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Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA (i5-8250U, SSD, FHD) Convertible Review

Versatile. TThe ZenBook Flip 14 pleases with a fashionable metal case, an illuminated keyboard, and a good battery life. Not only can the touchscreen be operated with your fingers but also using the input pen which Asus sells separately. However, in terms of the equipment, Asus has made a few decisions that are questionable.

The ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA is a slim and compact convertible with a 14-inch screen. Asus has managed to pack all of the technology into a case that has the dimensions of a 13.3-inch device. The computer is driven by a ULV quad-core processor. The competitors include devices such as the Dell Inspiron 13 5379, the HP Spectre x360 13, and the Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB.

Asus  ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA (ZenBook Flip 14 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-8250U 4 x 1.6 - 3.4 GHz, Kaby Lake Refresh
Graphics adapter
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Core: 1100 MHz, dual-channel, 22.20.16.4836
Memory
8 GB 
, LPDDR3-2133, dual-channel, memory soldered in, no storage slots
Display
14.00 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 157 PPI, capacitive, 10 touch-points, native pen support, BOE NV140FHM-N62, IPS, glossy: yes
Mainboard
Intel Kaby Lake-U iHDCP 2.2 Premium PCH
Storage
SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1002, 256 GB 
, 205 GB free
Soundcard
Realtek ALC294 @ Intel Sunrise Point-LP PCH - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, Audio Connections: audio combo, Card Reader: microSD, 1 Fingerprint Reader, Sensors: acceleration sensor, TPM 2.0
Networking
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.2
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 13.9 x 327 x 226 ( = 0.55 x 12.87 x 8.9 in)
Battery
57 Wh Lithium-Ion
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HD
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, bag, McAfee LiveSafe (trial version), Ms Office 365 (trial version), 24 Months Warranty
Weight
1.4 kg ( = 49.38 oz / 3.09 pounds), Power Supply: 145 g ( = 5.11 oz / 0.32 pounds)
Price
999 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case - The ZenBook Flip offers a fashionable metal case

Asus has selected  a slim, silver metal case for the ZenBook Flip 14. Only the display bezels are kept in black color. The top of the base unit has a matte finish, and the back of the lid is decorated with a circular brush pattern. The battery is built-in. The Flip 14 does not offer a maintenance hatch and therefore you will have to open the case in order to access the parts inside. More on that later.

The workmanship of the device offers no cause for complaints. The gap widths are correct and there are no noticeable metal protrusions. In terms of stability, the case shows no grave weaknesses. For example, the case can be bent slightly on the left, next to the keyboard and below the touchpad - but this is also the case for most notebooks/convertibles. Even though the base unit can be twisted slightly, this remains within limits. The same can be said about the lid. If you put pressure on the back of the lid, there are some noticeable changes in the image display in some places.

When the lid is opened, the bottom of the lid serves as an additional foot. Then the back area of the base unit is raised and does not touch the surface anymore. The hinges keep the lid tightly in position. You can open the lid with one hand if you use some finger, hand, and arm acrobatics.

Asus has fitted a 14-inch display into a case that has the dimensions of a 13.3-inch device. So the device turns out quite compact and plays at the same level as "real" 13.3-inch devices. The HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng turns out even significantly slimmer than the competition. 

Size Comparison

328 mm / 12.9 inch 229 mm / 9.02 inch 19.9 mm / 0.783 inch 1.7 kg3.81 lbs325 mm / 12.8 inch 225 mm / 8.86 inch 20.5 mm / 0.807 inch 1.6 kg3.57 lbs327 mm / 12.9 inch 226 mm / 8.9 inch 13.9 mm / 0.547 inch 1.4 kg3.09 lbs323 mm / 12.7 inch 223.5 mm / 8.8 inch 13.95 mm / 0.549 inch 1.4 kg3.02 lbs306 mm / 12 inch 218 mm / 8.58 inch 13.6 mm / 0.535 inch 1.3 kg2.78 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Equipment - Asus only offers standard fare in the Flip 14

Asus does not offer any surprises in terms of the connections. You can connect an external display via HDMI. All three USB ports (2x Type A, 1x Type C) support the USB 3.1 Gen-1 standard. The Type-C port only serves for data transfer, and you cannot charge the battery via Type-C USB, for example. We had expected more here. The price level of the convertible demands for at least one Type-C USB 3.1 Gen-2 port, and it should rather be a Thunderbolt-3 port.

