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Huawei MateBook E (i5-7Y54, HD615) Convertible Review

Convertible with a retro design. The Huawei MateBook E has enough style to suit any office. Find out in our review whether the Intel Core i5-7Y54 and HD Graphics 615-powered convertible stands out from the competition with its internal capabilities.

The MateBook m5-6Y54 Convertible marked Huawei’s first foray into the world of Windows devices in 2016. Huawei followed this by releasing the MateBook X and the MateBook D, which were classed as a subnotebook and a full-fledged notebook, respectively. Huawei has further expanded the MateBook series by releasing the MateBook E, a convertible which most closely related to the original MateBook. There is only a slight performance bump between the original MateBook and the MateBook E that we have in for review.

The MateBook E should be powerful enough for most daily office tasks thanks to its Intel Core i5-7Y54 processor and onboard HD Graphics 615. We will be comparing the MateBook E not only with its predecessor but also with the Asus Transformer 4 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy Book 12, the Acer Switch 5, and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet.

Huawei Matebook E (MateBook Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-7Y54 2 x 1.2 - 3.2 GHz, Kaby Lake
Graphics adapter
Memory
4 GB 
, LPDDR3L, Dual-Channel
Display
12.00 inch 3:2, 2160 x 1440 pixel 216 PPI, Capacitive, Chi Mei CMN7801, IPS, glossy: yes, detachable screen
Mainboard
Intel Kaby Lake-U + iHDCP 2.2 Premium PCH
Storage
SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1027, 256 GB 
, Two partitions (80 GB Windows, 142 GB data), 180 GB free
Soundcard
Intel Kaby Lake-U/Y PCH - High Definition Audio
Connections
2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 Docking Station Port, Audio Connections: Combined audio connector, 1 Fingerprint Reader, Brightness Sensor, Sensors: Fingerprint sensor, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Hall sensor
Networking
Intel 8265 Tri-Band WiFi (Oak Peak) Network Adapter (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.1
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 7 x 279 x 194 ( = 0.28 x 10.98 x 7.64 in)
Battery
33.7 Wh, 4430 mAh Lithium-Ion, 7.6 Volt, Battery runtime (according to manufacturer): 11 h
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 5 MP
Additional features
Speakers: Stereo, Keyboard: Chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, Keyboard, MateDock 2, MateBook Manager, 24 Months Warranty, fanless
Weight
1.1 kg ( = 38.8 oz / 2.43 pounds), Power Supply: 114 g ( = 4.02 oz / 0.25 pounds)
Price
1138 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case and Equipment

Huawei has not changed its convertible visually. The MateBook E, like its predecessor, is made of an aluminum alloy, which gives the 6.9 mm thick convertible a very sturdy appearance. The detachable keyboard serves as a base and as a cover for the MateBook E. The rear of the keyboard is swathed in a brown imitation leather material while the base hinges have a gold finish that complements the brown imitation leather. The front of the keyboard is finished in white to complement the MateBook E’s white finish.

The MateBook E has few ports, with Huawei including only a single USB Type-C port in addition to the headphone jack and keyboard connection. This lack of ports can be somewhat rectified by connecting the included MateDock 2, which adds USB Type-C, USB Type-A, HDMI, and VGA connections. The MateDock 2 supports Power Delivery, which means that the MateBook E can be charged while connected to the MateDock 2.

There is no SD card reader, so we are unable to test SD card performance. Despite the MateBook E not taking full advantage of its inbuilt Intel 8265 Tri-Band Wi-Fi adapter, buyers can look forward to fast Wi-Fi connection speeds.

Size Comparison

299 mm / 11.8 inch 211 mm / 8.31 inch 19 mm / 0.748 inch 1.1 kg2.46 lbs292.9 mm / 11.5 inch 201.8 mm / 7.94 inch 9.6 mm / 0.378 inch 1.3 kg2.85 lbs293 mm / 11.5 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 9 mm / 0.3543 inch 1.1 kg2.38 lbs292.1 mm / 11.5 inch 201.4 mm / 7.93 inch 8.5 mm / 0.3346 inch 1.1 kg2.38 lbs291.3 mm / 11.5 inch 199.8 mm / 7.87 inch 7.4 mm / 0.2913 inch 1.2 kg2.6 lbs279 mm / 11 inch 194 mm / 7.64 inch 7 mm / 0.2756 inch 1.1 kg2.43 lbs278.8 mm / 11 inch 194.1 mm / 7.64 inch 6.9 mm / 0.2717 inch 1.2 kg2.57 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity

