If you’ve shopped around for a stylish mid-range laptop in the last couple of years, there’s a good chance you’ve come across the ASUS VivoBook S15. The “S” in its name often stands for slim (at least in spirit), and the 15 indicates its 15.6-inch display. It’s part of ASUS’s extensive VivoBook lineup, which aims to deliver capable performance, a unique design, and reasonable pricing. The S15 specifically focuses on blending everyday computing power with an upbeat, contemporary aesthetic.
ASUS targets a broad audience with the VivoBook S15, ranging from students who require an affordable yet well built machine to professionals who want a more casual work laptop that doesn’t necessarily break the bank. Think of it as that sweet spot between an entry-level notebook and a more premium Ultrabook. Over the years, the S15 has gone through several iterations, with different internal hardware configurations. The core idea remains consistent – pack a 15.6-inch screen, modern processors, a comfortable keyboard, and some extras like decent battery life, all wrapped up in a fairly thin chassis.
This article will dive into the S15’s design, build quality, display, hardware performance, keyboard and trackpad experience, battery life, connectivity, and more. We’ll also look at typical configurations, pricing, and the pros and cons that come with investing in this device. By the end, you should have a well rounded perspective on whether this laptop meets your specific needs whether you’re a student, a creative hobbyist, or a working professional.
ASUS VivoBook S15 Design & Build Quality
One of the first things people notice about the ASUS VivoBook S15 is its design language. ASUS prides itself on making laptops that don’t feel boring or cookie cutter, and the S15 is no exception. Many models of the S15, like the S533 or S531 come in a variety of color options, from neutral silver or gray to more colorful variants like Dreamy White, Indie Black, or Gaia Green. The intention is to stand out from the sea of standard silver laptops.
Materials & Chassis
Often, the lid is made from a brushed or matte aluminum alloy, giving it a premium, cool to the touch feel. The underside and surrounding chassis are typically composed of robust polycarbonate plastic or a mixed metal plastic blend. This approach keeps the laptop lighter than an all metal design while helping ASUS keep manufacturing costs in check. In day to day use, the chassis feels relatively sturdy, though you might notice some flex in the keyboard deck if you press firmly down the center. This flex isn’t unusual for a mid range laptop and shouldn’t be a deal breaker, but it’s something to note if you prefer a rock-solid build- such as on some higher end Ultrabooks.
Slim Profile & Portability
A major selling point of the VivoBook S15 is its relatively slim profile for a 15.6-inch device. Most models measure around 16-18 mm thick (0.63-0.71 inches) and weigh roughly 1.8 kg to 1.9 kg (around 4 lbs). While this isn’t the lightest 15-inch laptop on the market, it’s definitely thin enough to slip into a backpack comfortably. The slightly heavier weight can be beneficial if you’re concerned about durability, but it’s still within a reasonable range if you plan on commuting daily or taking it to lectures.
ErgoLift Hinge
ASUS often includes what it calls an ErgoLift hinge in their VivoBook lineup. When you open the laptop past a certain angle, the bottom portion of the screen bezel elevates the keyboard deck slightly off the table. This angle is designed to improve typing comfort and airflow underneath the chassis. Whether you find it comfortable is subjective, but I’ve personally found the gentle tilt beneficial when typing for extended periods.
Aesthetics & Branding
On the lid, you’ll usually find a small, offset ASUS logo that quietly marks the brand without dominating the entire design. The hinge may have additional branding or an accent strip for instance, a bright color line, giving the S15 a subtle sense of flair. Combined with the often bright color options or brushed aluminum, you end up with a machine that manages to look both professional and playful, depending on how you accessorize or where you bring it.
ASUS VivoBook S15 Display
The ASUS VivoBook S15 is, unsurprisingly, a 15.6-inch laptop. Over the last few iterations, ASUS has offered Full HD (1920 x 1080) as the standard resolution on most models. This is an ideal sweet spot for productivity and media consumption on a 15-inch screen, it provides enough clarity without making text or icons too small.
Panel Quality & Brightness
Most S15 models use an IPS-level panel for better color accuracy and viewing angles compared to the cheaper TN panels you still sometimes see on budget laptops. This means you can tilt the screen or share it with friends without the image washing out or inverting colors.
