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Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA laptop review: Also makes a good impression with Ryzen

Zen-tastic. The Asus ZenBook 14 also makes a good impression with AMD's stronger Ryzen 7 but can't reach its full performance potential despite the fans turning up. With its flat design, the 14-inch laptop stays handy as usual and small features such as the integrated number pad are fun. Our review shows what else is found in the ZenBook 14.
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T

In addition to the ZenBooks 14 UX433FA and UX433FN with Intel processors that we've already tested, we also have a model with an AMD CPU in hand now. It includes a powerful AMD Ryzen 7 3700U processor with a Radeon RX Vega 10 graphics unit and 8 GB of RAM, as well as a 512 GB SSD. With its handy size, it's aimed at mobile users who want to work on a variety of office tasks on the go too.

In this review, we compare the Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T with the competitors listed below. Under each section, however, you can also add more laptops from our database for comparison.

Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T (ZenBook 14 Series)
Processor
AMD Ryzen 7 3700U 4 x 2.3 - 4 GHz, Picasso-U (Zen+)
Graphics adapter
Memory
8 GB 
, DDR4 2400, dual-channel
Display
14.00 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel, CEC PA LM140LF-3L03, IPS, glossy: no
Mainboard
AMD Promontory/Bixby FCH
Storage
SK hynix BC501 HFM512GDHTNG-8310A, 512 GB 
, 430 GB free
Soundcard
AMD Raven - Audio Processor - HD Audio Controller
Connections
1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, Audio Connections: combined 3.5 mm audio jack, Card Reader: SD
Networking
Intel 8265 Tri-Band WiFi (Oak Peak) Network Adapter (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 5.0
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 16 x 324 x 212 ( = 0.63 x 12.76 x 8.35 in)
Battery
47 Wh, 6150 mAh Lithium-Polymer
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 0.9 MP, 16:9 (1280x720)
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Harman/Kardon, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, carrying case, McAfee, 24 Months Warranty
Weight
1.39 kg ( = 49.03 oz / 3.06 pounds), Power Supply: 151 g ( = 5.33 oz / 0.33 pounds)
Price
700 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Rating
Date
Model
Weight
Height
Size
Resolution
Best Price
81.2 %
02/2020
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
R7 3700U, Vega 10
1.4 kg16 mm14.00"1920x1080
88.4 %
07/2019
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
R7 3700U, Vega 10
1.9 kg19.9 mm15.60"1920x1080
79.7 %
08/2019
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
R7 3700U, Vega 10
1.8 kg19.5 mm15.60"1920x1080
80.9 %
01/2020
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
i5-10210U, GeForce MX250
1.2 kg16 mm14.00"1920x1080
77.8 %
01/2020
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
i7-1065G7, GeForce MX250
1.6 kg18 mm14.00"1920x1080

Case - Stable but prone to scratches

The case of the ZenBook 14 is made of metal and features a brushed surface. Due to the selected material, the small laptop looks very robust but is prone to scratches. A trim bar below the screen provides an optical enhancement, and grills to the left and right of the keyboard hide the speakers.

For ZenBooks, the lifting mechanism has almost become a trademark, which causes the base to move slightly upwards when the lid is opened. This promotes air circulation but also creates an unpleasant edge if you want to use the laptop on your lap, for example.

Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T

Despite its robust material, the Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA is one of the lightest laptops in our test field. Among the 14-inch competitors, it is much more compact, especially in its depth, but it's on average for the other dimensions.

Size comparison

369 mm / 14.5 inch 252 mm / 9.92 inch 19.9 mm / 0.783 inch 1.9 kg4.28 lbs359.1 mm / 14.1 inch 249 mm / 9.8 inch 19.5 mm / 0.768 inch 1.8 kg3.97 lbs327 mm / 12.9 inch 226 mm / 8.9 inch 18 mm / 0.709 inch 1.6 kg3.42 lbs324 mm / 12.8 inch 212 mm / 8.35 inch 16 mm / 0.63 inch 1.4 kg3.06 lbs322 mm / 12.7 inch 222 mm / 8.74 inch 16 mm / 0.63 inch 1.2 kg2.69 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity - ZenBook 14 offers a USB Type-C port

The ZenBook 14 offers the most necessary ports but can be extended via the USB Type-C port and with appropriate adapters or a docking station. The ports are located on the sides at the rear of the laptop, so cables lying in the way don't represent a problem.

Left side: power supply, HDMI, 1x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C
Left side: power supply, HDMI, 1x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C
Right side: SD card reader, combined 3.5 mm audio jack, 1x USB 2.0 Type-A
Right side: SD card reader, combined 3.5 mm audio jack, 1x USB 2.0 Type-A

SD card reader

Asus has built an SD card reader into the ZenBook 14, whereby corresponding cards can only be inserted about one centimeter into the case. As a result, a large part of the storage medium sticks out, so that SD cards can't remain in the laptop during transport.

