Asus ZenBook 3 Pro

Basic Information

• Model: UX390UA
• Version: Initially released with 7th Generation Intel Core i5/i7 processors.
• Release Date: Unveiled at Computex 2016, available in stores later that year (Q3 2016).
• Minimum Requirements: Not explicitly stated, but runs Windows 10 with Intel Core i5/i7 processors and 8GB RAM as base configurations.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 Home and Windows 10 Pro.
• Latest Stable Version (OS): Windows 10.
• End of Support Date: ASUS provides ongoing support beyond the warranty period, but hardware and software updates cease after a product reaches its End-of-Support (EOS) period. Specific EOS dates for this model are not listed, but Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly stated.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not applicable for the hardware; tied to the operating system (Windows 10 support ends October 14, 2025).
• License Type: Typically comes with a Windows 10 Home or Pro license.
• Deployment Model: Not applicable (consumer laptop).

Technical Specifications

The Asus ZenBook 3 (UX390UA) is a highly portable ultrabook designed for performance in a thin and light form factor.

• Processor: Intel Core i5-7200U or Intel Core i7-7500U (7th Generation Kaby Lake).
• RAM: Up to 16GB of 2133MHz LPDDR3 RAM, soldered on-board.
• Storage: PCIe Gen 3 SSDs up to 1TB (configurations include 256GB M.2 SATA SSD or 512GB/1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD).
• Display: 12.5-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display with 178° wide viewing angles, covered with Corning Gorilla Glass 4. Features a slim 7.6mm bezel, resulting in an 82% screen-to-body ratio.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel HD Graphics 620.
• Ports: One USB 3.1 Type-C port (supports display, power delivery, and data transfer), one 3.5mm audio jack. An adapter with USB 3.0 and HDMI is often included.
• Operating System: Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro.
• Dimensions: 296 x 191 x 11.9 mm (11.65" x 7.52" x 0.47").
• Weight: Approximately 910g (2 pounds).

The ZenBook 3's technical specifications highlight its focus on ultra-portability and solid performance for its class. The use of 7th generation Intel Core U-series processors and fast PCIe SSDs provides strong performance for daily tasks, web browsing, and light content creation. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 620 is suitable for video playback and casual gaming but not demanding graphical applications or modern gaming. The single USB-C port is a significant design choice for thinness but necessitates adapters for broader connectivity. The display, while not touch-enabled or ultra-high resolution, offers excellent color reproduction and brightness.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: The primary model is the UX390UA. A related, larger variant is the ZenBook 3 Deluxe (UX490UA).
• OS Support: Fully supports Windows 10.
• End of Support Date: ASUS provides support beyond the warranty period, but official hardware and software updates cease after a product reaches its End-of-Support (EOS) period. Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025.
• Localization: Available globally, with specific product appearances and specifications varying by region.
• Available Drivers: Drivers for networking, chipset, audio, graphics, pointing devices, and ATK are available through the ASUS support website.

The ZenBook 3 offers robust compatibility with Windows 10, ensuring access to a wide range of software and peripherals. ASUS maintains a download center for drivers and firmware, crucial for system stability and performance. However, users should be aware of the general Windows 10 end-of-support date, after which security updates and technical assistance from Microsoft will cease. The limited port selection (one USB-C) means users will likely rely on adapters or docks for connecting multiple peripherals, which ASUS often includes with the device.

Security Status

• Security Features: Built-in fingerprint sensor in the touchpad for secure login.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread vulnerabilities are highlighted in the provided data, beyond general OS-level concerns.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable.
• Certifications: Not explicitly detailed in the provided information.
• Encryption Support: Supports Windows 10's native encryption features (e.g., BitLocker with Windows 10 Pro).
• Authentication Methods: Fingerprint sensor with Windows Hello support.
• General Recommendations: Users are advised to keep the operating system and drivers updated to mitigate potential security risks.

The ZenBook 3 provides a good baseline for security with its integrated fingerprint sensor and Windows Hello compatibility, offering convenient and secure biometric authentication. Physical durability, thanks to its aerospace-grade aluminum construction and Gorilla Glass 4 display, also contributes to asset security by protecting against physical damage. As with any Windows device, maintaining up-to-date software and adhering to general cybersecurity best practices are crucial for overall security.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • Geekbench 3: 7,647 (Core i7-7500U model), significantly above the ultraportable average (5,528).
  • Geekbench 4: 7,901 (overall performance for UX490UA with Core i7-7500U).
  • 3DMark Fire Strike: 928, above the category average (713).
  • Cinebench R15 (Multi Core): 324 (i7/16G/512G PCIe SSD configuration).
  • PCMark 8 Home: 2,878.
  • SSD Performance: Blazing-fast PCIe SSDs, with read speeds around 1844 MB/s and write speeds around 1569 MB/s (for UX490UA with 512GB NVMe SSD).
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Excellent for day-to-day tasks, web browsing, HD video playback, and basic photo/video editing. Capable of handling multiple browser tabs and multitasking without significant lag.
• Power Consumption: Equipped with power-efficient Intel Kaby Lake processors.
• Carbon Footprint: Not specified in the provided data.
• Comparison with Similar Assets:
  • Outperforms Apple MacBook (Core m5/m7) in CPU performance.
  • Comparable to or slightly better than Dell XPS 13 and HP Spectre 13 in many performance metrics.
  • SSD performance is among the fastest for ultraportables.
  • Graphics performance (Intel HD Graphics 620) is sufficient for casual gaming (e.g., Dirt 3 at 47 fps, Overwatch at ~45 fps on lowest settings) but not for demanding titles.