However, brightness can be a point of contention. The panel typically sits around the 250-nit mark. Indoors, that’s usually sufficient, but under strong sunlight or in a bright café, you may find yourself wishing it was closer to 300 nits or more.
Color Accuracy
Color reproduction on the S15 is decent for most everyday tasks watching Netflix, browsing Instagram, and playing casual games. If you’re a design student or a creative professional who needs top-tier color accuracy for photo or video editing, you might want to step up to a more professional-oriented monitor or laptop. But for the majority of users, the S15’s display is vibrant enough, with a decent contrast ratio that keeps videos and images from looking dull.
Screen to Body Ratio
ASUS has worked on slimming down the bezels in the VivoBook line. Most S15 models sport what ASUS calls their NanoEdge display, with fairly thin side bezels and a moderately slim top bezel that accommodates the webcam. While not completely edge to edge, the design is still modern enough to make older laptops with thick borders look dated. This also means the laptop’s footprint can be slightly smaller than older 15 inch devices, contributing to portability.
Performance & Hardware
The VivoBook S15 typically offers multiple hardware configurations. Depending on your region or the specific model year, you’ll see different options for the CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. I’ll outline a common setup, but keep in mind specs can vary.
Processor (CPU)
You’ll commonly find Intel Core i5 or i7 processors from the 10th, 11th, or even 12th generation in recent S15 variants. For instance, an S15 from a year or two ago might feature an Intel Core i5-10210U (10th Gen, 4 cores, 8 threads), whereas a newer model could sport an 11th Gen i5-1135G7 or i7-1165G7. These CPUs offer a good balance between power consumption and performance for everyday tasks: web browsing, Microsoft Office, streaming video, and moderate multitasking. If you need more muscle for serious video editing or rendering, you might find them somewhat limiting under very heavy workloads, though the i7 models can still handle occasional creative tasks.
Graphics (GPU)
Most VivoBook S15 models rely on integrated Intel graphics for standard tasks. However, some configurations include entry level NVIDIA MX-series graphics (like the GeForce MX250, MX350, or MX450). These dedicated GPUs provide a minor boost if you enjoy casual gaming or if your photo/video editing apps can offload work to the GPU. Don’t expect to play the latest AAA games at high settings, but older or less demanding titles, like League of Legends or CS:GO should run comfortably at medium or sometimes high settings. For more serious gaming, you’d likely need something with at least a GTX 1650 or above, which is not typically standard in the VivoBook S15 line.
RAM & Storage
A typical mid-range configuration offers 8 GB of DDR4 RAM with the possibility to expand to 16 GB. Some variants come with soldered RAM plus an extra slot, so if upgradability matters to you, check the specific model. In terms of storage, solid-state drives (SSD) have become the norm across the VivoBook range. You’ll usually see a 512 GB NVMe SSD, which delivers speedy boot times and fast application launches. Some models might also include a secondary 2.5-inch hard drive bay for extra storage, though this is becoming less common as laptop designs get slimmer.
Real World Performance
Most users buying the S15 will find it more than adequate for day-to-day tasks. You can have dozens of browser tabs open, run productivity apps, and even do some light to moderate photo editing without it feeling sluggish. The laptop’s fans do ramp up when you push the CPU harder like exporting a video or playing a 3D game. Speaking of fans.
Thermals
One side effect of a slim chassis is that there’s less space for cooling. Under normal workloads, the S15 runs quietly, with the fans remaining fairly inaudible. When you push it, you’ll hear the fan(s) spool up, but it’s not overly distracting unless you’re in a silent environment. The ErgoLift hinge helps a bit by providing more space underneath the laptop for airflow. The laptop’s surface can get warm near the top center of the keyboard deck after prolonged heavy use, but it doesn’t become uncomfortably hot for your hands in typical day-to-day scenarios.
