If you thought dazzling displays mandatorily burn a hole in your pocket, the new XIDU 12.5” laptop is out to disprove that. Priced at a mere $299, this computer offers a 2K or WQHD display (screen resolution: 2560 x 1440) that delivers stunning accuracy and bright, vivid imagery. Not only that, but this laptop also enlarges your on-screen area to 70% more than you’d get from a Full HD display. This makes all multimedia experiences more immersive; all your multitasking endeavors are easier and more fruitful. Along with the spectacular display, the new XIDU also packs in a powerful Intel Celeron Quad-Core processor, 6GB RAM, and 64GB of storage space.
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Delving Into That Gorgeous Display
A WQHD display sets expectations of true splendor—a magnificence that becomes apparent when you stream A/V content or indulge in light gaming. This laptop, sleek and silvery in build, offers all the glory you expect throughout its 12.5 inches of screen space.
So, what exactly is so terrific about a WQHD display? Well, a WQHD (or 2K) display is basically four times the definition of a standard HD display (720p). Simply put, this means that a WQHD screen can accommodate as many pixels as four HD displays. Imagine what that would do for detailing, especially when you look at high-res images or videos! Note that the display has a wide aspect ratio of 16:9. It is not, however, a touchscreen.
It remains a wonder how XIDU has made possible such a brilliant display at this price point. But then XIDU, a professional laptop maker specializing in 2-in-1 laptops, has championed the cause of accessible and affordable computing for all. Formed in 2014, XIDU has its headquarters in Shenzhen, China, and has been consistently bringing out innovative products with standout features that belie their prices.
Note: The screen resolution that the XIDU 12.5 Sleek Laptop provides is QHD, not to be confused with qHD or Quarter High Definition (display resolution of 960 x 540). The qHD resolution is commonly used in mobile phones and tablets.
Performance: Processing Power & Battery Life
For all the razzmatazz, this laptop doesn’t fizzle out when it comes to performance. It is powered by an Intel Celeron N3450 processor (four cores) that runs at 1.9GHz but can be Turbo Boosted up to 2.4GHz. The processor is well complemented by 6GB RAM (DDR3 SDRAM) and 64GB of storage (eMMC). You can extend the storage space up to 128GB, depending on your needs, by using a MicroSD card. While the memory extension is handy, the storage space may still feel on the lower side if you like to stock up your computer with space-consuming videos and photos.
That said, this processing configuration is still surprisingly good for a laptop in this price range. It proves to be adequate for several everyday computing needs like working on documents for school or work, playing videos and music, and checking e-mail. Since the operating system is Windows 10 Home, the laptop’s capability for productive multitasking improves further. This operating system comes with multiple inbuilt tools to enhance your productivity and offer support for simultaneous processing.
Note that the battery life lasts for about six hours, offering considerable unplugged usage. However, you might find this wanting if you plan to use your computer extensively on travels.
Ease of Use
The backlighting makes it possible to use the computer even in conditions of poor natural or artificial light. (You can turn the backlight on/off or adjust it with a simple Fn+Esc key combination.) The ergonomic design, on the other hand, makes your typing experience comfortable. Read: less back and shoulder pain after hours of toiling away on a presentation.
Design and Portability
The portable design also complements the display by letting you lug along the laptop without any hassle and tuning in to your favorite content on the go. You are assured of both convenience and reliability as the chassis is sturdy and tested for mobility.
Support for Collaboration and Connectivity
As is an unwritten rule for any modern-day computer, device support and connectivity must be topnotch. The XIDU 12.5” is fitted with two USB 3.0 ports, a mini HDMI port, and a MicroSD slot. This enables you to connect to any devices or peripherals based on your requirements. You can also connect to external displays (say monitors) for purposes of collaboration with peers or colleagues.
Supporting wireless connectivity is 802.11ac/a/b/g/n Wi-Fi. It turns out to be fairly fast and reliable, depending, of course, on the strength of the wireless network. The XIDU 12.5 also supports Bluetooth 4.0 for sharing documents or photos.
The Verdict
The XIDU 12.5 Sleek laptop, at the outset, wins hearts with its elaborate, captivating WQHD display. If you have been hunting for a computer to support multimedia needs, you will be enthralled with the display quality—almost impossible to fathom at so affordable a price. At under-$300, this laptop also brings to the table a trustable processor to support day-to-day needs, decent battery backup, and ample options for collaboration and sharing.
It has a backlit keyboard and a highly portable build that make it suitable for multiple purposes including school, work or travel. For those willing to experiment with a relatively lesser known brand, this machine can turn out to be surprisingly over-performing.