Right side: storage card reader (MicroSD), USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type C), audio combo, USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type A), HDMI, power port
Right side: storage card reader (MicroSD), USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type C), audio combo, USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type A), HDMI, power port
Left side: USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type A), volume rocker, power button
Left side: USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type A), volume rocker, power button

SD Card Reader

Asus does not offer a full SD card reader in the ZenBook, but we have to make do with a microSD reader. The built-in model is not one of the faster ones of its kind. When copying large data blocks, it achieves a maximum transfer rate of 36.5 MB/s. The transfer of 250 JPG image files (around 5 MB each) is performed at a speed of 33.2 MB/s. The HP Spectre x360 13, which is also equipped with a microSD card reader, proves that significantly higher transfer rates would be possible. We are testing the card reader using a reference card (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501 microSDXC 64GB). 

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501 microSDXC 64GB)
157.2 MB/s +373%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
79.6 MB/s +140%
Average of class Convertible
  (17.7 - 177.7, n=37, last 2 years)
73.9 MB/s +123%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501 microSDXC 64GB)
33.2 MB/s
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
28.6 MB/s -14%
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501 microSDXC 64GB)
206.9 MB/s +467%
Average of class Convertible
  (22.6 - 263, n=35, last 2 years)
94.9 MB/s +160%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
88.8 MB/s +143%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501 microSDXC 64GB)
36.5 MB/s
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
28.9 MB/s -21%

Communication

The ZenBook Flip does not offer an Ethernet port. Anyone needing such a port will have to use a corresponding USB adapter. The built-in WLAN module uses an Intel chip (Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265), which in addition to the 802.11a/b/g/n WLAN standards also supports the fast ac standard. The transfer rates that we measured under optimal conditions (no additional WLAN devices in close proximity, close distance between notebook and server PC) turned out well. 

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Average of class Convertible
  (1003 - 1395, n=2, last 2 years)
1199 MBit/s +79%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
668 MBit/s
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
655 MBit/s -2%
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
635 MBit/s -5%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
566 MBit/s -15%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165
335 MBit/s -50%
iperf3 receive AX12
Average of class Convertible
  (1178 - 1578, n=2, last 2 years)
1378 MBit/s +181%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
648 MBit/s +32%
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
597 MBit/s +22%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
491 MBit/s
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
484 MBit/s -1%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165
290 MBit/s -41%

Webcam

The webcam is not convincing. It produces washed out images at a maximum resolution of 1280x720 pixels.

Accessories

As well as the customary information leaflets (warranty information, quick start manual), the box of the convertible also includes a bag.

Maintenance

The ZenBook does not offer a maintenance hatch. In order to access the insides, you will have to remove the bottom of the case. The process is not particularly difficult. In order to do this, you will need to remove all the screws on the bottom of the case. There are no hidden screws underneath the rubber feet. After that, you can remove the case bottom using a spatula. You can access the fan, the SSD, the WLAN module, and the battery. There are no memory slots, but the memory is soldered-in.

The insides
The insides

Warranty

Asus offers a two-year warranty for the convertible - including pickup service. There is an option to extend the warranty. For example, you have to pay about 90 Euros (~$112) for a three-year warranty. Please see our Guarantees, Return Policies and Warranties FAQ for country-specific information.

Input Devices - The touchscreen of the Asus convertible accepts pen input

Keyboard

The ZenBook Flip is equipped with an illuminated chiclet keyboard. The flat, smooth keys have a short stroke and a clear pressure point. However, the resistance could have been crisper. While typing, the keyboard has a slight give - more in the center than at the edges. Even though this did not interfere much, this should not happen in a device of this price range. The illumination has three brightness levels among which you can choose using two function keys. Overall, Asus delivers a decent keyboard for home use here, but prolific writers should choose another device.

Touchpad

The multi-touch capable ClickPad takes up an area of about 10.5 x 7.3 cm (~4.1 - 2.9 in). This offers a lot of space for navigation using gestures. The smooth surface of the pad makes sliding the fingers easy. The pad has a short stroke and a clear pressure point. There is a fingerprint reader in the top right corner of the ClickPad.

Input devices
Input devices

Touchscreen

The touchscreen of the ZenBook supports 10 touch points. It did not give us any problems and reacts promptly to the inputs. The screen can be operated with fingers as well as the Asus Pen, which needs to be purchased separately for about 50 Euros (~$62).

You have to pay about 50 Euros (~$62) ...
You have to pay about 50 Euros (~$62) ...
... for the Asus Pen.
... for the Asus Pen.

Display - The contrast of the ZenBook Flip 14 display is too low

The 14-inch touchscreen display of the ZenBook Flip has a native resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. The brightness (288 cd/) and particularly the contrast (530:1) are too low, considering the price level. We are expecting values beyond 300 cd/ and 1000:1 here.

Unfortunately, the display uses PWM at a low frequency of 200 Hz to control the brightness at 90% or lower. This can lead to headaches and/or eye problems for sensitive persons.

