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Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620) Convertible Laptop Review

Just a compromise, again and again. Asus' Transformer 4 Pro is a product of the company's regular practice of keeping their models up-to-date. The convertible laptop is now available with a choice from various Kaby Lake processors and up to 16 GB of RAM. Those who have a penchant for high-performance tablets will not find our test device lacking in attractive features. For anyone looking for an alternative to a simple laptop, it is worth a look. In everyday use, it was not so much the hardware and connections that vexed us – but rather the little defects we encountered during our testing process.

For the original German review, see here.

Convertible laptops bridge the gap between standard laptops and tablets. When it comes to performance, even with the same hardware configuration, convertibles often lag behind full-fledged laptops. Asus' Transformer 3 Pro was no exception, as our battery of tests demonstrated. On paper its successor, the Transformer 4 Pro, offers the same hardware configuration found in many standard laptops. With an Intel Core i7-7500U CPU and an Intel HD Graphics 620 graphics card, our test device could compete with various mobile workstations and office laptops.

For our review, however, we will compare the Transformer 4 Pro to competitors equipped not only with the same hardware, but also with a comparable selection of ports. These criteria steer us to the Acer Switch 5, the Porsche Design BOOK ONE and the Lenovo IdeaPad Miix 720. To detail the differences between our test device and a full-fledged laptop, we will also compare it to Acer's TravelMate P648-G2. All these competing devices have the same processor and graphics solution as the Transformer 4 Pro.

Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620) (Transformer Book Series)
Processor
Intel Core i7-7500U 2 x 2.7 - 3.5 GHz, Kaby Lake
Graphics adapter
Memory
8 GB 
, Dual-channel
Display
12.60 inch 3:2, 2160 x 1440 pixel 206 PPI, Capacitive, native pen support, BOE06EC, IPS, Multi-touch, glossy: yes, detachable screen
Mainboard
Intel Kaby Lake-U Premium PCH
Storage
SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A, 256 GB 
, 185 GB free
Soundcard
Intel Kaby Lake-U/Y PCH - High Definition Audio
Connections
1 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 Thunderbolt, 1 HDMI, Audio Connections: Audio combo, Card Reader: Micro SD, 1 Fingerprint Reader, Brightness Sensor, Sensors: Gyroscope, Acceleration sensor
Networking
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.1
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 19 x 299 x 211 ( = 0.75 x 11.77 x 8.31 in)
Battery
39 Wh Lithium-Ion
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
Camera
Primary Camera: 8 MPix
Secondary Camera: 2 MPix
Additional features
Speakers: Stereo, Keyboard: Chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, ASUS Pen active stylus, 24 Months Warranty
Weight
1.118 kg ( = 39.44 oz / 2.46 pounds), Power Supply: 161 g ( = 5.68 oz / 0.35 pounds)
Price
1129 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

The Transformer 4 Pro's case is almost identical to that of its predecessor. For this reason, please refer to our review of the Asus Transformer 3 Pro for an evaluation of the computer's material make-up and manufacturing quality. Asus made just two updates to the Transformer 4 Pro's case: The power button is now somewhat bigger and contains an integrated fingerprint-sensor, and the left side of the device now houses a separate power connection. The previous model was charged over a USB Type-C port.

In designing the Transformer 4 Pro, Asus maintained its predecessor's measurements and weight. As a result, the commentary in our review of the Asus Transformer 3 Pro is applicable here too.

Size Comparison

311.4 mm / 12.3 inch 226.5 mm / 8.92 inch 15.9 mm / 0.626 inch 1.6 kg3.47 lbs299 mm / 11.8 inch 211 mm / 8.31 inch 19 mm / 0.748 inch 1.1 kg2.46 lbs298.8 mm / 11.8 inch 210.1 mm / 8.27 inch 8.35 mm / 0.3287 inch 1.1 kg2.49 lbs292.9 mm / 11.5 inch 201.8 mm / 7.94 inch 9.6 mm / 0.378 inch 1.3 kg2.85 lbs292 mm / 11.5 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 8.9 mm / 0.3504 inch 1.2 kg2.54 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity

In the process of updating their product, Asus did correct one of the Transformer 3 Pro's defects: The Transformer 4 Pro now has a separate power connection. Consequently, the USB Type-C port is no longer blocked by the power cord. With the preceding model, this connection was only accessible in battery mode. Asus also equipped the new tablet with a fingerprint-sensor, which is integrated into the power button. The remaining connections are identical to those of the previous model. Once again, please see our review of the Asus Transformer 3 Pro for our evaluation of this facet of the device.

