What To Know
- The MSI Modern 14, on the other hand, sports a more modern design with a distinct angular lid and a slightly thicker profile.
- The Acer Swift 3 includes a USB-C port with Thunderbolt 4 support, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, a microSD card reader, and a headphone jack.
- The MSI Modern 14 features similar connectivity options, including a USB-C port with Thunderbolt 4 support, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, a microSD card reader, and a headphone jack.
Choosing the perfect ultrabook can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the ultrabook arena are the Acer Swift 3 and the MSI Modern 14. Both boast sleek designs, impressive performance, and portability, making them ideal companions for students, professionals, and everyday users. But which one comes out on top? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 prioritize sleek aesthetics and portability. The Swift 3 features a minimalist design with a thin and light profile. Its aluminum lid and chassis offer a premium feel, while the subtle branding adds a touch of sophistication. The MSI Modern 14, on the other hand, sports a more modern design with a distinct angular lid and a slightly thicker profile. Its magnesium-aluminum alloy construction provides durability and a premium look.
In terms of build quality, both laptops feel solid and well-made. The Swift 3’s aluminum construction feels robust and resistant to scratches, while the MSI Modern 14’s magnesium-aluminum alloy offers additional strength and a more premium feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a sleek and minimalist design, the Swift 3 might be a better fit. However, if you prefer a more modern and durable design, the MSI Modern 14 might be more appealing.
Display
The display is a crucial aspect of any laptop, especially for users who spend a significant amount of time working or consuming multimedia content. The Acer Swift 3 offers a 14-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display with a 16:9 aspect ratio. It delivers vibrant colors, sharp details, and wide viewing angles, making it suitable for everyday tasks, web browsing, and casual gaming.
The MSI Modern 14 also features a 14-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display, but with a higher refresh rate of 120Hz. This makes the display feel smoother and more responsive, especially for fast-paced games and scrolling through web pages. Both laptops offer comfortable viewing experiences, but the Modern 14’s higher refresh rate offers a noticeable advantage for users who prioritize smooth visuals.
Performance
The Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 offer impressive performance for everyday tasks, productivity, and light gaming. Both laptops are powered by Intel’s latest 12th Gen processors, offering a significant boost in performance compared to previous generations. The Swift 3 comes equipped with Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage. This configuration provides ample power for multitasking, running demanding applications, and enjoying light gaming.
The MSI Modern 14 also offers a range of processor options, including Intel Core i5 and i7 processors, up to 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage. The Modern 14’s higher refresh rate display and dedicated graphics card (Nvidia GeForce MX550) make it a better choice for gamers and creative professionals who require more graphics-intensive tasks.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for mobile users, and both laptops deliver impressive results in this area. The Acer Swift 3 boasts an estimated battery life of up to 8 hours, which is sufficient for a full day of work or study. The MSI Modern 14, with its higher refresh rate display and dedicated graphics card, offers a slightly shorter battery life of around 7 hours. However, both laptops provide enough juice to get you through a typical workday without having to constantly search for a power outlet.
Connectivity and Ports
Both laptops offer a comprehensive selection of ports, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of peripherals. The Acer Swift 3 includes a USB-C port with Thunderbolt 4 support, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, a microSD card reader, and a headphone jack. The MSI Modern 14 features similar connectivity options, including a USB-C port with Thunderbolt 4 support, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, a microSD card reader, and a headphone jack. Both laptops provide ample connectivity options for connecting to external displays, storage devices, and other peripherals.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The keyboard and touchpad are essential for an enjoyable typing and navigation experience. The Acer Swift 3 features a comfortable keyboard with a decent key travel and a responsive layout. The touchpad is smooth and responsive, offering precise cursor control. The MSI Modern 14 also offers a comfortable keyboard with a similar key travel and a responsive layout. The touchpad is slightly larger than the Swift 3’s, providing more space for gestures and navigation. Both laptops provide a comfortable typing experience and responsive touchpads.
Price and Value
The Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 are priced competitively, offering excellent value for their features and performance. The Swift 3 starts at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the Modern 14’s higher refresh rate display and dedicated graphics card come at a slightly higher price. Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize a lower price point, the Swift 3 might be a better choice. However, if you value a higher refresh rate display and dedicated graphics card, the Modern 14 might be worth the extra cost.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 depends on your specific needs and priorities. The Acer Swift 3 is an excellent choice for users who prioritize a sleek and minimalist design, long battery life, and a budget-friendly price. Its solid performance and comprehensive connectivity make it a versatile option for students, professionals, and everyday users.
The MSI Modern 14, on the other hand, is a better choice for users who prioritize a more modern design, a higher refresh rate display, and dedicated graphics power. Its impressive performance, smooth visuals, and durable build make it an ideal option for gamers, creative professionals, and users who demand a premium experience.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Acer Swift 3 and MSI Modern 14 are excellent choices, it’s also worth considering other ultrabook options in the market. Some alternatives to explore include:
- Dell XPS 13: Known for its stunning display, powerful performance, and premium build quality.
- Lenovo Yoga 9i: Offers a versatile 2-in-1 design, impressive performance, and a long battery life.
- HP Spectre x360: Boasts a sleek design, powerful performance, and a premium build quality.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just Specs
Ultimately, the best ultrabook for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, desired performance, display requirements, and desired features before making a decision. Don’t just focus on the specs; consider the overall user experience, build quality, and design aesthetics.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which laptop has a better display?
A: The MSI Modern 14 offers a higher refresh rate display (120Hz) compared to the Acer Swift 3 (60Hz), resulting in smoother visuals and a more responsive user experience.
Q: Which laptop is better for gaming?
A: The MSI Modern 14 is a better option for gaming due to its dedicated graphics card (Nvidia GeForce MX550). The Acer Swift 3 relies on integrated graphics, limiting its gaming capabilities.
Q: Which laptop is more portable?
A: Both laptops are incredibly portable, but the Acer Swift 3 is slightly thinner and lighter than the MSI Modern 14.
Q: Which laptop offers better value for money?
A: The Acer Swift 3 offers a more budget-friendly price point, making it a better value for money option for users who prioritize affordability. The MSI Modern 14, with its higher refresh rate display and dedicated graphics, comes at a slightly higher price.
Q: Which laptop is better for everyday tasks and productivity?
A: Both laptops deliver excellent performance for everyday tasks and productivity. The Acer Swift 3’s long battery life makes it a great choice for users on the go, while the MSI Modern 14’s higher refresh rate display can be beneficial for multitasking and productivity.
