ASUS Zenbook Pro 15 (2021)
| Manufacturer | ASUS |
|---|---|
| Product family | Zenbook |
| Release date | 2021 |
| Discontinued | No |
| Operating system | Windows 11 Home (Can be configured with Windows 11 Pro, Windows 10 Home, Windows 10 Pro) |
| CPU | AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX AMD Ryzen 7 5800H AMD Ryzen 7 5800HS AMD Ryzen 5 5600H |
| Memory | 8, 16, or 32 GB LPDDR4X (supports dual-channel) |
| Memory slots | None (soldered) |
| Storage | 512 GB or 1 TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD |
| Storage slots | 1 user accessible |
| Removable storage | 2-in-1 card reader (SD/MMC) |
| Display | Screen size: 15.6 inch Panel type: OLED Coating: Glossy Resolution: 1920 x 1080 or 3840 x 2160 Aspect ratio: 16:9 Refresh rate: 60 Hz Brightness: 550 Nits (HDR peak) Contrast Ratio |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon Graphics Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Laptop 4 GB GDDR6 50 W w/ Dynamic Boost |
| Sound | Built-in stereo speakers |
| Camera | Front: HD camera with IR function for Windows Hello |
| Touchpad | Standard clickpad |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Bluetooth 5.1 or 5.2 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-C) 1 x HDMI 2.1 1 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack 1 x DC-in |
| Power brick | 150W AC adapter |
| Battery | 96 WHr, 3S2P, 6-cell Li-ion |
| Keyboard | Backlit Chiclet Keyboard with Num-key |
| Chassis | Color: Aluminum alloy Materials: Aluminum alloy chassis |
| Number pad | Yes |
| Fingerprint reader | No |
| Facial recognition | Yes (Windows Hello) |
| Website | ASUS |
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The ASUS Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) is a high-performance ultrathin multimedia laptop designed for prosumer tasks. It features AMD Ryzen 5000 series processors and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti graphics, making it suitable for demanding applications and light gaming. The laptop is available in various configurations and is known for its vibrant OLED display and sleek design.[1]
Primary Hardware
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Processor
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) can be configured with the following processors[1]:
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX with 8 cores and 16 threads, 20 MB cache, and a max boost frequency of 4.6 GHz.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800H with 8 cores and 16 threads, 20 MB cache, and a max boost frequency of 4.4 GHz.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800HS with 8 cores and 16 threads, 20 MB cache, and a max boost frequency of 4.4 GHz.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600H with 6 cores and 12 threads, 19 MB cache, and a max boost frequency of 4.2 GHz.
ASUS claims that the R7-5800H and R7-5800HS have the same performance on their laptops due to innovative thermal design and clock boost technology.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the Ryzen 9 5900HX delivers excellent CPU performance and sustainability, only about 5 to 15 percent slower than the newer Ryzen 9 6900HX. The competing Intel Core i7-12800H is about 25 percent slower in terms of raw multi-thread performance.[2]
Benchmarks:
- Cinebench R15 Multi Loop: Ø2073 (2054.55-2114.16)
- Cinebench R20: 4981 Points
- Cinebench R23 Multi Core: 12845 Points (12414.2min - 12844.5max)
- Geekbench 5.5 Multi-Core: 8445 Points
- Blender v2.79 BMW27 CPU: 250 Seconds
- 7-Zip 18.03: 58141 MIPS
Graphics
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) can be configured with the following graphics options[1]:
- AMD Radeon Graphics (integrated)
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Laptop GPU with 4 GB GDDR6 memory, boost up to 1402 MHz at 35 W (50 W with Dynamic Boost), and Nvidia Max-Q technology.
