ASUS ExpertBook Ultra Review: $3,599.99 Price Makes It Hard to Recommend

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is a premium business laptop that redefines expectations for the category, but its steep price makes it a difficult recommendation for individual buyers. It’s an exceptional device for those prioritizing design, performance, and display quality, and a strong contender for fleet purchases where budget is less of a concern.

Key Facts

• ASUS ExpertBook Ultra laptop
• Intel Core Ultra X7 358H processor
• 32GB RAM
• Intel Arc B390 GPU
• 3K Tandem OLED display
• 0.99 kg weight
• 10.9 mm thin
• $3,599.99 price
• 26 hours battery life (advertised)

A Business Laptop That’s Actually Exciting

For many years, business laptops have been defined by their lack of personality. Typically constructed from basic plastics and featuring underwhelming displays and creaky hinges, these machines often detracted from the overall perception of the Windows laptop ecosystem. They were functional but rarely inspiring.

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra represents a significant departure from this norm. It is the first business-class laptop encountered that has prompted genuine consideration for extended use. This machine has successfully made me want to continue interacting with it long after testing concludes.

This is a stark contrast to the experiences with business-focused laptops from other major manufacturers. While Dell and HP have produced capable machines, none have evoked this level of personal engagement or excitement for me.

Design and Display of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra

The ExpertBook Ultra breaks free from mundane business aesthetics. It boasts ultra-thin bezels and a distinctive chassis finish known as Nano Ceramic Technology. This material provides a unique texture that feels both premium and durable, enhancing the overall user experience and visual appeal.

This device is remarkably light and thin. It weighs only 0.99 kg and measures an incredibly slim 10.9 mm in profile. Its portability makes it exceptionally easy to handle with one hand and to carry in any bag, positioning it as an ideal travel companion for professionals on the go.

The display is a standout feature, a 3K Tandem OLED panel. This screen offers impressive color contrast and vibrant colors that truly pop. Coupled with a high 120Hz refresh rate, it ensures that scrolling and animations are exceptionally smooth and fluid, enhancing visual tasks.

Additionally, the display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus with a matte finish designed to reduce reflections and improve outdoor visibility. This makes it one of the better laptops for use in bright, sunny conditions, though the matte surface slightly impacts text and image clarity compared to glossy screens.

Performance and Features of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra

Under the hood, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is powered by an Intel Core Ultra X7 358H processor. This is complemented by 32GB of RAM and an Intel Arc B390 GPU. This configuration provides robust performance for demanding business tasks.

The Intel Arc B390 GPU is more capable than typical integrated graphics solutions. It effectively balances power consumption with performance, offering a surprisingly competent graphics chip that can handle some gaming at 1080p medium settings when needed.

Beyond its core performance, the laptop includes several advanced features. It supports Wi-Fi 7 for fast wireless connectivity. Security is robust, featuring ASUS ExpertGuardian, TPM 2.0, and Microsoft Pluton for comprehensive data protection. High-resolution camera with Windows Hello IR face recognition and a fingerprint sensor in the power button add convenience and security.

The device also offers excellent audio with a 6-speaker system that includes AI noise cancellation for clear calls.

Battery life is rated for up to 26 hours, with fast charging capabilities to replenish 50% in 30 minutes via USB PD 3.0. The keyboard and a large 110 cm² haptic touchpad are designed for comfortable and efficient input.

Price and Value of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is currently available for purchase with a price tag of $3,599.99. This cost secures the configuration reviewed, featuring the Intel Core Ultra X7 358H processor, 32GB RAM, and the Intel B390 GPU, along with the Tandem OLED 3K display.

This price point of $3,599 is exceptionally high. Even for a laptop that achieves near perfection in many areas, this cost is difficult to justify for an individual purchase. It places the ExpertBook Ultra in a very exclusive, premium segment of the market.

Given the substantial investment required, potential buyers are advised to look for sales or explore third-party retailers like Best Buy. These avenues may offer more competitive pricing, making the overall value proposition more accessible for those not purchasing in bulk.

Areas for Improvement in the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra

During testing of a pre-production model, the laptop’s lid hinge was notably loose. This caused the screen to not hold a stable position for comfortable typing. ASUS has indicated this was a pre-production issue, and final retail units are not expected to exhibit this problem.

Retail units tested did not replicate the loose hinge issue. However, it is advisable for users to check their device carefully upon receipt. If a significantly loose hinge is present, seeking an exchange is recommended to ensure proper functionality.

The matte finish on the display, while beneficial for reducing glare, may not appeal to all users. It can slightly diminish the vibrant color contrast often seen on OLED panels and reduce the perceived sharpness of text and images compared to glossy screens. Users accustomed to high-resolution glossy displays might find this a minor drawback.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra a good business laptop?

Yes, the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is an exceptional business laptop, offering a premium design, powerful performance, and a stunning display. It stands out by being engaging to use, unlike many traditional, often boring, business-focused models.

What are the key specifications of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra?

The model reviewed features an Intel Core Ultra X7 358H processor, 32GB RAM, and an Intel Arc B390 GPU. It also boasts a 14-inch 3K Tandem OLED display, a weight of 0.99 kg, and a thickness of 10.9 mm.

What is the price of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra?

The ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is priced at $3,599.99. This cost includes the high-end specifications mentioned, such as the advanced processor, ample RAM, and the premium OLED display.

What are the main criticisms of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra?

The primary criticism is its very high price tag. Additionally, a pre-production model exhibited a loose hinge issue, and the matte display finish may not suit everyone’s preference for color contrast and sharpness.

Worth it if: You need a premium, ultra-portable business laptop and budget is not a primary concern. It is also a strong candidate for businesses looking to equip executives with top-tier devices.

Skip if: You are an individual buyer looking for value for money. The high price makes it an impractical purchase for most consumers, and there are more budget-friendly alternatives available for everyday productivity needs.