Pixel grid
Pixel grid
Light halos
Light halos
273
cd/m²
271
cd/m²
292
cd/m²
285
cd/m²
302
cd/m²
298
cd/m²
288
cd/m²
295
cd/m²
288
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
BOE NV140FHM-N62 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 302 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 288 cd/m² Minimum: 16.7 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 90 %
Center on Battery: 302 cd/m²
Contrast: 530:1 (Black: 0.57 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 5.17 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 3.26 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
85% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
55% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
61.8% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
84.6% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
64.4% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.45
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
IPS, 1920x1080, 13.90
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
IPS LED, 1920x1080, 14.00
Display
13%
-31%
3%
-34%
Display P3 Coverage
64.4
68.1
6%
41.2
-36%
62.5
-3%
39.76
-38%
sRGB Coverage
84.6
99.5
18%
61.7
-27%
91.7
8%
59.3
-30%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
61.8
70.2
14%
42.6
-31%
64.1
4%
41.08
-34%
Response Times
4145%
-2%
-1%
21%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
44 ?(24, 20)
36 ?(18, 18)
18%
45 ?(24, 21)
-2%
46 ?(20.8, 25.2)
-5%
47 ?(24, 23)
-7%
Response Time Black / White *
33 ?(19, 14)
27 ?(13, 14)
18%
33 ?(20, 13)
-0%
31.6 ?(18.4, 13.2)
4%
34 ?(20, 14)
-3%
PWM Frequency
200 ?(90)
25000 ?(40)
12400%
192 ?(90)
-4%
347 ?(90)
74%
Screen
22%
-10%
-9%
12%
Brightness middle
302
311
3%
274
-9%
297.9
-1%
255
-16%
Brightness
288
278
-3%
272
-6%
278
-3%
247
-14%
Brightness Distribution
90
82
-9%
81
-10%
81
-10%
83
-8%
Black Level *
0.57
0.2
65%
0.32
44%
0.44
23%
0.21
63%
Contrast
530
1555
193%
856
62%
677
28%
1214
129%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
5.17
3.98
23%
5.57
-8%
5.1
1%
4.5
13%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
7.68
8.48
-10%
13.48
-76%
11
-43%
7.21
6%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.26
5.57
-71%
4.66
-43%
6.7
-106%
2.96
9%
Gamma
2.45 90%
2.51 88%
2.53 87%
2.9 76%
2.3 96%
CCT
7142 91%
7810 83%
7010 93%
6839 95%
6965 93%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
55
64
16%
39
-29%
64.1
17%
38
-31%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
85
99
16%
61
-28%
91.7
8%
59
-31%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
1393% / 794%
-14% / -13%
-2% / -5%
-0% / 5%

* ... 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 detected 200 Hz ≤ 90 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 200 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) Flickering detected at a brightness setting of 90 % and below. There should be no flickering or PWM above this brightness setting.

The frequency of 200 Hz is relatively low, so sensitive users will likely notice flickering and experience eyestrain at the stated brightness setting and below.

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18100 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

The color reproduction in the state of delivery can be called acceptable. We register a DeltaE 2000 color deviation of 5.17. This is not too far from the target range (DeltaE smaller than 3). The display does not suffer from a blue tint. The display is unable to reproduce the AdobeRGB and sRGB color spaces. The coverage rates measure 55% (AdobeRGB) and 85% (sRGB).

You can improve the color reproduction of the display by using the color profile we are offering. However, you need to make sure that you have the same display model (manufacturer + model number) as our test unit. Otherwise the color reproduction can become worse, instead of improving. Often displays from different manufacturers are used within the same notebook model series.

CalMAN - ColorChecker
CalMAN - ColorChecker
CalMAN - Grayscales
CalMAN - Grayscales
CalMAN - Color saturation
CalMAN - Color saturation

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
33 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 19 ms rise
↘ 14 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 87 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
44 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 24 ms rise
↘ 20 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 69 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

Asus has equipped the convertible with an IPS panel whose viewing angles are stable. You can read the display from any position. Outdoors, you can only use the computer when the sun is not too bright. There are the additional disadvantages of the reflective display surface.

The ZenBook outdoors (image taken with completely overcast sky).
The ZenBook outdoors (image taken with completely overcast sky).
Viewing angles
Viewing angles

Performance - Asus has equipped the ZenBook convertible with mid-range hardware

With the ZenBook Flip 14, Asus delivers a 14-inch convertible which offers more than enough computing power for applications from the office and internet areas. Our test unit can be purchased for about 950 to 1,000 Euros (~$1,178 - 1,240; The Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA is available for about $900 in the US). Other model variants are also available.