Photo taken with the 2 MP front camera
Photo taken with the 2 MP front camera
Photo taken with the 8 MP back camera
Photo taken with the 8 MP back camera
Right side: power connection, 1x USB Type-C, HDMI, 1x USB 3.0
Right side: power connection, 1x USB Type-C, HDMI, 1x USB 3.0
Left side: audio combo, volume rocker, micro SD card reader
Left side: audio combo, volume rocker, micro SD card reader
Bottom: connection for keyboard dock
Bottom: connection for keyboard dock
Top: power button with integrated fingerprint-sensor
Top: power button with integrated fingerprint-sensor

SD Card Reader

The SD card reader in Asus' Transformer 4 Pro only reads micro SD cards and yielded below-average transfer rates with our reference memory card (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS II). However, there are devices that achieve worse results here – including the Porsche Design BOOK ONE. But convertible laptops can perform at the level of an average business laptop – as Microsoft proved with their Surface Pro (2017), for example.

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
77.8 MB/s +120%
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M401 64 GB)
53.8 MB/s +52%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M401 64 GB)
35.3 MB/s
Porsche Design BOOK ONE
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
26.3 MB/s -25%
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
87.3 MB/s +126%
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M401 64 GB)
86.5 MB/s +124%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M401 64 GB)
38.7 MB/s
Porsche Design BOOK ONE
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
27.9 MB/s -28%

Communication

According to our measurements, the WLAN data transfer rates are good, placing the Transformer 4 Pro in the lower mid-range compared to its competitors. Given that our test device is an updated version of the Transformer 3 Pro, it is also necessary to compare its performance to that of its predecessor. The substantially worse WLAN reception strength is particularly striking here. With a result that is nearly 30% lower, the Transformer 4 Pro is clearly defeated by its predecessor. The Transformer 3 Pro comes in ahead in the realm of transfer rates as well, but the difference is not nearly as stark.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel Wireless-AC 7265
685 MBit/s +6%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Tri-Band Wireless-AC 18260
662 MBit/s +2%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260
647 MBit/s
Porsche Design BOOK ONE
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260
512 MBit/s -21%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
509 MBit/s -21%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
474 MBit/s -27%
iperf3 receive AX12
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
688 MBit/s +40%
Porsche Design BOOK ONE
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260
643 MBit/s +31%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
617 MBit/s +26%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel Wireless-AC 7265
560 MBit/s +14%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Tri-Band Wireless-AC 18260
513 MBit/s +5%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260
490 MBit/s

Security

Like the Transformer 3 Pro, the Transformer 4 Pro is equipped with a Trusted Platform Module 2.0 (TPM). Asus also added a new security feature: a fingerprint-scanner integrated into the power button. This sensor did not function properly in our tests, however. During the setup process in Windows 10, the sensor consistently reacted exclusively to the first touch and refused to recognize any further contact until setup was restarted. As a result, it was impossible to complete the fingerprint setup process.

Accessories

For information on the subject of accessories, please see our review of the Asus Transformer 3 Pro. Asus made no changes here.

Maintenance

The maintenance options have not changed since the preceding model either. It is still not possible to open the device or switch out individual components.

Warranty

European buyers of the Transformer 4 Pro will receive a 24-month warranty from Asus; American buyers receive a 12-month warranty. Please see our Guarantees, Return Policies & Warranties FAQ for country-specific information.

Input Devices

Our evaluations of the Transformer 3 Pro's keyboard, touchscreen and ClickPad still apply to its successor. We therefore refer our readers to our review of the Asus Transformer 3 Pro for more information on these topics.

