Intel Core i5-1155G7 outperforms the Core i7-1165G7: 12-inch Vaio SX12 comes with the performance of a 15-inch Ultrabook

For most home or office users, an Intel Core U-series CPU is sufficient for daily tasks like web browsing, emailing, spreadsheet editing, and video streaming. If you start moving down to the Celeron or Atom CPUs, however, performance can become noticeably more sluggish especially if multitasking between applications. Most laptops 13 inches or larger tend to ship with Core U-series CPUs while most laptops under 13 inches tend to ship with much slower processors.

The Vaio SX12 is one of the few sub-13-inch laptops to carry the same U-series CPUs as its larger alternatives. In other words, it's one of the fastest 12.5-inch subnotebooks in the market simply because it foregoes the Celeron or Atom series that nearly all of its 12-inch peers utilize. Our tests have shown that the processor in the Vaio isn't being throttled or held back, either. 

Outside of the processor, the SX12 also carries a full sRGB IPS display and more port options than one might expect from a 12.5-inch form factor. If you're looking for more oomph from a subnotebook without needing to settle for something larger and heavier, then the SX12 should fit the bill.

The main drawback to the SX12 is its louder fan noise when compared to its larger alternatives. Cramming in the same U-series CPU into a smaller and lighter chassis has meant that the fan will need to work overtime to keep temperatures in check. When considering how much else the SX12 has to offer, however, the louder fan might not be a deal breaker to many. Users can check out our full review on the SX12 to learn more about its features and performance.