With our Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS II reference memory card, the car reader only reaches below-average speeds of 26.4 MB/s for reading and 37.1 MB/s for writing data.

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501 64 GB UHS-II)
77.1 MB/s +192%
Average of class Subnotebook
  (19.5 - 193.9, n=16, last 2 years)
69.6 MB/s +164%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
37.7 MB/s +43%
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
32 MB/s +21%
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
28 MB/s +6%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
26.4 MB/s
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501 64 GB UHS-II)
87.6 MB/s +136%
Average of class Subnotebook
  (23.6 - 239, n=16, last 2 years)
84.3 MB/s +127%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
37.6 MB/s +1%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
37.1 MB/s
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
33 MB/s -11%
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
27.1 MB/s -27%

Communication

The Asus ZenBook 14 UM431D can connect wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.0 and WLAN with the Wi-Fi 5 standard. With it, the 14-inch laptop achieves average speeds of 416 Mb/s for receiving data and 598 Mb/s for sending data. This puts the Asus laptop in the second to last place in our test field.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Average of class Subnotebook
  (606 - 1339, n=3, last 2 years)
1056 MBit/s +77%
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201
928 MBit/s +55%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
Realtek RTL8822BE Wireless LAN 802.11ac PCIe Adapter
613 MBit/s +3%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Intel 8265 Tri-Band WiFi (Oak Peak) Network Adapter
598 (519min - 628max) MBit/s
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
Qualcomm Atheros QCA9377 Wireless Network Adapter
290 MBit/s -52%
iperf3 receive AX12
Average of class Subnotebook
  (623 - 1690, n=3, last 2 years)
1258 MBit/s +202%
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201
1070 MBit/s +157%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
Realtek RTL8822BE Wireless LAN 802.11ac PCIe Adapter
640 MBit/s +54%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Intel 8265 Tri-Band WiFi (Oak Peak) Network Adapter
416 (375min - 465max) MBit/s
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
Qualcomm Atheros QCA9377 Wireless Network Adapter
309 MBit/s -26%
03570105140175210245280315350385420455490525560595Tooltip
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T Intel 8265 Tri-Band WiFi (Oak Peak) Network Adapter; iperf3 receive AX12; iperf 3.1.3: Ø415 (375-465)
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T Intel 8265 Tri-Band WiFi (Oak Peak) Network Adapter; iperf3 transmit AX12; iperf 3.1.3: Ø598 (519-628)

Accessories

In the box, the Asus ZenBook comes with the laptop itself and a matching 45-watt power adapter. The variant we tested was also accompanied by a suitable carrying case. However, buyers must ensure that this is actually included in their offer. Without a case included, the Asus ZenBook 14 is usually offered a little cheaper.

Maintenance

The base cover of the Asus ZenBook 14 can be removed after all Torx screws at the bottom have been loosened. This frees up access to the interior, whereby only the Wi-Fi module and the SSD can be replaced. Memory is firmly soldered, and a free RAM slot isn't available either.

Maintenance options
Maintenance options
Swappable SSD
Swappable SSD

Warranty

Asus grants buyers of the ZenBook 14 UM431D a 24-month warranty period.

Input devices - Asus laptop with number pad

Keyboard

The keys of the ZenBook 14 UM431D have a size that is suitable for writing tasks. The pressure point can be felt clearly, but due to the smooth surface, individual keys aren't always met accurately. Even after an adjustment period, incorrect inputs keep happening, and the very small function keys can only be used if you look closely at them. The three-stage backlight ensures a non-dazzling illumination of the key labels in the dark.

Asus ZenBook 14 - Input devices
Asus ZenBook 14 - Input devices
Asus ZenBook 14 - Backlight
Asus ZenBook 14 - Backlight

Touchpad

As mouse replacement, Asus uses a ClickPad that is suitable for precise mouse pointer navigation due to its average size. Both left and right mouse clicks can be triggered correctly by touching or applying pressure on the pad. There's an icon in the upper right corner that allows a number pad to be projected onto the ClickPad. In doing so, mouse navigation still remains available, but touch inputs trigger the corresponding input of the number pad. This worked very well in our test and shows itself as a meaningful addition to the keyboard.

Asus ZenBook 14 - ClickPad
Asus ZenBook 14 - ClickPad
Asus ZenBook 14 - Number pad
Asus ZenBook 14 - Number pad

Display - 14-inch panel with strong screen bleeding

Subpixel grid
Subpixel grid
Screen bleeding
Screen bleeding

The screen of the Asus ZenBook 14 consists of a 14-inch IPS panel and offers a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. The brightness is on the second to last place of our test field with an average of 245 cd/m² but can be described as sufficient. On the other hand, the brightness distribution is below average at only 78%, and there is evident screen bleeding in the lower right corner.