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

Processor

The ZenBook is driven by an Intel Core i5-8250U (Kaby Lake Refresh) quad-core processor. This is a mid-range CPU that strikes a good figure in all application areas. The built-in ULV processor (TDP: 15 watts) supports Hyperthreading, which means that two threads per core can run simultaneously. It operates at a basic clock speed of 1.6 GHz which can be increased up to 3.4 GHz via Turbo.

The processor runs through our multithread CPU tests at 1.3 to 3.4 GHz in mains operation. The single-thread tests are mostly run at 3.4 GHz. At times, one core is throttled down to 2.4 to 2.8 GHz. In battery operation, Turbo is not used, and the CPU tests run at 1.4 to 1.6 GHz (single thread) and 1.8 GHz (multithread).

Single thread (mains operation)
Single thread (mains operation)
Multithread (mains operation)
Multithread (mains operation)
Intel XTU
Intel XTU

We test whether the Turbo can also be used continuously in mains operation by running the multithread test of Cinebench R15 for about 30 minutes in a continuous loop. From the first to the second run, the result drops by about 5%. In successive runs, we also observe a drop - however, then the results drop considerably slower. In other words, the average Turbo speed drops with each successive run.

0102030405060708090100110120130140150160170180190200210220230240250260270280290300310320330340350360370380390400410420430440450460470480490500510520530540550560Tooltip
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64 Bit

The results in the CPU tests we ran remain on a normal level for the processor used here. In the multithread applications, the Turbo speed fluctuates significantly. This does not surprise us, since the cooling options are limited in a slim and compact convertible such as the ZenBook.

The additional cost for a ZenBook model with a Core-i7-8550U processor would not be worthwhile for most users. First, the moderate performance gain would be outweighed by a significant premium and second, the Core i7 would not be able to use its full performance, or only use it for a very short time as is the case here.

Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
6017
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
15292
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
5523
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
40.78 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
5.93 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.65 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.8 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
49.35 fps
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
558 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
144 Points
Help
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (68.6 - 287, n=65, last 2 years)
229 Points +59%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Intel Core i7-8550U
170 Points +18%
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
Intel Core i7-8550U
144 Points 0%
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
Intel Core i5-8250U
144 Points 0%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
144 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (81 - 147, n=97)
141.1 Points -2%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
Intel Core i5-7200U
124 Points -14%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (110.1 - 2889, n=67, last 2 years)
1556 Points +179%
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
Intel Core i5-8250U
611 Points +9%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Intel Core i7-8550U
576 Points +3%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (320 - 730, n=101)
570 Points +2%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
558 Points
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
Intel Core i7-8550U
501 Points -10%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
Intel Core i5-7200U
289 Points -48%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Multi 64Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (4.31 - 25, n=8, last 2 years)
17.9 Points +202%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (3.15 - 7.76, n=35)
6.02 Points +2%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Intel Core i7-8550U
5.94 Points 0%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
5.93 Points
CPU Single 64Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (1.86 - 3.26, n=8, last 2 years)
2.69 Points +63%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Intel Core i7-8550U
1.91 Points +16%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
1.65 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (0.91 - 1.79, n=35)
1.615 Points -2%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (13139 - 53525, n=7, last 2 years)
35016 Points +129%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (14148 - 22097, n=42)
18261 Points +19%
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
Intel Core i7-8550U
17960 Points +17%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Intel Core i7-8550U
15599 Points +2%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
15292 Points
Rendering Single 32Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (6243 - 10510, n=7, last 2 years)
8241 Points +49%
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
Intel Core i7-8550U
7508 Points +36%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Intel Core i7-8550U
6452 Points +17%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (5349 - 8356, n=42)
5631 Points +2%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
5523 Points
Geekbench 3
32 Bit Multi-Core Score
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (10893 - 13553, n=18)
12606 Points +10%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
11489 Points
32 Bit Single-Core Score
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
3503 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (3148 - 3503, n=18)
3302 Points -6%
Geekbench 4.0
64 Bit Multi-Core Score
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (10751 - 13486, n=19)
12210 Points +5%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
11574 Points
64 Bit Single-Core Score
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
4182 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (3924 - 4243, n=19)
4076 Points -3%
Geekbench 4.4
64 Bit Multi-Core Score
Average of class Convertible
  (3462 - 30452, n=9, last 2 years)
23641 Points +95%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (11269 - 14228, n=25)
12833 Points +6%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
12109 Points
64 Bit Single-Core Score
Average of class Convertible
  (1989 - 6801, n=9, last 2 years)
4777 Points +13%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U
4238 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (3453 - 4330, n=25)
4116 Points -3%
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
Average of class Convertible
  (124.8 - 443, n=5, last 2 years)
339 Points +53%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Intel Core i7-8550U (40.15063.674.0)
288.2 Points +30%
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
Intel Core i7-8550U
244.3 Points +10%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel Core i5-8250U (Edge 41)
221.1 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (151.5 - 256, n=78)
215 Points -3%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
Intel Core i5-7200U (Edge)
206.8 Points -6%
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
Intel Core i5-8250U
161.6 Points -27%

