Is the Asus VivoBook 15 Ryzen 5 3500 a Good Long-Term Buy for a Budget Student?
If you're a budget-conscious student looking for a reliable laptop to last you 4-5 years, the Asus VivoBook 15 Ryzen 5 3500 could be a solid choice. Here's everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
The Longevity of the Asus VivoBook 15 Ryzen 5 3500
The Asus VivoBook 15 Ryzen 5 3500 has a wide appeal as a budget laptop. Users report that it can last for 4 years or more, provided that you choose the right version with an SSD. SSDs offer much faster read and write speeds compared to HDDs, which can significantly improve your overall laptop experience.
Importance of an SSD: While the laptop is advertised with a larger HDD, it's crucial to ensure it has an SSD for optimal performance. Choosing a model with an SSD is necessary to avoid the lag and slower boot times associated with HDDs. Upgrade the RAM in the future, if needed, but simultaneously, make sure you're not compromising on the storage solution for a future-proof machine.
Upgrading for Future-Proofing
Future-proofing is key when selecting a laptop. Upgrading RAM from the standard single-channel to dual-channel can offer substantial performance improvements. Additionally, the Ryzen 5 3500 processor enjoys huge performance benefits by switching to dual-channel RAM, which can significantly boost your laptop's power and stability.
Remember, don't become greedy and choose the bigger HDD at the expense of an SSD. The extra storage space offered by HDDs is not worth compromising the overall performance of your laptop. Watching videos or light gaming might be possible with a big HDD, but for a smooth and efficient laptop experience, an SSD is the way to go.
Personal Experience with Previous Model
A lot of people have already tried out the previous generation of the Asus VivoBook 15, and the reviews are overwhelmingly positive. One user states that it is very satisfactory for ownership.
However, it's worth noting that while the laptop is great for general use, it may not be powerful enough to run high-demand applications like playing GTA 5 without a dedicated graphics card. GTA 5 is a CPU-heavy game and would require additional hardware to run smoothly.
General Usage: For most everyday tasks such as web browsing, document creation, social media use, and even occasional video streaming, the Asus VivoBook 15 Ryzen 5 3500 is an outstanding choice. It excels as a No.1 laptop for budget-conscious students who value reliability and performance without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
In summary, if you're looking for a reliable and budget-friendly laptop that can last you 4-5 years, the Asus VivoBook 15 Ryzen 5 3500 is a great option, provided you focus on getting an SSD. It excels in general usage, but for more demanding tasks, you might need to look elsewhere. With the right choices, you can ensure that your Asus VivoBook 15 continues to provide you with a smooth and efficient experience over the years.