Asus hasn't completely forgone PWM for brightness control. In this way, brightness levels of less than 20% show flickering at a frequency of 44 Hz. Since this is a very low value, even users with less sensitive eyes could also notice an effect. However, the consequences of this will vary depending on the brightness set.

275
cd/m²
266
cd/m²
255
cd/m²
245
cd/m²
253
cd/m²
215
cd/m²
239
cd/m²
240
cd/m²
221
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
CEC PA LM140LF-3L03 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 275 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 245.4 cd/m² Minimum: 18 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 78 %
Center on Battery: 263 cd/m²
Contrast: 1124:1 (Black: 0.225 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 8.89 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5, calibrated: 4.9
ΔE Greyscale 6.33 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
91% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
60% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
67.5% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
92.3% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
66.7% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.52
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
CEC PA LM140LF-3L03, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
NV156FHM-N49, IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
LG Philips 156WFC, IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
Chi Mei N140HCE-EN2, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
AUO543D, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Display
-39%
-42%
-1%
3%
Display P3 Coverage
66.7
39.88
-40%
37.31
-44%
64.2
-4%
66.5
0%
sRGB Coverage
92.3
58.6
-37%
56.2
-39%
94.8
3%
98.4
7%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
67.5
41.2
-39%
38.55
-43%
65.4
-3%
68.2
1%
Response Times
878%
8%
18891%
-42%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
36 ?(19, 17)
41.2 ?(22, 19.2)
-14%
28.4 ?(10.4, 18)
21%
39.2 ?(20.8, 18.4)
-9%
60.8 ?(29.2, 31.6)
-69%
Response Time Black / White *
26 ?(15, 11)
32.8 ?(18, 14.8)
-26%
27.2 ?(16.4, 10.8)
-5%
35.6 ?(21.2, 14.4)
-37%
29.6 ?(13.2, 16.4)
-14%
PWM Frequency
44 ?(20)
1220 ?(99)
2673%
25000 ?(28)
56718%
Screen
-16%
-22%
30%
14%
Brightness middle
253
318
26%
253.6
0%
324.1
28%
395
56%
Brightness
245
297
21%
227
-7%
301
23%
375
53%
Brightness Distribution
78
89
14%
84
8%
87
12%
91
17%
Black Level *
0.225
0.17
24%
0.27
-20%
0.22
2%
0.26
-16%
Contrast
1124
1871
66%
939
-16%
1473
31%
1519
35%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
8.89
5.5
38%
6.05
32%
1.63
82%
5.92
33%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
4.56
21
-361%
14.03
-208%
4.25
7%
9.79
-115%
Colorchecker dE 2000 calibrated *
4.9
5.1
-4%
4.97
-1%
1.42
71%
0.91
81%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
6.33
1.8
72%
3.2
49%
2.2
65%
6.69
-6%
Gamma
2.52 87%
2.12 104%
2 110%
2.26 97%
2.78 79%
CCT
6745 96%
6257 104%
6820 95%
6887 94%
7596 86%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
60
37.6
-37%
35.5
-41%
60.2
0%
63
5%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
91
58.2
-36%
55.6
-39%
95
4%
98
8%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
274% / 138%
-19% / -22%
6307% / 3353%
-8% / 5%

* ... smaller is better

Color-space coverage (sRGB) - 91%
Color-space coverage (sRGB) - 91%
Color-space coverage (AdobeRGB) - 60%
Color-space coverage (AdobeRGB) - 60%

Our measurements certify a good contrast ratio of 1,124:1 for the Asus ZenBook 14 and an equally good black value of 0.225 cd/m². This makes colors look well separated from each other and blacks are displayed relatively richly.

The CalMAN analysis also shows that colors are displayed with a slight deviation but with components shifting to green. This can be compensated for by calibration, whereby the deviation remains, but the color components are somewhat shifted. The corresponding ICC file can be downloaded in the window located at the top, to the right of the display's brightness distribution graph.

CalMAN - Color accuracy
CalMAN - Color accuracy
CalMAN - Saturation
CalMAN - Saturation
CalMAN - Grayscales
CalMAN - Grayscales
CalMAN - Color accuracy (calibrated)
CalMAN - Color accuracy (calibrated)
CalMAN - Saturation (calibrated)
CalMAN - Saturation (calibrated)
CalMAN - Grayscales (calibrated)
CalMAN - Grayscales (calibrated)

The 14-inch laptop from Asus is easy to use outdoors as long as places in the shade are favored. The matte screen also limits reflections, but in direct sunlight, these become annoying.

Asus ZenBook 14 - Outdoor use
Asus ZenBook 14 - Outdoor use
Asus ZenBook 14 - Outdoor use
Asus ZenBook 14 - Outdoor use

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
26 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 15 ms rise
↘ 11 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. » 57 % 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
36 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 19 ms rise
↘ 17 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. » 44 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is similar to 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 44 Hz ≤ 20 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 44 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 44 Hz is very low, so the flickering may cause eyestrain and headaches after extended use.

