ASUS ProArt P16 (2024) review: The power, performance, and style creatives need

Introduction

In the world of creative laptops, there are few devices that stand out as comprehensively as the ASUS ProArt P16. Designed for artists, designers, videographers, and photographers, this powerhouse of a machine combines blazing performance with an elegant design. The ProArt P16 is not just another laptop; it's a tool tailored specifically for those who push the boundaries of digital creativity.

The Specifications: A Closer Look

Before diving into the review, it's essential to understand the specifications that make the ProArt P16 an attractive choice for creatives. Here are some key features:

• Dimensions and Weight: The ProArt P16 measures 13.97 inches x 9.72 inches x 0.59-0.68 inches, weighing in at 4.08 pounds.
• Processor and Graphics: Powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, this laptop offers impressive processing power. It also features the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, providing top-tier graphics capabilities.
• Display: The 16-inch, 16:10 OLED display boasts a resolution of 3840 x 2400, with 100% P3 color gamut and 98% AdobeRGB coverage. This results in exceptional color accuracy and a stunning visual experience.
• Memory and Storage: The ProArt P16 comes with 32GB or 64GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 2TB of SSD storage. This ensures seamless multitasking and efficient file management.
• Connectivity: With multiple USB ports (including USB 4.0), HDMI 2.1, a 3.5mm audio jack, and an SD Express 7.0 card reader, this laptop offers versatile connectivity options for various accessories and devices.
• Operating System: Running on Windows 11, the ProArt P16 provides a robust and feature-rich operating system ideal for complex creative tasks.

Design and Build

The ProArt P16's design is where functionality meets aesthetics. Here are some notable design features:

• Satin Black Finish: The laptop features a sleek, satin black Nano black coating, which is resistant to fingerprints and smudges, ensuring it looks professional even in the most demanding environments.
• Build Quality: Built with durability in mind, the ProArt P16 meets the US MIL-STD 810H military-grade standard, making it tough and capable of withstanding rigorous use.
• Keyboard and Touchpad: The backlit keyboard is well-spaced and responsive, while the large touchpad offers smooth navigation. The inclusion of the ASUS DialPad enhances usability, particularly in applications like Photoshop.

Performance and Gaming Capabilities

The ProArt P16 is engineered to handle demanding creative tasks with ease. Here’s how it performs:

• Gaming Performance: With the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, this laptop delivers exceptional gaming performance. The use of Nvidia’s Studio Drivers ensures that creative applications run smoothly, and gaming is a breeze with optimized settings.
• 4K and 8K Video Editing: The AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and the RTX 4070 work seamlessly together to handle advanced video editing tasks. This includes editing 4K and 8K footage from high-end cameras like the Canon EOS R5C and Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K.
• Thermal Management: During intense tasks, the ProArt P16’s thermal management system keeps the laptop running smoothly, even at high power limits. This ensures that the performance remains consistent without overheating.

Display and Audio: A Creative’s Dream

The display and audio are crucial components for any creative laptop, and the ProArt P16 excels in both areas:

• Display Quality: The 16-inch OLED display is one of the best available on a 16-inch creator’s laptop. With a brightness of up to 359 nits, it offers excellent color reproduction (100% P3) and contrast (25,110:1). The near-perfect blacks ensure that this display is ideal for color-critical work.
• Audio Performance: Equipped with a six-speaker sound system, the ProArt P16 delivers impressive audio. Harmon Kardon certification and Dolby Atmos support ensure that the sound is clear and rich. While it may not surpass the MacBook Pro’s audio quality, it is among the best in Windows laptops.

Connectivity and Port Options

The ProArt P16 offers an extensive array of ports, making it easy to connect and transfer data:

• USB Ports: Two USB-A ports and two USB-C ports (one supporting USB 4.0) provide ample options for connecting peripherals and accessories.
• HDMI 2.1: The inclusion of HDMI 2.1 ensures that the laptop can be easily connected to high-resolution monitors and projectors.
• SD Express 7.0 Card Reader: This feature caters specifically to filmmakers and photographers, allowing them to quickly transfer large files from cameras and cards.

Portability and Travel Considerations

While the ProArt P16 is a powerful machine, its portability is also a significant aspect:

• Weight and Dimensions: Weighing 4.08 pounds and measuring 13.97 inches x 9.72 inches x 0.59-0.68 inches, this laptop is relatively portable, though it is on the heavier side due to its powerful internals.
• Battery Life: With a 90 watt-hour battery, the ProArt P16 offers sufficient battery life for most users, though intensive tasks may require external power.

Conclusion

The ASUS ProArt P16 is more than just a laptop; it's a tool designed specifically for creatives. With its impressive performance, stunning display, and robust connectivity options, it stands out as a top choice in the market. Whether you're a professional videographer, photographer, or graphic designer, the ProArt P16 is a reliable and versatile companion that can handle even the most demanding tasks. While it may not be the most flashy design, its functionality and performance make it an essential addition to any creative's arsenal.

References

1. Digital Trends. "Asus ProArt P16 review: the MacBook Pro rival I've wanted."
2. TechRadar. "Asus ProArt P16 laptop review."
3. YouTube. "ASUS ProArt P16 Review - The BEST Creator Laptop Tested in 2024!"
4. Creative Bloq. "ASUS ProArt P16 review: like a MacBook Pro, but better."