The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is a niche gaming tablet that has managed to defy expectations by delivering impressive performance with its integrated graphics. This 13-inch tablet, which starts at $2,100, is designed to be a hardcore gaming machine that can also function as a laptop and desktop replacement. With its AMD Ryzen AI Max Plus 395 processor and Radeon 8060S graphics, the ROG Flow Z13 is capable of handling demanding games at high frame rates, making it a compelling option for PC gamers.
The ROG Flow Z13's integrated graphics are a significant departure from traditional gaming laptops, which typically rely on dedicated graphics cards. However, the Ryzen AI Max Plus 395 processor's 40-core graphics processing unit (GPU) has proven to be a game-changer, delivering performance that rivals some dedicated GPUs. In benchmarks, the ROG Flow Z13's GPU outperformed some Intel chips and even rivaled Nvidia's RTX 4060 in some tests.
In addition to its impressive graphics performance, the ROG Flow Z13 also features a 13.4-inch 180Hz IPS touchscreen, 32GB of unified memory, a 1TB m.2 SSD, and ample port selection. The tablet's detachable keyboard and trackpad are also designed to provide a laptop-like experience, making it a versatile device that can be used in a variety of settings.
One of the most surprising aspects of the ROG Flow Z13 is its battery life, which lasted around 10 hours in our battery rundown test. This is a significant improvement over previous models, which struggled to last more than four hours. The tablet's compact size and rigid build also make it feel more portable and durable than expected.
While the ROG Flow Z13 is an impressive device, it is not without its drawbacks. The tablet's price, starting at $2,100, may be prohibitive for some users. Additionally, the device's webcam and rear-facing camera are somewhat lacking, and the dual speakers could be improved. However, for PC gamers looking for a powerful and versatile device, the ROG Flow Z13 is definitely worth considering.
The ROG Flow Z13's impact may also extend beyond the gaming community, as its integrated graphics could potentially change the way laptops and tablets are designed in the future. With AMD's Ryzen AI Max Plus processors already being implemented in other devices, such as Framework's Desktop, the ROG Flow Z13 may be just the beginning of a new era in mobile gaming and computing.
In conclusion, the Asus ROG Flow Z13 is a powerful and versatile gaming tablet that has managed to surprise with its impressive integrated graphics performance. While it may have some drawbacks, its unique combination of power, portability, and flexibility make it a compelling option for PC gamers and a potential game-changer in the world of mobile computing.