What To Know
- Choosing the perfect ultrabook can be a daunting task, especially when two popular contenders like the MSI Modern 14 and the ASUS VivoBook 14 are in the running.
- Both the MSI Modern 14 and the ASUS VivoBook 14 sport a modern and minimalist aesthetic.
- The MSI Modern 14 is available in a variety of stylish colors like silver, black, and rose pink, while the VivoBook 14 comes in a more subdued silver or grey.
Choosing the perfect ultrabook can be a daunting task, especially when two popular contenders like the MSI Modern 14 and the ASUS VivoBook 14 are in the running. Both laptops boast sleek designs, powerful performance, and impressive portability, making it difficult to decide which one truly reigns supreme. This comprehensive comparison delves deep into their key features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the MSI Modern 14 and the ASUS VivoBook 14 sport a modern and minimalist aesthetic. The MSI Modern 14 is available in a variety of stylish colors like silver, black, and rose pink, while the VivoBook 14 comes in a more subdued silver or grey. Both laptops feature a sleek aluminum lid with a subtle brushed finish, giving them a premium look and feel.
MSI Modern 14: The Modern 14 boasts a slim and lightweight design, weighing in at just under 1.3kg. The lid is sturdy and resists flex, while the keyboard deck is made of a durable plastic that feels solid. The overall build quality is excellent, making it suitable for everyday use and travel.
ASUS VivoBook 14: The VivoBook 14 is slightly heavier at around 1.4kg. The lid is also sturdy, but the keyboard deck can flex slightly under pressure. The build quality is still good for its price point, but it doesn’t feel as premium as the Modern 14.
Display
MSI Modern 14: The Modern 14 offers a stunning 14-inch Full HD (1920×1080) display with a wide viewing angle. The display is bright, with vibrant colors and sharp details, making it perfect for multimedia consumption and light photo editing. Some models even feature a 10th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce MX350 graphics card, making it suitable for casual gaming as well.
ASUS VivoBook 14: The VivoBook 14 also features a 14-inch Full HD display, but the quality can vary depending on the model. Some models offer a matte display with good color accuracy, while others have a glossy screen that can be prone to glare. The display is adequate for everyday tasks, but it may not be as vibrant or sharp as the Modern 14’s display.
Performance
Both laptops offer powerful performance for everyday tasks, but they differ in their processing power and graphics capabilities.
MSI Modern 14: The Modern 14 is powered by Intel’s 10th Gen Core i5 or i7 processors, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of PCIe SSD storage. This powerful combination ensures smooth multitasking, quick application loading times, and excellent overall performance. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics or dedicated NVIDIA GeForce MX350 graphics card allow for casual gaming and light video editing.
ASUS VivoBook 14: The VivoBook 14 is equipped with Intel’s 10th Gen Core i3, i5, or i7 processors, up to 16GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of PCIe SSD storage. While it can handle everyday tasks with ease, it might struggle with more demanding applications or games. The Intel UHD Graphics or optional NVIDIA GeForce MX250 graphics card offer decent performance for casual gaming.
Battery Life
MSI Modern 14: The Modern 14 boasts a long battery life, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge. This makes it ideal for students, professionals, and anyone who needs a laptop that can keep up with their busy schedule.
ASUS VivoBook 14: The VivoBook 14 offers a respectable battery life, lasting around 7-8 hours on a single charge. This is still decent for everyday use, but it falls short of the Modern 14’s impressive endurance.
Connectivity and Ports
MSI Modern 14: The Modern 14 offers a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and a microSD card reader. This ensures seamless connectivity with various devices and peripherals.
ASUS VivoBook 14: The VivoBook 14 also provides good connectivity options, with Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and a microSD card reader. The lack of Wi-Fi 6 is a slight drawback, but the overall connectivity is still solid.
Keyboard and Touchpad
MSI Modern 14: The Modern 14 features a comfortable and responsive keyboard with a decent key travel. The touchpad is accurate and smooth, offering a responsive and enjoyable user experience.
ASUS VivoBook 14: The VivoBook 14’s keyboard is also comfortable, but the key travel can feel a bit shallow. The touchpad is generally responsive, but it can sometimes feel a bit imprecise.
Price and Value
MSI Modern 14: The MSI Modern 14 is priced slightly higher than the VivoBook 14, but it offers better performance, a more premium build quality, and a longer battery life. It provides excellent value for the price, especially for users who prioritize performance and durability.
ASUS VivoBook 14: The VivoBook 14 is a more affordable option, offering a good balance of performance and features. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who need a reliable laptop for everyday tasks.
Verdict: Choosing the Right Ultrabook
The choice between the MSI Modern 14 and the ASUS VivoBook 14 ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Choose the MSI Modern 14 if:
- You prioritize performance and build quality.
- You need a laptop with a long battery life.
- You’re willing to spend a little more for a premium experience.
Choose the ASUS VivoBook 14 if:
- You’re on a tight budget.
- You need a laptop for everyday tasks and casual gaming.
- You’re looking for a lightweight and portable option.
Beyond the Comparison: A Closer Look at Each Laptop
MSI Modern 14: The All-Rounder’s Choice
The MSI Modern 14 is a well-rounded ultrabook that excels in most areas. Its sleek design, powerful performance, long battery life, and comprehensive connectivity make it a great choice for students, professionals, and anyone who needs a reliable and versatile laptop. The Modern 14 is also a great option for casual gamers who want a laptop that can handle demanding games without breaking the bank.
ASUS VivoBook 14: The Budget-Friendly Option
The ASUS VivoBook 14 is a solid choice for budget-conscious users who need a reliable and capable laptop for everyday tasks. It offers a good balance of performance, features, and affordability, making it a great value for the price. The VivoBook 14 is also a good option for students or professionals who need a lightweight and portable laptop for work or school.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which laptop has a better display?
A: The MSI Modern 14 generally offers a better display with brighter colors and sharper details. The VivoBook 14’s display can vary in quality depending on the model, but it’s still adequate for everyday use.
Q: Which laptop is better for gaming?
A: The MSI Modern 14 is better for casual gaming due to its dedicated NVIDIA GeForce MX350 graphics card. The VivoBook 14’s integrated graphics are suitable for casual games, but they may struggle with more demanding titles.
Q: Which laptop has a longer battery life?
A: The MSI Modern 14 offers a longer battery life, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge. The VivoBook 14’s battery life is still decent, lasting around 7-8 hours.
Q: Which laptop is better overall?
A: The best laptop for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. The MSI Modern 14 is a better overall choice if you prioritize performance, build quality, and battery life. The ASUS VivoBook 14 is a good value for the price and is a suitable option for everyday tasks and casual gaming.
