ASUS Zenbook S 13 (2023)

ASUS Zenbook S 13 (2023)

Manufacturer	ASUS
Product family	Zenbook
Release date	January 2023 (2023-01)
Introductory price	USD 1099
Discontinued	No
Operating system	Windows 11 Home Windows 11 Pro
CPU	Intel Core Ultra 7 155U Intel Core i7-1355U
Memory	16 or 32 GB LPDDR5X (onboard)
Memory slots	None (onboard)
Storage	512 GB or 1 TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
Storage slots	1 user accessible
Display	Screen size: 13.3 inch Panel type: OLED Coating: Glossy Resolution: 2880 x 1800 PPI: 255 Aspect ratio: 16:10 Refresh rate: 60 Hz Brightness: 550 or 600 Nits (HDR) Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1 DCI-P3: 100 % VRR: No Screen-to-body ratio: 85 %
Graphics	Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Sound	2 x stereo speakers w/ Smart Amp Technology, harman/kardon (Premium)
Camera	Front: 1080p with IR function for Windows Hello
Touchpad	Precision touchpad
Connectivity	Intel AX211 WiFi 6E Bluetooth 5.3 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-A) 2 x Thunderbolt 4 (Type-C, DP 1.4, PD) 1 x HDMI 2.1 1 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack
Power brick	65W USB-C AC adapter
Battery	4 cell Li-ion 63 Wh
Keyboard	White backlit, 3 brightness levels
Chassis	Color: Onyx grey Materials: Aluminum with plasma ceramic coating Cooling: Dual-fan dual-radiator thermal module
Number pad	No
Fingerprint reader	No
Facial recognition	Yes (IR webcam)
Predecessor	ASUS Zenbook S 13 (2022)
Website	ASUS

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   The ASUS Zenbook S 13 (2023) is a high-end ultrabook designed for daily use and light multitasking. It features Intel's 13th generation processors and a high-quality OLED display. The Zenbook S 13 is known for its slim and lightweight design, making it a portable option for users who prioritize mobility.

Primary Hardware

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Processor

The ASUS Zenbook S 13 (2023) can be configured with the following processors:

• Intel Core Ultra 7 155U with 12 cores (6 P-cores + 6 E-cores) and 14 threads, 12 MB cache and a max frequency of 4.8 Ghz.
• Intel Core i7-1355U with 10 cores (2 P-cores + 8 E-cores) and 12 threads, 12 MB cache and max frequency of 5.0 Ghz.

The Intel Core i7-1355U processor peaks at around 40W of power in Performance mode but quickly stabilizes at around 20W, with temperatures in the low 80s Celsius and fan noise levels of approximately 44 dB(A). In Standard mode, the CPU stabilizes at 15W with temperatures around 75°C and quieter fan noise levels of around 36-37 dB(A). Whisper mode limits the CPU to 6W, resulting in barely audible fans and temperatures in the low 60s, but the laptop performs at about 30% of its capabilities in this mode.

In multicore tests, the i7-1355U performs worse than the previous AMD model, while showing a slight advantage in single-core tests. The processor's performance drops further in battery operation, with a 17% reduction in multicore performance.

Benchmarks:

• Cinebench R15:
  • Performance mode: ~1070 points
  • Standard mode: ~900 points
• Cinebench R23:
  • Multi Core: 8637 points (7015 points in battery operation)
  • Single Core: 1805 points (1730 points in battery operation)
• Blender v2.79 BMW27 CPU: 450 seconds

Graphics

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) comes with integrated graphics options:

• Intel Iris Xe Graphics with 96 Execution Units (EUs) and frequencies up to 1.30 GHz.

The integrated Iris Xe graphics perform adequately for light gaming and daily tasks but are limited by the power constraints of the ultrabook design. It is capable of handling casual gaming and multimedia tasks but struggles with more demanding applications.

