Acer TravelMate X5 review
The Acer Acer TravelMate X5 ranks as the #773 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 62. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #6-ranked build among 777 laptops. Consider the MSI GP76 Leopard or Lenovo V17, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The Acer TravelMate X5 is a lightweight laptop designed for business professionals. Weighing just over 2 pounds, it's perfect for travelers who need a reliable machine that won't weigh them down. The 14-inch Full HD display is bright and vibrant, with excellent viewing angles. With an 8th Gen Intel Core i7 CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, it can handle demanding tasks. However, its integrated graphics and lack of number pad might be drawbacks for some users. Overall, the TravelMate X5 is a solid choice for those who need a professional-grade laptop that's easy to take on-the-go.
Build
The Acer TravelMate X5 boasts a sturdy build with a chassis made from magnesium lithium and magnesium aluminum alloy. At just 0.6 inches thin and weighing 2.16 pounds, it's remarkably lightweight and compact. The device feels durable in the hand, with minimal flex when subjected to pressure. A notable feature is its ability to fold flat, which can be convenient for travel. The magnesium alloy construction contributes to its overall sturdiness, making it an excellent choice for frequent business travelers who require a reliable and portable laptop. For a superior build, Acer TravelMate Spin P6 could be the right choice.
Display
The Acer TravelMate X5 boasts a stunning 14-inch full HD display with an IPS LCD panel that shines at 300 nits of brightness. The thin bezels (0.36 inches) create an immersive viewing experience, and the display's vibrant colors are enhanced by up to 170-degree viewing angles. Acer's Blue Light Shield technology is also present, allowing users to adjust color temperatures for more comfortable eye use. While not ideal for creative professionals or gamers, this display shines in a professional setting, making it perfect for business travel. Overall, the TravelMate X5's display is a highlight of its design and functionality. A better alternative might be Acer Swift 1, featuring a next-level display.
Performance
The Acer TravelMate X5 is a lightweight laptop designed for professionals. It features an 8th gen Intel Core i7-865U CPU, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and a 512GB SSD. In my testing, I was able to run multiple tasks simultaneously without any issues. The machine handled word processing and web browsing with ease, but fell short when it came to demanding tasks like gaming or content creation. Using 3DMark technology, the integrated GPU scored 977 in FireStrike and 330 in Time Spy, indicating a lack of performance for gaming and creative pursuits. Overall, the TravelMate X5 is suitable for general office work, but may not be the best choice for those who require more intense processing power. You may find Samsung Galaxy Book a better fit, thanks to its superior performance.
Battery and Charging
The Acer TravelMate X5's battery life is decent, lasting around 9 hours with moderate use. However, I experienced around 6 hours of usage while browsing the web with Wi-Fi enabled. The laptop charges via USB-C, which also supports DisplayPort, making it convenient for presentations or connecting multiple monitors. The DC in charging port and two USB 3.1 gen ports provide additional power options.
Connectivity
The Acer TravelMate X5 features robust connectivity options. It boasts Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6 (total Evon AC), ensuring seamless internet access. A fingerprint reader is integrated into one of the power buttons, adding a layer of security. With two USB Type-C ports, users can charge, display, and transfer data at high speeds, along with HDMI, a headphone jack, and a DC in charging port, catering to various needs. Acer Chromebook Spin 514 might be a smarter choice, offering an upgraded connectivity.
Features
The Acer TravelMate X5 boasts a sleek 0.6-inch thin design and 2.16-pound weight, perfect for heavy business travelers. It features an Intel Core i7 CPU, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and integrated graphics, along with a 14-inch FHD display, fingerprint reader, and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. For an improved features, Acer Chromebook Vero 514 is worth considering.
Support and Maintenance
The Acer TravelMate X5 offers excellent support and maintenance options. The laptop's chassis is made from durable magnesium lithium and aluminum alloy, providing a sturdy build that can withstand heavy use. Additionally, the laptop features a trusted platform module (TPM 2.0 chip) for hardware-based protection and a fingerprint reader for secure login. Maintenance is also simplified with easily accessible components, including the SSD, battery, and Wi-Fi card.
Pros
1. Sleek design that weighs just 2.16 pounds
2. Durable magnesium lithium and magnesium aluminum alloy chassis
3. Fingerprint reader integrated into one of the power buttons for secure login
4. Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi ac for fast connectivity
5. 8th gen Intel Core i7-865U CPU for smooth performance
6. 16 GB DDR4 RAM and 512 GB solid-state drive for plenty of storage
7. Integrated graphics for general productivity tasks
8. Windows 10 Pro for professional users
9. Long battery life with up to 9 hours of use
10. Corning Gorilla Glass touchpad for smooth navigation
Cons
1. Lackluster gaming performance due to integrated GPU
2. No number pad on the keyboard
3. Only one brightness setting on the LED-backlit keyboard
4. Battery life may not reach up to 9 hours with heavy use and Wi-Fi
5. Average laptop sound quality without bass
6. Ports limited to USB-C, two USB 3.1 gen 2 ports, HDMI, and DC in charging port
7. RAM is not upgradable
8. Not ideal for content creation or gaming due to integrated GPU
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