Acer Swift 3 Gen 4

Acer Swift 3 Gen 4

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Options include 11th Gen Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processors (e.g., Core i5-1135G7, Core i7-1165G7), 12th Gen Intel Core i5 or i7 P-series processors (e.g., Core i5-1240P, Core i7-1260P, Core i7-12700H), or AMD Ryzen 5000 Series processors (e.g., Ryzen 5 5500U, Ryzen 7 5700U, Ryzen 5 5625U). [1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 10, 14, 16, 18, 21, 27]
• RAM: Available with 8GB or 16GB of LPDDR4x or LPDDR5 RAM. RAM is typically soldered to the motherboard. [1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 16, 23, 25]
• Storage: Features M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs, with capacities ranging from 256GB up to 1TB or 2TB. Some models include two M.2 slots, with at least one supporting PCIe Gen 4 SSDs. [1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 20, 23, 25, 28]
• Graphics: Utilizes integrated graphics, such as Intel Iris Xe Graphics (with 80EU or 96EU) for Intel models or AMD Radeon Graphics for AMD models. [1, 3, 4, 8, 10, 14, 16, 28]
• Display: Offers various display options, including 14-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS panels with 16:9 aspect ratio, 13.5-inch IPS displays with 3:2 aspect ratio (2256x1504 resolution), or 14-inch OLED panels with 2.8K (2880x1800) resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. Displays typically feature anti-glare coatings, 100% sRGB color coverage, and brightness levels often exceeding 300 nits. [1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 16, 19, 21, 23, 27, 29]
• Ports: Connectivity includes Thunderbolt 4 ports (often two, supporting DisplayPort over USB-C and power delivery), USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 or Gen 2 ports, and an HDMI port (some with HDMI 2.1). A 3.5mm audio jack is standard. Some configurations lack an SD or microSD card reader. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 15, 16, 21, 23, 24, 27, 28, 31]
• Wireless Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.0, 5.1, or 5.2. [1, 2, 3, 6, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 28, 31]
• Battery: Features a 55.9Wh or 57Wh Lithium-Ion battery. Charging occurs via a 65W AC adapter, with some models supporting USB-C charging via Thunderbolt 4. [1, 3, 5, 10, 16, 23, 28]
• Webcam: Includes a front-facing 720p or 1080p HD webcam. [3, 10, 15, 16]
• Dimensions & Weight: Designed as a thin and light ultrabook, typically weighing around 1.2 kg to 1.36 kg (2.65 to 3.01 pounds) and measuring approximately 1.6 cm to 1.88 cm (0.63 to 0.74 inches) thick. [3, 10, 16, 23, 28, 33]

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The Acer Swift 3 Gen 4 offers a strong balance of performance and portability, catering to a wide range of users from casual to more demanding professionals. The inclusion of 11th and 12th Gen Intel processors or AMD Ryzen 5000 series ensures robust performance for everyday tasks, productivity, and even light content creation. The integrated Intel Iris Xe or AMD Radeon Graphics are suitable for general use, media consumption, and some light gaming, though they are not designed for intensive graphical workloads. [1, 3, 4, 8, 10, 14, 16, 21, 28]

RAM configurations of up to 16GB are generally sufficient for multitasking, but the soldered memory limits future upgradeability. [9, 23, 25] Storage options are generous, with fast PCIe NVMe SSDs and the potential for dual M.2 drives, including PCIe Gen 4 support in some variants, offering excellent read/write speeds and expandability. [9, 13]

Display options are a highlight, with high-resolution IPS and OLED panels providing vibrant colors and good viewing angles. The OLED option, in particular, delivers superior contrast and color accuracy, making it suitable for creative work. [3, 29] Port selection is comprehensive, featuring multiple USB-A ports, HDMI, and the versatile Thunderbolt 4, which supports high-speed data transfer, external displays, and power delivery. [1, 3, 5, 16] The lightweight and slim design enhances portability, making it an ideal choice for users on the go. [10, 23, 28]