System Performance

The combination of Core-i5 processor, working memory running in dual-channel mode, and Solid-State Disk ensures a smooth running system. We did not encounter any problems. The computer has more than enough performance for applications from the office and internet areas. The very good results in the PC-Mark benchmarks confirm this. An increase in performance would not be possible, since Asus has already maxed everything out.

PC Mark 10
PC Mark 10
PCMark 7 Score
5667 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3660 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
4666 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4700 points
PCMark 10 Score
3473 points
Help
PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Average of class Convertible
  (4404 - 5830, n=3, last 2 years)
4890 Points +34%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
3999 Points +9%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1002
3660 Points
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Toshiba NVMe THNSN51T02DUK
3605 Points -2%
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
3592 Points -2%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (2986 - 4458, n=69)
3584 Points -2%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW256G7
3455 Points -6%
Work Score Accelerated v2
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
5154 Points +10%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1002
4700 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (2699 - 5106, n=58)
4646 Points -1%
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
4621 Points -2%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW256G7
4556 Points -3%
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Toshiba NVMe THNSN51T02DUK
4463 Points -5%
Average of class Convertible
  (2921 - 6089, n=3, last 2 years)
4045 Points -14%
PCMark 10
Score
Average of class Convertible
  (1486 - 7963, n=60, last 2 years)
5628 Points +62%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
4012 Points +16%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1002
3473 Points
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW256G7
3329 Points -4%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (3358 - 4081, n=67)
3296 Points -5%
Essentials
Average of class Convertible
  (3975 - 12059, n=60, last 2 years)
10505 Points +47%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
8660 Points +22%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW256G7
7977 Points +12%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (5855 - 9289, n=67)
7398 Points +4%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1002
7124 Points
Productivity
Average of class Convertible
  (2764 - 10800, n=60, last 2 years)
7392 Points +27%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
6812 Points +17%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1002
5830 Points
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW256G7
5752 Points -1%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (3851 - 6653, n=67)
5725 Points -2%
Digital Content Creation
Average of class Convertible
  (811 - 12360, n=60, last 2 years)
6366 Points +132%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
2971 Points +8%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1002
2739 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (2613 - 3082, n=67)
2733 Points 0%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW256G7
2182 Points -20%

Storage Solution

Asus has equipped the ZenBook with a SATA-III SSD from SanDisk. This is a model in the M.2-2280 format, which offers a total capacity of 256 GB. Of that, about 205 GB are available to the user at the time of delivery. The remaining storage space is used by the Windows installation and the recovery partition. The transfer rates turn out to be good.

According to the Asus website, there are also ZenBook models that are equipped with NVMe SSDs. So there should be an option to replace the SSD used in our test unit with an NVMe model. These Solid-State Disks run at considerably higher transfer rates, since they are connected via PCI Express x4 3.0.

Behind the sheet metal, ...
Behind the sheet metal, ...
... the SSD is hiding.
... the SSD is hiding.
SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1002
Sequential Read: 414.1 MB/s
Sequential Write: 435.6 MB/s
512K Read: 290.2 MB/s
512K Write: 302.7 MB/s
4K Read: 28.74 MB/s
4K Write: 52.5 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 285.7 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 179.6 MB/s
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1002
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
Toshiba NVMe THNSN51T02DUK
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW256G7
Average SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1002
 
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
108%
-19%
200%
90%
4%
Read Seq
414.1
919
122%
447.9
8%
2070
400%
1171
183%
457 ?(414 - 480, n=4)
10%
Write Seq
435.6
776
78%
304.8
-30%
1125
158%
605
39%
438 ?(433 - 444, n=4)
1%
Read 512
290.2
620
114%
293.7
1%
1252
331%
720
148%
301 ?(278 - 322, n=4)
4%
Write 512
302.7
575
90%
157
-48%
832
175%
472.8
56%
308 ?(292 - 339, n=4)
2%
Read 4k
28.74
45.99
60%
14.03
-51%
56.2
96%
35.92
25%
28.2 ?(26.2 - 29.7, n=4)
-2%
Write 4k
52.5
138.1
163%
63.3
21%
142.4
171%
132.5
152%
53 ?(49.9 - 57, n=4)
1%
Read 4k QD32
285.7
542
90%
165.9
-42%
432.9
52%
290.1
2%
318 ?(273 - 385, n=4)
11%
Write 4k QD32
179.6
437.3
143%
155.1
-14%
573
219%
389.6
117%
189.3 ?(170.8 - 214, n=4)
5%

Graphics Card

DXVAChecker
DXVAChecker

Intel's UHD Graphics 620 graphics core handles the graphics output. The GPU supports DirectX 12 and runs at speeds of between 300 and 1100 MHz. The results in the 3DMark benchmarks remain on a normal level for this GPU. It benefits from the working memory running in dual-channel mode, which makes better use of the graphics core, so it can provide a higher performance.

