Tecno’s cutting-edge flagship laptop presents a chic alternative, seamlessly balancing style with robust functionality. This all-in-one solution boasts diverse connectivity options, facilitating effortless integration with external monitors and systems. The laptop excels in general use, though its processing power, while commendable for tasks like 3D and 4K video editing, falls slightly short compared to more potent alternatives.
Key Features:
- Connectivity: Boasting exceptional connection options.
- Versatility: Ideal for diverse general applications.
Pros:
- Connectivity: Offers an array of excellent connection options.
- General Use: Excels in various general-use scenarios.
Cons:
- Storage Limitation: The relatively smaller SSD size proves inadequate for the operating system’s requirements.
- Acoustic Performance: Under heavy loads, the fans generate noticeable noise.
In summary, Tecno’s flagship laptop combines style and functionality, excelling in general applications while maintaining a sleek aesthetic. However, users may encounter limitations with the SSD size and experience heightened fan noise under intensive workloads.
TECNO MEGABOOK S1: A Swift Evaluation
Design and Display:
The laptop’s sleek design captures attention, featuring a 15.6″ 3.2K monitor with a 120Hz refresh rate and 100% sRGB color gamut.
Build Quality:
Despite the silver finish being high-grade plastic, not metal, the overall feel is premium. A minor drawback is the slightly loose left trackpad click, impacting an otherwise solid construction.
Connectivity for Professionals:
Ideal for on-the-go professionals, the laptop offers impressive connectivity, including USB Type-C ports, USB 4.0, HDMI 2.0, MicroSD card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Software and Upgrade Potential:
Our test model comes with Windows 11, indicating serviceability for years. Internally, it houses a 12th-gen Intel Core i7-1260P processor, promising smooth performance for various tasks.
Graphics and Performance:
Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics with 96 compute units and 1400 MHz frequency ensures smooth media playback and handles graphically demanding tasks. However, it falls short for intensive 3D modeling or 4K video editing.
Portable Efficiency:
At 1.35kg and 243mm x 350mm x 13.5mm, the laptop is an ideal on-the-go solution. While potent for multimedia and gaming, it struggles with the most demanding video editing and 3D modeling applications.
TECNO MEGABOOK S1 stands out for its sleek design, premium feel, and versatile connectivity, catering to on-the-go professionals. Despite minor build concerns and limitations in graphics-intensive tasks, it excels in day-to-day computing needs.
TECNO MEGABOOK S1: Pricing, Availability, and Specifications
Price and Availability:
- Cost: Starting at $1599
- Release: Available now
- Purchase: Directly from TECNO or other online resellers
- Availability Note: The reviewed 256GB SSD model is currently not widely accessible. Model Storage Price MegaBook S1 (256GB) 256GB SSD Not broadly available MegaBook S1 (512GB) 512GB SSD Approximately $1599 MegaBook S1 (1TB) 1TB SSD Expected around $1499
- Value Rating: 3.5 / 5
Specifications:
- Model: TECNO MEGABOOK S1
- CPU: Intel 12th Gen Core i7-1260P
- GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 256GB (options: 512GB or 1TB PCIE 4.0 SSD)
- Screen: 15.6″ 3.2K, 120Hz, 100% sRGB
- Ports: USB 4.0, Type-C, HDMI 2.0, 2 USB 3.1, USB-C, microSD, 3.5mm jack
- Networking: Wi-Fi 6
- Camera: Smart AI with face beauty and virtual backgrounds
- OS: Windows 11 Home (pre-installed)
- Biometrics: 2-in-1 fingerprint power button
- PSU: 65W GaN Super Fast Charger
- Dimensions: 13.5mm thickness
- TPD Limit: Not specified; features high-efficiency Ice Storm Cooling System
- Battery: 70Wh
- Weight: 1.35kg
TECNO MEGABOOK S1: Design Delights
Slim and Lightweight:
- Slimline build
- Lightweight nature
- The trackpad feels slightly cheap
Upon first glance, Tecno’s MegaBook S1 echoes MacBook Pro aesthetics but stands out for its one-handed portability. Despite a plastic impression, the high-grade Magnesium Alloy body ensures a robust and well-constructed feel.
Impressive Features:
- 12th gen Intel i7, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD
- 15.6″ 3.2K Super Vision Mega Screen
- Bright display (450 nits) with adjustable settings and eye protection
- 120Hz refresh rate, 16:10 aspect ratio
- 1080P FHD AI camera, 6-speaker system, DTS X: Ultra, Dual-Mics with AI ENC
- Biometrics: 2-in-1 fingerprint power button
Connectivity and Portability:
- Slim profile (13.5mm thick)
- No full-sized Ethernet port
- Generous USB Type-C and A ports, HDMI, MicroSD slot
Security and Battery Life:
- Biometrics for added security
- 10-hour estimated battery life
- 65W GaN Super Fast Charger for quick recharge (70Wh battery in over an hour)
Performance and Cooling:
- Positioned as a powerful step up from mainstream laptops
- Ice Storm Cooling system with VC heat dissipation and dual fan design
- Vital for processor-intensive tasks like 4K video editing
Chiclet Keyboard and Final Verdict:
- Sufficient key travel, spill-resistant
- Minor drawbacks: no numeric pad, small function keys
- Design Rating: 4 / 5
In conclusion, Tecno MegaBook S1’s blend of power, features, and design sets it apart. While adjusting to its lightweight power may take time, its size and capabilities make it an excellent choice for those seeking a capable, portable laptop.
TECNO MEGABOOK S1: FEATURES UNVEILED
The Tecno MegaBook S1, a marvel of innovation, showcases a magnesium alloy frame, ensuring a mere 1.35kg weight and a sleek 13.5mm thickness. The textured surface, achieved through a five-layer nano-material spraying process, offers a tactile finish, with color options in Galaxy Silver or Space Grey.