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 IPS panel of the ZenBook 14 is very viewing-angle stable. Image content can be viewed from almost any angle without it becoming distorted or showing the wrong colors.

Viewing-angle stability
Viewing-angle stability

Performance - Good system performance despite weak CPU

With AMD hardware, the Asus ZenBook 14 also targets users looking for an ultra-mobile, small and lightweight laptop for everyday office use. The manufacturer offers the device with a larger number of hardware variants, but they all belong to the category of office devices with built-in graphics cards. In addition, there are variations in the built-in memory and storage.

 

Processor

The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is a quad-core processor that can handle up to eight threads simultaneously. The clock rates are between 2.3 and 4 GHz, whereby the maximum clock speed can only be maintained in the long run with sufficient cooling. In our Cinebench endurance test, the ZenBook 14 can only retrieve the maximum CPU performance very briefly. Afterwards, it drops by about 20% and is then below the level of a Ryzen 5 3500U. The Lenovo ThinkPad E595, for example, shows the kind of performance that's achievable with the Ryzen 7 3700U in the long run.

In the Cinebench R15 single-core and multi-core individual performance tests, the ZenBook 14 achieves values that are just below the average of other laptops with this CPU.

03570105140175210245280315350385420455490525560595630665Tooltip
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T AMD Ryzen 7 3700U, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U: Ø512 (499.03-642.87)
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE AMD Ryzen 7 3700U, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U: Ø684 (680.39-687.17)
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585 AMD Ryzen 7 3700U, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U: Ø654 (639.01-676.19)
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US Intel Core i5-10210U, Intel Core i5-10210U: Ø565 (559.89-595.69)
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng Intel Core i7-1065G7, Intel Core i7-1065G7: Ø625 (592.25-691)
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Average of class Subnotebook
  (91.8 - 280, n=62, last 2 years)
234 Points +76%
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
Intel Core i7-1065G7
190 Points +43%
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
Intel Core i5-10210U
170 Points +28%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
144 Points +8%
Average AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
  (127 - 146, n=7)
138 Points +4%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
135 Points +2%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
133 Points
CPU Multi 64Bit
Average of class Subnotebook
  (514 - 2581, n=70, last 2 years)
1705 Points +166%
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
Intel Core i7-1065G7
691 Points +8%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
683 (680.39min - 687.17max) Points +6%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
672 Points +5%
Average AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
  (537 - 683, n=7)
648 Points +1%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
642 Points
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
Intel Core i5-10210U
596 Points -7%
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
133 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
642 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
48.35 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
98 %
Help

System performance

In the PCMark 8 and 10 system performance benchmarks, the Asus ZenBook 14 UM431D achieves slightly above-average results. In everyday life, this is reflected in a smooth operating system and fast-launching programs. Access to files and the system startup are also smooth.

The performance obtained by other laptops in our tests can be found in our CPU Benchmarks article.