Display

Subpixels
Subpixels

The display Asus chose for their Transformer 4 Pro is a step backward. Yes, the brightness distribution is more even and the color-space coverage is still good – but the resolution and brightness are lower than on the previous model. On the other hand, Asus appears to have dispensed with pulse width modulation to regulate display brightness – we did not observe any PWM backlight-flickering during our testing process, at any rate.

244
cd/m²
257
cd/m²
246
cd/m²
246
cd/m²
262
cd/m²
251
cd/m²
247
cd/m²
273
cd/m²
263
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
BOE06EC tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 273 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 254.3 cd/m² Minimum: 13.7 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 89 %
Center on Battery: 262 cd/m²
Contrast: 1008:1 (Black: 0.26 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 3.34 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 3.28 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
90% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
59% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
65.9% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
90% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
69.6% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.47
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
BOE06EC, , 2160x1440, 12.60
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
WST KL.1200w.004, , 2160x1440, 12.00
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
AUO B120YAN01 / AUO106F, , 2880x1920, 12.00
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
BOE BOE06AC (NV126A1M-N51), , 2880x1920, 12.60
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
LG Display LP123WQ112604, , 2736x1824, 12.30
Display
-9%
-2%
17%
2%
Display P3 Coverage
69.6
58.8
-16%
65.2
-6%
81.8
18%
66.6
-4%
sRGB Coverage
90
87.5
-3%
91
1%
98.3
9%
96.5
7%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
65.9
60.6
-8%
66.1
0%
82.2
25%
67.8
3%
Response Times
9%
2%
12%
11%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
41 ?(22, 19)
37 ?(19, 18)
10%
45 ?(22, 23)
-10%
30 ?(14, 16)
27%
37 ?(16, 21)
10%
Response Time Black / White *
28 ?(16, 12)
26 ?(14, 12)
7%
24 ?(14, 10)
14%
29 ?(8, 21)
-4%
25 ?(13, 12)
11%
PWM Frequency
200 ?(90)
22130 ?(55)
Screen
-26%
-7%
-2%
6%
Brightness middle
262
369
41%
406
55%
316
21%
482
84%
Brightness
254
331
30%
396
56%
307
21%
466
83%
Brightness Distribution
89
75
-16%
88
-1%
91
2%
92
3%
Black Level *
0.26
0.46
-77%
0.3
-15%
0.29
-12%
0.395
-52%
Contrast
1008
802
-20%
1353
34%
1090
8%
1220
21%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
3.34
5.52
-65%
5.28
-58%
3.91
-17%
4
-20%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
7.12
9.29
-30%
9.83
-38%
7.9
-11%
7.2
-1%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.28
6.95
-112%
6.71
-105%
5.37
-64%
5.7
-74%
Gamma
2.47 89%
2.58 85%
2.29 96%
2.36 93%
2.28 96%
CCT
7180 91%
7009 93%
6532 100%
7812 83%
7950 82%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
59
56
-5%
59
0%
72
22%
62
5%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
90
88
-2%
91
1%
98
9%
96
7%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-9% / -18%
-2% / -5%
9% / 4%
6% / 6%

* ... smaller is better

90% sRGB coverage
90% sRGB coverage
59% AdobeRGB coverage
59% AdobeRGB coverage

The IPS panel displays images at a resolution of 2160x1440 pixels. While the brightness and contrast are now below average, the Transformer 4 Pro's display is almost on par with that of its predecessor in the realm of black value.

Grayscale
Grayscale
Color accuracy
Color accuracy
Color saturation
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
28 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 16 ms rise
↘ 12 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
41 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 22 ms rise
↘ 19 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. » 59 % 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 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.

Our assessment of the Transformer 4 Pro's viewing-angle stability and its suitability for outdoor use corresponds to that of the previous model. Please see our review of the Transformer 3 Pro for more information on these subjects.

Performance

The Asus Transformer 4 Pro is intended to be a full-fledged work machine. In order to achieve the necessary level of performance, the convertible laptop is equipped with a choice from three Intel Kaby Lake processors: the Core i3-7100UCore i5-7200U or Core i7-7500U. The device comes with up to 16 GB of RAM, depending on the buyer's preference, and a 512 GB SSD is available as well.

