86
0%
91
6%
86
0%
89
3%
Black Level *
0.2
0.405
-103%
0.22
-10%
0.49
-145%
0.4
-100%
0.41
-105%
Contrast
1150
812
-29%
1059
-8%
461
-60%
895
-22%
939
-18%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
5.07
3.96
22%
5.41
-7%
13.15
-159%
5.96
-18%
3.84
24%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
10.07
7.51
25%
13.61
-35%
21.96
-118%
10.99
-9%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.64
3.51
4%
4.15
-14%
14.47
-298%
8.93
-145%
3.79
-4%
Gamma
2.46 89%
3.83 57%
2.45 90%
2.73 81%
2.28 96%
2.23 99%
CCT
6521 100%
6711 97%
6773 96%
19989 33%
6548 99%
6499 100%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
35
38.4
10%
36.52
4%
36
3%
60
71%
60
71%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
55
59.8
9%
57.16
4%
56
2%
93
69%
92
67%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
5% / 3%
-1% / -4%
-26% / -51%
29% / 14%
17% / 23%

* ... 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. AdobeRGB
TravelMate vs. AdobeRGB

The screen presents a very decent color reproduction in the state of delivery. The DeltaE 2000 color deviation is approximately 5. A rate less than 3 would be desirable. Calibration could improve this. The screen does not exhibit a bluish tint. The AdobeRGB and sRGB color spaces cannot be reproduced. The coverage rates are 35% (AdobeRGB) and 55% (sRGB) here.

CalMAN - ColorChecker
CalMAN - Color Checker
CalMAN - Grayscale
CalMAN - Grayscale
CalMAN - Saturation Sweeps
CalMAN - Saturation Sweeps

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
28 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 8 ms rise
↘ 20 ms fall
The screen shows relatively slow response rates in our tests and may be too slow for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 67 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
42 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 15 ms rise
↘ 27 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 63 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

Acer has equipped the TravelMate with a viewing angle stable IPS panel. Thus, the screen remains legible from every position. The laptop can only be used outdoors when the sun is not shining very brightly; otherwise, the screen's low brightness prevents this.

Outdoors (direct sunlight)
Outdoors (direct sunlight)
Outdoors (sun behind the laptop)
Outdoors (sun behind the laptop)
Viewing angles
Viewing angles

Performance

With the TravelMate X349, Acer has a 14-inch business laptop in its lineup that is aimed at small businesses, self-employed, pupils, and students. The laptop offers features that are standard in the entry-level business sector in form of TPM 2.0 and a fingerprint scanner. Our review sample is priced at roughly 1050 Euros (~$1155). Other configurations also exist. Acer's entry-level model (X349 M-3373; Core i3-6100U, 4 GB, 128 GB SSD, Full HD IPS) is a hot option in the range. The laptop costs less than 600 Euros (~$660).

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

Processor

Acer's slim computer is equipped with Intel's Core i7-6500U (Skylake) dual-core processor. The CPU should satisfy the needs of most users. If maximum CPU power is not needed, buyers should consider a Core i5 model of the TravelMate. Although the slightly lower computing power is not noticed in everyday use, the much lower purchase price is, however, noticed favorably in the wallet. With a TDP of 15 watts,  the processor is one of the power efficient ones of its kind. The CPU clocks at a base speed of 2.4 GHz, which can be boosted to 3 GHz (two cores) and 3.1 GHz (one core) via Turbo. Turbo is utilized in both AC and battery mode. The high work speed can also be maintained over prolonged periods. The score of Cinebench R15 benchmark multi-thread test remained stable even after 10 runs.

In the meantime, laptops based on the successor of the processor installed here - the Kaby Lake Core i7-7500U - are on the market. The new CPU scores approximately 10 to 15% better in the CPU tests that we performed. This is primarily due to the higher speeds (2.7 to 3.5 GHz). The Skylake and Kaby Lake CPUs do not differ technically.

