Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro 15

Technical Specifications

• **Processor:** 12th Gen Intel Core processors, including i5-1240P and i7-1260P. The i5-1240P features 4 performance cores and 8 efficient cores, while the i7-1260P also has 4 performance cores and 8 efficient cores but operates at higher clock speeds. Some configurations may also include Intel Core i3-1215U or i7-1255U.
• **Graphics:** Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics (G7 with 80EUs or 96EUs). Some models offer an Intel Arc A350M discrete GPU.
• **RAM:** Available with 8GB, 16GB, or up to 32GB of LPDDR5 memory.
• **Storage:** PCIe NVMe SSDs, with options including 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and up to 2TB or 4TB.
• **Display:** 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) AMOLED display with 120% DCI-P3 color volume, 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, and up to 500 nits brightness. It features a 60 Hz refresh rate and is easy on the eyes by protecting from harmful blue light.
• **Ports:** Includes 1x Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 1x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1x HDMI 2.0, a microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone/mic combo jack.
• **Wireless Connectivity:** Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax 2x2) and Bluetooth v5.1 or v5.2. Some models support 5G connectivity.
• **Battery:** 68Wh battery, offering up to 21 hours of video playback. Supports 65W fast charging via USB-C.
• **Webcam:** Full HD 1080p camera with auto framing and AI-driven noise cancellation.
• **Dimensions & Weight:** 355.4 x 225.8 x 11.7 mm (13.99" x 8.89" x 0.46") and weighs 1.11 kg (2.45 lbs).

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 positions itself as a highly portable and capable ultrabook. The inclusion of 12th Gen Intel Core P-series processors (i5-1240P, i7-1260P) provides a significant boost in multi-core performance compared to previous generations, making it suitable for general productivity and moderate workloads. The LPDDR5 RAM offers faster speeds, enhancing overall system responsiveness. The AMOLED display is a standout feature, delivering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, which is ideal for media consumption and creative tasks. Its thin and light design, combined with a large battery, emphasizes mobility. The port selection is comprehensive for an ultrabook, including Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI, which is a notable advantage over some competitors. The option for Intel Arc A350M discrete graphics in some configurations provides a modest improvement for graphical tasks, though it remains primarily an integrated graphics solution. The 1080p webcam with AI enhancements is beneficial for modern video conferencing needs.

Support & Compatibility

• **Operating System Support:** Ships with Windows 11 Home or Pro. Some configurations may support Windows 10 Home or Pro.
• **Drivers:** Available through Samsung's official support channels and Windows Update.
• **Software Updates:** Receives software and security updates via Windows Update and Samsung Update.
• **Ecosystem Integration:** Features seamless integration with the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem, including Quick Share, Second Screen (with Galaxy Tab), Samsung Multi Control, SmartThings, and Link to Windows for phone continuity.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status

The Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 offers robust support and compatibility. Running on Windows 11, it benefits from Microsoft's ongoing updates and broad software compatibility. Samsung's ecosystem integration provides significant value for users already invested in Galaxy devices, enhancing productivity through features like seamless file sharing, second screen functionality, and cross-device control. The availability of drivers through official channels ensures system stability and performance. While specific end-of-support dates are not explicitly stated for the hardware, the Windows operating system receives regular updates, extending its functional lifespan.

Security Status

• **Secured-core PC:** The Galaxy Book2 Pro series is the first consumer PC lineup to meet Microsoft's Secured-core PC requirements, offering enhanced protection against firmware-level attacks.
• **Hardware-based Security:** Incorporates hardware-based security features to protect privacy and critical information.
• **Biometric Authentication:** Features an integrated fingerprint reader for secure Windows Hello login.
• **Samsung Security Features:** Includes proprietary software utilities like Privacy Folder, Secret Screen, Block Recording, and Security Cam. Secret Screen allows users to make active windows transparent to prevent shoulder surfing.
• **TPM:** Likely includes a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, a standard requirement for Windows 11 and Secured-core PCs, though not explicitly detailed in all sources.

Analysis on the Security Status

The Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 demonstrates a strong commitment to security, particularly with its Secured-core PC designation. This enterprise-grade security, previously reserved for high-security industries, provides advanced protection against sophisticated cyberattacks by integrating hardware, firmware, and software. The presence of a fingerprint reader offers convenient and secure biometric authentication. Samsung's proprietary security software adds layers of privacy protection, such as the "Secret Screen" feature, which is innovative for safeguarding sensitive information in public settings. These features collectively provide a high level of peace of mind for users concerned about data and identity protection.