Our test device is equipped with 8 GB of RAM, a 256 GB SSD, an Intel Core i7-7500U and the HD Graphics 620. With these components, the Transformer 4 Pro should be capable of multi-tasking and running office applications with higher hardware demands.

 

Processor

The Intel Core i7-7500U processor is a dual-core CPU that distinguishes itself from its predecessor (the i7-6500U) with its improved energy efficiency. Asus installed this preceding processor model in the Transformer 3 Pro. Due to its TDP limit, the CPU was unable to unlock its full potential. The performance is throttled in the Transformer 4 Pro, too.

In our Cinebench loop, we observed throttling after just a short time. The performance dropped by around 16%. This all but negates the performance advantage that the i7-7500U gained over the i7-6500U as a result of its more effective architecture. This CPU limitation is confirmed by the benchmark results.

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Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64 Bit

The Transformer 4 Pro's results are still marginally higher than those of the preceding model, but in some cases our test device lags substantially behind the competition.

For more information on how Intel's Core i7-7500U processor does compared to other CPUs, see our CPU benchmark page.

Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Intel Core i7-7660U
163 Points +29%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Intel Core i7-7500U
143 Points +13%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel Core i7-7500U
142 Points +13%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Intel Core i7-7500U
130 Points +3%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel Core i7-7500U
126 Points
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel Core i7-6500U
117 Points -7%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Intel Core i7-7660U
410 (335.35min - 409.45max) Points +37%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel Core i7-7500U
341.4 Points +14%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Intel Core i7-7500U
339 Points +13%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel Core i7-7500U
299 Points
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Intel Core i7-7500U
265 Points -11%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel Core i7-6500U
221 Points -26%
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
126 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
299 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
42.39 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.7 %
Help

System Performance

The Asus Transformer 4 Pro's system runs very smoothly. We never felt that programs were stalling or stuttering. We were able to switch between input methods seamlessly as well. However, anyone looking at the Transformer 4 Pro's specs may very well be disappointed. In our benchmark tests, the device performed only slightly better than its predecessor.

Every competitor with the same CPU as the Transformer 4 Pro achieved better results. If price is a significant consideration, the Transformer 3 Pro might be worth a look – especially given that better performance cannot be expected of its successor. Our benchmark database can be used to compare our test device to other convertible laptops.

PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Iris Plus Graphics 640, i7-7660U, Samsung PM971 KUS040202M
4095 Points +58%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
3556 Points +37%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
3515 Points +36%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
3186 Points +23%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
2985 Points +15%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
2591 Points
Work Score Accelerated v2
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
4639 Points +15%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
4585 Points +14%
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Iris Plus Graphics 640, i7-7660U, Samsung PM971 KUS040202M
4431 Points +10%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
4216 Points +5%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
4034 Points
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
3830 Points -5%
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
2591 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4034 points
Help

Storage Device

Our impression of the Transformer 4 Pro continued to develop along the same trajectory as we tested its mass storage device. The SK Hynix SSD produced results in the expected range, but it performed substantially worse than the mass storage devices working in the competition. Even compared to another computer equipped with the same SK Hynix model (HFS256G39TND-N210A), our test device's SSD performance was 20% lower. Consequently, our test device also receives a lower storage device score than its predecessor.

To find out how this SSD model compares to other mass storage devices, see our SSD/HDD benchmark page.

Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Samsung PM971 KUS040202M
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
89%
256%
3%
116%
20%
Read Seq
475.3
1066
124%
2408
407%
398.9
-16%
1308
175%
518
9%
Write Seq
260.9
593
127%
1702
552%
402
54%
961
268%
267.2
2%
Read 512
289.3
653
126%
1301
350%
303.1
5%
227.5
-21%
562
94%
Write 512
260.7
535
105%
1288
394%
320.3
23%
792
204%
263.5
1%
Read 4k
30.06
35.92
19%
53.6
78%
26.11
-13%
53.6
78%
32.88
9%
Write 4k
73.5
128.3
75%
162.2
121%
57.7
-21%
136.3
85%
85.6
16%
Read 4k QD32
296.8
460.6
55%
504
70%
245.8
-17%
485.6
64%
351.3
18%
Write 4k QD32
239.8
425.4
77%
420.8
75%
253.8
6%
421.5
76%
265.2
11%
SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
Sequential Read: 475.3 MB/s
Sequential Write: 260.9 MB/s
512K Read: 289.3 MB/s
512K Write: 260.7 MB/s
4K Read: 30.06 MB/s
4K Write: 73.5 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 296.8 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 239.8 MB/s

