Asus returns to the CES stage with the Zenbook Duo (2024), the latest addition to its lineup of dual-screened laptops. Departing from the conventional approach of integrating a smaller secondary display above the keyboard, as with the Zenbook Duo we reviewed several years ago, this revamped version features two equally sized 14-inch OLED screens. Boasting resolutions of up to 2880 x 1800, 16:10 aspect ratios, and a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz, the dual screens offer a combined 19.8 inches of usable screen real estate.
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Taking a page from Lenovo’s playbook, reminiscent of the dual-screen Yoga Book 9i, Asus offers users the flexibility of typing on the lower touchscreen through a virtual keyboard or a detachable physical Bluetooth keyboard. What sets Asus apart is the inclusion of a trackpad within its physical keyboard, eliminating the need for an on-screen trackpad.
The Zenbook Duo invites users to explore various configurations. In standard laptop mode, the lower screen is concealed by a traditional keyboard and trackpad. Alternatively, users can position the keyboard on a desk, aligning the screens vertically for “Dual Screen” mode or horizontally for “Desktop” mode. The innovative “Sharing” mode suggests laying the laptop flat on a surface, screens facing up and away from each other, facilitating collaboration with a colleague across the desk.
Launching a year later than its competitor, the Zenbook Duo comes equipped with contemporary hardware options. Users can opt for up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor, 32GB of RAM, up to 2TB of storage, and a robust 75Wh battery. Connectivity features include two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a USB-A port, HDMI out, a 3.5mm jack, and compatibility with Asus’ stylus. The Bluetooth keyboard, designed to be portable between screens, charges conveniently via pogo pins on the lower screen’s edges.
At CES, Asus unveils an array of laptops, including new Vivobook models like the Vivobook Pro 15 OLED, boasting an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, dedicated Nvidia RTX GPU, up to 24GB of RAM, and 2TB of storage. The TUF-branded gaming laptops, such as the F16, A16, and A15 models, offer powerful configurations with Intel and AMD processors, Nvidia RTX GPUs, high-refresh-rate displays, and flexible RAM and storage options.
The Zenbook Duo (2024) is anticipated to start at $1,499 in the US, with UK and European prices commencing at £1,699.99 and €2,099.99, respectively.