Visual Brilliance:
Featuring a 15.6-inch display with a 3.2K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 100% sRGB color gamut, the MegaBook S1 excels in visual fidelity. The 16:10 widescreen aspect ratio and TÜV Eye Comfort Certification prioritize user comfort.
Powerhouse Performance:
Packed with a 12th-gen Intel Core i7-1260P processor, boasting 12 cores and 16 threads, the MegaBook S1 ensures top-tier performance, especially under intense workloads. The Turbo Boost capability enhances its processing prowess.
Efficient Cooling:
The Ice Storm Cooling System, featuring a Super-Large VC and dual fans, enhances heat dissipation by 60%. This system proves invaluable during resource-intensive tasks. The 70Wh battery and a 65W GaN super-fast charger offer a balanced performance-battery life equation.
Memory and Storage Options:
The review model houses 16GB LPDDR5 system memory and a 256GB SSD, with choices for higher-capacity PCIe 4.0 SSDs available (512GB or 1TB).
Audio and Visual Excellence:
TECNO’s VOC Plus technology, with a 6-speaker sound matrix and dual AI ENC microphones, elevates audio quality for both playback and communication. The Smart AI Camera supports beautification, virtual backgrounds, and motion tracking.
Connectivity Arsenal:
The MegaBook S1 caters to diverse connectivity needs with USB 4.0, a full-function Type-C port, HDMI 2.0, two USB 3.1 ports, and Wi-Fi 6. The 2-in-1 fingerprint button integrated into the power switch enhances biometric security.
Windows 11 Ready:
Pre-loaded with Windows 11, the MegaBook S1 stays current with the latest Microsoft offerings. The comprehensive port selection, including USB 4.0, Type-C, HDMI 2.0, USB 3.1, microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, ensures adaptability to various user scenarios.
Rating: 4/5 Stars
TECNO MEGABOOK S1: PERFORMANCE INSIGHTS
In scrutinizing the Tecno MegaBook S1’s performance, it reveals both strengths and limitations.
Benchmarks:
Despite a lower NVMe score, the Asus BR1402F benchmarks showcase respectable numbers across various metrics.
Performance Metrics:
| Metric | Score |
|---|---|
| 3DMark Wild Life | 14519 |
| Fire Strike Combined | 2050 |
| Time Spy Graphics | 1671 |
| Time Spy CPU | 7506 |
| Cinebench R23 CPU | Single core: 1642, Multi-core: 1583 |
| GeekBench 6 | Single core: 2243, Multi-core: 9724, OpenCL: 16132 |
| CrystalDiskMark | Sequential Read: 5332 MB/s, Sequential Write: 4799 MB/s |
| PC Mark 10 Office Test | 5301 |
Performance Overview:
The MegaBook S1, designed for on-the-go power, impresses with its slim profile and robust capabilities.
Versatility in Use:
The laptop, despite fan noise under heavy loads, offers a premium experience for office tasks, entertainment, and gaming. Its lightweight build, high-res monitor, and stellar audio enhance its appeal.
Creative Prowess:
With commendable power and speed, it excels in photo and standard 4K video editing. However, the 256GB SSD may limit performance for more extensive tasks.
Drawbacks:
Fan noise and a subpar trackpad impact the overall experience. The laptop, though capable, might benefit from a larger SSD capacity.
Gaming Experience:
While not desktop-level, it handles games like Red Dead Redemption 2 at 1080p with minimal lag, earning it a spot as a competent gaming laptop.
The MegaBook S1 earns a solid 4/5 for its commendable performance, versatile usage, and gaming capabilities.
TECNO MEGABOOK S1: FINAL ASSESSMENT
When exploring high-end laptops, expectations often include weight and bulk. Tecno’s MegaBook S1 defies this norm with its sleek, lightweight design, initially surprising but genuinely crafted from a magnesium alloy shell. Despite its metal construction, the laptop maintains an unexpectedly light feel, challenging the perception of traditional premium builds.
The trackpad, however, slightly diminishes the premium feel with its cheap-clicking sensation, lacking the precision associated with top-tier laptops.
Performance-wise, the MegaBook S1 impresses in various tasks, though the noticeable fan noise during processor-intensive activities is worth noting. Creative professionals, especially, should consider upgrading from the base 256GB SSD for enhanced capabilities.
In summary, the Tecno MegaBook S1 provides commendable performance but falls short of being an exceptional machine due to certain build quality issues.
SHOULD YOU INVEST IN A TECNO MEGABOOK S1?
| Criteria | Evaluation | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Value | Decent performance, hindered by limited storage and fan noise. | 3.5 / 5 |
| Design | Sleek and lightweight, with minor build quality concerns. | 3.5 / 5 |
| Features | Strong connectivity, but storage capacity could be improved. | 4 / 5 |
| Performance | Robust overall performance, efficient for demanding tasks. | 4 / 5 |
| Overall | A solid, versatile laptop with few drawbacks, providing good overall value. | 4 / 5 |
Consider Buying if:
- Portable Powerhouse:
The MegaBook S1’s lightweight design and strong performance suit on-the-go professionals seeking a reliable companion. - Creative Companion:
Ideal for creative individuals, offering a stunning 3.2K screen, powerful hardware, and extensive connectivity for multimedia editing.
Avoid if:
- Seeking More Storage:
For users with substantial storage needs, the 256GB SSD might prove limiting, suggesting the need for higher capacity options. - Silence is Golden:
Noise-sensitive users should be aware of the noticeable fan noise under heavy loads; it might disrupt a quiet working environment.