PCMark 10
Score
Average of class Subnotebook
  (4384 - 7428, n=56, last 2 years)
5810 Points +51%
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
GeForce MX250, i5-10210U, Kingston RBUSNS8154P3512GJ
4497 Points +17%
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
GeForce MX250, i7-1065G7, Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV1T02
4289 Points +11%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
Vega 10, R7 3700U, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
3903 Points +1%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK hynix BC501 HFM512GDHTNG-8310A
3851 Points
Average AMD Ryzen 7 3700U, AMD Radeon RX Vega 10
  (3522 - 3903, n=7)
3720 Points -3%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK Hynix BC501 HFM512GDJTNG
3605 Points -6%
Essentials
Average of class Subnotebook
  (8890 - 11168, n=56, last 2 years)
10202 Points +33%
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
GeForce MX250, i7-1065G7, Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV1T02
8912 Points +16%
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
GeForce MX250, i5-10210U, Kingston RBUSNS8154P3512GJ
7861 Points +2%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
Vega 10, R7 3700U, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
7692 Points 0%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK hynix BC501 HFM512GDHTNG-8310A
7685 Points
Average AMD Ryzen 7 3700U, AMD Radeon RX Vega 10
  (6927 - 7692, n=7)
7306 Points -5%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK Hynix BC501 HFM512GDJTNG
6927 Points -10%
Productivity
Average of class Subnotebook
  (6213 - 10279, n=56, last 2 years)
7803 Points +34%
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
GeForce MX250, i7-1065G7, Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV1T02
7433 Points +28%
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
GeForce MX250, i5-10210U, Kingston RBUSNS8154P3512GJ
7040 Points +21%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
Vega 10, R7 3700U, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
5859 Points +1%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK hynix BC501 HFM512GDHTNG-8310A
5823 Points
Average AMD Ryzen 7 3700U, AMD Radeon RX Vega 10
  (5459 - 5952, n=7)
5745 Points -1%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK Hynix BC501 HFM512GDJTNG
5637 Points -3%
Digital Content Creation
Average of class Subnotebook
  (4093 - 9749, n=56, last 2 years)
6758 Points +95%
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
GeForce MX250, i5-10210U, Kingston RBUSNS8154P3512GJ
4461 Points +29%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
Vega 10, R7 3700U, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
3581 Points +3%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK hynix BC501 HFM512GDHTNG-8310A
3466 Points
Average AMD Ryzen 7 3700U, AMD Radeon RX Vega 10
  (3082 - 3581, n=7)
3333 Points -4%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK Hynix BC501 HFM512GDJTNG
3258 Points -6%
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
GeForce MX250, i7-1065G7, Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV1T02
3233 Points -7%
PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Average of class Subnotebook
  (4730 - 5285, n=3, last 2 years)
5030 Points +40%
Average AMD Ryzen 7 3700U, AMD Radeon RX Vega 10
  (3325 - 3993, n=7)
3628 Points +1%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK hynix BC501 HFM512GDHTNG-8310A
3604 Points
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
Vega 10, R7 3700U, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
3504 Points -3%
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
GeForce MX250, i5-10210U, Kingston RBUSNS8154P3512GJ
3464 Points -4%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK Hynix BC501 HFM512GDJTNG
3342 Points -7%
Work Score Accelerated v2
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
GeForce MX250, i5-10210U, Kingston RBUSNS8154P3512GJ
4992 Points +3%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK hynix BC501 HFM512GDHTNG-8310A
4842 Points
Average AMD Ryzen 7 3700U, AMD Radeon RX Vega 10
  (4418 - 4869, n=6)
4665 Points -4%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
Vega 10, R7 3700U, SK Hynix BC501 HFM512GDJTNG
4593 Points -5%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
Vega 10, R7 3700U, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
4429 Points -9%
Average of class Subnotebook
  (2972 - 5271, n=3, last 2 years)
3805 Points -21%
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3604 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4842 points
PCMark 10 Score
3851 points
Help

Storage

The SSD installed in the Asus ZenBook 14 achieves good read and write speeds in our storage benchmarks, which are slightly above the average of other laptops with this storage that we have tested. The performance offered by the SK Hynix BC501 used here compared to other SSDs can be found in our HDD/SSD Benchmarks article.

Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
SK hynix BC501 HFM512GDHTNG-8310A
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
SK Hynix BC501 HFM512GDJTNG
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
Kingston RBUSNS8154P3512GJ
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV1T02
Average SK hynix BC501 HFM512GDHTNG-8310A
 
CrystalDiskMark 5.2 / 6
11%
-3%
15%
108%
10%
Write 4K
118.8
129.5
9%
105.9
-11%
107.7
-9%
181.6
53%
110 ?(89.3 - 121.9, n=3)
-7%
Read 4K
41.62
41.23
-1%
36.56
-12%
39.73
-5%
57.4
38%
40.6 ?(37.4 - 42.7, n=3)
-2%
Write Seq
796
811
2%
1165
46%
926
16%
1982
149%
677 ?(608 - 796, n=3)
-15%
Read Seq
1101
1145
4%
423.2
-62%
1014
-8%
1899
72%
1104 ?(1019 - 1193, n=3)
0%
Write 4K Q32T1
234.7
314.1
34%
332.1
41%
343.6
46%
509
117%
438 ?(235 - 590, n=3)
87%
Read 4K Q32T1
313.8
356.2
14%
229.3
-27%
499.1
59%
545
74%
338 ?(285 - 415, n=3)
8%
Write Seq Q32T1
842
839
0%
1460
73%
1033
23%
3072
265%
860 ?(842 - 872, n=3)
2%
Read Seq Q32T1
1645
2042
24%
472.5
-71%
1604
-2%
3281
99%
1786 ?(1635 - 2078, n=3)
9%
AS SSD
5%
-9%
-25%
79%
6%
Seq Read
1417
1698
20%
398.9
-72%
1061
-25%
2762
95%
1471 ?(1264 - 1731, n=3)
4%
Seq Write
781
740
-5%
884
13%
953
22%
2493
219%
612 ?(518 - 781, n=3)
-22%
4K Read
37.03
39.18
6%
34.54
-7%
35.59
-4%
52.1
41%
40.2 ?(37 - 43.2, n=3)
9%
4K Write
80.1
87.7
9%
82.1
2%
87
9%
147.5
84%
108.8 ?(80.1 - 127.3, n=3)
36%
4K-64 Read
740
764
3%
647
-13%
769
4%
1473
99%
794 ?(740 - 869, n=3)
7%
4K-64 Write
748
669
-11%
985
32%
733
-2%
1456
95%
764 ?(672 - 871, n=3)
2%
Access Time Read *
0.047
0.04
15%
0.072
-53%
0.084
-79%
0.094
-100%
0.046 ?(0.045 - 0.047, n=3)
2%
Access Time Write *
0.045
0.036
20%
0.047
-4%
0.136
-202%
0.03
33%
0.03533 ?(0.03 - 0.045, n=3)
21%
Score Read
918
973
6%
721
-21%
911
-1%
1801
96%
981 ?(918 - 1085, n=3)
7%
Score Write
906
831
-8%
1155
27%
916
1%
1853
105%
867 ?(843 - 906, n=3)
-4%
Score Total
2270
2261
0%
2279
0%
2294
1%
4568
101%
2315 ?(2234 - 2442, n=3)
2%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
8% / 7%
-6% / -6%
-5% / -8%
94% / 91%
8% / 8%

