ASUS Vivobook Go 15.6” FHD Slim Laptop, AMD Ryzen vs HP 17 Laptop, 17.3" HD+ Touchscreen, Intel Core

Overview

When it comes to selecting a laptop, two notable contenders are the ASUS Vivobook Go 15.6” FHD Slim Laptop and the HP 17 Laptop. The ASUS is priced at $315.99, making it about 68% cheaper than the HP, which comes in at $999.99. This significant price difference highlights the varying target audiences and use cases for these two laptops.

Design and Display

The ASUS Vivobook Go features a 15.6” NanoEdge display with a slim bezel, delivering a smooth 60Hz refresh rate and 250-nit brightness. This design is optimized for portability, measuring just 14.19" x 9.15" and weighing 3.59 lbs. In contrast, the HP 17 boasts a larger 17.3” HD+ touchscreen, albeit at a lower resolution of 1600 x 900. The larger size is beneficial for tasks requiring more screen real estate but may compromise portability, as it is bulkier than the ASUS.

Performance

In terms of performance, the ASUS Vivobook Go is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core Processor, which is suitable for everyday tasks like browsing and productivity. The HP 17, on the other hand, features a more powerful 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1255U processor with 10 cores and 12 threads, offering better multitasking capabilities and performance-intensive tasks. This makes the HP significantly more capable for users who need to run complex applications or multitask heavily.

Memory and Storage

The ASUS Vivobook Go has 8GB of DDR5 RAM and a 128GB SSD, which is adequate for basic tasks but may be limiting for users with larger storage needs. In contrast, the HP 17 comes with an impressive 32GB of RAM and a massive 2TB SSD, providing ample space for applications, media, and files. This difference in memory and storage capacity is crucial for potential buyers, particularly those who plan to use the laptop for more demanding applications.

Connectivity

Both laptops offer a range of connectivity options, but they differ in capabilities. The ASUS Vivobook Go includes Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1, allowing for reliable connections with peripherals. The HP 17, however, supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth, providing faster and more reliable wireless performance. Additionally, the HP model features a fingerprint reader for enhanced security, a feature absent in the ASUS model.

Battery Life

The ASUS Vivobook Go is designed for portability, featuring fast charging capabilities that allow users to quickly recharge the laptop and get back to work. While specific battery life details are not provided for either model, the lightweight design of the ASUS suggests a focus on efficiency and battery longevity for on-the-go users. The HP 17, while larger, may not prioritize battery life to the same extent, given its higher performance specifications.

Sound and Multimedia

For multimedia experiences, the ASUS Vivobook Go incorporates sound technology by SonicMaster, providing users with crisp and multi-dimensional sound alongside built-in speakers and a microphone array. Meanwhile, the HP 17 lacks specific sound enhancement features mentioned but does include a webcam, making it suitable for video calls. Users who prioritize audio quality may find the ASUS more appealing.

Pricing

The price difference between the ASUS Vivobook Go and the HP 17 is substantial, with the ASUS retailing for $315.99 and the HP priced at $999.99. This means the ASUS is about 68% cheaper than the HP, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious buyers or those who need a laptop for basic tasks. However, the HP’s higher price reflects its advanced specifications and capabilities.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the ASUS Vivobook Go and the HP 17 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you're looking for an affordable, lightweight laptop for basic tasks, the ASUS Vivobook Go is a compelling choice at $315.99. However, if you require a high-performance machine with substantial memory and storage for more demanding applications, the HP 17, despite its higher price of $999.99, offers superior specs that justify the investment.