Graphics Card

Asus chose Intel's HD Graphics 620 as the graphics solution for their Transformer 4 Pro. This graphics card profits from the convertible laptop's dual-channel RAM, which enables our test device to surpass its predecessor here. Compared to the competition, the Transformer 4 Pro places in the middle range. The convertible laptop is well-suited for basic image-editing and simple games. To compare against other devices and GPUs, see our GPU benchmark page.

3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640, Intel Core i7-7660U
2493 Points +76%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
1613 Points +14%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
1462 Points +3%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
1419 Points
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
1416 Points 0%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
1271 Points -10%
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640, Intel Core i7-7660U
11264 Points +43%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
8599 Points +9%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
7894 Points
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
7270 Points -8%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
7264 Points -8%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
6137 Points -22%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640, Intel Core i7-7660U
1418 Points +332%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
1030 Points +214%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
821 Points +150%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
753 Points +130%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
328 Points
3DMark 11 Performance
1552 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
5878 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
316 points
Help

Gaming Performance

The Intel HD Graphics 620 integrated graphics solution is not designed for games that demand a lot from the hardware. Many benchmark tests with this graphics card have showed that simple or older games are generally able to run fluidly at low quality settings. Given our experience with this GPU, the Transformer 4 Pro should offer better graphics performance than it did in our tests. We are baffled as to what Asus did here.

None of the games we tested ran fluidly, not even at the lowest quality settings. The Transformer 4 Pro's gaming performance is at least 50% worse than that of comparable devices. Even its predecessor, the Transformer 3 Pro, achieved substantially better benchmark results than our test device.

BioShock Infinite
1280x720 Very Low Preset
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
60.4 fps +146%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
48 fps +96%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
45.2 (13.5min - 89.8max) fps +84%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
42.91 fps +75%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
24.55 fps
1366x768 Medium Preset
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
31.59 fps +179%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
29 fps +156%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
26.9 (12.1min - 67.2max) fps +138%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
24.62 fps +117%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
11.32 fps
1366x768 High Preset
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
27.95 fps +180%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
24.7 fps +147%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
22.5 (9.1min - 50.2max) fps +125%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
20.22 fps +103%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
9.98 fps
Rise of the Tomb Raider - 1024x768 Lowest Preset
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Iris Plus Graphics 640, i7-7660U, Samsung PM971 KUS040202M
23.5 (21min - 26max) fps +243%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
20 fps +192%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
18.45 fps +169%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
17.09 fps +149%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
16.7 fps +143%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
6.86 fps
low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 24.55 11.32 9.98
Thief (2014) 10.6 6.1
Rise of the Tomb Raider (2016) 6.86

Emissions

The Transformer 4 Pro is almost entirely silent in everyday use. Under load and in a very quiet environment, the user would have to hold an ear to the device's fan output so much as to detect the sound of the fan. Our volume measurements substantiate this subjective impression and demonstrate that our test device is quieter than its predecessor. 

Noise Level

Idle
30.2 / 30.2 / dB(A)
Load
30.8 / 32.9 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: 30.2 dB(A)
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2032.931.632.331.732.92531.53232.335.131.53132.331.231.634.732.34033.228.629.934.633.25034.433.134.937.634.46328.927.527.12828.98025.427.227.227.125.410025.624.625.625.225.612524.624.224.623.824.616024.423.223.723.524.420022.722.423.422.622.725021.621.7222221.63152120.920.720.72140020.421.22020.220.450019.920.319.819.219.963019.220.1191819.280020.12318.117.820.1100018.320.518.218.118.3125018.520.31817.518.5160018.621.217.817.218.6200018.822.917.517.518.8250018.823.217.617.618.831501821.317.717.518400017.819.418.117.917.850001818.418.11818630018.218.318.218.118.2800018.318.318.318.318.31000018.418.318.218.318.41250018.318.318.318.218.31600018.318.318.218.318.3SPL30.932.930.430.230.9N1.51.81.41.41.5median 18.8median 20.9median 18.2median 18.2median 18.8Delta1.7211.51.7hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseAsus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)

Temperature

In everyday use, the Transformer 4 Pro hardly warms up at all. In fact, it usually feels cold. Under load, the temperatures can rise to over 40 °C (104 °F), but that has no effect on the user. Because the keypad does not house any active components, it is not possible for the palm rest or anything of the sort to heat up.

