The arrival of Intel’s Panther Lake architecture marks a turning point, and the Asus ExpertBook Ultra is among the first to showcase its potential. This isn’t just another business laptop; it’s a statement of intent, a significant leap forward for Asus in a competitive landscape.
Beneath the sleek exterior lies the Intel Core Ultra X7 358H, a powerhouse boasting 16 cores and Intel Arc B390 graphics. While a slightly less potent version than found in other Asus models, the performance is undeniable – a sentiment echoed by early reviews. This is a machine you’ll genuinely want to experience.
The ExpertBook Ultra doesn’t compromise on specifications. It features 32GB of LPDDR5x-8533 memory, a lightning-fast 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, and a stunning 14-inch 2880x1880 tandem OLED touchscreen. Connectivity is comprehensive with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB-A, HDMI, and the latest Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.0 standards.
First impressions matter, and the ExpertBook Ultra delivers. Its lightweight magnesium-aluminum alloy chassis, tipping the scales at just 2.42 pounds, feels remarkably robust. A unique “nano ceramic” finish, similar to Asus’ ceraluminum, adds a sophisticated matte texture and a secure grip, defying the often-plastic feel of lightweight laptops.
The design is understated yet refined, finished in a modern “Morn Gray” that subtly catches the light. Its compact dimensions – just over 12 inches wide and under 0.65 inches thick – offer the portability of a 13-inch ultrabook with the immersive experience of a 14-inch display.
Typing on the ExpertBook Ultra is a genuine pleasure. The spacious keyboard offers exceptional key travel and a crisp, responsive action. Combined with a large, haptic touchpad providing precise control and comfortable multi-touch gesture support, it’s a productivity haven.
The display is a revelation. The 14-inch OLED panel delivers the vibrant colors and deep contrast expected of OLED technology, but with a crucial difference: a matte, anti-glare finish. Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, it remains remarkably readable even in bright environments, a rare and welcome combination.
Audio quality is equally impressive, thanks to a six-speaker system that delivers rich, full sound with a surprising amount of bass. While distortion can occur at maximum volume, the overall experience is immersive and enjoyable at typical listening levels.
The integrated webcam, while functional with a 1080p resolution and privacy shutter, doesn’t quite reach the heights of other features. Image quality is adequate in good lighting, but struggles in challenging conditions. The dual-microphone array provides clear audio, though with a typical laptop microphone sound.
Connectivity is thoughtfully designed, with Thunderbolt 4 ports strategically placed on both sides of the chassis for convenient cable management. The inclusion of USB-A ports and HDMI 2.1 ensures compatibility with a wide range of peripherals.
Performance testing reveals the true potential of Intel’s Panther Lake. In PCMark 10, the ExpertBook Ultra achieved a remarkable score of 9,892, surpassing previous-generation premium business laptops. This demonstrates a consistent, all-around performance boost.
Cinebench R24 showcased the chip’s multi-threaded capabilities, closing the gap with AMD Ryzen AI and Qualcomm Snapdragon Elite processors. Handbrake testing delivered a surprising victory, highlighting the significant improvements Panther Lake brings to video encoding.
The integrated Intel Arc B390 graphics are a standout feature. It significantly outperforms competing integrated graphics solutions, delivering playable frame rates in demanding games like Shadow of the Tomb Raider and Cyberpunk 2077, even without upscaling technologies.
Battery life, while respectable at just over 15 hours in a controlled test, is not exceptional. Real-world usage yielded around 12 hours, a typical result for a laptop in this class. The included 90-watt power adapter offers fast charging and supports Power Delivery via Thunderbolt 4.
The Asus ExpertBook Ultra isn’t without minor drawbacks – battery life and webcam quality could be improved. However, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. It’s a beautifully designed, powerfully equipped, and exceptionally capable business laptop.
This machine represents a significant step forward for Asus, positioning them as a serious contender in the premium business laptop market. While pricing remains to be determined, the ExpertBook Ultra is poised to challenge established leaders like Dell and Lenovo, offering a compelling alternative for discerning professionals.
