For those unfamiliar, Intel recently introduced its latest chipsets known as Intel Core Ultra processors. What sets these processors apart? They boast an NPU, promising a significant enhancement for AI and machine-learning tasks on these innovative “AI laptops.”
Let’s delve into the lineup of the recently unveiled AI Laptops.
1. Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Ultra
The revamped Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Ultra is now equipped with the latest Intel Core Ultra processor series, offering an NPU, with options available up to Core Ultra 9.
Here’s a breakdown of its specifications:
- Offers an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU at its highest configuration.
- Supports up to 64GB of RAM.
- Provides up to 2TB of storage capacity.
- Boasts a 16-inch AMOLED touch display with 400-nit brightness, 120Hz refresh rate, and a resolution of 2880 x 1800 pixels.
The previous model, Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Ultra, impressed me immensely as a content creation powerhouse in my role as a laptop reviewer. While it’s premature to determine if the Galaxy Book 4 Ultra will match its predecessor’s performance, once I complete my review, I’ll be sure to share my insights with you.
This laptop isn’t currently on the market. Samsung has indicated that it won’t be available until January, and even then, if you’re outside Korea, the release might be further delayed. Korea has priority for availability, while other regions will eventually gain access to the Galaxy Book 4 Ultra in due course.
As of now, Samsung has kept the pricing details under wraps, with no official announcements regarding the cost of the Galaxy Book 4 Ultra.
2. Asus Zenbook 14 OLED
The Zenbook 14 OLED, another AI-capable laptop, boasts a 120Hz display with a high resolution of 2880 x 1800 pixels (2.8K), offering an impressive visual experience.
You do have the option to opt for a variant with a 1080p, 60Hz panel, but given Asus’ claim of “lifelike colors” on the 2.8K panel, it might not be the preferred choice for an enhanced visual experience.
Here are some additional features:
- Offers configurations with an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor.
- Equipped with Intel Arc graphics for enhanced performance.
- Supports up to 32GB of RAM.
- Provides storage options up to 1TB SSD capacity.
In addition, it weighs just 2.6 pounds and boasts a slim profile of only 0.5 inches. This compact build houses all that AI capability. However, it’s not yet available for purchase. The Zenbook 14 OLED is expected to hit the market in early 2024, priced at $1,299.
3. MSI Prestige 13 AI Evo
The Prestige 13 AI Evo’s remarkable lightness took me by surprise during a recent MSI briefing when I had the chance to lift it.
Another remarkable aspect of this AI-capable MSI laptop is its resilience despite its compact size. With military-grade durability, the Prestige 13 AI Evo can endure accidental drops, offering robust protection against impacts.
Here are the specifications:
- 13-inch display available with an OLED screen at 2880 x 1800 pixels and a refresh rate of 60Hz.
- Configurable with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor.
- Integrated Intel Arc graphics.
- Supports up to 32GB of RAM.
- Offers storage options up to 2TB SSD capacity.
4. Acer Swift Go 14
If the pricing of the previous laptops made you flinch, the Acer Swift Go 14 might bring some relief—it’s priced at less than $1,000.
Here are the specifications:
- 14-inch display available with an OLED screen at 2880 x 1800 pixels and a refresh rate of 90Hz.
- Configurable with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor.
- Integrated Intel Arc graphics.
- Supports up to 32GB of RAM.
- Offers storage options up to 1TB SSD capacity.
This AI-capable laptop is currently available for purchase at Acer.
5. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon series holds a prominent position in the laptop market, often considered among the finest choices for those seeking a high-quality work laptop. Lenovo has recently taken a step forward by introducing an updated iteration: the Gen 12 refresh.
Lenovo claims that the Gen 12 ThinkPad X1 Carbon is significantly enhanced with its new AI-capable chip, promising improved performance and capabilities.
Here are the specifications:
- Configurable with an Intel Core Ultra 7 vPro CPU.
- 14-inch display available with a 120Hz OLED touch panel, boasting a resolution of 2800 x 1800 pixels.
- Supports up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM.
- Offers storage options up to 2TB SSD capacity.
- Features Intel Arc graphics.
Experiencing the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 firsthand, I was struck by its diminished size and slimmer build, a result of its reduced dimensions. Once more, this laptop, powered by a new NPU, delivers an enhancement for AI applications like Stable Diffusion.