Keyboard & Trackpad of VivoBook S15
Keyboard Layout & Comfort
ASUS generally provides a full-sized keyboard on the S15, often including a numeric keypad on the right side (although some variants might opt for a more compact layout). The keys typically have about 1.4 mm of travel, which is neither too shallow nor overly deep. Typing feels responsive, with a snappy rebound that’s consistent across the board. If you do a lot of writing, programming, or data entry, the presence of the numpad can be handy.
The keyboard is usually backlit, allowing you to adjust brightness levels. In well-lit conditions, the lettering is clearly visible, and in dimmer scenarios, the backlight helps you see your keys at a glance. One minor quirk is that on certain bright-colored S15 variants, the keycap lettering can sometimes be less visible in direct sunlight if you have the backlight on. You’ll want to toggle it off or on a lower brightness to get better contrast.
Trackpad
In keeping with modern trends, the trackpad is fairly large, providing plenty of real estate for multi-touch gestures. It uses Windows Precision drivers, which translates to smooth two-finger scrolling, pinch-to-zoom, and three-finger gestures. Some models include a built-in fingerprint reader at the top corner of the trackpad, which is convenient for quick logins via Windows Hello. The location of the sensor sometimes reduces the trackpad’s usable area by a small fraction, but most people get used to it quickly.
Special Features NumberPad or Print Sensor
Some newer VivoBook S15s incorporate an LED NumberPad. Essentially, you press a button on the trackpad, and the surface lights up with a numeric keypad layout. If your model includes this, it can be an efficient workaround if your keyboard layout doesn’t have a dedicated numpad. Another feature you might see is a fingerprint sensor placed just beside the trackpad, which allows you to log in without typing a password. If you prioritize security and quick access, this is a plus.
VivoBook S15 Audio & Webcam
Speaker Quality
The S15 often places its speakers on the underside of the chassis. These speakers, co-developed with audio specialists like Harman Kardon on some models, aim to produce clearer sound at moderate volumes. Because they are downward-firing, placing the laptop on a hard surface helps reflect the sound upward, enhancing overall clarity. For watching YouTube videos, Netflix, or listening to music while you work, the volume is sufficient. Don’t expect super-rich bass or top-tier fidelity these are still laptop speakers. If you’re an audiophile or need a better sound profile for creative audio work, you might invest in headphones or external speakers.
Webcam & Microphone
A standard 720p webcam rests at the top bezel of the display. In good lighting, it performs adequately for Zoom or Microsoft Teams calls, though the image can appear grainy in low light. The built in microphone set typically handles voice calls well; your voice should sound clear enough for the average meeting or class session. However, if you’re podcasting or streaming, you’ll likely want a dedicated mic.
Battery Life
Advertised vs. Real World Usage
Battery performance varies by configuration and usage patterns, but most S15 models offer a battery rated around 42-50 Wh (watt-hours). ASUS often advertises anywhere from 8 to 10 hours of battery life under light conditions, but real-world results tend to be closer to 6 to 8 hours for typical mixed usage web browsing, emails, streaming a few videos, and a bit of word processing. If you’re doing heavier tasks like video editing, 3D gaming, or keeping the screen at maximum brightness, expect that time to drop further, potentially to around 3-5 hours.
Charging
The included AC adapter can vary some are 45W, some 65W, depending on the CPU and GPU configuration. Charging from near empty to full can take roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. Recent VivoBook S15 models sometimes feature fast-charging capabilities, letting you juice up to about 60% in under an hour. This is handy if you have a hectic schedule and only a short break to top off the battery.
Ports & Connectivity
Port Selection
For a laptop that’s on the slimmer side, the ASUS VivoBook S15 still delivers a reasonable range of ports:
- USB-C (Type-C): Usually one port, supporting data transfer and sometimes DisplayPort out. However, not all configurations support charging or Thunderbolt 4 through this port. Check the specs if USB-C charging is a priority.
- USB-A: Often two or three of these, usually a mix of USB 3.2 Gen 1 and possibly one USB 2.0 for older peripherals.
- HDMI: A full-sized HDMI port to connect external displays, projectors, or TVs without needing an adapter.
- Audio Jack: A 3.5 mm combo audio jack for headphones and mic.
- SD or MicroSD Card Reader: Some S15 models include a microSD slot, while others might have a full SD slot. This can be beneficial for photographers or creators who frequently transfer files.
