On the right side of the device, you’ll find a USB-A port and a headphone jack, adding a touch of nostalgia. At the top, there are buttons for power, volume, and a settings key. Pressing the settings button opens the “ScreenXpert” app, offering shortcuts for muting the mic, adjusting window layouts, and more. I haven’t figured out how to change what that button does yet, but it should be possible.
Credit:
Kevin Purdy
Everybody wants to come along for this wild gaming ride.
Credit:
Kevin Purdy
The keyboard and trackpad attach with a strong magnet. This means they stay put, even if you accidentally knock some things off your desk. However, it also means I often have to pull binder clips or pens away from the device when I set it up. If you like to type at an angle, the keyboard can slide into position without any fuss.
The keys have a decent travel of 1.7 mm. This is great for gamers who play shooters. While the keys light up, they don’t shine brightly at steeper angles, so readability can be an issue. Asus designed the keys well, so I didn’t feel cramped while typing. The trackpad is surprisingly responsive, especially for smaller gestures.
As for battery life, I couldn’t run detailed tests since the firmware updated during my use. Asus claims the 70 Wh battery lasts around 10 hours based on PCMark 10 “Work Mode” tests. For the best gaming experience, it’s often better to keep the Z13 plugged in. Even in “Performance” mode, it draws between 45 to 71 W, while “Turbo” uses 60 to 86 W.