Inside the device, the temperatures under load can exceed 70 °C (158 °F). These high temperatures have an enormous impact on the processor. The CPU performance falls not just to the base clock speed, but significantly below it. As our screenshot shows, the processor's clock speed falls to under 700 MHz – only 25% of the base clock speed. The Transformer 3 Pro's CPU also fell below the base clock speed in our stress test. However, we did not observe such an extreme loss of performance in our tests of the predecessor or any competing devices.

Max. Load
 38 °C
100 F
40.5 °C
105 F
34.5 °C
94 F
 
 30 °C
86 F
34 °C
93 F
30.4 °C
87 F
 
 32 °C
90 F
32.2 °C
90 F
33 °C
91 F
 
Maximum: 40.5 °C = 105 F
Average: 33.8 °C = 93 F
30.8 °C
87 F
37 °C
99 F
35.8 °C
96 F
28.6 °C
83 F
32.6 °C
91 F
29 °C
84 F
27.3 °C
81 F
28.1 °C
83 F
27.4 °C
81 F
Maximum: 37 °C = 99 F
Average: 30.7 °C = 87 F
Power Supply (max.)  35 °C = 95 F | Room Temperature 22.4 °C = 72 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 33.8 °C / 93 F, compared to the average of 30.2 °C / 86 F for the devices in the class Convertible.
(±) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 40.5 °C / 105 F, compared to the average of 35.3 °C / 96 F, ranging from 19.6 to 55.7 °C for the class Convertible.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 37 °C / 99 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 29 °C / 84 F, compared to the device average of 30.2 °C / 86 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are reaching skin temperature as a maximum (33 °C / 91.4 F) and are therefore not hot.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.1 °C / 82.6 F (-4.9 °C / -8.8 F).
Heat development - top in idle mode
Heat development - top in idle mode
Heat development - bottom in idle mode
Heat development - bottom in idle mode
Heat development - top under load
Heat development - top under load
Heat development - bottom under load
Heat development - bottom under load

Speakers

The Transformer 4 Pro's integrated speakers generate a surprisingly balanced sound. The sound measurements do reveal some imbalances, but both high and bass tones are present, and neither are overdriven at the device's moderate maximum volume. As a result, the sound produced is not especially loud, but it is balanced.

Alternatively, the user can connect external audio devices via Bluetooth or the headphone jack.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2031.731.731.72531.535.131.5313134.7314030.234.630.25034.737.634.7632828288026.527.126.510026.825.226.812532.923.832.916041.223.541.220045.122.645.125043224331546.620.746.640059.720.259.75005719.25763057.11857.180058.817.858.8100056.118.156.112505917.559160060.117.260.1200061.117.561.1250066.617.666.6315068.117.568.1400067.817.967.8500068.31868.3630064.818.164.8800057.318.357.31000053.318.353.31250048.118.248.11600041.718.341.7SPL76.230.276.2N34.61.434.6median 57.1median 18.2median 57.1Delta8.91.58.935.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseAsus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620) audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (68.3 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 17.8% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (10.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 1.8% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (8.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 7.7% higher than median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (8.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (24.8% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 71% of all tested devices in this class were better, 7% similar, 21% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 21%, worst was 57%
Compared to all devices tested
» 72% of all tested devices were better, 6% similar, 23% 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 selectable/deselectable!)