The CPU is soldered
The CPU is soldered
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
8246
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
11042
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
4911
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
40.62 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
3.59 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.48 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.8 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
42.87 fps
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
324 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
130 Points
Help
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Core i7-6500U
130 Points
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
Intel Core i7-6500U
129 Points -1%
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
Intel Core i7-6500U
123 Points -5%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
Intel Core i5-6200U
117 Points -10%
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
Intel Core i5-6200U
116 Points -11%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
Intel Core i7-5650U
112 Points -14%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Core i7-6500U
324 Points
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
Intel Core i7-6500U
312 Points -4%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
Intel Core i7-5650U
296 Points -9%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
Intel Core i5-6200U
294 Points -9%
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
Intel Core i5-6200U
290 Points -10%
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
Intel Core i7-6500U
278 Points -14%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Core i7-6500U
11042 Points
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
Intel Core i5-6200U
10017 Points -9%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
Intel Core i7-5650U
10008 Points -9%
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
Intel Core i7-6500U
9869 Points -11%
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
Intel Core i7-6500U
9681 Points -12%
Rendering Single 32Bit
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
Intel Core i7-5650U
4980 Points +1%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Core i7-6500U
4911 Points
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
Intel Core i7-6500U
4874 Points -1%
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
Intel Core i7-6500U
4838 Points -1%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
Intel Core i5-6200U
4357 Points -11%
Geekbench 3
32 Bit Single-Core Score
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Core i7-6500U
3191 Points
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
Intel Core i7-6500U
3133 Points -2%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
Intel Core i7-5650U
3053 Points -4%
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
Intel Core i7-6500U
3036 Points -5%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
Intel Core i5-6200U
2899 Points -9%
32 Bit Multi-Core Score
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Core i7-6500U
6723 Points
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
Intel Core i7-6500U
6655 Points -1%
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
Intel Core i7-6500U
6582 Points -2%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
Intel Core i7-5650U
6406 Points -5%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
Intel Core i5-6200U
6049 Points -10%
Geekbench 4.0
64 Bit Single-Core Score
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Core i7-6500U
3906 Points
64 Bit Multi-Core Score
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Core i7-6500U
7303 Points
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
Intel Core i7-6500U
214.5 Points 0%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel Core i7-6500U
213.8 Points
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
Intel Core i7-6500U
212.9 Points 0%
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
Intel Core i5-6200U
191 Points -11%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
Intel Core i5-6200U
105.5 Points -51%

System Performance

The system runs smoothly and we did not encounter any problems. The PCMark benchmark scores are very good. Overall, the laptop offers more than enough computing power for all common application scenarios. It is not possible to increase the total performance. Acer has already exhausted all options.

PCMark 7 Score
5281 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3545 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
4166 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4361 points
Help
PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
3589 Points +1%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
3579 Points +1%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-8D512
3545 Points
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
3341 Points -6%
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
GeForce 940M, 6500U, Micron M600 MTFDDAK512MBF
3320 Points -6%
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
3024 Points -15%
Work Score Accelerated v2
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
4748 Points +9%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
HD Graphics 6000, 5650U, Apple SSD SD0256F
4367 Points 0%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Liteonit CV3-8D512
4361 Points
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
GeForce 940M, 6500U, Micron M600 MTFDDAK512MBF
4353 Points 0%
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
4225 Points -3%
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
4041 Points -7%

Storage Device

A solid-state drive in the M.2 format (2280) serves as the system drive. It has a total capacity of 512 GB of which, roughly 440 GB can be used. The Windows installation and recovery partition claim the rest of the storage capacity. The SSD's transfer rates are good.

The SSD can be replaced
The SSD can be replaced
Liteonit CV3-8D512
Sequential Read: 484.1 MB/s
Sequential Write: 449.8 MB/s
512K Read: 399.1 MB/s
512K Write: 355.1 MB/s
4K Read: 33.44 MB/s
4K Write: 67.5 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 368.5 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 280.6 MB/s
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Liteonit CV3-8D512
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
Apple SSD SD0256F
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
Samsung SSD PM871 MZNLN256HCHP
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
Micron M600 MTFDDAK512MBF
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
70%
-9%
-6%
-10%
-1%
Read Seq
484.1
1352
179%
461.7
-5%
517
7%
469.1
-3%
484.2
0%
Write Seq
449.8
1111
147%
297.8
-34%
307.6
-32%
412.1
-8%
444.9
-1%
Read 512
399.1
880
120%
351.6
-12%
459.9
15%
301.6
-24%
387.8
-3%
Write 512
355.1
1023
188%
298.4
-16%
305.1
-14%
327.1
-8%
386.3
9%
Read 4k
33.44
21.93
-34%
31.85
-5%
33.03
-1%
28.08
-16%
28.74
-14%
Write 4k
67.5
30.94
-54%
68.5
1%
85.2
26%
71.9
7%
90.5
34%
Read 4k QD32
368.5
339.5
-8%
360.9
-2%
235.6
-36%
262
-29%
300.5
-18%
Write 4k QD32
280.6
342.9
22%
276.2
-2%
234.4
-16%
274.7
-2%
243.3
-13%