3DMark 06 Standard Score
10737 points
3DMark 11 Performance
1973 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
67355 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
8245 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
1088 points
3DMark Time Spy Score
419 points
Help
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Average of class Convertible
  (471 - 40768, n=65, last 2 years)
7603 Points +331%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1764 Points
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (1144 - 3432, n=244)
1749 Points -1%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-8550U
1709 Points -3%
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-8550U
1497 Points -15%
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1497 Points -15%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7200U
1408 Points -20%
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Average of class Convertible
  (2965 - 154219, n=50, last 2 years)
31444 Points +241%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-8550U
9678 Points +5%
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (6205 - 16400, n=225)
9262 Points +1%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
9214 Points
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-8550U
8600 Points -7%
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
8053 Points -13%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7200U
6595 Points -28%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Average of class Convertible
  (365 - 29684, n=65, last 2 years)
5731 Points +386%
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1180 Points
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (557 - 2608, n=213)
1161 Points -2%
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-8550U
1150 Points -3%
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-8550U
1047 Points -11%
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
934 Points -21%
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7200U
771 Points -35%

Gaming Performance

The CPU-GPU combination of the ZenBook Flip can bring some games smoothly to the screen. However, you must limit yourself to low resolutions and low quality settings. And this goes only for games that have moderate demands on the hardware. Power hungry games such as "Final Fantasy XV" cannot be played under any circumstances. Thanks to the working memory running in dual-channel mode, the frame rates turn out higher than in comparable devices whose memory runs in single-channel mode.

low med. high ultra
Tomb Raider (2013) 89.9 45.6 30.5 13.5
BioShock Infinite (2013) 60.3 31.2 27.1 9.8
Rise of the Tomb Raider (2016) 17.9 10.9 6.1 3

Emissions

Noise Emissions

The fan of the convertible does not produce a particularly high noise level. During idle operation, it is mostly silent or runs at a very low speed. Under load, it does not rev up excessively. During the stress test, we measured a noise level of 35.9 dB(A).

Unfortunately, the ZenBook produces some background noises: If you listen closely, you can hear a constant electronic crackling with varying intensity coming from inside. However, while idling or under low loads, you need to put your ear close to the device in order to hear the crackling at all. But under load, you can sometimes even still hear it clearly while the fan is running - for example, while running the Cinebench benchmark.

Noise Level

Idle
30.4 / 30.4 / 32 dB(A)
Load
31.7 / 35.9 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: 30.4 dB(A)
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2037.832.73330.937.82533.536.333.532.133.53137.237.33433.737.24032.129.330.629.332.15031.130.330.330.631.1632928.728.427.2298027.528.226.127.227.510026.126.325.825.126.112526.325.625.524.626.316023.824.524.22323.820022.623.523.222.722.625021.822.323.122.421.8315222222.321.62240021.121.121.220.321.150020.321.82118.820.363019.421.320.618.519.480019222017.819100019.223.519.817.719.2125018.924.219.317.718.9160019.525.820.217.719.520002026.420.417.320250019.625.219.817.719.6315019.326.119.717.819.3400018.724.118.818.118.7500018.722.718.918.218.7630018.720.318.918.518.7800018.718.91918.518.71000018.718.818.918.618.71250019.320.119.718.519.31600018.91919.518.718.9SPL31.535.93230.431.5N1.62.31.71.41.6median 19.4median 22.7median 20median 18.5median 19.4Delta1.32.21.71.31.3hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseAsus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
i5-8550U, UHD Graphics 620
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
i5-8550U, UHD Graphics 620
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
i5-7200U, HD Graphics 620
Noise
2%
1%
4%
-2%
off / environment *
30.4
30.13
1%
30.1
1%
28
8%
30.3
-0%
Idle Minimum *
30.4
30.13
1%
30.1
1%
28
8%
30.3
-0%
Idle Average *
30.4
30
1%
30.1
1%
28.8
5%
30.3
-0%
Idle Maximum *
32
30.13
6%
30.1
6%
30.3
5%
30.3
5%
Load Average *
31.7
33.4
-5%
33
-4%
34.5
-9%
37.2
-17%
Load Maximum *
35.9
33
8%
35
3%
34.3
4%
35.2
2%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

The ZenBook in the stress test
The ZenBook in the stress test

The ZenBook runs through our stress test (Prime95 and FurMark run for at least one hour) in the same way in mains and battery operation. The processor begins the test at 1.3 - 1.6 GHz, and then the speed drops to 1.2 - 1.4 GHz. At the beginning of the test, the graphics core runs at 700 - 900 MHz, and later the speed levels out at 800 MHz.