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti is significantly faster than entry-level options but falls short compared to the GTX 1660 Ti. Its ray-tracing performance is notably slower than the already slow GTX 1660 Ti.[2]
Benchmarks:
- 3DMark Fire Strike Score: 11932 Points
- 3DMark Time Spy Score: 5338 Points
- 3DMark Cloud Gate Score: 46618 Points
- 3DMark 11 Performance: 16609 Points
Memory
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) supports the following memory configurations[1]:
- 8 GB LPDDR4X on board
- 16 GB LPDDR4X on board
- 32 GB LPDDR4X on board
All configurations support dual-channel memory. However, the RAM is soldered and not upgradeable, which may limit future performance enhancements. The memory latency is competitive, but the lack of upgradeability is a downside.[2]
Benchmarks:
- AIDA64 Memory Copy: 41194 MB/s
- AIDA64 Memory Read: 45797 MB/s
- AIDA64 Memory Write: 43882 MB/s
- AIDA64 Memory Latency: 97.1 ns
Storage
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) can be configured with the following storage options[1]:
- 512 GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD
- 1 TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD
The laptop includes one M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0x4 slot for storage expansion. Reviews note that the 1 TB WDC PC SN730 SSD delivers sequential read and write rates of about 2900 MB/s and 3000 MB/s, respectively, and sustains its maximum transfer rates for extended periods.[2]
Benchmarks:
- CrystalDiskMark Read Seq: 2477.93 MB/s
- CrystalDiskMark Write Seq: 1905.48 MB/s
- AS SSD Score Total: 5037 Points
Co-processors
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) does not include any dedicated co-processors.[1]
Input Devices
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Keyboard
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) features a backlit Chiclet keyboard with a num-key and 1.35 mm key travel.[1] Reviewers note that the key feedback is adequate but feels similar to lower-end models, lacking a noticeable upgrade. The key travel is slightly shallower and softer compared to more premium models.[2]
Touchpad
The laptop comes with a standard clickpad. Reviewers find it smaller than competitors but offering decent feedback and smooth traction. The clickpad has a firm feel and is responsive, though it is quieter than some alternatives.[2]
Webcam
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) includes an HD camera with IR function to support Windows Hello.[1] The webcam has limited resolution compared to competitors but includes a camera kill switch and IR sensor for Windows Hello support. It performs adequately in well-lit conditions.[2]
Microphone
The laptop features a built-in array microphone with Cortana voice-recognition support.[1] The microphone quality is decent for video calls and casual use, but not exceptional.[2]
Output Devices
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Display
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) offers two display options[1]:
- 15.6-inch, FHD (1920 x 1080) OLED, 16:9 aspect ratio, 0.2 ms response time, 60 Hz refresh rate, 550 nits HDR peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, VESA CERTIFIED Display HDR True Black 500, 1.07 billion colors, PANTONE Validated, Glossy display, 70% less harmful blue light, SGS Eye Care Display, Touch screen, 88% screen-to-body ratio.
- 15.6-inch, 4K (3840 x 2160) OLED, 16:9 aspect ratio, 0.2 ms response time, 60 Hz refresh rate, 550 nits HDR peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, VESA CERTIFIED Display HDR True Black 500, 1.07 billion colors, PANTONE Validated, Glossy display, 65% less harmful blue light, Touch screen, 88% screen-to-body ratio.
Reviewers praise the display for its excellent color reproduction and response times. However, the DCI-P3 coverage was recorded at only 79 percent, which is lower than advertised.[2]
Benchmarks:
- Maximum Brightness: 349.1 cd/m²
- Brightness Distribution: 98%
- Contrast: ∞:1 (Black: 0 cd/m²)
- ΔE Color: 2.42
Audio
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) comes with built-in stereo speakers.[1] Reviewers note that the audio is balanced but lacks bass, with palm rests vibrating at higher volumes. The speakers are positioned near the front corners, providing decent sound quality for casual listening.[2]
Connectivity
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WiFi
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) can be configured with either[1]:
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) (Dual band) 2x2 + Bluetooth 5.1 Wireless Card
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) (Dual band) 2x2 + Bluetooth 5.2 Wireless Card
Reviewers note that the Wi-Fi performance is adequate for general use but lacks the latest Wi-Fi 6E support. The transmit rates are slower than usual, and it is recommended to check wireless connectivity after purchase.[2]
Benchmarks:
- iperf3 transmit: 285 MBit/s
SD Card Reader