* ... smaller is better

SK hynix BC501 HFM512GDHTNG-8310A
CDM 5/6 Read Seq Q32T1: 1645 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write Seq Q32T1: 842 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Read 4K Q32T1: 313.8 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write 4K Q32T1: 234.7 MB/s
CDM 5 Read Seq: 1101 MB/s
CDM 5 Write Seq: 796 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Read 4K: 41.62 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write 4K: 118.8 MB/s

Graphics card

In the Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA, the AMD Radeon RX Vega 10 integrated graphics unit handles displaying image content. This GPU benefits greatly from built-in memory in dual-channel configuration and, with enough RAM, is even suitable for simple games. With the 8 GB of RAM installed here, the ZenBook achieves benchmark values that are slightly below the average of other laptops with this GPU in the 3DMark 11 test, and slightly above this average in the Fire Strike and Cloud Gate 3DMark tests. With this result, the ZenBook 14 is also suitable for light image-editing.

Our GPU Benchmarks article shows what performance can be expected from other graphics cards compared to the AMD Radeon RX Vega 10.

3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Average of class Subnotebook
  (2979 - 16904, n=55, last 2 years)
8016 Points +137%
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
NVIDIA GeForce MX250, Intel Core i5-10210U
4920 Points +45%
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
NVIDIA GeForce MX250, Intel Core i7-1065G7
4614 Points +36%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
4165 Points +23%
Average AMD Radeon RX Vega 10
  (2688 - 4165, n=17)
3483 Points +3%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
3389 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
3287 Points -3%
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Average of class Subnotebook
  (13768 - 65911, n=40, last 2 years)
29002 Points +81%
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
NVIDIA GeForce MX250, Intel Core i5-10210U
23376 Points +46%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
20784 Points +30%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
16048 Points
Average AMD Radeon RX Vega 10
  (9364 - 20784, n=16)
14708 Points -8%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
13891 Points -13%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Average of class Subnotebook
  (2837 - 12349, n=59, last 2 years)
5881 Points +159%
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
NVIDIA GeForce MX250, Intel Core i5-10210U
3845 Points +69%
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
NVIDIA GeForce MX250, Intel Core i7-1065G7
3580 Points +58%
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
2999 Points +32%
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
2272 Points
Average AMD Radeon RX Vega 10
  (1567 - 2999, n=17)
2224 Points -2%
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, AMD Ryzen 7 3700U
2025 Points -11%
3DMark 11 Performance
3449 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
11126 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
2028 points
Help

Gaming performance

AMD's Radeon RX Vega 10 is definitely suitable for games. With the 8 GB of RAM installed here, older games with medium graphics levels can be run smoothly. Titles that aren't very graphically demanding can also be easily played in Full HD. The Asus ZenBook had no problems in our test with a resolution of 1366x780, which should be preferred for a smooth gaming experience on this laptop.

The performance that can be expected in other titles with the AMD Radeon RX Vega 10 can be found in our GPU Games article.

low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 93.8 60.7 49.72 17.4
Dota 2 Reborn (2015) 68.7 58.6 36 30.2
Final Fantasy XV Benchmark (2018) 16.1 8.1

Emissions - Audible noise development under load

Noise emissions

Noise levels
Noise levels

The fans of the ZenBook 14 are usually turned off in daily usage with an active browser and during writing tasks. With slightly more demanding applications, they start to spin with a uniform noise, but they can still easily hide in the ambient noise. Only under full load can the fans be clearly heard. Therefore, the ZenBook 14 should only be used for light tasks while in noise-sensitive environments.