The heat development of the convertible remains within limits. During the stress test, the 40-degree Celsius mark (104 °F) is only exceeded at two measurement points.

Max. Load
 37 °C
99 F
39 °C
102 F
31.3 °C
88 F
 
 37.2 °C
99 F
39 °C
102 F
29.8 °C
86 F
 
 30.4 °C
87 F
28.5 °C
83 F
28.5 °C
83 F
 
Maximum: 39 °C = 102 F
Average: 33.4 °C = 92 F
32 °C
90 F
45.6 °C
114 F
40.9 °C
106 F
30.7 °C
87 F
38.8 °C
102 F
36.2 °C
97 F
29.4 °C
85 F
31.7 °C
89 F
32.3 °C
90 F
Maximum: 45.6 °C = 114 F
Average: 35.3 °C = 96 F
Power Supply (max.)  52 °C = 126 F | Room Temperature 22.1 °C = 72 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 33.4 °C / 92 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 39 °C / 102 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 45.6 °C / 114 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 22 °C / 72 F, compared to the device average of 30.2 °C / 86 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 30.4 °C / 86.7 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.1 °C / 82.6 F (-2.3 °C / -4.1 F).
Heat development top (load)
Heat development top (load)
Heat development bottom (load)
Heat development bottom (load)
Heat development top (idle)
Heat development top (idle)
Heat development bottom (idle)
Heat development bottom (idle)
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
i5-8550U, UHD Graphics 620
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
i5-8550U, UHD Graphics 620
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
i5-7200U, HD Graphics 620
Heat
-18%
-35%
-1%
-3%
Maximum Upper Side *
39
46.5
-19%
43.2
-11%
44.4
-14%
35
10%
Maximum Bottom *
45.6
46.5
-2%
57.8
-27%
42.8
6%
29.6
35%
Idle Upper Side *
23.3
29.6
-27%
35.7
-53%
22.2
5%
28.9
-24%
Idle Bottom *
23.1
28.4
-23%
34.6
-50%
23.4
-1%
30.5
-32%

* ... smaller is better

Speakers

The stereo speakers are placed at the bottom of the device. They produce a pleasing, full sound which you can listen to for prolonged periods without any trouble. However, the maximum volume is rather too low.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2036.130.936.12532.132.132.13133.133.733.14030.729.330.75030.130.630.16329.227.229.28030.827.230.810040.225.140.212545.624.645.616047234720041.722.741.725050.122.450.131555.421.655.440057.520.357.550056.818.856.863056.118.556.180060.917.860.9100060.717.760.7125059.817.759.8160059.617.759.6200059.417.359.4250058.717.758.7315061.417.861.4400058.218.158.250005618.256630057.518.557.5800060.618.560.61000060.518.660.51250059.418.559.41600059.118.759.1SPL71.430.471.4N29.51.429.5median 58.2median 18.5median 58.2Delta4.81.34.835.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseAsus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UAApple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (61.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 11.6% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (14.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 1.7% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (3.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 1.6% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (13.9% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 16% of all tested devices in this class were better, 3% similar, 81% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 21%, worst was 57%
Compared to all devices tested
» 12% of all tested devices were better, 3% similar, 85% 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 comparison (checkboxes selectable!)

Power Management - The ZenBook uses little power and has good endurance

Power Consumption

The ZenBook Flip does not reveal any abnormalities in terms of its power needs. Over the whole load range, the power consumption remains on a normal level for the built-in hardware. During idle operation, we measure a maximum power consumption of 11 watts. During the stress test, this value rises up to 36.4 watts. The power supply is rated at 45 watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.34 / 1 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 3.3 / 6.3 / 11 Watt
Load midlight 30 / 35.4 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 Flip 14 UX461UA
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
i5-8550U, UHD Graphics 620
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
i5-8550U, UHD Graphics 620
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
i5-7200U, HD Graphics 620
Power Consumption
5%
1%
4%
9%
Idle Minimum *
3.3
3.2
3%
3.2
3%
3.1
6%
3.5
-6%
Idle Average *
6.3
6
5%
5.9
6%
6.6
-5%
6.2
2%
Idle Maximum *
11
9.2
16%
8.8
20%
7
36%
7.4
33%
Load Average *
30
29.5
2%
31.2
-4%
35.2
-17%
32.2
-7%
Load Maximum *
35.4
35.6
-1%
42.2
-19%
34.6
2%
26.4
25%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