The laptop includes a 2-in-1 card reader (SD/MMC).[1] Reviewers note that the transfer rates are relatively slow, and the reader is not spring-loaded.[2]
Benchmarks:
- Average JPG Copy Test: 80.6 MB/s
USB
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) is equipped with the following USB ports[1]:
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
Reviewers note that the laptop has limited USB ports for a 15.6-inch laptop and lacks Thunderbolt support.[2]
Display Outputs
The laptop includes one HDMI 2.1 port.[1] Reviewers note that the HDMI port supports HDMI 2.0b, allowing for external display connections.[2]
Case
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The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) features an aluminum alloy chassis.[1] Reviewers praise the strong rigidity with minimal twisting and creaking. The design is sleek, but the larger footprint compared to competitors may be a drawback for portability.[2]
Maintenance
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The laptop requires specific tools to open, including a T5 Torx wrench and Philips screwdriver.[2] The RAM and WLAN are soldered and not upgradeable, limiting future enhancements.[2]
Cooling System
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The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) is equipped with a dual fan cooling system.[2]
Heat
Reviewers note that hot spots can reach 48 °C under load, with the top surface remaining cooler than the bottom for comfortable use.[2]
Noise
The fans are quiet under low loads but can reach up to 53 dB(A) under maximum load. The fans are barely noticeable during light tasks but become more audible during gaming or heavy workloads.[2]
Energy Management
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Power Consumption
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) ships with a 150 W AC adapter.[1] Reviewers note a maximum draw of 111 W under stress tests, with idle consumption ranging from 5 W to 15 W depending on brightness and power profile.[2]
Battery Life
The laptop includes a 96 WHr, 3S2P, 6-cell Li-ion battery.[1] Reviewers note up to 13 hours of real-world WLAN usage, with charging from empty to full taking about 1.5 hours.[2]
Benchmarks:
- WiFi Websurfing: 12h 46min
Biometrics
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The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) includes an IR webcam with Windows Hello support.[1]
Software
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The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) can be configured with the following operating systems[1]:
- No preinstalled OS
- Windows 11 Home
- Windows 10 Home
- Windows 11 Pro
- Windows 10 Pro
Preinstalled Software
MyASUS
The MyASUS program provides various system management features, including system diagnosis, battery health charging, fan profile, Splendid, function key lock, WiFi SmartConnect, Link to MyASUS, TaskFirst, Live update, and ASUS OLED Care.[1]
Other Preinstalled Software
The laptop also comes with a Microsoft Office 1-month trial for new Microsoft 365 customers, Microsoft Office Home & Business 2021, and WPS Office Standard Edition (with license for 3 products).[1]
Linux Support
Linux support is limited, as the laptop is primarily designed for Windows.[2]
Accessories & Warranty
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The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) comes with a 150 W AC adapter and a sleeve. Included accessories vary according to country and territory.[1] There is a one-year limited manufacturer warranty if purchased in the US.[2]
Reviews Summary
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Overall Sentiment
The Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) is considered a strong contender in the ultrathin multimedia laptop market, offering excellent CPU and GPU performance. It is praised for its vibrant OLED display and sleek design. However, it lacks some modern connectivity options like Thunderbolt support and has soldered RAM, limiting upgradeability. The overall design is sleek, but the chassis shows signs of age with a larger footprint compared to competitors.[2]
Problems Summary[2]
- Lacks Thunderbolt support.
- Solder* Soldered RAM, limiting upgradeability.
- Larger footprint compared to competitors, affecting portability.
- Slower-than-usual Wi-Fi transmit rates.
- Relatively slow SD card reader.
- Limited USB ports for a 15.6-inch laptop.
- Microphone quality is decent but not exceptional.
- Hot spots can reach 48 °C under load.
- Fan noise can reach up to 53 dB(A) under maximum load.
Community Reception
Overall Sentiment
Problems Summary
References
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.17 1.18 1.19 1.20 1.21 1.22 1.23 "Zenbook Pro 15 (2021) Specifications". ASUS.
- ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 2.14 2.15 2.16 2.17 2.18 2.19 2.20 2.21 2.22 2.23 2.24 2.25 "Asus Zenbook Pro 15 OLED UM535Q laptop review: Like an AMD-powered XPS 15". NotebookCheck.