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Ships with Windows 10 Home or Windows 11 Home, supporting 64-bit architecture. [1, 2, 3, 6, 10, 14, 16, 18]
• End of Support Date: Specific end-of-support dates are not publicly listed for the "Gen 4" designation. Support typically aligns with Microsoft's lifecycle for the pre-installed Windows version and Acer's driver/firmware update policies for the specific model number.
• Available Drivers: Drivers and manuals are available through Acer's official support website. [2]
• Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of USB devices, including USB 3.0 and earlier standards. Thunderbolt 4 ensures compatibility with modern docks, external GPUs (though not officially supported for gaming), and high-speed peripherals. [1, 2, 3, 24] Wi-Fi 6/6E and Bluetooth 5.x provide broad wireless compatibility. [1, 2, 3, 6, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 28, 31]

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status

The Acer Swift 3 Gen 4 offers strong compatibility with current operating systems, primarily Windows 11, ensuring access to the latest features and security updates. [14, 18] Acer provides necessary drivers and manuals through its support channels, which is standard for enterprise assets. [2] The inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 significantly enhances compatibility with a broad ecosystem of modern peripherals and external displays, offering versatile connectivity options. [1, 2, 3, 18] However, the lack of an explicit long-term end-of-support date for the hardware itself means users should monitor Acer's official product pages for specific model numbers for lifecycle information. The soldered RAM limits hardware upgradeability, but the M.2 SSD slots allow for storage expansion. [9]

Security Status

• Security Features: Includes a fingerprint reader for Windows Hello authentication, enhancing biometric security. [1, 2, 6, 10, 14, 15, 18, 24, 33] Features a Kensington lock slot for physical security. [2, 3, 6, 15, 24] Some models include dTPM (Discrete Trusted Platform Module) for hardware-based security. [6] BIOS passwords (User, Supervisor, HDD) are available for system-level protection. [2]
• Vulnerabilities: A vulnerability was identified in some Acer Swift 3 models (with BIOS v1.10A or older) that could allow deactivation of critical protections for the TSEG region, potentially granting read/write access to the System Management Mode (SMM). [17]
• Recommendations: Users should ensure their BIOS is updated to the latest version to mitigate known vulnerabilities. [17] Utilizing the fingerprint reader for secure login is recommended. Employing the Kensington lock slot provides a basic layer of physical theft deterrence. Regular operating system and software updates are crucial for maintaining overall security.

Analysis on the Security Status

The Acer Swift 3 Gen 4 incorporates essential security features for an enterprise asset. The fingerprint reader provides convenient and robust biometric authentication for user access. [1, 15] Physical security is addressed with the Kensington lock slot. [15] The presence of BIOS-level password protection offers foundational security against unauthorized system configuration changes. [2] However, a documented vulnerability concerning System Management Mode (SMM) in older BIOS versions highlights the importance of keeping the system firmware up-to-date. [17] Proactive BIOS updates are critical to address such potential exploits and maintain a secure computing environment.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • Geekbench 5: Multi-core scores around 15,169 points (Intel Core i5-12500H) and single-core around 1,724 points. [21] Older models with AMD Ryzen 7 5700U show multi-core scores around 4,156 and single-core around 1,571. [15]
  • Cinebench R23: Multi-thread scores around 10,161 points (Intel Core i5-12500H) and single-thread around 1,724 points. [21]
  • 3DMark Time Spy (Graphics): Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7 (96EU) scores around 1836. [4, 8]
  • PCMark 10: Scores around 4504 to 4634. [12, 15]
• Real-World Performance Metrics:
  • Battery Life: Offers excellent battery life, often exceeding 10 hours of real-world usage, with some models achieving up to 11 hours of web browsing or 9.5 hours of video playback. [1, 5, 12, 23, 28, 33]
  • General Usage: Provides snappy performance for word processing, heavy web browsing, photo editing, and email. [1, 28] Handles light to medium intensity tasks smoothly. [5]
  • Gaming: Not designed as a gaming laptop, but capable of handling light gaming or older titles at 1080p. [1, 21, 23] Integrated graphics are not sufficient for graphically intensive games. [21]
  • Cooling & Noise: Generally quiet under light use. Fans may spin faster under performance presets or heavy load but remain relatively quiet. [23, 27, 28]
• Comparison with Similar Devices: Performance from Intel Core i7 models competes with laptops costing significantly more. [1] AMD Ryzen variants often excel in multi-core tests compared to Intel's 11th Gen processors. [27]