Right-hand side: USB 3.1 Type-C port x1, volume buttons with an integrated fingerprint scanner
Right-hand side: USB 3.1 Type-C port x1, volume buttons with an integrated fingerprint scanner
Left-hand side: headphone jack
Left-hand side: headphone jack
Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Samsung Galaxy Book 12 SM-W728
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
668 MBit/s +13%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260
647 MBit/s +9%
Huawei Matebook E
Intel 8265 Tri-Band WiFi (Oak Peak) Network Adapter
592 MBit/s
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
474 MBit/s -20%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
440 MBit/s -26%
iperf3 receive AX12
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
617 MBit/s +41%
Samsung Galaxy Book 12 SM-W728
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
606 MBit/s +39%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
586 MBit/s +34%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260
490 MBit/s +12%
Huawei Matebook E
Intel 8265 Tri-Band WiFi (Oak Peak) Network Adapter
437 MBit/s

Input Devices

The detachable keyboard has soft chiclet keys that offer a soft acoustic feedback when pressed. Keys have practically no pressure point, but there is enough resistance for there to be sufficient feedback when typing. The size and the distance between the keys provides a smooth typing experience suited for long typing sessions after getting used to the keyboard. We found that the keyboard cover needs to be firm and level with the MateBook E otherwise the keyboard will twist as soon as any hand pressure is applied. The keyboard has a two-stage backlight for working in low light.

There is a touchpad integrated into the keyboard cover which acts as a mouse replacement. Unfortunately, the touchpad in our review unit is not fixed firmly in place as it audibly and visibly rattles. The surface texture could be better too, as successfully moving our fingers across the surface often felt like a conquest rather than a simple action. Fortunately, the touchpad responds in all corners and multi-touch commands can be executed accurately and easily. Mouse clicks are triggered by pressure, and while the touchpad responds well the MateBook E needs to be on a flat and firm surface for best clicking performance.

Input devices
Input devices

Display

Sub-pixel array
Sub-pixel array

The MateBook E has a 12-inch IPS display with a 2160x1440 native resolution and a 3:2 aspect ratio. Using X-Rite i1Pro 2, we measured average and maximum brightness levels at 428 cd/m² and 439 cd/m², respectively with 92% brightness uniformity. The contrast and black levels were equally impressive; we measured them at 1254:1 and at 0.35 cd/m². These strong contrast and brightness levels result in a sharp picture. Display reaction times were impressive too.

