Huawei created an incredibly sleek laptop that is 35% lighter than the MacBook Air. Unfortunately, it’s not a necessity for you.
The MateBook Pro S has a weight of under 800 grams and operates on HarmonyOS instead of Windows.
Huawei has unveiled an enticing ultralight laptop that many might overlook. The MateBook Pro S, in its lightest configuration, weighs just 798 grams, making it about 35% lighter than the 13-inch MacBook Air. Although it is slightly thicker at 11.9mm, Huawei has still managed to incorporate a larger display and a 54Wh battery into its magnesium-alloy body.
The available color options are quite appealing as well. The soft pastel finishes evoke the MacBook Neo and provide the laptop with significantly more character compared to the usual array of silver, gray, and black ultrabooks.
On paper, its specifications are impressive.
The 14.2-inch OLED touchscreen features a productivity-friendly 3:2 aspect ratio, which provides more vertical space for documents and websites. The display has a resolution of 3120 x 2080 and operates at 120Hz, achieving a claimed 1,600 nits during HDR playback while covering the P3 color gamut.
Huawei also offers a Privacy Screen Edition that utilizes technology similar to what Samsung recently implemented in the Galaxy S26 Ultra. A dedicated button activates privacy mode, which reduces the viewing angle, keeping the display clear for the person sitting directly in front while making it difficult to view from the sides. Additionally, the laptop features an AI function that alerts the user if it detects someone trying to glance at the screen.
The performance is driven by Huawei’s proprietary Kirin XE90 processor, complemented by up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. Its cooling system can handle up to 20 watts, while Huawei claims it can provide up to 18 hours of 1080p video playback and supports 66W USB-C charging. However, a notable drawback is in connectivity, as it only includes two 5Gbps USB-C ports, with only one capable of supporting a 4K display at 60Hz. Features like Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, four speakers, six microphones, and front and rear 1080p cameras complete the package.
The lack of Windows is a major drawback.
The MateBook Pro S operates on HarmonyOS 6.1 rather than Windows. While Huawei provides its own AI assistant, meeting transcription, cross-device controls, and a software ecosystem, users dependent on Windows applications would have to adjust their workflows. Currently, the device is limited to the Chinese market. Although Huawei markets Windows laptops in Europe and other areas, it has not confirmed whether the MateBook Pro S will be available internationally.
Pricing starts at 7,999 yuan, approximately $1,185, with higher-end or collector editions reaching up to 14,999 yuan, around $2,220. As an example of laptop design, it is hard not to desire one, but the use of HarmonyOS makes it a less practical option for most potential buyers outside of China at this time.
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Huawei created an incredibly sleek laptop that is 35% lighter than the MacBook Air. Unfortunately, it’s not a necessity for you.
Huawei's newest MateBook incorporates a 14.2-inch OLED touchscreen and a 54Wh battery within a 798-gram frame, featuring a privacy display for use in public settings.