Noise Level

Idle
28 / 28 / 28 dB(A)
Load
36.8 / 39 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: 29.8 dB(A)
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2031.428.230.933.731.425333134.734.133313131.332.430.9314030.531.731.22930.55030.829.328.72930.86328.128.627.627.228.18025.725.626.726.425.710025.625.924.524.225.612524.824.723.824.524.816023.624.123.724.523.620022.422.921.922.522.425021.922.421.521.721.931521.821.320.720.221.840021.920.819.719.221.950022.622.21918.522.663028.126.518.318.828.180028.72617.71828.7100030.628.517.317.430.6125030.127.317.117.330.1160028.325.816.71728.3200029.326.916.917.129.325002825.317.116.92831502523.117.217.225400026.824.517.517.426.850002421.317.617.62463002018.917.817.720800018.518.417.617.818.51000017.91817.617.717.91250017.61817.417.517.61600017.718.417.517.517.7SPL3936.829.829.939N2.92.51.31.32.9median 24median 23.1median 17.6median 17.7median 24Delta42.91.71.64hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseAsus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T

Temperature

Stress test
Stress test

Our measurements show that the ZenBook 14 reaches surface temperatures of up to 25.9 °C (~79 °F) when idle and a maximum of 37 °C (~99 °F) under load. The warmest point is in the rear left area of the laptop, which results in the palm rest always remaining cool.

During our approximately one-hour-long stress test, the clock speeds of the ZenBook 14 drop to 1.2 GHz. In doing so, the base clock speed is significantly undercut and isn't reached again for the rest of the test. Since our stress test represents a load that shouldn't occur in practice, however, users don't have to expect restrictions due to temperatures being too high.

Max. Load
 37 °C
99 F
36.9 °C
98 F
34.3 °C
94 F
 
 35.3 °C
96 F
34.8 °C
95 F
24.4 °C
76 F
 
 29.4 °C
85 F
26.9 °C
80 F
26.2 °C
79 F
 
Maximum: 37 °C = 99 F
Average: 31.7 °C = 89 F
32.6 °C
91 F
34.7 °C
94 F
36.3 °C
97 F
27.5 °C
82 F
32.2 °C
90 F
35 °C
95 F
26.6 °C
80 F
28.5 °C
83 F
30.5 °C
87 F
Maximum: 36.3 °C = 97 F
Average: 31.5 °C = 89 F
Power Supply (max.)  45 °C = 113 F | Room Temperature 21.7 °C = 71 F | FIRT 550-Pocket / Fluke t3000 FC
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 31.7 °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 37 °C / 99 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 36.3 °C / 97 F, compared to the average of 39.4 °C / 103 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 23.4 °C / 74 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 29.4 °C / 84.9 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 (-1.1 °C / -2 F).
Heat map in idle usage - Top
Heat map in idle usage - Top
Heat map in idle usage - Bottom
Heat map in idle usage - Bottom
Heat map under load - Top
Heat map under load - Top
Heat map under load - Bottom
Heat map under load - Bottom

Speakers

Speakers
Speakers

The speakers of the Asus ZenBook 14 are relatively quiet and offer a sound spectrum with pronounced mids. This makes the small laptop only suitable for media playback in very quiet environments. In the long run, users should favor external speakers or headphones, which can be connected via the 3.5 mm audio jack. This holds corresponding plugs firmly in place and doesn't negatively affect sound quality.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2033.733.733.72535.534.135.53130.830.930.84030.82930.85028.72928.76328.427.228.48031.326.431.310041.524.241.512547.124.547.116048.324.548.320045.822.545.82505321.75331561.820.261.840065.619.265.650065.318.565.363063.318.863.380065.11865.1100066.417.466.4125066.917.366.9160069.51769.5200068.917.168.9250063.716.963.7315060.117.260.140006017.460500057.717.657.7630057.517.757.5800054.217.854.2100005117.7511250051.617.551.61600053.917.553.9SPL76.729.976.7N37.31.337.3median 60median 17.7median 60Delta7.11.67.135.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseAsus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020TApple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (69.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 11% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (14% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 6.4% higher than median
(+) | mids are linear (3.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3.3% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (6% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (18.4% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 48% of all tested devices in this class were better, 7% similar, 45% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 35% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 57% 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%

Energy management - Moderate battery life with the ZenBook 14 with Ryzen CPU

Energy consumption

Asus ZenBook 14 - Power adapter
Asus ZenBook 14 - Power adapter

Our measurements certify that the Asus ZenBook 14 has a power consumption of at least 3.5 watts when idle and up to 45.2 watts under load. This means that the energy requirement is only slightly higher than with comparable devices. Moreover, the included 45-watt power adapter's capacity is sufficiently high to ensure power supply.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.32 / 0.36 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 3.6 / 7.2 / 10.8 Watt
Load midlight 38 / 45.2 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 ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
R7 3700U, Vega 10, SK hynix BC501 HFM512GDHTNG-8310A, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
R7 3700U, Vega 10, SK Hynix BC501 HFM512GDJTNG, IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
R7 3700U, Vega 10, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G, IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
i5-10210U, GeForce MX250, Kingston RBUSNS8154P3512GJ, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
i7-1065G7, GeForce MX250, Toshiba XG6 KXG60ZNV1T02, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Average AMD Radeon RX Vega 10
 