Wireless Connectivity
You’ll typically find Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) on more recent models. Wi-Fi 6 provides faster speeds and improved performance in dense networks, so if your router supports it, that’s a plus. Bluetooth 5.0 or 5.1 is also common, letting you connect multiple devices like headphones, mice, keyboards, or speakers.
Software & User Experience
Operating System
Windows 10 or Windows 11 typically comes pre installed on the newer VivoBook S15 laptops. Windows 11 has become more common recently, offering a refreshed user interface, improved window management, and integration with Microsoft Teams for quick calls.
Bloatware & Utilities
ASUS bundles a few utilities, such as MyASUS, which provides system diagnostics, driver updates, and battery health settings. You might also see a 30-day trial of an antivirus program or other sponsored software, this is standard practice for many consumer notebooks. While some people find these pre installed apps helpful, others see them as unnecessary bloat. Most can be uninstalled if they don’t fit your workflow.
User Friendly Touches
Features like the Link to MyASUS let you connect your smartphone to your laptop for file sharing and screen mirroring. Another plus is the built-in Microsoft Store apps that come with Windows 10/11, which streamline app installation.
Pricing & Configurations
The ASUS VivoBook S15 is typically offered at multiple price points depending on the CPU, RAM, storage, and GPU. As a rough guideline:
- Base Models (Intel Core i5, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, integrated graphics) often start around $650-$800 in the United States or the equivalent in other regions.
- Mid-Range (Intel Core i5 or i7, 8 GB or 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, possibly an NVIDIA MX GPU) might go for $800-$1,000.
- Higher-End (Intel Core i7, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, dedicated graphics) can inch closer to $1,100-$1,200.
Pricing is heavily dependent on sales, retailer promotions, and time of year. You might snag a great deal during back-to-school season or holiday promotions. Keep in mind that if you’re willing to shop around, you can often find bundles that include accessories or extended warranties.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- Modern Aesthetics: Bright color options, minimalist branding, and slim bezels create a stylish look that feels fresh.
- Decent Performance for Everyday Tasks: With a Core i5 or i7, 8-16 GB of RAM, and fast SSDs, the S15 can easily handle productivity, light multimedia editing, and casual gaming.
- Comfortable Keyboard and Trackpad: The backlit keyboard with decent travel and a spacious trackpad (often with a fingerprint sensor) feels good to use daily.
- Fair Price-to-Performance Ratio: You can often find configurations under $1,000, making it an attractive choice for students and professionals on a budget.
- Port Selection: USB-C, multiple USB-A ports, HDMI, and a card reader (on some models) provide good connectivity without needing a dongle for every accessory.
Cons
- Middling Display Brightness: At around 250 nits, you may struggle in very bright environments or direct sunlight.
- Average Battery Life: Expect around 6-7 hours under normal usage—fine for a day at school with some breaks but not groundbreaking.
- Some Flex in the Chassis: The keyboard deck can flex slightly if pressed firmly, which may concern those craving a more premium, rigid feel.
- Limited Gaming Performance: While you can play casual or older 3D titles, the entry-level MX GPUs or integrated graphics won’t handle newer AAA games smoothly at high settings.
- Potential Heat Buildup: With demanding tasks, the underside and the area near the top of the keyboard can get noticeably warm.
Below is a general comparison table highlighting key similarities and differences between the ASUS VivoBook S15 and the ASUS VivoBook S14. Note that exact specifications can vary by region, model year, and individual configurations.