Analysis of Performance Status

The Acer Swift 3 Gen 4 delivers strong performance for its class, particularly with the 12th Gen Intel P-series and AMD Ryzen 5000 series processors. [3, 7, 8, 10, 14, 21] Benchmarks indicate excellent multi-core and single-core performance, making it well-suited for demanding productivity tasks, light content creation, and general computing. [21] While the integrated graphics are not for heavy gaming or professional 3D rendering, they capably handle everyday visual tasks and media consumption. [1, 21, 28] A standout feature is the exceptional battery life, providing over 10 hours of real-world use, which is crucial for portability. [1, 23, 28] The laptop generally maintains quiet operation, even under moderate load, contributing to a pleasant user experience. [23, 27, 28] Overall, the Swift 3 Gen 4 punches above its weight in terms of performance for its price point and form factor. [1, 33]

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews generally praise the Acer Swift 3 Gen 4 for its excellent balance of portability, performance, and value. Users frequently highlight its long battery life as a significant advantage, often exceeding 10 hours in real-world scenarios. [1, 5, 23, 28] The lightweight and slim metal chassis receives positive feedback for its premium feel and ease of transport. [1, 23, 33] Performance is consistently noted as strong for daily tasks, web browsing, and office applications, with many users finding it snappy and responsive. [1, 5, 23, 28]

The display, especially the OLED option, is highly regarded for its vibrant colors, high resolution, and good brightness, though some IPS panels may have average black levels. [3, 16, 23, 29] The inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 and a good selection of ports is also appreciated for connectivity. [1, 3, 5, 16, 23, 27]

Common criticisms include the soldered RAM, which prevents future memory upgrades. [9, 23, 25] Some users note the webcam quality is average or grainy. [1, 15] The keyboard and touchpad sometimes receive mixed feedback, with some finding the keyboard a bit stiff or the touchpad feeling hollow or less responsive than desired. [1, 16, 23] The presence of pre-installed bloatware is also a minor point of contention for some. [1]

Summary

The Acer Swift 3 Gen 4 stands out as a highly capable and portable ultrabook, offering a compelling blend of features for its market segment. Its core strength lies in its powerful processor options, including 11th and 12th Gen Intel Core and AMD Ryzen 5000 series, which deliver robust performance for a wide array of computing tasks, from general productivity to more demanding applications. The integrated graphics are suitable for everyday use and light entertainment, though not for intensive gaming or professional graphical workloads.

A significant advantage is the exceptional battery life, consistently providing over 10 hours of use, making it an ideal companion for mobile professionals and students. The lightweight and durable chassis, often constructed from metal, enhances its portability and premium feel. Display options are a highlight, with high-resolution IPS and particularly the vibrant OLED panels offering excellent visual experiences. Connectivity is comprehensive, featuring modern ports like Thunderbolt 4, which adds significant versatility.

Key strengths include its strong performance-to-price ratio, outstanding battery longevity, and a high-quality display. Weaknesses primarily revolve around the soldered RAM, limiting future memory upgrades, and a webcam that is functional but not exceptional. While security features like the fingerprint reader and Kensington lock slot are present, users must ensure BIOS updates are applied to address any identified vulnerabilities.

Overall, the Acer Swift 3 Gen 4 is highly recommended for users seeking a lightweight, powerful, and long-lasting laptop for productivity, education, and general multimedia consumption. Its performance and portability make it a strong contender in the mid-range ultrabook market. For users requiring extensive memory upgrades or dedicated graphics for heavy tasks, alternative devices might be more suitable. However, for its intended purpose, the Swift 3 Gen 4 delivers excellent value and a satisfying user experience.

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.