Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra 7s

Basic Information

The Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra is a high-performance laptop designed for demanding users.

• Model: Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra
• Version: Available in configurations featuring Intel Core i7-13700H with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050, or Intel Core i9-13900H with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070.
• Release Date: Announced on February 1, 2023, with global availability commencing February 22, 2023.
• Minimum Requirements: Operates on Windows 11, adhering to its minimum system requirements.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 11 Home or Pro.
• Latest Stable Version: Refers to the installed Windows 11 operating system.
• End of Support Date: Not specifically published for the laptop model. Software support for the operating system follows Microsoft's Windows 11 lifecycle. Samsung provides varying software update policies for its Galaxy devices, typically offering several years of updates for its ecosystem components.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly stated.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Dependent on the Windows 11 lifecycle and Samsung's specific software update policies.
• License Type: Typically an OEM license for Windows 11.
• Deployment Model: Client device (laptop).

Technical Specifications

The Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra integrates premium components within a sleek chassis.

• Processor: 13th Generation Intel Core i7-13700H or Intel Core i9-13900H.
• RAM: 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5, soldered onboard.
• Storage: 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB NVMe PCIe SSD options. Some configurations include a free expansion slot for a second SSD.
• Display: 16-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with a 3K (2880 x 1800) resolution, 16:10 aspect ratio, and an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz. It offers 400 nits typical brightness, 500 nits HDR peak brightness, and 120% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage.
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU with 6GB GDDR6 or NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU with 8GB GDDR6.
• Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4 (USB Type-C) ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port, one HDMI 2.0 port, a 3.5mm headphone/mic combo jack, and a microSD card reader.
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home or Pro.
• Dimensions (WxDxH): 355.4 x 250.4 x 16.5 mm (13.99 x 9.86 x 0.65 inches).
• Weight: Starts at 1.79 kg (3.9 pounds).

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra boasts a powerful hardware configuration, positioning it as a strong contender for content creation, professional workflows, and even light gaming. The combination of 13th Gen Intel H-series processors and NVIDIA RTX 40-series GPUs provides robust performance. The 16-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display is a significant highlight, offering exceptional visual fidelity with its high resolution, vibrant colors, and smooth 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, making it ideal for visual professionals. Despite its powerful internals, the device maintains a remarkably thin and light profile, which is impressive for a laptop of its caliber. However, this slim design can lead to thermal throttling under sustained heavy loads, as the cooling system may struggle to dissipate heat effectively, potentially limiting peak performance compared to thicker gaming laptops.

Support & Compatibility

The Galaxy Book3 Ultra offers broad compatibility and leverages the Samsung ecosystem for enhanced user experience.

• Latest Version: Refers to the hardware configurations available at launch, running Windows 11.
• OS Support: Fully supports Windows 11.
• End of Support Date: Specific end-of-support dates for the laptop model are not publicly detailed by Samsung. The operating system's support lifecycle is governed by Microsoft. Samsung typically provides software updates for its Galaxy devices for several years, which may extend to its proprietary software on the laptop.
• Localization: Available in various markets including the US, UK, France, Germany, Korea, and India. The laptop is offered in a Graphite color.
• Available Drivers: Standard Windows drivers are available, likely managed and updated through Samsung's proprietary software such as Samsung Update.
• Cartridge and Ink Codes: Not applicable for this asset (laptop).

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

The Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra benefits significantly from its integration into the broader Samsung Galaxy ecosystem. Features like Quick Share, Multi Control, and Link to Windows enable seamless connectivity and file transfer with Samsung smartphones and tablets, enhancing productivity for users already invested in the ecosystem. While the core OS support follows Microsoft's established lifecycle for Windows 11, Samsung provides its own suite of utility software to manage drivers and system settings. The availability across multiple regions ensures localized support and distribution. However, users outside the Samsung ecosystem might not fully leverage all the integrated compatibility features.

Security Status

The Galaxy Book3 Ultra incorporates robust security features at multiple levels.

• Security Features: Includes a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button, a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), and Samsung Knox defense-grade security. It also features Intel Hardware Shield technology and is a Microsoft Secured-Core PC. Additional protections include a Tamper Alert function, a hardware-based root of trust, data encryption, data isolation, and run-time protection. Secure Wi-Fi encrypts internet traffic and disables tracking on public networks.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread known vulnerabilities are highlighted in public documentation.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable.
• Certifications: Certified as a Microsoft Secured-Core PC. Samsung Knox cryptographic modules are certified to FIPS 140-2 Level 1 and Common Criteria.
• Encryption Support: Knox platform encryption protects data from theft or loss, ensuring data remains encrypted even when the device is powered off. It supports on-device encryption, file encryption, and secure data connectivity.
• Authentication Methods: Primarily uses a fingerprint reader for secure login. It supports Windows Hello and Samsung Pass for biometric authentication.
• General Recommendations: Users are advised to utilize the built-in biometric authentication, keep the operating system and Samsung software updated, and employ strong password practices to maintain optimal security.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

The Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra offers a high overall security rating due to its multi-layered approach. It combines hardware-level security (TPM, hardware-based root of trust, fingerprint sensor) with advanced software protections (Samsung Knox, Intel Hardware Shield, Windows 11 Pro features, Secured-Core PC certification). This comprehensive security framework aims to protect against various threats, from physical tampering to cyberattacks and data breaches, making it suitable for enterprise environments and users handling sensitive information.

