Asus ProArt PZ13 Review: The Affordable Surface Pro Rival That Creative Pros Have Been Waiting For
Editor 
The technology landscape is always evolving, and occasionally, a device comes along that redefines expectations without fouling your wallet. Enter the Asus ProArt PZ13—a formidable, cost-effective contender to Microsoft’s Surface Pro 11. For creatives and professionals perpetually on the move, the ProArt PZ13 offers an enticing suite of features and benefits that are hard to overlook.
Breaking Down the Asus ProArt PZ13
Price and Value
One of the most compelling aspects of the ProArt PZ13 is its cost-effectiveness. Priced starting at $1,100, it not only competes with but potentially outshines the Surface Pro 11 in terms of value. That starting price includes a detachable keyboard and kickstand—features that Surface Pro 11 users would have to purchase separately. For budget-conscious consumers, this is an immediate win.
Display Brilliance
When it comes to the ProArt PZ13’s display, Asus didn’t skimp on quality. The device features a 13.3-inch 2.8K OLED display that boasts vibrant colors and stellar color accuracy. As a creative professional who spends hours editing photos and videos, I can’t stress enough how crucial a high-quality display is for color grading and visual consistency. The OLED technology ensures that blacks are deep and colors pop, offering an immersive viewing experience that remains unparalleled at this price point.
Performance Insights
Powering the ProArt PZ13 is an 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor. While not as robust as the 10-core models found in some configurations of the Surface Pro 11, it offers commendable performance for most creative tasks. Battery life extends up to 12 hours, which means you can work wirelessly for almost an entire day without needing to recharge—a crucial feature for those always on the go.
Storage and RAM
The base model is generous with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. Compared to the Surface Pro 11’s standard configurations, this is a significant advantage. Ample RAM ensures smooth multitasking, while the large SSD provides plenty of storage for hefty design files, videos, and various other media formats.
Portability
Another feather in the cap of the ProArt PZ13 is its portability. Weighing in at 1.87 pounds, this device is a breeze to carry around. For those who shift workspaces from cafes to coworking spaces to home studios, the light weight is a welcome relief. Trust me, it’s something you’ll appreciate after a long day of physically adapting to various working conditions.
Not All Sunshine and Rainbows: Limitations
Software Compatibility
One major caveat involves the device’s ARM-based processor, which implies potential software compatibility issues. Certain Adobe Creative Suite applications and other software might not run natively or could experience glitches. That said, emulation software generally tackles these challenges effectively. But as a creative pro, jumping through hoops to get your essential software running can be a tad frustrating.
Ports and Audio
It would have been great if Asus included a headphone jack. The limited selection of ports—two USB4 ports and a microSD card slot—might pose challenges for users needing extensive connectivity. If you’re someone who likes a multitude of instant plug-and-play options, this may require extra adapters or docking solutions.
Conclusion
The Asus ProArt PZ13 delivers an impressive suite of features at a highly competitive price point, making it a strong alternative to the Surface Pro 11. It may not match the Surface Pro 11’s raw processing power precisely, but its robust performance, stunning OLED display, extensive storage, and superior battery life make it an attractive option for creatives seeking a powerful yet reasonably priced device.
For those who juggle multiple roles and constant mobility, the ProArt PZ13 could be the portable powerhouse that perfectly fits your lifestyle and creative needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Asus ProArt PZ13 only suitable for professional creatives?
While it’s optimized for creative professionals due to its high-quality display and robust performance, the ProArt PZ13 is versatile enough for various users, including students, business professionals, and casual users.
How does the performance of the ProArt PZ13 compare to the Surface Pro 11?
The ProArt PZ13 uses an 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor, which is slightly less powerful than some 10-core configurations of the Surface Pro 11. However, for most routine creative tasks and general multitasking, the ProArt PZ13 performs admirably well and offers extended battery life.
Can I run all my Creative Suite applications on the ProArt PZ13?
Due to its ARM-based processor, some Creative Suite applications may not run natively and could face compatibility issues. Emulation software generally mitigates this, but it might not be as seamless as on an x86 processor device.
Does the lack of a headphone jack severely affect usability?
For those who rely on wired headsets, the absence of a headphone jack can be inconvenient. However, the growing prevalence of Bluetooth audio devices offers a viable alternative.
What about connectivity options?
The ProArt PZ13 provides two USB4 ports and a microSD card slot. Users needing more extensive connectivity options may need to invest in additional adapters or docking stations.
In summary, the Asus ProArt PZ13 provides a strong, affordable alternative to the Surface Pro 11, with a well-rounded feature set that meets the needs of creative professionals and beyond. Its superior display, battery life, and generous base specs make it a compelling choice for anyone on the hunt for a capable, portable computing solution.