The ZenBook Flip 14 does not lack endurance. In our practically relevant WLAN test, the Convertible achieves a runtime of 9:26 h. Here, we simulate the load while opening websites via a script. The "Balanced" power profile is active, the power saving functions are deactivated, and the display brightness is lowered to about 150 cd/m². The 14-incher lasts for 8:33 h in our video test, where we run the short film "Big Buck Bunny" (H.264-coding, 1920x1080 pixels) in a constant loop. The Wi-Fi module as well as the power saving functions are deactivated, and the display brightness is set at about 150 cd/m².

The battery has a 57 Wh capacity.
The battery has a 57 Wh capacity.
Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
18h 51min
WiFi Websurfing (Edge 41)
9h 26min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
8h 33min
Load (maximum brightness)
2h 05min
Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 57 Wh
HP Spectre x360 13-ae048ng
i5-8550U, UHD Graphics 620, 60 Wh
Dell Inspiron 13-5379-9573
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 42 Wh
Lenovo Yoga 920-13IKB-80Y7
i5-8550U, UHD Graphics 620, 70 Wh
Lenovo Yoga 520-14IKB 80X80097GE
i5-7200U, HD Graphics 620, 53 Wh
Average of class Convertible
 
Battery Runtime
45%
-28%
26%
6%
10%
Reader / Idle
1131
918
-19%
1655
46%
887
-22%
1138 ?(680 - 1667, n=25, last 2 years)
1%
H.264
513
1070
109%
602
17%
740 ?(542 - 999, n=16, last 2 years)
44%
WiFi v1.3
566
527
-7%
324
-43%
685
21%
500
-12%
557 ?(329 - 876, n=64, last 2 years)
-2%
Load
125
166
33%
98
-22%
140
12%
175
40%
121 ?(53 - 219, n=47, last 2 years)
-3%

Verdict

Pros

+ IPS display
+ Full HD resolution
+ SSD
+ AC-WLAN
+ good battery life
+ optional pen input
+ keyboard illumination

Cons

- low-contrast display
- display shows PWM flickering
- slow storage card reader
- audible electronic crackling
- no Thunderbolt 3
The Asus Zenbook Flip 14 UX461UA, provided by cyberport
The Asus Zenbook Flip 14 UX461UA, provided by cyberport

With the ZenBook Flip 14, Asus has a convertible in its offerings whose 14-inch screen has been fitted into a case that has the dimensions of a 13.3-inch notebook. So this is a slim and compact device. The computer is run by a ULV quad-core processor which offers more than enough processing power for application from the office or internet areas.

A Solid-State Disk ensures a smooth running system. This could be replaced by an NVMe model if necessary. However, in order to do this, you would need to open the case of the notebook.

Despite its price of almost 1000 Euros (~$1240), the ZenBook Flip 14 still leaves room for improvement.

The battery life turns out very good. This is accompanied by a decent keyboard, which fulfills the demands of home usage. The keyboard illumination is also a positive. The display does not trigger any storm of enthusiasm. The brightness and particularly the contrast would need to be higher - the price level of the convertible demands it.

We see the Type-C USB 3.1 Gen-1 connection as unsuitable, since it can only be used for data transfer. We would have at least expected that the battery of the notebook could be charged via Type-C USB. After all, this is a mobile device. In principle, Asus should have put in a Thunderbolt-3 connection. In addition, Asus has only equipped the ZenBook Flip with a microSD card reader that does its work rather leisurely. 

Finally, we should mention the electronic crackling of our test unit, which is produced by the convertible in varying intensity. This also should not happen in a device of this price range.

Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA - 03/26/2018 v6(old)
Sascha Mölck

Chassis
81 / 98 → 83%
Keyboard
81%
Pointing Device
87%
Connectivity
49 / 80 → 62%
Weight
70 / 35-78 → 82%
Battery
91%
Display
82%
Games Performance
58 / 68 → 85%
Application Performance
87 / 87 → 100%
Temperature
93%
Noise
83%
Audio
63 / 91 → 69%
Camera
40 / 85 → 47%
Average
74%
84%
Convertible - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Asus ZenBook Flip 14 UX461UA (i5-8250U, SSD, FHD) Convertible Review
Sascha Mölck, 2018-03-29 (Update: 2020-05-19)