425
cd/m²
428
cd/m²
439
cd/m²
421
cd/m²
439
cd/m²
435
cd/m²
404
cd/m²
425
cd/m²
439
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
Chi Mei CMN7801 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 439 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 428.3 cd/m² Minimum: 7 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 92 %
Center on Battery: 439 cd/m²
Contrast: 1254:1 (Black: 0.35 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 5.17 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 5.69 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
100% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
71% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
79.9% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
99.8% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
84.9% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.42
Huawei Matebook E
Chi Mei CMN7801, , 2160x1440, 12.00
Huawei MateBook m5-6Y54
TMA 1200 Unknown Vendor, , 2160x1440, 12.00
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
BOE06EC, , 2160x1440, 12.60
Samsung Galaxy Book 12 SM-W728
Samsung SDCA029, , 2160x1440, 12.00
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
WST KL.1200w.004, , 2160x1440, 12.00
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2
LSN120QL01L01, , 2160x1440, 12.00
Display
-14%
-15%
-4%
-22%
Display P3 Coverage
84.9
65.8
-22%
69.6
-18%
77.3
-9%
58.8
-31%
sRGB Coverage
99.8
96.2
-4%
90
-10%
92.8
-7%
87.5
-12%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
79.9
66.8
-16%
65.9
-18%
83.1
4%
60.6
-24%
Response Times
14%
-43%
47%
-30%
-7%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
26 ?(10, 16)
25 ?(9, 16)
4%
41 ?(22, 19)
-58%
4 ?(2, 2)
85%
37 ?(19, 18)
-42%
28.4 ?(15.2, 13.2)
-9%
Response Time Black / White *
22 ?(12, 10)
17 ?(4, 13)
23%
28 ?(16, 12)
-27%
20 ?(18, 2)
9%
26 ?(14, 12)
-18%
22.8 ?(13.6, 9.2)
-4%
PWM Frequency
250 ?(100)
221.2 ?(49)
Screen
-31%
-2%
103%
-21%
-12%
Brightness middle
439
451
3%
262
-40%
376
-14%
369
-16%
388.1
-12%
Brightness
428
425
-1%
254
-41%
378
-12%
331
-23%
344
-20%
Brightness Distribution
92
80
-13%
89
-3%
91
-1%
75
-18%
78
-15%
Black Level *
0.35
0.37
-6%
0.26
26%
0.03
91%
0.46
-31%
0.39
-11%
Contrast
1254
1219
-3%
1008
-20%
12533
899%
802
-36%
995
-21%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
5.17
11.04
-114%
3.34
35%
4.1
21%
5.52
-7%
4.6
11%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
7.68
14.92
-94%
7.12
7%
6.45
16%
9.29
-21%
9.1
-18%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
5.69
10.45
-84%
3.28
42%
3.64
36%
6.95
-22%
6.1
-7%
Gamma
2.42 91%
2 110%
2.47 89%
2.58 85%
2.58 85%
2.07 106%
CCT
7999 81%
8849 73%
7180 91%
7113 91%
7009 93%
7104 91%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
71
74
4%
59
-17%
74
4%
56
-21%
59
-17%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
100
100
0%
90
-10%
93
-7%
88
-12%
91
-9%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-10% / -22%
-20% / -10%
49% / 74%
-24% / -22%
-10% / -11%

* ... smaller is better

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
22 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 12 ms rise
↘ 10 ms fall
The screen shows good response rates in our tests, but may be too slow for competitive gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 42 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is similar to the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
26 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 10 ms rise
↘ 16 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 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 30 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better 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.

sRGB color-space coverage – 100%
sRGB color-space coverage – 100%
AdobeRGB color-space coverage – 71%
AdobeRGB color-space coverage – 71%

Our review unit’s display is one of the best in its class. The MateBook E has 100% sRGB color-space coverage and achieves 71% AdobeRGB color-space coverage. The MateBook E is suitable for outdoor use thanks to its bright display. While sunlight reflections cannot obscure the screen, we would still recommend using the device in the shade for ease of use. The MateBook E does not use PWM for brightness control, which is great for those with sensitive eyes.

CalMAN – Grayscale
CalMAN – Grayscale
CalMAN – ColorChecker
CalMAN – ColorChecker
CalMAN – Saturation
CalMAN – Saturation
Outdoor use
Outdoor use

Performance

Screenshot - LatencyMon
Screenshot - LatencyMon

Huawei has equipped the MateBook E with an Intel Core i5-7Y54 processor, HD Graphics 615, 4 GB RAM, and a 256 GB SSD. The convertible is powerful enough to easily complete office tasks and is even capable of simple image-editing. While the MateBook E lacks the performance for current video games, older titles on low settings should possibly be playable.

Processor

The Intel Core i5-7Y54 is a dual-core processor that is suitable for demanding applications. The CPU can be passively cooled thanks to its low 4.5 W TDP. In our Cinebench R15 multi-benchmark, our review unit scored about 10% better than the 2016 MateBook Convertible that is powered by an Intel Core m5-6Y54.

0102030405060708090100110120130140150160170180190200210220230240250260270Tooltip
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64 Bit

The MateBook E maintained its performance during our Cinebench R15 endurance test, only dropping around 10 points by the end of the benchmark. This equates to a performance drop of less than 5%, which is far better than comparison devices that on average experience performance drops closer to 50 points. The results from our Cinebench R15 endurance benchmark also show that the MateBook E performed better than the class average of Core i5-7Y54 devices.

Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (68.6 - 287, n=64, last 2 years)
229 Points +85%
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Intel Core i7-7660U
163 Points +31%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Intel Core i7-7500U
143 Points +15%
Samsung Galaxy Book 12 SM-W728
Intel Core i5-7200U
127 Points +2%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel Core i7-7500U
126 Points +2%
Huawei Matebook E
Intel Core i5-7Y54
124 Points
Average Intel Core i5-7Y54
  (111 - 124, n=7)
115.4 Points -7%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2
Intel Core i5-7Y54
115 Points -7%
Huawei MateBook m5-6Y54
Intel Core m5-6Y54
107 Points -14%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (110.1 - 2889, n=66, last 2 years)
1554 Points +493%
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Intel Core i7-7660U
410 (335.35min - 409.45max) Points +56%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Intel Core i7-7500U
339 Points +29%
Samsung Galaxy Book 12 SM-W728
Intel Core i5-7200U
321 Points +23%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel Core i7-7500U
299 Points +14%
Huawei Matebook E
Intel Core i5-7Y54
262 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2
Intel Core i5-7Y54
234 Points -11%
Huawei MateBook m5-6Y54
Intel Core m5-6Y54
232 Points -11%
Average Intel Core i5-7Y54
  (205 - 262, n=7)
231 Points -12%
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
124 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
262 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
36 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.8 %
Help

System Performance

Our test device is also about 10% faster than its predecessor in the PCMark 8 benchmark. The MateBook E runs smoothly and reliably in daily use. Windows 10 is quick to boot and is snappy, as are programs such as office applications and Internet browsers.

Please see our CPU benchmark page for a more detailed look at how the Intel Core i5-7Y54 performs in other devices.

PCMark 8 - Home Score Accelerated v2
Average of class Convertible
  (4404 - 5830, n=3, last 2 years)
4890 Points +64%
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Iris Plus Graphics 640, i7-7660U, Samsung PM971 KUS040202M
4095 Points +37%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Intel SSD 600p SSDPEKKW512G7
3556 Points +19%
Samsung Galaxy Book 12 SM-W728
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Samsung SSD PM871a MZNLN256HMHQ
3538 Points +19%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2
HD Graphics 615, i5-7Y54, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
3092 Points +4%
Huawei Matebook E
HD Graphics 615, i5-7Y54, SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1027
2979 Points
Average Intel Core i5-7Y54, Intel HD Graphics 615
  (2232 - 3092, n=7)
2823 Points -5%
Huawei MateBook m5-6Y54
HD Graphics 515, 6Y54, SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1027
2717 Points -9%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
2591 Points -13%
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
2979 points
Help

Storage Devices

The built-in SanDisk SD8SN8U 256 GB SSD has good read and write speeds, but there are faster options which would have further improved the MateBook E’s system performance. Benchmark results show that in terms of read and write speeds the MateBook E trails comparison devices which are equipped with faster SSDs.

Please see our HDD/SSD benchmark page for a comparison of how the SanDisk SD8SNU performs against other hard drives.

Huawei Matebook E
SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1027
Huawei MateBook m5-6Y54
SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1027
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
Samsung Galaxy Book 12 SM-W728
Samsung SSD PM871a MZNLN256HMHQ
Average SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1027
 
Average of class Convertible
 
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
-3%
-8%
19%
2%
430%
Read Seq
506
512
1%
475.3
-6%
511
1%
495 ?(472 - 512, n=4)
-2%
2596 ?(last 2 years)
413%
Write Seq
461
462.1
0%
260.9
-43%
473.7
3%
454 ?(436 - 462, n=4)
-2%
1614 ?(last 2 years)
250%
Read 512
341.9
376
10%
289.3
-15%
443.7
30%
349 ?(323 - 376, n=4)
2%
2154 ?(last 2 years)
530%
Write 512
294.7
295.2
0%
260.7
-12%
395.4
34%
309 ?(295 - 326, n=4)
5%
1660 ?(last 2 years)
463%
Read 4k
32.46
31.83
-2%
30.06
-7%
40.46
25%
34.1 ?(31.8 - 40.3, n=4)
5%
436 ?(last 2 years)
1243%
Write 4k
65.3
64.5
-1%
73.5
13%
91.9
41%
75.3 ?(64.2 - 107, n=4)
15%
495 ?(last 2 years)
658%
Read 4k QD32
381.8
269.6
-29%
296.8
-22%
289.1
-24%
330 ?(270 - 382, n=4)
-14%
59.5 ?(last 2 years)
-84%
Write 4k QD32
184.4
178.2
-3%
239.8
30%
260.7
41%
192 ?(178.2 - 207, n=4)
4%
122.4 ?(last 2 years)
-34%
SanDisk SD8SN8U256G1027
Sequential Read: 506 MB/s
Sequential Write: 461 MB/s
512K Read: 341.9 MB/s
512K Write: 294.7 MB/s
4K Read: 32.46 MB/s
4K Write: 65.3 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 381.8 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 184.4 MB/s