Average of class Subnotebook
 
Power Consumption
6%
6%
-16%
-21%
-3%
-23%
Idle Minimum *
3.6
4.2
-17%
4.2
-17%
4.2
-17%
4
-11%
4.73 ?(3.2 - 7, n=16)
-31%
4.9 ?(1.77 - 11.8, n=63, last 2 years)
-36%
Idle Average *
7.2
7.92
-10%
6.8
6%
5.9
18%
7
3%
7.61 ?(2.8 - 10.6, n=16)
-6%
8.4 ?(4.6 - 17.4, n=63, last 2 years)
-17%
Idle Maximum *
10.8
8.16
24%
7
35%
7.2
33%
10
7%
9.63 ?(7 - 12.9, n=16)
11%
10.4 ?(5.1 - 22.4, n=63, last 2 years)
4%
Load Average *
38
29
24%
36.5
4%
63.4
-67%
62
-63%
33.3 ?(24.2 - 40.6, n=16)
12%
46.1 ?(19.1 - 83.3, n=62, last 2 years)
-21%
Load Maximum *
45.2
42.2
7%
44
3%
67.4
-49%
64
-42%
45.1 ?(38.5 - 55.5, n=16)
-0%
66.2 ?(24.2 - 121.2, n=63, last 2 years)
-46%
Witcher 3 ultra *
37.9
53.5
58

* ... smaller is better

Battery life

In our practical Wi-Fi test, the ZenBook 14 achieves a runtime of just under 7 hours. This value is only average since other laptops from our test field with partly smaller capacities last longer. Under full load and idle operation, however, the Asus laptop performs better than our chosen competitors.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
17h 48min
WiFi Websurfing
6h 44min
Load (maximum brightness)
2h 05min
Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T
R7 3700U, Vega 10, 47 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad E595-20NF0000GE
R7 3700U, Vega 10, 45 Wh
Dell Inspiron 15 5000 5585
R7 3700U, Vega 10, 42 Wh
MSI Modern 14 A10RB-459US
i5-10210U, GeForce MX250, 50 Wh
HP Pavilion 14-ce3040ng
i7-1065G7, GeForce MX250, 41 Wh
Average of class Subnotebook
 
Battery Runtime
-8%
-17%
1%
-30%
19%
Reader / Idle
1068
941
-12%
856
-20%
986
-8%
694
-35%
1197 ?(581 - 2550, n=10, last 2 years)
12%
WiFi v1.3
404
460
14%
421
4%
515
27%
368
-9%
623 ?(303 - 1144, n=64, last 2 years)
54%
Load
125
92
-26%
81
-35%
105
-16%
69
-45%
115.4 ?(61 - 197, n=47, last 2 years)
-8%

Pros

+ flat and light
+ attractive design
+ number pad is integrated with the ClickPad

Cons

- few maintenance options
- smooth keyboard surface
- moderate CPU performance
- moderate battery life

Verdict - Pretty design with slowed-down CPU

In review: Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA. Test device provided by:
In review: Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA. Test device provided by:

With the Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA, buyers get a laptop with a great design and that is easy to transport for a comparatively low price. The case looks very high-quality, and various decorative elements give the impression of it being more expensive. Added to this there's the feature of the integrated number pad, which turned out to be a useful addition to the keyboard. The port configuration is solid, and while Wi-Fi 5 isn't a big leap, wireless connections are still fast and up-to-date.

The ZenBook 14 is a solid laptop with an appealing design. Unfortunately, it can only exploit the power of its CPU moderately.

However, prospective buyers should not limit themselves to this model with the Ryzen 7 3700U but can confidently reach for the next weaker CPU. Since the cooling system can only support full performance very briefly, the long-term performance is well below the expectations we set for this processor. Because the memory can't be upgraded, its size also needs to be taken into account in the determination of a suitable model before purchasing. If you're mostly interested in the design and bare numbers, and not necessarily in the actual performance, you can still buy this laptop without hesitation.

Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA-AM020T - 02/11/2020 v7
Mike Wobker

Chassis
80 / 98 → 82%
Keyboard
80%
Pointing Device
75%
Connectivity
41 / 75 → 55%
Weight
70 / 20-75 → 91%
Battery
73%
Display
82%
Games Performance
57 / 78 → 73%
Application Performance
76 / 85 → 89%
Temperature
95%
Noise
96%
Audio
61 / 91 → 67%
Camera
40 / 85 → 47%
Average
71%
81%
Subnotebook - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Asus ZenBook 14 UM431DA laptop review: Also makes a good impression with Ryzen
Mike Wobker, 2020-02-15 (Update: 2020-02-15)