Benchmarks:

• 3DMark Fire Strike:
  • Graphics: 5101 points
• 3DMark Time Spy:
  • Graphics: 1505 points
• The Witcher 3 (1080p Ultra): 12.3 fps
• GTA V (1080p Highest Settings): 9.42 fps

Memory

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) is available with the following memory configurations:

• 16 GB LPDDR5X (onboard)
• 32 GB LPDDR5X (onboard)

The memory is onboard and non-upgradeable, which may limit future performance upgrades. The dual-channel configuration provides decent performance for everyday tasks and light multitasking.

Benchmarks:

• PassMark 10: 3115 (Memory)

Storage

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) can be configured with the following storage options:

• 512 GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
• 1 TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD

The SSD performed very well in tests, with fast read and write speeds, and is the only upgradeable component in the laptop. It is capable of handling large files and applications efficiently.

Benchmarks:

• CrystalDiskMark 5/6:
  • Read Seq Q32T1: 7025 MB/s
  • Write Seq Q32T1: 3931 MB/s
• AS SSD Score Total: 5566 points

Co-processors

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) includes the Intel AI Boost NPU for accelerating AI applications.

Input Devices

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Keyboard

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) features a backlit chiclet keyboard with 1.1 mm key travel. The keys are backlit with white LEDs and offer three brightness levels. The typing experience is not as satisfying as previous models due to the shallower key travel, which may not be suitable for all users.

Touchpad

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) comes with a precision touchpad. The touchpad is a smooth glass surface that handles swipes and taps well, but the physical clicks are rather clunky. It is slightly taller than on the previous S13, filling up the taller palm-rest space resulting from the taller chassis design.

Webcam

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) is equipped with a 1080p webcam with IR function for Windows Hello. The webcam quality is decent in good lighting conditions, providing satisfactory performance for video conferencing.

Microphone

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) includes a built-in array microphone. The microphone quality is adequate for video calls and voice recordings.

Output Devices

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Display

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) offers two display options:

• 13.3-inch, 3K (2880 x 1800) OLED, 16:10 aspect ratio, 0.2ms response time, 60Hz refresh rate, 600nits HDR peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, VESA CERTIFIED Display HDR True Black 600, 1.07 billion colors, PANTONE Validated, Glossy display, 70% less harmful blue light, SGS Eye Care Display, 85% screen-to-body ratio.
• 13.3-inch, 3K (2880 x 1800) OLED, 16:10 aspect ratio, 0.2ms response time, 60Hz refresh rate, 550nits HDR peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, 1.07 billion colors, PANTONE Validated, Glossy display, 70% less harmful blue light, SGS Eye Care Display, 85% screen-to-body ratio.

The display offers excellent image quality with high contrast and accurate color reproduction. The OLED panel provides deep blacks and vibrant colors, making it suitable for media consumption. However, the display is not very bright at only around 350 nits SDR and capped at 60 Hz refresh rate.

Benchmarks:

• Coverage: 100% sRGB, 99.1% Adobe RGB, 99.6% DCI-P3
• Max brightness in the middle of the screen: 369.37 cd/m2 (SDR), 388.93 cd/m2 (HDR)
• Brightness Distribution: 98%
• Contrast Ratio: ∞:1 (Black: 0 cd/m²)

Audio

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) features stereo side-firing speakers with Smart Amp Technology and harman/kardon (Premium) branding. The speakers get loud, at 77-78 dBA at head level, but the quality of the sound is tiny, with no bass at all and distortions at higher volumes.

Connectivity

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WiFi

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) is equipped with an Intel AX211 WiFi 6E module. The WiFi performance is stable, providing good transfer rates and range.

Benchmarks:

• iperf3 transmit AXE11000: 1555 MBit/s
• iperf3 receive AXE11000: 1439 MBit/s

Bluetooth

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) comes with Bluetooth 5.3.

SD Card Reader

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) does not include an SD card reader.