Graphics Card

Graphics are handled by the integrated Intel HD Graphics 615, the performance of which depends on the combination of CPU and RAM. In our test device, the HD Graphics 615 benefits from LPDDR3 RAM, allowing the MateBook E to score slightly higher in benchmark results than an average of comparable devices.

Please see our GPU benchmark page for a comparison of the results from other devices that are equipped with Intel Graphics 615.

3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Average of class Convertible
  (471 - 40768, n=64, last 2 years)
7541 Points +500%
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640, Intel Core i7-7660U
2493 Points +98%
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
1613 Points +28%
Samsung Galaxy Book 12 SM-W728
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7200U
1533 Points +22%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
1419 Points +13%
Huawei Matebook E
Intel HD Graphics 615, Intel Core i5-7Y54
1256 Points
Average Intel HD Graphics 615
  (1032 - 1384, n=14)
1233 Points -2%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2
Intel HD Graphics 615, Intel Core i5-7Y54
1161 Points -8%
Huawei MateBook m5-6Y54
Intel HD Graphics 515, Intel Core m5-6Y54
781 Points -38%
3DMark 11 Performance
1381 points
Help

Gaming Performance

The MateBook E is not suitable for extensive video-game nights. Although it is possible to play a few modern games at the lowest graphics settings, typically the device will struggle to play most new games. The MateBook E will play more simple games downloadable from the Windows Store, or even older games such as BioShock Infinite.

Please see our games benchmark page for a more detailed look at which games the Intel HD Graphics 615 can run.

low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 41.52 25.08 20.46 6.67

Emissions and Energy

Noise Emissions

Since the MateBook E is passively cooled, there is no fan noise. We did not notice coil whine or anything similar during our tests.

Temperature

Stress test
Stress test

The MateBook E keeps temperatures under control thanks to its passive cooling. At idle, surface temperatures are consistent with ambient temperatures. Our test device feels warm under load, but it is never hot. Our thermal-imaging camera shows that surface temperatures reach just above 40 °C.

In our one-hour stress test, passive cooling could not prevent core temperatures from rising to 80 °C. These high temperatures cause the CPU to downclock below the base clock, stabilizing at 1.1 GHz until the end of the test. This is extreme load though, and one which rarely occurs outside of stress tests. As such, it is unlikely that the MateBook E would experience thermal performance throttling in daily use.

Max. Load
 33.8 °C
93 F
36.3 °C
97 F
33.1 °C
92 F
 
 30.4 °C
87 F
31 °C
88 F
30.7 °C
87 F
 
 30.1 °C
86 F
30.7 °C
87 F
31.6 °C
89 F
 
Maximum: 36.3 °C = 97 F
Average: 32 °C = 90 F
34.5 °C
94 F
37.9 °C
100 F
36.9 °C
98 F
32.6 °C
91 F
33.5 °C
92 F
33.1 °C
92 F
31.7 °C
89 F
32 °C
90 F
31.3 °C
88 F
Maximum: 37.9 °C = 100 F
Average: 33.7 °C = 93 F
Power Supply (max.)  35.3 °C = 96 F | Room Temperature 22.4 °C = 72 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 32 °C / 90 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 36.3 °C / 97 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 37.9 °C / 100 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 24.7 °C / 76 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 31.6 °C / 88.9 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 (-3.5 °C / -6.3 F).
Thermal-imaging at idle – top
Thermal-imaging at idle – top
Thermal-imaging at idle – bottom
Thermal-imaging at idle – bottom
Thermal-imaging under load – top
Thermal-imaging under load – top
Thermal-imaging under load – bottom
Thermal-imaging under load – bottom