Graphics Card

Intel's HD Graphics 520 GPU is responsible for video output. It supports DirectX 12 and clocks at up to 1000 MHz. Thanks to the working memory that operates in dual-channel mode, the 3DMark benchmark scores are better than comparable laptops that operate in single-channel mode.

The GPU-integrated decoder unloads the processor when playing videos. This includes standard formats, such as H.264, as well as its successor (H.265). The latter enables playing smaller video files at the same image quality. The TravelMate rendered our test video (4K, 60 FPS, H.265) with a CPU capacity of below 10%. Unloading the CPU only functions when the used playback software supports the hardware accelerated playback of a format. For example, the Windows Media Player does not support H.265. Windows 10, however, provides corresponding software in the form of the Movies & TV app.

3DMark 06 Standard Score
9977 points
3DMark 11 Performance
1648 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
57874 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
5745 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
807 points
Help
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
NVIDIA GeForce 940M, Intel Core i7-6500U
2455 Points +66%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
1481 Points
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
1362 Points -8%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
Intel HD Graphics 6000, Intel Core i7-5650U
1333 Points -10%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1291 Points -13%
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1252 Points -15%
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
NVIDIA GeForce 940M, Intel Core i7-6500U
8995 Points +21%
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
7696 Points +4%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
Intel HD Graphics 6000, Intel Core i7-5650U
7495 Points +1%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
7407 Points
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
7047 Points -5%
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
5898 Points -20%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
NVIDIA GeForce 940M, Intel Core i7-6500U
1644 Points +90%
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
Intel HD Graphics 6000, Intel Core i7-5650U
951 Points +10%
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
878 Points +2%
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
864 Points
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
830 Points -4%
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
719 Points -17%

Gaming Performance

The CPU-GPU combination in the TravelMate can render many games smoothly. However, the user will have to be happy with low resolutions and low to medium quality settings. The screen's native resolution (Full HD) cannot be used. Only games with moderate hardware requirements can be played. Performance-driven blockbusters, such as "Deus Ex: Mankind Divided" are not playable at all. The working memory that operates in dual-channel mode has also a positive effect here: The frame rates are higher than in single-channel mode devices.

Note: As the frame rates prove, the game "FIFA 17" runs smoothly. However, it crashed recurrently when we selected the "High" test scenario (1920x1080, high-quality level). The crash is accompanied by a DirectX error message in both Window 10 and Windows 7.

low med. high ultra
Tomb Raider (2013) 78.1 39.8 24.3 12.2
BioShock Infinite (2013) 49.9 28.3 23.4 7.6
Battlefield 4 (2013) 43.1 30.7 20.2 6.1
GTA V (2015) 35 29.5 6.9
Doom (2016) 21.3 17.3 9.9
Deus Ex Mankind Divided (2016) 12.9 8.8
FIFA 17 (2016) 60.8 50
Mafia 3 (2016) 8.2 6.1

Emissions

System Noise

The TravelMate barely produces noise over the entire load range. The fans are often inactive in idle mode. Otherwise, they spin at low speeds and are hardly audible. The fans do not speed up excessively during load either. We measured a noise level of 34.1 dB(A) during the stress test. The fans produce a quiet buzzing noise that is not distracting. The laptop occasionally produces a quiet, electronic sizzling noise. It is audible when large amounts of data are moved to the SSD. However, the user will have to listen very carefully to hear it.

