The Aspire Vero 16 stands out in the 16-inch laptop market, not just for its budget-friendly price but also for its impressive features. Despite being affordable, it boasts a quality webcam with a physical shutter, runs on the Intel Core Ultra CPU, and maintains a lightweight design. However, the absence of an Ethernet port and microSD slot is a drawback.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly with Core Ultra CPU
- Lightweight for its size
- Impressive display
- Quality webcam with a physical shutter
Cons:
- Lack of Ethernet port and microSD slot
- Limited RAM options
- GPU falls short
In summary, the Aspire Vero 16 offers solid performance with some notable advantages, but the absence of certain ports and limited GPU capabilities are drawbacks to consider.
Acer’s newest budget laptop, the Aspire Vero 16, seems poised to lead the pack in the 16-inch display market. With a high-resolution screen, up-to-date CPU, and ample RAM and storage, it’s well-equipped for demanding tasks and light editing projects.
What distinguishes the Vero 16 from Acer’s other models is its eco-friendly design. This underscores the manufacturer’s commitment to producing laptops that minimize environmental impact without compromising quality or affordability.
ACER ASPIRE VERO 16: PRICE AND AVAILABILITY
Scheduled for a US release in April 2024, the Acer Aspire Vero 16 starts at $749.99. While UK and Australia release details are pending, the initial price is noteworthy. Packed with an Intel Core Ultra CPU and a sizable display, the Vero 16 competes favorably with top-tier ultrabooks and thin and light laptops, often priced twice as high.
ACER ASPIRE VERO 16 REVIEW: DESIGN
Here’s a breakdown of the Acer Aspire Vero 16 specs:
| Component | Spec |
|---|---|
| Display | Up to 16-inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600) |
| CPU | Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 155U |
| Graphics | Intel Graphics |
| RAM | Up to 16GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | Up to 2TB PCIe 4 SSD |
| Port selection | 2x Thunderbolt 4 (USB Type-C), 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm jack, 2x USB Type-A |
| Weight | 1.8kg (3.97 lbs) |
| Dimensions | 14.15 x 9.72 x 0.65 inches; 359.45 x 247 x 16.55 mm (WxDxH) |
The Acer Aspire Vero 16 features an impressive 16-inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600) screen, though an OLED display could have heightened its competitiveness against Acer’s Swift Go 14 and 16 models.
As an eco-friendly laptop, over 60% of its chassis is made from PCR (post-consumer recycled) materials. The touchpad, crafted from Acer’s OceanGlass, and the packaging, composed of 100% recycled material, contribute to its sustainable design. Despite its substantial screen, the laptop feels light and boasts a distinct textured chassis.
Similar to Acer’s Swift Go 14 and 16, the Vero 16 sports a 1440p webcam, a notable upgrade from the common 1080p or 720p in other ultrabooks. The camera is equipped with a physical privacy shutter, a feature that should be standard on all laptops.
The laptop’s port selection includes Type-C and Type-A USB ports, HDMI, a 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack, and a Kensington lock. However, the absence of an Ethernet port and a microSD slot is a drawback.
The touchpad is both smooth and responsive, featuring a built-in fingerprint reader in the top-left corner for added convenience. The keyboard stands out with its pleasant backlighting, and a unique touch – the ‘R’ and ‘E’ keys are reversed, aligning with the laptop’s ‘recycle’ theme, as explained by an Acer representative.
ACER ASPIRE VERO 16 REVIEW: PERFORMANCE
While benchmark testing wasn’t conducted, the Intel Core Ultra CPU suggests the Acer Aspire Vero 16 excels in handling processor-intensive tasks.
However, the standard Intel Graphics GPU may limit power for more demanding creative and editing work. An Intel Arc Graphics upgrade option would have provided customization without compromising the laptop’s lightweight design.
VERDICT
The Acer Aspire Vero 16 holds its own among 16-inch laptops, standing out for its budget-friendly price and eco-friendly features.
While sharing many specs with the Acer Swift Go 14, the Vero 16 lacks certain features like an OLED screen, higher RAM options, and a microSD slot.
If a larger screen at an affordable price, a webcam with a privacy switch, and e-waste consciousness matter to you, the Vero 16 is a solid choice. However, considering similar pricing, the Swift Go 14 or 16-inch model may offer more in terms of specs and features.
