When it comes to portable computing, mini laptops have become increasingly popular due to their compact size, lightweight design, and affordability. Two notable options in this category are the ASUS ZenBook 14 and the HP Stream 11. While both devices cater to different needs and budgets, they share some commonalities as mini laptops designed for on-the-go productivity. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, specifications, and performance of these two devices to help you decide which one suits your requirements.
Design and Display
The ASUS ZenBook 14 boasts a sleek and premium design, with a durable aluminum construction that weighs just 2.78 pounds and measures 0.67 inches thick. The 14-inch Full HD display features a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, offering crisp and vibrant visuals. In contrast, the HP Stream 11 has a more budget-friendly plastic build, weighing in at 2.33 pounds and measuring 0.71 inches thick. Its 11.6-inch HD display has a lower resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels, which may not be as sharp as the ZenBook's screen.
Performance
Under the hood, the ASUS ZenBook 14 packs a more powerful punch with its Intel Core i5 or i7 processor options, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. This configuration provides smooth performance for demanding tasks like video editing, photo editing, and multitasking. On the other hand, the HP Stream 11 is equipped with an Intel Celeron N4000 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 64GB eMMC storage drive. While it's sufficient for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and word processing, it may struggle with more resource-intensive activities.
Battery Life
One area where the HP Stream 11 excels is battery life. Its smaller display and lower-power processor help it achieve an impressive up to 13 hours of battery life on a single charge. In contrast, the ASUS ZenBook 14's more powerful hardware and larger display result in a slightly shorter battery life of up to 9 hours.
Connectivity and Ports
Both mini laptops offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB ports. However, the ASUS ZenBook 14 has a more comprehensive selection of ports, including two USB-A ports, one USB-C port, an HDMI port, and a microSD card reader. The HP Stream 11, on the other hand, has only two USB-A ports, one headphone jack, and a microSD card slot.
Price
The most significant difference between these two devices is their price point. The HP Stream 11 is an entry-level mini laptop that starts at around $200, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. In contrast, the ASUS ZenBook 14 is a more premium device with a starting price of around $700.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ASUS ZenBook 14 and HP Stream 11 cater to different segments of the mini laptop market. While the ZenBook 14 offers a more powerful processor, better display, and premium design, it comes at a higher price point. The HP Stream 11, on the other hand, provides an affordable and compact computing solution for basic tasks, making it an excellent choice for students, casual users, or those on a tight budget. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your specific needs and priorities as a user of mini laptops. If you're looking for a device that can handle more demanding tasks and offers a premium experience, the ASUS ZenBook 14 may be the better choice. However, if you're in search of an affordable and portable solution for everyday tasks, the HP Stream 11 is definitely worth considering.