Two fans are installed in the TravelMate
Two fans are installed in the TravelMate
Fan loudness
Fan loudness

Noise Level

Idle
31.5 / 31.5 / 31.5 dB(A)
Load
31.7 / 34.1 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Audix TM1, Arta (15 cm distance)   environment noise: 31.15 dB(A)
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
5650U, HD Graphics 6000
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
6500U, GeForce 940M
Noise
-8%
6%
-4%
-5%
-5%
off / environment *
31.15
29.1
7%
31.2
-0%
31.3
-0%
Idle Minimum *
31.5
29.2
7%
29.1
8%
31.2
1%
31.3
1%
31.5
-0%
Idle Average *
31.5
29.2
7%
29.1
8%
31.2
1%
31.3
1%
31.5
-0%
Idle Maximum *
31.5
29.2
7%
29.1
8%
31.2
1%
32.2
-2%
31.5
-0%
Load Average *
31.7
40.2
-27%
31.5
1%
35.71
-13%
37.6
-19%
35.9
-13%
Load Maximum *
34.1
46.3
-36%
33.5
2%
38.1
-12%
38
-11%
38.2
-12%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

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

The TravelMate performed our stress test (Prime95 and FurMark run for at least one hour) in the same manner in both AC and battery mode. The CPU and GPU only reached their full speeds at the beginning of the test. They then throttled to 1.4 to 1.5 GHz (CPU) and 900 MHz (GPU). The device does not get exceptionally warm. 40 degrees Celsius (~104 degrees Fahrenheit) was never exceeded on any measuring point.

Max. Load
 33.4 °C
92 F
34.6 °C
94 F
38.6 °C
101 F
 
 32.6 °C
91 F
33 °C
91 F
30 °C
86 F
 
 28.3 °C
83 F
26 °C
79 F
26.9 °C
80 F
 
Maximum: 38.6 °C = 101 F
Average: 31.5 °C = 89 F
37.2 °C
99 F
39.5 °C
103 F
38.9 °C
102 F
30.1 °C
86 F
35.9 °C
97 F
34.3 °C
94 F
27.7 °C
82 F
29.8 °C
86 F
30 °C
86 F
Maximum: 39.5 °C = 103 F
Average: 33.7 °C = 93 F
Power Supply (max.)  43.1 °C = 110 F | Room Temperature 21.8 °C = 71 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 31.5 °C / 89 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 38.6 °C / 101 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 39.5 °C / 103 F, compared to the average of 39.4 °C / 103 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 24.2 °C / 76 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 28.3 °C / 82.9 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 (0 °C / 0 F).
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)
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
5650U, HD Graphics 6000
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
6500U, GeForce 940M
Heat
-12%
-20%
4%
0%
-19%
Maximum Upper Side *
38.6
43.8
-13%
43.7
-13%
34.2
11%
40.8
-6%
56.6
-47%
Maximum Bottom *
39.5
42.1
-7%
44.2
-12%
31
22%
37
6%
54.3
-37%
Idle Upper Side *
24.8
28.5
-15%
31.4
-27%
27.1
-9%
25.2
-2%
24
3%
Idle Bottom *
25.4
28.9
-14%
32.1
-26%
27.7
-9%
24.9
2%
24.2
5%

* ... smaller is better

Speakers

The TravelMate's stereo speakers are situated on the device's underside. They produce a muffled sound that lacks bass. Headphones or speakers will have to be used for a better sound experience.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2032.330.532.32541.132.241.13135.232.535.24032.530.832.55037.934.337.96332.629.232.68028.627.428.610027.325.927.312526.826.126.816031.724.431.720037.423.237.425050.222.850.231553.521.853.540057.521.457.550061.520.261.563063.819.663.880068.519.168.5100060.618.460.6125059.318.359.3160053.518.653.5200055.618.555.6250058.818.558.8315063.418.463.4400064.218.864.2500063.518.863.5630057.81957.880005519.1551000052.219.152.21250048.818.948.81600054.21954.2SPL73.631.273.6N31.91.631.9median 55.6median 19.1median 55.6Delta7.61.57.635.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseAcer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261 audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (66 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 17.8% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (12.9% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4.9% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (10.9% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 4.8% away from median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (8.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (25.1% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 81% of all tested devices in this class were better, 5% similar, 14% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 73% of all tested devices were better, 6% similar, 21% 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