Energy Management

Asus' device is more economic than any of its peers in our comparison group. The Transformer 4 Pro consumes at least 27% less energy than its competitors. The 45-Watt power supply should certainly provide the device with enough energy, even at its highest energy consumption rate.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.41 / 4.7 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 3.4 / 5.7 / 7.4 Watt
Load midlight 15 / 29.7 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.
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A, IPS, 2160x1440, 12.60
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7, IPS, 2160x1440, 12.00
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0), IPS, 2880x1920, 12.00
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
6500U, HD Graphics 520, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND), IPS, 2880x1920, 12.60
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
i7-7660U, Iris Plus Graphics 640, Samsung PM971 KUS040202M, IPS, 2736x1824, 12.30
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Power Consumption
-27%
-27%
-66%
-71%
-53%
Idle Minimum *
3.4
3.86
-14%
3.5
-3%
6.7
-97%
4.2
-24%
4.8
-41%
Idle Average *
5.7
6.4
-12%
7.2
-26%
10.3
-81%
10.1
-77%
7.9
-39%
Idle Maximum *
7.4
7.17
3%
7.9
-7%
13.5
-82%
14
-89%
10.7
-45%
Load Average *
15
30.5
-103%
29.6
-97%
26
-73%
37.4
-149%
35
-133%
Load Maximum *
29.7
32.4
-9%
30.8
-4%
28.8
3%
34
-14%
31.6
-6%
Witcher 3 ultra *
38.1

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

Our test device's low energy consumption does not have an appreciable effect on the battery life when compared to the competition. The Transformer 4 Pro can only outdo its predecessor.

Since the Transformer 3 Pro is equipped with the same battery, one of the explanations for our test device's longer battery life is the CPU's lower energy consumption. However, especially in our realistic WLAN test, this is not of much help. Comparable competing devices last at least an hour longer on a single charge.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
14h 02min
WiFi Websurfing
4h 40min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 58min
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, 39 Wh
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620,  Wh
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, 41 Wh
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
6500U, HD Graphics 520, 39 Wh
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
i7-7660U, Iris Plus Graphics 640, 45 Wh
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, 54 Wh
Battery Runtime
-3%
1%
-28%
35%
55%
Reader / Idle
842
711
-16%
713
-15%
426
-49%
1087
29%
WiFi v1.3
280
355
27%
345
23%
223
-20%
489
75%
672
140%
Load
118
95
-19%
111
-6%
102
-14%
112
-5%
115
-3%
H.264
206
614
Witcher 3 ultra
115

Pros

+ case with kickstand
+ keyboard dock and active stylus included
+ backlit keyboard
+ fast and accurate touchscreen

Cons

- throttling CPU performance
- below average battery life
- no maintenance possibilities
- below average touchpad
- only one USB C 3.1 port
- fingerprint cannot be set up

Verdict

Asus' Transformer 4 Pro is a sham model upgrade. In reality, the convertible laptop is in some ways inferior to its predecessor. The lower resolution display, the throttling CPU and an equal battery capacity leave few recognizable improvements to the Transformer 3 Pro. The only truly useful improvement is the fact that the USB Type-C port is no longer occupied by the power cord when the device is in AC power mode.

The improvements to the Transformer 4 Pro come at the expense of some of the previous model's good attributes. In crucial areas, our impression of this device is worse than that of its predecessor. Prospective buyers may want to consider whether a different product would suit them better.

Buyers of the Transformer 4 Pro will receive a convertible laptop that is in fact a good device, taken in isolation. Compared to the competition, however, it is clear where Asus cut costs. The device's processor performance and SSD performance are both far below average. Compared to the previous model, the Transformer 3 Pro, things look even worse. With the exception of its longer battery life, the new model provides no genuine added value. At its current price, the Transformer 4 Pro's performance is simply too weak. Other manufacturers offer devices with stronger performance at similar price points.

Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620) - 11/27/2017 v6(old)
Mike Wobker

Chassis
89 / 98 → 91%
Keyboard
82%
Pointing Device
81%
Connectivity
52 / 80 → 64%
Weight
74 / 35-78 → 90%
Battery
79%
Display
86%
Games Performance
48 / 68 → 70%
Application Performance
75 / 87 → 86%
Temperature
92%
Noise
95%
Audio
68 / 91 → 75%
Camera
60 / 85 → 70%
Average
75%
84%
Convertible - Weighted Average

Pricecompare

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620) Convertible Laptop Review
Mike Wobker, 2017-11-30 (Update: 2019-03-31)