The ZenBook 3 delivers strong performance for an ultraportable, largely attributed to its 7th generation Intel Core i7 processors and fast PCIe SSDs. It consistently scores well in synthetic benchmarks and translates this to a smooth user experience for productivity and multimedia consumption. While its integrated graphics limit its gaming capabilities, the overall performance is impressive for its thin and light design, often surpassing competitors like the Apple MacBook. However, due to its thin chassis, some reviews note CPU throttling under sustained heavy loads to manage heat.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback generally praise the Asus ZenBook 3 for its stunning design, premium build quality, and impressive performance for an ultraportable laptop.

• Strengths:
  • Design and Build: Frequently described as beautiful, elegant, and premium, with an aerospace-grade aluminum chassis and a distinctive royal blue or quartz grey finish with gold accents. It is exceptionally thin (11.9mm) and light (910g).
  • Performance: Users appreciate the powerful Intel Core i7 processor and fast SSD, enabling smooth multitasking and responsiveness.
  • Display: The 12.5-inch Full HD IPS display is noted for its vibrancy, sharp images, and accurate colors.
  • Audio: The Harmon Kardon-branded quad-speaker system delivers surprisingly good sound quality for a laptop of its size.
  • Touchpad and Fingerprint Sensor: The glass-covered touchpad is accurate with good tracking, and the integrated fingerprint sensor with Windows Hello is a convenient security feature.
  • Keyboard: Despite shallow travel (0.8mm), the backlit keyboard is generally considered comfortable for typing, especially compared to the 12-inch MacBook.
• Weaknesses:
  • Limited Ports: The single USB-C port (and headphone jack) is a common complaint, requiring users to rely on dongles for most peripherals.
  • Battery Life: While some reviews found battery life good (up to 9 hours claimed, 6-9 hours in real-world tests), others noted it was not as good as some competitors or the MacBook.
  • Webcam: The VGA webcam is often criticized for its low resolution and blurry image quality.
  • Heat and Throttling: Due to its thin design, the laptop can experience CPU throttling under heavy load to manage heat.
  • Price: Considered expensive, especially for higher configurations.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Ideal for users prioritizing extreme portability, sleek design, and solid performance for everyday productivity and multimedia consumption.
  • Suitable for business travelers and students who need a lightweight and powerful machine for on-the-go work.
  • A strong alternative for those who appreciate the MacBook's design but prefer Windows and more powerful processors.

Summary

The Asus ZenBook 3 (UX390UA) is a meticulously crafted ultrabook that redefined expectations for thin and light laptops upon its release. Its primary strengths lie in its breathtaking design, featuring an aerospace-grade aluminum chassis, an incredibly slim profile of 11.9mm, and a feather-light weight of 910g. This aesthetic appeal is matched by robust performance, powered by 7th generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors and ultra-fast PCIe SSDs, making it highly capable for general computing tasks, web browsing, and multimedia. The vibrant 12.5-inch Full HD display and surprisingly rich Harmon Kardon audio further enhance the user experience. Security is addressed with an integrated fingerprint sensor supporting Windows Hello.

However, the ZenBook 3 makes certain compromises for its ultra-slim form factor. The most notable limitation is the single USB-C port, which necessitates the use of adapters for most peripherals, potentially hindering connectivity for some users. While the keyboard is generally comfortable, its shallow key travel may require an adjustment period. The VGA webcam is a clear weakness, offering subpar image quality. Additionally, while battery life is decent, it may not always match the longevity of some competitors, and thermal management can lead to CPU throttling under sustained heavy loads.

Overall, the Asus ZenBook 3 is an excellent choice for users who prioritize extreme portability, premium design, and strong performance for everyday tasks in a Windows environment. It is particularly well-suited for professionals and students who frequently travel and need a lightweight yet powerful machine. While the limited port selection and average webcam are drawbacks, the ZenBook 3's strengths in design, performance, and display quality make it a compelling option in the ultraportable segment.

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.