The ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) is more than just another slim laptop in the crowded market of ultraportables. With a focus on merging sleek design and next-gen technology, ASUS has crafted a device that caters to modern professionals, creatives, and anyone looking for high performance on the go. This laptop doesn't just aim to meet the demands of everyday tasks but elevates your experience with features that bring AI-driven intelligence and aesthetic beauty together. Whether you're typing away in a coffee shop or attending virtual meetings from home, the Zenbook S 14 promises to make a lasting impression.
The Zenbook S 14's balance of portability and functionality sets it apart. ASUS has refined the Zenbook experience to create a laptop that is incredibly light and easy to carry but doesn't sacrifice power or versatility. While the minimalist design will catch your eye, it's what lies beneath that truly makes this laptop a standout. From intelligent software integrations to a high-quality build that feels premium when you open the lid, this device is built for those who demand more from their everyday tech.
Minimalist design with maximum impact
The ASUS Zenbook S 14 shows how form and function combine seamlessly. Encased in a unique Ceraluminum body—a blend of ceramic and aluminium—this laptop feels luxurious and highly durable. Previously used in luxury watches and aerospace industries, the material provides excellent resistance to scratches and fingerprints. The laptop is available in Zumaia Grey and offers a subtle but distinct aesthetic that elevates beyond the generic metallic designs. Weighing just 1.2 kg and with a thickness of only 1.1 cm, the Zenbook S 14 is built to slip effortlessly into any bag, making it ideal for those on the move.
Despite its slim form factor, the Zenbook S 14 doesn't compromise on practicality. It has two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, a USB-A port for older peripherals, an HDMI 2.1 port for external monitors, and a 3.5mm audio jack. ASUS has smartly avoided the common mistake of relying solely on USB-C, giving users more flexibility without the need for dongles. The clean, geometric design is also worth mentioning. The oversized ASUS logo on the lid adds a touch of boldness without going overboard, while the laptop's slim bezels around the display provide a modern, streamlined look.
Build quality is impressive, with little to no flex in the keyboard or the lid, even when handled roughly. The hinges allow you to open the laptop with one hand, and though the maximum opening angle is capped at 135 degrees, it's more than sufficient for most use cases. Overall, the design balances elegance and practicality, making it a head-turner that feels robust enough for everyday use.
OLED display and rich audio experience
The ASUS Zenbook S 14 features a stunning 14-inch 3K OLED display, which is immediately one of its standout features. The screen is vibrant and smooth with a resolution of 2,880 x 1,800 and a 120Hz refresh rate, making everything from web browsing to video playback a visually engaging experience. The OLED technology brings deep blacks, vibrant colours, and excellent contrast, making it a dream for content creators who rely on accurate colour reproduction. Watching movies or editing photos is a delight, with the Pantone-validated display ensuring colour accuracy at professional levels.
One of the most impressive aspects of the display is how it handles various lighting conditions. Even in brightly lit environments, the screen holds up well, though it does reflect quite a bit, which is typical for glossy OLED panels. ASUS has mitigated some of this with software that adjusts brightness and colour temperature based on the surrounding light, which helps reduce eye strain. Whether working in a dimly lit room or a sun-filled office, the Zenbook's screen adapts to your needs without missing a beat.
Complementing the visual experience is the powerful four-speaker audio system, fine-tuned by Harman Kardon. The sound quality for a laptop this thin is surprisingly rich and clear, with decent bass that doesn't distort at higher volumes. The speakers are well-suited for video calls, music playback, and even light gaming, where audio immersion adds to the experience. Though it won't replace your premium external speakers, the Zenbook S 14 offers one of the better audio systems available on a laptop of this size.
Whether watching a movie, listening to music, or on a conference call, the combination of vibrant OLED visuals and solid audio performance makes the Zenbook S 14 an ideal multimedia device. The immersive screen and speaker setup elevate your overall experience, adding a level of enjoyment to everyday tasks.
Performance and AI integration in action
Under the hood, the Zenbook S 14 is powered by Intel's latest Core Ultra 7 Processor 258V, paired with 32GB of RAM and 1TB of PCIe 4.0 SSD storage, making it more capable of handling intensive multitasking. Whether working with large files in Photoshop, running multiple virtual machines, or keeping 20 Chrome tabs open, the Zenbook S 14 performs without sweat. The laptop runs cool, thanks to ASUS's advanced ambient cooling system, which makes noise levels whisper, even under heavy workloads.
One of the standout features of the Zenbook S 14 is its AI integration, driven by Intel's AI Boost technology. Tasks like real-time photo editing, generating text, and video enhancements are made faster and more efficient with built-in AI capabilities. The AI-assisted video call function is handy in real-life usage. The system automatically adjusts the background blur and lighting during a Zoom call, making you look more professional without manual tweaking. These little touches make the Zenbook S 14 feel like it's designed with productivity in mind.
Intel's Arc-integrated graphics handle the laptop's graphics, which perform admirably for light to medium gaming or creative tasks like video rendering. While it's not a gaming powerhouse, casual gamers will appreciate its ability to handle titles like Genshin Impact in medium settings without too much stutter. The 47 TOPS NPU (Neural Processing Unit) ensures that AI-related tasks like background removal and content creation run smoothly, making this a versatile device for work and play.
However, the Zenbook S 14 comes with an FHD camera with IR functionality, making it reliable for security. However, the webcam's quality leaves much to be desired. The FHD feed appears quite grainy, and noticeable colour distortion becomes evident when viewed full-screen on the 3K OLED display.
Built for the go
One of the ASUS Zenbook S 14's biggest selling points is its portability. This laptop is incredibly easy to carry around, whether commuting, travelling, or working from various locations. It slips easily into a backpack or briefcase, and you'll barely notice the weight once it's there. The Zenbook S 14 hits the sweet spot between power and portability for digital nomads or professionals who are always on the go.
The 72 Wh battery also adds to the laptop's portability appeal. You can confidently leave your charger behind for a full workday, as the Zenbook S 14 offers nearly 14 hours of battery life under normal conditions. When you need to charge, the USB-C fast-charging capability ensures you're back up to 60% battery in just 49 minutes, minimising downtime. Whether working from a café or rushing between meetings, this laptop is designed to keep up with your hectic schedule.
With regards to connectivity, the Zenbook S 14 offers robust wireless options, including Wi-Fi 7, which provides faster and more reliable internet speeds even in congested networks. With a host of ports, including HDMI and USB-A, you won't need extra adapters or dongles to stay productive on the go. ASUS has packed all of this into a laptop that is easy to carry and highly functional in any setting.
The verdict: ASUS Zenbook S 14
Priced at S$2,799, the ASUS Zenbook S 14 is a premium investment that delivers solid value for its price. For professionals, content creators, or students who need a reliable, powerful, and portable laptop, the Zenbook S 14 hits all the right notes. Its AI-powered features, vibrant OLED display, and impressive battery life make it a standout in the ultraportable laptop category. The sleek design is a bonus, making it a device you'll be proud to carry around.
That being said, it's not without its shortcomings. The keyboard may not satisfy those who prefer more tactile feedback, and the webcam could use an upgrade, especially given how integral video calls have become. But if these are compromises you're willing to live with, the Zenbook S 14 offers a near-perfect blend of performance, portability, and cutting-edge technology that is well worth the price.
