82

Conclusion: We like it

The 11.6-inch sibling of the gdgt-recommended 13.3-inch Zenbook UX31, the ASUS Zenbook UX21 has a lot in common with its larger relative, including its slim profile and long battery life. However, while we like the UX21, we still think the UX31 is a better choice for most users, as the keyboard on the smaller model is noticeably cramped. However, if you need the additional portability of an 11-inch Ultrabook, the UX21 is worth a look.

Critic reviews

8.3
6 reviews
  • Speed and features
    8.0
  • Design and form factor
    8.7
  • Battery life
    7.4
  • Display
    7.4
  • Durability
    8.6
  • Expandability
    4.5
  • Noise
    8.0
  • Portability (size / weight)
    9.3

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User reviews

8.0
4 reviews
8.0
AnandTech Oct 22, 2011

If you don't care about OS X and just want a good, ultra-thin Windows machine the Zenbook is a viable alternative. ... If you're used to or don't mind typical PC notebook TN panels then the Zenbook will likely be an upgrade. It is far from the best though.

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9.0
CNET UK Oct 19, 2011

The Asus Zenbook UX21 is not only slim, light and attractive but also offers fantastic performance for a very reasonable price. It's very difficult to find much wrong with it.

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8.0
The Guardian Dec 21, 2011

The design, weight and thoughtfulness of the whole package do justify the price: this is a seriously nice laptop that despite some niggles, is a pleasure to use.

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8.0
TechRadar Nov 17, 2011

The stunning power and portable body make this a great buy. As netbooks continue their rapid decline, this ultrabook could replace them, and with it show the world that laptops are here to stay.

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8.0
TrustedReviews Sep 14, 2011

The UX21 is a seriously impressive device. Its design is stunning and it packs in all the essentials for a great ultraportable notebook, or ultrabook.

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9.0
Notebook Check Nov 3, 2011

The Asus Zenbook enters the stage with a bang. The application performance is very good thanks to a fast ADATA SSD. Except for the low gaming performance, users won't notice a difference to a conventional desktop or notebook.

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7.0
impaler impaler

Although its a costly investment, I have found I cant be productive on a tablet OS and with this laptop I can have a full desktop experience where ever I want it. With this laptop we something that has outstanding weight/battery life/build quality. The SSD and i5/i7 cpu makes this thing almost as...

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