Review verdict for the Asus ExpertBook PM5 G2 - Strong performance with minor flaws

At first glance, the new 16-inch Asus ExpertBook PM5 G2 business notebook looks very sophisticated. Upon closer inspection, however, slight creaking sounds from the aluminum chassis and somewhat wobbly hinges detract from the overall impression. The mechanical clicks of the large ClickPad also feel a bit cheap. On the other hand, the connectivity and security features, including Ethernet and modern Wi-Fi 7 are impeccable.

The AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 delivers solid multi-core performance. However, the processor's high TDP puts the single cooling fan to the test; the cooling system becomes very loud under full load. Asus does offer quieter power profiles, allowing the device to remain whisper-quiet even under load, though it sacrifices some computing power in the process.

A real highlight of this 16-inch notebook is its matte WQHD display. With its high resolution and smooth 144 Hz refresh rate, it is excellent for work. In this regard, it offers top-notch image quality and a clear advantage over many business competitors, which often come with basic Full HD displays and standard 60 Hz refresh rates. The device offers good serviceability and also impresses with solid battery life for daily work.

As for memory, the base configuration of 16 GB of RAM seems somewhat modest for a modern system in this class. Fortunately, those requiring more capacity for demanding tasks can easily upgrade the system with an additional RAM module. The only downside is that minor quality issues don't quite align with the otherwise elegant design, especially given that one would expect flawless build quality throughout, considering the starting price of around 1,700 euros.