•  Date Published: 25 Nov 2024
    • Intel Processor N200
    • Intel UHD Graphics Xe 750 (32EU)
    • 15.6”, Full HD (1920 x 1080), IPS
    • 128GB SSD
    • 4GB RAM
    • 1.70 kg (3.7 lbs)
    3.9
    TOTAL SCORE
    7.4 Portability Very Good
    7.0 Display Very Good
    2.3 For Work Mediocre
    1.0 For Gaming Bad

    Review

    Acer Extensa 15 in-depth review

    Acer claims that the Acer Extensa 15 (EX215-33) is meant for small businesses and everyday users. This is valid only if you pick a machine with the optional 1080p IPS panel. We bought a gadget with a TN panel and yes, this one is awful. Since the memory is soldered, choosing a notebook with 16GB LPDDR5 seems like the way to go. Our device has just 8GB RAM. While it's still okay for basic work, you'll be in trouble if you want to open more than ten Chrome tabs at once.Three Alder Lake-based processors are available. Our recommendation is to get the 15W 8-core Intel Core i3-N305 unless your budget is super tight. The other two 6W 4-core processors don't seem to offer sufficient performance for standard work.Interestingly, a backlit keyboard isn't available, not even optionally. This [...]

    Read the full review

    Pros

    • Long enough battery life given the modest 50Wh battery ~ 8 hours of videos
    • Good touchpad
    • Affordable
    • Decently solid base
    • Lid with a lever design
    • Good dimensions for a 15-incher (1.7 kg / 18.9 mm)
    • PWM-free (BOE07CB)
    • Decent port selection for the price - 3x USB ports + HDMI 2.1
    • Wi-Fi 6 + Bluetooth 5.1
    • The fan is quiet during full loads
    • The Core i3-N305 can maintain ~2.05 GHz clock in long CPU stress
    • SSD with TLC memory (Micron 2450 MTFDKBA512TFK)
    • Optional 1080p IPS display
    • Up to 16GB LPDDR5

    Cons

    • Some devices are configured with 4-core CPUs and 4GB of memory
    • Plastic build
    • Low sRGB coverage and contrast ratio (BOE07CB)
    • Uncomfortable viewing angles (BOE07CB)
    • Soldered RAM that works in a single-channel mode + just one M.2 slot

    Disassembly, maintenance and upgrade options

    Opening the Acer Extensa 15 Hint: Ensure the laptop is powered off and unplugged before starting.Undo the 11 Phillips-head screws securing the bottom panel to the base. Insert a thin plastic tool into one of the top two edges to create a gap. Carefully pry along the sides, the front, and the other side, leaving the back for last. If the rear clips feel stiff, use a lever tool to pry the zones around the hinges for easier removal.More info: The inside of the bottom panel reveals the device's cooling and upgrade options.Battery Removal Caution: Handle the bat[...]

    Read more