We recorded a maximum idle power consumption of 9.4 watts - this rate is acceptable. The requirement climbed to 34 to 36 watts during load. Overall, these are normal rates for the installed hardware platform. The power supply has a nominal output of 45 watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.4 / 0.56 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 4.9 / 7.3 / 9.4 Watt
Load midlight 26 / 36 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 X3 X349-M-7261
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
5650U, HD Graphics 6000
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
6200U, HD Graphics 520
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
6500U, GeForce 940M
Power Consumption
16%
21%
19%
14%
-18%
Idle Minimum *
4.9
2.7
45%
3.1
37%
3.2
35%
3.2
35%
3.2
35%
Idle Average *
7.3
5.7
22%
5.5
25%
5.5
25%
6.5
11%
7.6
-4%
Idle Maximum *
9.4
6
36%
6
36%
6
36%
6.7
29%
8
15%
Load Average *
26
32.1
-23%
25.8
1%
29.5
-13%
30.6
-18%
47
-81%
Load Maximum *
36
36.2
-1%
33.6
7%
30.9
14%
31
14%
55
-53%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Runtime

Acer's laptop achieved a runtime of 6:32 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 functions are disabled, and the screen's brightness is set to approximately 150 cd/m². The slim laptop lasted 6:40 hours on one charged battery in our video test. We loop the short movie "Big Buck Bunny" (H.264 encoding, 1920x1080 pixels) for this test. The wireless modules and energy-saving functions are disabled, and again, the screen's brightness is dimmed to 150 cd/m².

The battery has a capacity of 48.9 Wh
The battery has a capacity of 48.9 Wh
Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
11h 15min
WiFi Websurfing (Edge 38)
6h 32min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
6h 40min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 49min
Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261
6500U, HD Graphics 520, 48.9 Wh
Apple MacBook Air 13 inch 2015-03
5650U, HD Graphics 6000, 54 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad 13-20GKS01100
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 42 Wh
Acer TravelMate P238-M-5575
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 49.7 Wh
Asus Zenbook UX305UA-FC040T
6500U, HD Graphics 520, 56 Wh
Asus Zenbook UX303UB-R4100T
6500U, GeForce 940M, 50 Wh
Battery Runtime
60%
18%
55%
50%
16%
Reader / Idle
675
1572
133%
944
40%
1290
91%
1427
111%
997
48%
H.264
400
469
17%
557
39%
545
36%
413
3%
WiFi v1.3
392
620
58%
372
-5%
608
55%
561
43%
410
5%
Load
109
97
-11%
129
18%
147
35%
118
8%
118
8%

Pros

+ matte, high-contrast IPS panel
+ Full HD resolution
+ SSD
+ backlit keyboard
+ low system noise
+ low temperatures
+ DisplayPort-over-Type-C USB
+ three-year warranty

Cons

- dark screen
- no 3G/LTE modem even as an option
- slow memory card reader

Verdict

In review: Acer TravelMate X349-M-7261. Test model courtesy of CampusPoint.
In review: Acer TravelMate X349-M-7261. Test model courtesy of CampusPoint.

The TravelMate's technology is enclosed in an elegant, slim aluminum casing. It does not lack computing power: The Core i7 provides enough processing performance in all common application fields. The laptop runs quietly and only heats up moderately. A fast SSD ensures a fast-running system. It is possible to replace the SSD after opening the laptop's casing. The backlit keyboard makes a good impression. The good battery life supplements that. The matte, viewing angle stable IPS panel shines with high-contrast and a very decent color reproduction. Unfortunately, the screen's brightness is too low. A three-year warranty rounds off the total package.

Acer has built a slim, very elegant office device that should find many fans.

We tested the premium model of the range. With a price of 1050 Euros (~$1155), it is not one of the cheapest laptops. The entry-level model (TravelMate X3 X349-M-3373) in the lineup will likely be more attractive for most potential buyers and costs less than 600 Euros (~$660). The entry-level TravelMate's configuration (Core i3-6100U, 4 GB, 128 GB SSD, Full HD IPS will be more than enough for its primary application field.

Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261 - 10/14/2016 v5.1(old)
Sascha Mölck

Chassis
87 /  98 → 88%
Keyboard
82%
Pointing Device
87%
Connectivity
52 / 80 → 65%
Weight
69 / 35-78 → 79%
Battery
88%
Display
84%
Games Performance
56 / 68 → 83%
Application Performance
85 / 87 → 98%
Temperature
94 / 91 → 100%
Noise
92%
Audio
44 / 91 → 48%
Camera
42 / 85 → 49%
Average
74%
84%
Subnotebook - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Acer TravelMate X3 X349-M-7261 Notebook Review
Sascha Mölck, 2016-10-19 (Update: 2019-04-21)