The ASUS Vivobook 16 stands out as a practical and budget-friendly laptop that covers the basics well. Priced at RM2,999, it’s aimed at users who want a dependable machine for everyday tasks without spending too much. After testing it out, I found it to be a strong option for students, remote workers, and anyone who needs a device that’s reliable and easy to use.

Battery Life

One of the best things about the Vivobook 16 is its battery life. During testing, it lasted over two days on a single charge with moderate use. That kind of endurance is rare at this price point, and it’s great for people who need a laptop that can keep going throughout the day—and then some—without constantly reaching for the charger. Whether you’re attending classes, working remotely, or just browsing the web, the long battery life adds real convenience.

Build Quality and Design

The Vivobook 16 feels solid and well-made. It’s not a premium metal design, but it still gives off a sense of durability that should hold up to everyday use—like being carried around in a backpack or used on the go. At 1.88kg, it’s fairly portable for a 16-inch laptop, and it includes ASUS’s ErgoSense keyboard, which feels comfortable to type on. The large touchpad is also responsive and easy to use.

Ports and Connectivity

Connectivity is another area where the Vivobook 16 does well. It comes with two USB4 ports, one HDMI 2.1, and a USB Type-A port, giving you a decent mix for connecting accessories, displays, and external drives. You won’t need to carry around a bunch of dongles, which is always a plus.

Performance and AI Features

Under the hood, the Vivobook 16 runs on the Snapdragon X processor. It’s part of a new wave of ARM-based laptops, and it comes with some unique features. For example, AI tools are built into Windows 11, including Copilot, which helps boost productivity, and creative features for editing images or generating content. ASUS adds its own software too, like ASUS StoryCube, which helps manage your photos and videos more easily.

Smart Features

A standout feature I didn’t expect in a laptop at this price is Presence Sensing. It works together with Windows Hello to lock the laptop automatically when you step away and unlock it as you return. It’s surprisingly convenient and adds an extra layer of privacy and security without any effort on your part.

ARM Architecture and App Compatibility

Because this laptop uses an ARM-based chip, there are a few things to keep in mind. While Windows on ARM is improving thanks to Microsoft and Qualcomm’s efforts, some apps might not run natively yet. That said, most common software should work fine, and Microsoft’s Prism emulation is getting better all the time. Even some games are starting to run more smoothly as support improves.

What I Like

• Excellent battery life – Lasts over two days on a single charge with moderate use.
• Solid build and comfortable usability – Sturdy design with a good keyboard and large touchpad.
• Smart features at this price – Presence Sensing and AI enhancements add real value for daily use.

Some concerns

• App compatibility concerns – Some apps may not run natively due to ARM architecture.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the ASUS Vivobook 16 is a great choice if you’re after a long-lasting, well-built laptop that focuses on the essentials. The added AI features and smart functions are a bonus, especially at this price point. While ARM architecture still has a few growing pains in terms of app support, things are heading in the right direction. If you need a reliable laptop for everyday productivity, the Vivobook 16 is definitely worth a look.