ASUS Zenbook 17 Fold OLED review: Two steps forward, one step back

While Asus’ Zenbook 17 Fold OLED sports a very similar design to Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Fold from 2020, the inclusion of a larger 17.3-inch flexible display makes a huge impact. Not only do you get more room for productivity in desktop mode, but when used as a laptop it’s about the same size as a 12.5-inch clamshell. That makes it way easier to use in tight spaces like on an airplane without feeling overly cramped. And with upwards of 12 hours of battery life in either mode, the Zenbook 17 Fold lasts longer than a lot of more traditional notebooks.

Unfortunately, its included Bluetooth keyboard often feels sluggish or erratic. And with an eye-watering price of $3,500 for just medicare performance, the Zenbook 17 Fold is hard to justify for anyone but the most bleeding-edge enthusiasts.

Pros
Slick 17.3-inch flexible display, Surprisingly powerful speakers, Good battery life, Nifty IR webcams

Cons
Mediocre performance, wonky Bluetooth keyboard, Kinda bulky, Very expensive, Clunky support software, no stylus support

Score: 71

Subscribe:    / engadget  
Like us on Facebook:   / engadget  
Follow us on Twitter:   / engadget  
Follow us on Instagram:   / engadget  
Follow us on TikTok:   / engadget  

The Engadget Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/t...
More about Engadget Audio: https://www.engadget.com/2019-08-01-e...

Read more: http://www.engadget.com