USB

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) is equipped with the following USB ports:

• 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
• 2 x Thunderbolt 4 (Type-C) with DisplayPort 1.4 and Power Delivery

Display Outputs

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) includes the following display outputs:

• 1 x HDMI 2.1

Case

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The Zenbook S 13 (2023) features a strong unibody design with a plasma ceramic coating. The main chassis is made of aluminum, providing durability and an elegant design. The finish is environmentally friendly and effectively hides smudges and fingerprints.

Maintenance

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The bottom cover of the Zenbook S 13 (2023) can be easily removed with Torx screws (T5). The SSD and WiFi chip are the only upgradeable components, making it easier to maintain and upgrade compared to previous models.

Cooling System

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The Zenbook S 13 (2023) is equipped with a dual-fan dual-radiator thermal module. The thermal performance is not on par with previous S13 models, with anemic heatpipes, small radiators, and ultrathin fans with limited airflow power. The laptop runs hot under load, especially in Performance mode.

Heat

The laptop runs toasty on Performance mode, with hotspots of 50-55°C in the middle of the chassis, above and under the CPU. The screen does not heat up excessively, maintaining a safe temperature.

Benchmarks:

• Maximum temperature on the upper side: 43.1°C
• Maximum temperature on the bottom: 45°C

Noise

The fans produce a high-frequency noise that can be annoying during use, particularly in Whisper mode. The laptop gets noisy for an ultrabook on Performance mode, at 44 dB(A). The Standard profile is a little better balanced, with quieter fan levels at around 36 dB(A).

Benchmarks:

• Performance mode: 47.8 dB(A)
• Standard mode: 40.1 dB(A)

Energy Management

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Power Consumption

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) ships with a 65W USB-C charger. The power consumption is efficient, with a maximum of 59.5 watts under load.

Benchmarks:

• Idle: 5.8 / 8.5 / 8.8 Watt
• Load: 35.1 / 59.5 Watt

Battery Life

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) comes with a 63 Wh battery. The battery life is impressive, lasting nearly 14 hours in video tests, making it suitable for long usage without charging.

Benchmarks:

• WiFi Websurfing: 11h 18min
• Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p: 13h 49min
• Load (maximum brightness): 2h 26min

Biometrics

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The Zenbook S 13 (2023) supports Windows Hello face recognition through its IR webcam.

Software

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All SKUs ship with Windows 11 Home, but the laptop can be upgraded to Windows 11 Pro.

Preinstalled Software

MyASUS

The MyASUS app provides control over power profiles, battery and screen settings, updates, and more. The laptop supports multiple performance/thermal profiles, including Performance, Balanced, and Whisper modes, allowing users to tailor the experience based on their needs.

Other Preinstalled Software

The Zenbook S 13 (2023) also comes with other software like ScreenXpert, GlideX, and a 1-month trial for Microsoft Office.

Accessories & Warranty

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The Zenbook S 13 (2023) comes with a 65W USB-C AC adapter and a sleeve. There is a one-year limited manufacturer warranty if purchasedin the US.

Reviews Summary

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Overall Sentiment

The ASUS Zenbook S 13 (2023) is generally well-received for its portability, high-quality OLED display, and solid build quality. Reviewers appreciate its slim and lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for users who need a portable laptop for daily use and light multitasking. However, the laptop's performance is somewhat limited by its ultrabook design, and it runs hot and noisy under load. The shallow keyboard and lack of upgradeable RAM are also noted as drawbacks.

Problems Summary

• Shallow keyboard with 1.1 mm key travel, which may not be comfortable for all users.
• Runs hot and noisy under load, especially in Performance mode.
• Limited performance due to power constraints of the ultrabook design.
• Integrated graphics are adequate for light tasks but struggle with more demanding applications.
• No SD card reader, which may be a drawback for users who require this feature.
• Non-upgradeable RAM, which may limit future performance upgrades.
• High-frequency fan noise can be annoying during use.

Links

i7-1355U, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: UltrabookReview

i7-1355U, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: NotebookCheck