Performance & Benchmarks

The Galaxy Book3 Ultra delivers strong performance for its class, balancing power with portability.

• Benchmark Scores: In Geekbench 5, the Intel Core i7-13700H configuration achieved a multi-core score of 12,212. The NVIDIA RTX 4050 and RTX 4070 GPUs provide significant performance gains over previous generations, excelling in creative applications.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: The laptop performs excellently in demanding tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and general content creation. It handles multiple applications and heavy workloads smoothly without noticeable stuttering.
• Power Consumption: The Intel Core i9-13900H CPU operates with a reduced power consumption of up to 75W within the slim chassis. The NVIDIA RTX 4050 and RTX 4070 are low-power versions of their respective mobile GPUs, optimized for efficiency in a thin-and-light form factor.
• Carbon Footprint: Parts of the Galaxy Book3 Ultra and Pro series incorporate recycled plastics, including ocean-bound discarded fishing nets and water barrels, contributing to reduced environmental impact.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Often compared to the 16-inch MacBook Pro, the Galaxy Book3 Ultra offers competitive performance, sometimes at a lower price point. However, due to its thin design, it may experience thermal throttling under prolonged heavy loads, leading to slightly diminished performance compared to thicker, dedicated gaming laptops.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

The Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra provides a compelling performance package for a thin and light laptop. Its 13th Gen Intel H-series processors and NVIDIA RTX 40-series graphics cards are well-suited for creative professionals and users requiring significant processing power. While it excels in burst performance and handles most demanding applications with ease, the slim chassis design necessitates power management that can lead to thermal throttling during extended, intensive tasks. Battery life is moderate for a high-performance machine, typically ranging from 4 to 6.5 hours in real-world usage scenarios. Despite these trade-offs, it remains a highly capable machine for its target audience.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback highlights several key strengths and weaknesses of the Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra.

• Strengths: Users consistently praise the gorgeous 16-inch 3K AMOLED 120Hz display for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and sharpness, making it a standout feature for content consumption and creation. The sleek and lightweight design is highly appreciated for a laptop packing such powerful components. The keyboard is generally well-regarded for its typing experience, and the large trackpad is noted. Strong integration with the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem is a significant advantage for existing Samsung device owners. The overall build quality is considered premium.
• Weaknesses: Common criticisms include the glossy finish of the screen, which can be prone to reflections, and a noticeable screen wobble when typing. The large trackpad, while generally good, is sometimes described as "obnoxiously large" or "awkwardly placed off-center" by some users. Battery life is frequently cited as moderate, typically offering around 4-6.5 hours of meaningful use, which falls short of expectations for some users given the premium price. The laptop can become noisy under heavy load as fans work to manage thermals. The price point is considered high, and some users note a limited port selection, specifically the absence of a full-size SD card slot. The device is only available in Graphite color.
• Recommended Use Cases: The Galaxy Book3 Ultra is highly recommended for content creators, professionals engaged in video editing, 3D rendering, and other demanding creative tasks. It is also an excellent choice for users deeply integrated into the Samsung ecosystem due to seamless device connectivity. It can handle light gaming effectively.

Summary

The Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra is a premium, high-performance laptop that successfully blends powerful components with a remarkably thin and light design. Its standout feature is the stunning 16-inch 3K AMOLED 120Hz display, offering exceptional visual quality for creative work and entertainment. Equipped with 13th Gen Intel Core H-series processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40-series GPUs, it delivers robust performance for demanding tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and graphic design. The laptop also boasts comprehensive security features, including Samsung Knox, Intel Hardware Shield, and Microsoft Secured-Core PC certification, ensuring a highly secure computing environment.

Strengths include its gorgeous display, powerful internals, sleek and portable build, comfortable keyboard, and deep integration with the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem, which enhances productivity for users with other Samsung devices.

However, the device has some notable weaknesses. The glossy screen can be prone to reflections and exhibits some wobble. Battery life, while decent for a powerful machine, is not exceptional and may not last a full workday for intensive use. The slim chassis, while aesthetically pleasing, can lead to thermal throttling under sustained heavy loads, preventing the components from reaching their absolute peak performance. The price point is premium, and some users may find the port selection somewhat limited, particularly the absence of a full-size SD card slot.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra is an excellent choice for creative professionals and power users who prioritize a stunning display, strong performance for creative workloads, and a portable form factor, especially if they are already part of the Samsung ecosystem. It offers a compelling Windows alternative to high-end professional laptops, though users should be mindful of the battery life and potential thermal limitations during prolonged intensive use.

Please note: The 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.