Personally I’d go for the 14 inch version but this is a review of the larger one but with the i5 processor
ASUS VIVOBOOK 513EA
This larger-sized laptop has a 15.6-inch Full HD display, with 1920 x 1080-pixel resolution.
There’s a quad-core Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor and a generous 8GB of Ram, plus 256GB of solid-state drive (SSD), 185GB of which is available to use for storage.
It has both Bluetooth and wi-fi, with wired connectivity provided by two USB 2.0 sockets (one USB 3.0, one USB-C).
In addition, it comes with a full-sized HDMI output for connecting to an alternative monitor or TV, a headphone/microphone jack, plus a micro SD slot to take a memory card.
How fast is it and what’s it like to use?
It pretty much aced our benchmark performance tests. It flies through basic office tasks and web browsing, with plenty left to take on more resource-intensive tasks such as photo and video editing, though it doesn’t have the necessary graphics card for serious gaming.
This laptop loads simple websites instantly, with only a little lag when tackling more complex pages containing multiple images.
As this is a large laptop weighing 1.73kg, it’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a super-portable laptop to carry around with you all day. This one’s better suited to life on a desk.
Build quality is acceptable too, though there’s some minor flex in the screen and base.
What are the keyboard and touchpad like?
The keyboard is better than some we’ve seen and is easy to type on at speed.
The touchpad is good, too. The buttons have the right amount of travel and finger movements are pretty smoothly represented by the cursor motion on screen.
How good is the screen and webcam?
The display is fine, though it lacks a little contrast and colours are slightly washed out. Reflections aren’t an issue and the viewing angle is acceptable – stray too far off centre and the screen will dim somewhat, but it’s better than many of its competitors.
The webcam is disappointing – Skype images look very dark, noisy and lacking in detail. Meanwhile, skin tones take on an unnatural orange hue. The audio is in sync with the picture, but rather muffled.
How are the speakers and audio quality?
Sound quality from the laptop’s speakers is OK. Our experts thought the maximum volume level was good, but the audio was lacking in bass, with a harsh, tinny tone.
Plug in some good headphones and the situation improves, though the bass can come across as a bit overwhelming.
How long does the battery last?
Overall, the battery life is acceptable for a laptop of this size. You’ll get a reasonable 8.5 hours of video playback before it gives up the ghost. However, web browsing time is more limited, with the battery going flat in a relatively quick five hours and 22 minutes.