The Asus ExpertBook P1 is likely the only laptop that I won’t be able to damage.
Over the years, I have developed a rather unfortunate history with electronics around me. From cracking the screens of iPhones, damaging the hinge of a foldable phone, tearing a laptop lid, denting the edges of MacBooks, to misplacing items during travel, my record of mishaps is quite varied. And costly.
However, nothing stings quite like the damage done to a laptop, which can't simply be concealed under a skin or cover. I like to think there are others out there like me in search of a device that can endure rough handling or is simply more robust than the rest. Asus clearly sees a market for such needs.
Recently, the company launched three laptops in the ExpertBook P series. To my surprise, they emphasized durability over the typical performance-focused promotions.
Is it performant?
Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
A few days post-launch, I had the chance to try out the ExpertBook P1, and I was pleasantly surprised. It’s a solid laptop that can withstand mechanical stress with ease, and it improves upon several areas that most brands often overlook.
The model I reviewed came with an Intel Core i7 (13620H) processor, along with 32GB of RAM and a 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD. Thanks to additional slots, the RAM and storage can be upgraded to 64GB and 2TB, respectively. It features a 14-inch full-HD display at the front.
While it may not host the newest Intel chip or the most advanced screen, the display is sharp with wide viewing angles and no noticeable color distortion. Although I would have preferred a glass panel, Asus’ anti-glare solution is a commendable choice.
Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
The 10-core processor is reasonably powerful, although it isn't the latest offering from Intel. Compared to the 14-core Intel Core Ultra 5, it only slightly surpasses in single-core performance but falls 30% behind in multi-core capabilities.
The aging Intel processor achieves higher single-core scores in Cinebench 2024 compared to Qualcomm's top-tier Snapdragon X Elite, yet once again falls short in multi-core performance.
In terms of graphics, the integrated Intel UHD graphics trails by approximately 18-20% compared to the Arc graphics of the second-generation Arrow Lake Ultra Series 2 processors. However, this combination is still capable for most tasks.
Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
If you're not running resource-intensive creative software, this configuration can handle most productivity applications effortlessly. My workload included Chrome (across two screens and three windows), Slack, Trello, Teams, and various web tools like Asana, alongside constant wireless music playback.
Operating the laptop in Balanced mode yielded an entire day's usage without stutters or UI crashes. Additionally, the battery is claimed to last three years without dropping below 80% health. It typically provided around 9-10 hours of continuous use, and could definitely last longer with adjusted brightness and performance settings.
What I appreciate most is the charging versatility. The triple-cell 50Whr battery supports 65W fast charging and accepts a wide range of 5V-24V power inputs. I successfully charged the laptop with a power bank when needed. I hope more manufacturers follow this approach in the coming year!
What makes the ExpertBook P1 unique?
Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
The Asus laptop doesn’t aim to captivate with design. It boasts a clean, industrial aesthetic, reflecting a typical Asus style. Its distinguishing feature is the robust engineering, all while weighing in at just around three pounds.
This model meets the US MIL-STD 810H military-grade standards, passing nearly a dozen categories of tests. In addition to the standard temperature and altitude evaluations, its reinforced build withstands significant vibrations (500Hz) for extended periods, mechanical shocks, and offers protection against dust.
Asus claims the base can endure drops from over a meter onto concrete. The build is plastic, yet the chassis is strengthened with metal components. It might be hard to believe the ExpertBook P1 can offer such durability, but after using it as my primary work device, I feel confident in its ability to handle a few mishaps.
Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
On a practical note, both sides of the laptop can withstand a force of about 110 pounds. This is particularly useful during instances of rough luggage handling, like notorious airline baggage transport, being stowed in undercarriage buses, or in cramped train compartments.
The lid itself can support up to 55 pounds without damaging the screen. For business travelers or college students, this level of structural resilience is undoubtedly reassuring.
Nadeem Sarwar / Digital Trends
I even attempted to replicate the load test with some gym equipment, and the laptop remained unscathed. The base is notably sturdier, while the display lid offers some flexibility. Asus mentions the
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The Asus ExpertBook P1 is likely the only laptop that I won’t be able to damage.
The Asus ExpertBook P1 is a lightweight business laptop that challenges its compact design by offering an excellent combination of durability and useful features. It’s just right for me!