| Aspect | ASUS VivoBook S15 | ASUS VivoBook S14 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 15.6 inches (Full HD) | 14 inches (Full HD) |
| Dimensions | Approx. 357 x 230 x 18 mm (14.0 x 9.1 x 0.7 in) | Approx. 324 x 213 x 17 mm (12.8 x 8.4 x 0.7 in) |
| Weight | ~1.8 to 1.9 kg (3.97 to 4.19 lbs) | ~1.4 to 1.5 kg (3.09 to 3.31 lbs) |
| Processor Options | Intel Core i5/i7 (various generations) | Intel Core i5/i7 (various generations) |
| Graphics | Intel Integrated Graphics or NVIDIA MX-series (select models) | Intel Integrated Graphics or NVIDIA MX-series (select models) |
| RAM | Typically 8 GB (upgradable to 16 GB) | Typically 8 GB (upgradable to 16 GB) |
| Storage | SSD (up to 1 TB) Some models with optional HDD | SSD (up to 1 TB) |
| Battery | ~42–50 Wh 6–8 hours real-world usage | ~42–50 Wh 6–8 hours real-world usage |
| Port Selection | – USB-C (data transfer, sometimes DisplayPort) – 2–3 x USB-A (USB 3.2 / 2.0) – HDMI – 3.5 mm audio jack – Optional SD or microSD slot (model-dependent) | – USB-C (data transfer, sometimes DisplayPort) – 2–3 x USB-A (USB 3.2 / 2.0) – HDMI – 3.5 mm audio jack – Optional SD or microSD slot (model-dependent) |
| Design & Aesthetics | Larger footprint with 15.6-inch screen Slim bezel (“NanoEdge”) Range of colors (e.g., silver, green, black, etc.) | Slightly more compact chassis Slim bezel (“NanoEdge”) Range of colors (e.g., silver, coral, black, etc.) |
| Keyboard & Trackpad | Full-size keyboard with numpad (most models) ErgoLift hinge Windows Precision trackpad with optional fingerprint sensor | Compact keyboard layout (some may omit a numpad) ErgoLift hinge Windows Precision trackpad with optional fingerprint sensor |
| Audio | Down-firing stereo speakers (Harman Kardon tuning on some models) | Down-firing stereo speakers (Harman Kardon tuning on some models) |
| Webcam | 720p HD (top bezel) | 720p HD (top bezel) |
| Typical Price Range | $650–$1,200+ (depending on specs and region) | $600–$1,100+ (depending on specs and region) |
| Who It’s For | – Users who prefer a larger display – Students, professionals needing screen real estate – Casual gaming, everyday tasks | – Users seeking more portability – Students, travelers who need a lighter laptop – Casual gaming, everyday tasks |
Conclusion & Recommendation
Overall, the ASUS VivoBook S15 embodies what many modern laptop users crave: it’s slim, stylish, offers a pleasing typing experience, and has enough power for day-to-day computing. The ability to choose between various hardware configurations means there’s likely a model to suit most mid-range budgets. Whether you need a machine for school assignments, office productivity, or light multimedia tasks, the S15 finds a comfortable niche.
It might not be the pinnacle of laptop design in terms of rigid build quality or raw performance, but its well-balanced feature set makes it a strong contender in the mid-range market. If you know you need a laptop primarily for long writing sessions, lots of web browsing, Netflix marathons, or moderate creative tasks, there’s a lot to love here especially if you can catch a sale that brings the price under certain competing models.
On the flip side, if you’re a professional video editor, an avid gamer, or a person who must have a near-flawless display with top-tier brightness and color accuracy, you may want to check out more specialized laptops or invest in an external display. Additionally, some might consider a 14-inch or 13-inch Ultrabook if extreme portability is essential.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, purchasing a laptop is a personal decision, shaped by budget constraints, performance needs, and design preferences. The VivoBook S15 has proven its place as an appealing all-rounder, bringing decent horsepower, appealing visuals, and a comfortable typing experience all in a single package. For many students and office workers, that’s precisely what they need.
If you find yourself drawn to its aesthetics, appreciate the value of the ErgoLift hinge, and you’re okay with some minor compromises like average battery life and a not so bright display, the S15 stands out as a strong contender. Take time to compare it with its direct competition like Acer’s Swift 3 or 5 series, Lenovo’s IdeaPad lineup, or Dell’s Inspiron series and consider which blend of design, performance, and pricing best fits your lifestyle.
At the end of the day, the ASUS VivoBook S15 is a confident, competent laptop that’s more than capable of handling everyday tasks for most people. It might not be the star athlete in every category, but it’s a well rounded performer that delivers plenty of bang for your buck. And that’s exactly what many of us are looking for in a daily companion.