Performance & Benchmarks

• **Processor Performance:**
  • Intel Core i7-1260P: Cinebench R23 Multi-core scores around 8329-8877. Cinebench 2024 Multi-Core scores around 435.
  • Intel Core i5-1240P: Cinebench R20 Multi-core scores around 3482. Cinebench 2024 Multi-Core scores around 630.
  • GeekBench 5: Single-core around 1490, Multi-core around 7511 (i5-1240P).
• **Graphics Performance:**
  • Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7 (96EU): 3DMark Time Spy (Graphics) scores around 1836.
  • Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7 (80EU): 3DMark Time Spy (Graphics) scores around 1794.
  • Intel Arc A350M: 3DMark Time Spy (Graphics) scores around 2623.
• **Real-world Performance:** Handles heavy computing workloads and general productivity with ease, including photo and video editing for multi-core tasks. It boots near-instantly and experiences no lag with multiple apps.
• **Battery Life:** Up to 18 hours in PCMark 10 battery test, 16 hours 38 minutes in looped movie test, and 11 hours 35 minutes in a looping video test at half brightness. Real-world usage averages 7-8 hours at max brightness with multiple projects.
• **Comparison with Similar Devices:**
  • **vs. Dell XPS 15:** The Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 is significantly lighter and thinner. While the XPS 15 9500 may offer higher graphical performance with a discrete GPU, the Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 often has more RAM in comparable configurations and faster Wi-Fi 6E. The Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 generally offers superior battery life.
  • **vs. LG Gram 15:** The Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 is generally lighter. Performance can be comparable, though some LG Gram models might have higher graphical FLOPS. The Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 often features a superior AMOLED display.

Analysis of the Performance Status

The Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 delivers strong performance for its ultralight class, primarily driven by 12th Gen Intel P-series processors. These CPUs excel in multi-core tasks, making the laptop efficient for productivity, multitasking, and even some light content creation. The integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics are sufficient for everyday use and casual gaming, with the optional Intel Arc A350M providing a noticeable, albeit still entry-level, boost for more demanding graphical workloads. A key strength is its exceptional battery life, often exceeding 14 hours in productivity tests, which is outstanding for a 15-inch laptop. While it may not match the raw graphical power of laptops with high-end discrete GPUs like some Dell XPS models, its overall balance of performance, portability, and battery endurance makes it a highly capable device for mobile professionals and students.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews consistently praise the Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 for its incredibly thin and light design, making it exceptionally portable for a 15-inch laptop. The AMOLED display receives widespread acclaim for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and overall visual quality, often described as "stunning" and "brilliant." Performance for general productivity and multitasking is considered snappy and excellent, with the 12th Gen Intel processors handling daily tasks effortlessly. Many users appreciate the comprehensive port selection, including USB-A and HDMI, which is often missing in other thin laptops. Battery life is frequently highlighted as a major advantage, with real-world usage often delivering all-day power.

However, some feedback points to a "subpar" or "unpleasant" keyboard for long-term usage, despite having decent key travel for its thinness. While performance is good for its class, some users note that the P-series processor limits performance potential compared to other 15-inch machines with higher-wattage CPUs or discrete GPUs, and that the laptop can get warm under load. The lack of a discrete GPU option in most configurations means it is not ideal for heavy gaming or intensive creative work. Some users also mention that the advertised battery life figures are higher than what they experience in real-world use, though it still remains very good.

Summary

The Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 is a compelling ultrabook that excels in portability, display quality, and battery life. Its remarkably thin and light chassis makes it one of the most travel-friendly 15-inch laptops available. The 15.6-inch Full HD AMOLED display is a significant strength, offering exceptional visual fidelity with vibrant colors and deep contrast, ideal for both work and entertainment. Powered by 12th Gen Intel Core P-series processors and fast LPDDR5 RAM, it delivers robust performance for everyday productivity, multitasking, and moderate workloads. The comprehensive port selection, including Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, and HDMI, enhances its versatility, a feature often sacrificed in ultra-thin designs. Security is a highlight, with the device being among the first consumer PCs to meet Microsoft's Secured-core PC requirements, complemented by biometric authentication and Samsung's privacy-focused software features.

Strengths include its outstanding portability, stunning AMOLED display, excellent battery endurance, and strong security posture. The seamless integration within the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem further enhances its appeal for users with other Samsung devices. Weaknesses primarily revolve around the keyboard, which some users find less comfortable for extended typing, and the performance ceiling for graphically intensive tasks due to the reliance on integrated graphics (or an entry-level discrete GPU option). While capable for its class, it is not designed for demanding gaming or professional-grade video editing that requires a powerful discrete GPU.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro 15 is highly recommended for mobile professionals, students, and users who prioritize an ultra-portable design, a premium visual experience, and long battery life for productivity and media consumption. It offers a balanced package of features and performance within a sleek form factor, making it a strong contender in the ultrabook market.

Information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.