Speakers

The MateBook E has speakers which are suitable for occasional playback of audio content. The speakers are relatively quiet with an unbalanced sound. Low tones are poorly represented, while highs fall off sharply. The speakers are fine for listening from time to time, but we would recommend using an external audio source, whether that be external speakers or headphones.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2032.930.932.92531.532.131.53134.933.734.94031.829.331.85030.830.630.86327.727.227.78026.527.226.510026.425.126.412524.924.624.916030233020041.822.741.825048.922.448.93155621.65640059.620.359.650053.818.853.863051.518.551.580059.117.859.110006617.766125063.117.763.1160066.717.766.7200066.617.366.6250068.917.768.9315070.917.870.9400063.718.163.7500063.818.263.8630058.818.558.8800058.518.558.51000061.618.661.61250055.918.555.91600037.818.737.8SPL77.530.477.5N37.51.437.5median 58.8median 18.5median 58.8Delta8.81.38.835.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseHuawei Matebook EApple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Huawei Matebook E audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (70.8 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 20.8% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (13.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 5.1% higher than median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (10.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 5% higher than median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (7% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (26.2% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 78% of all tested devices in this class were better, 4% similar, 18% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 21%, worst was 57%
Compared to all devices tested
» 77% of all tested devices were better, 4% similar, 18% 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 are de/selectable)

Power Consumption

We measured the MateBook E's maximum power draw under load at almost 22 W. This means that the included 40 W USB Type-C power supply has more than enough capacity to charge the convertible even under extreme load. The MateBook E is economic when idling, sipping a maximum of 9 W and a minimum of 4 W.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.46 / 0.52 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 3.9 / 8.8 / 8.9 Watt
Load midlight 20 / 21.8 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.

Battery Life

The MateBook E has a 33.3 Wh battery which lasted 6 h 45 m in our practical Wi-Fi test, during which we simulate the load required to render websites. While this is an improvement of two-and-a-half hours compared with its predecessor, the MateBook E lasts around half-an-hour less than the class average. More expensive competitors, such as the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet have longer runtimes thanks to their larger battery capacities, with the Lenovo's 37 Wh battery lasting more than 30 minutes longer than the MateBook E in our tests.

Battery Runtime - WiFi Websurfing
Average of class Convertible
  (329 - 876, n=63, last 2 years)
557 min +38%
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7
i7-7660U, Iris Plus Graphics 640, 45 Wh
489 min +21%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet Gen 2
i5-7Y54, HD Graphics 615, 37 Wh
441 min +9%
Huawei Matebook E
i5-7Y54, HD Graphics 615, 33.7 Wh
405 min
Acer Switch 5 SW512-52-5819
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620,  Wh
355 min -12%
Asus Transformer 4 Pro (i7-7500U, HD620)
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, 39 Wh
280 min -31%
Huawei MateBook m5-6Y54
6Y54, HD Graphics 515, 33 Wh
263 min -35%
Battery Runtime
WiFi Websurfing
6h 45min

Pros

+ bright, color accurate display
+ 100% sRGB color space
+ stable and thin
+ Type-C dock included in the box
+ good camera
+ fast system performance

Cons

- MatePen is an optional extra
- no LAN port on the MateDock 2

Verdict

Test device courtesy of Cyberport
Test device courtesy of Cyberport

The MateBook E is a performant convertible that can even handle more demanding tasks without issue. The MateBook E can be considered as a full-fledged notebook replacement thanks to its sufficient storage space and Huawei’s decision to include the keyboard cover in the box. 

Huawei’s MateBook E is a powerful and stylish convertible, the combination of which is a tempting proposition.

Naturally, the gold accents and the vintage look of the keyboard cover may not appeal to everyone. Take a closer look at the MateBook E if you are looking for a device with a stylish design that does not compromise on performance.

Huawei Matebook E - 11/13/2019 v7
Mike Wobker

Chassis
85 / 98 → 87%
Keyboard
84%
Pointing Device
92%
Connectivity
42 / 75 → 56%
Weight
74 / 20-75 → 98%
Battery
73%
Display
85%
Games Performance
38 / 78 → 49%
Application Performance
70 / 85 → 83%
Temperature
94%
Noise
100%
Audio
40 / 91 → 44%
Camera
66 / 85 → 78%
Average
73%
85%
Convertible - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Huawei MateBook E (i5-7Y54, HD615) Convertible Review
Mike Wobker, 2018-03-26 (Update: 2018-05-15)