LG Gram 16 Laptop
The review introduces the LG Gram 16 as a game-changer in the ultraportable laptop market, competing with brands like Apple, Lenovo, and Dell. Priced at $1,450, the LG Gram 16 is noted for its mix of speed and delicate design, featuring Intel's new low-power processors, while maintaining the series' aesthetic appeal and a satisfying keyboard.
Design and Weight
LG Gram 16's Lightweight Advantage
The LG Gram 16 stands out for its incredibly light weight of 2.6 pounds, making it significantly lighter than other 15.6" and 16" notebooks like the MacBook Pro 16 and Dell XPS 15. This lightness offers an almost disarming experience, enhancing portability and ease of use.
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Build Quality Concerns
Despite its lightweight advantage, concerns are raised about the build quality. The screen and base of the laptop show noticeable flex and twist, contrasting the more solid metal constructions of competitors. However, the LG Gram 16 is certified to MIL-STD-810G standards, ensuring durability against various environmental challenges.
Display and Resolution
Screen Quality
The Gram's 2,560 x 1,600 resolution is deemed sufficient for everyday tasks, but it falls short of offering a 4K experience. Its brightness level of 368 nits is suitable for indoor use but may struggle in bright outdoor conditions, especially when compared to the MacBook Pro and Dell XPS line.
Keyboard and Connectivity
Keyboard Experience
The LG Gram 16 surprises with a substantial amount of key travel, contributing to a comfortable typing experience. However, the lightness of the keys and the flexible chassis might not appeal to all users. Notable features include a number pad, a flat power button to avoid accidental presses, and a "secure key" for privacy.
Performance and Processor
Intel Core i7-1260P Processor
The laptop is powered by Intel's Core i7-1260P, designed for thin and light laptops, and combined with 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD. The processor, however, doesn't consistently reach its full potential in the LG Gram, with performance lagging behind competitors in several benchmarks.
Comparison with Competitors
Benchmark comparisons reveal that the LG Gram 16's performance is behind that of Apple's M2 and M1 chips and Dell's XPS 15's processors. In tests like Cinebench R23 and 7-Zip, the LG Gram's scores fall short of the CPU's unrestricted potential and lag behind Apple and Dell's offerings.
Conclusion: LG Gram 16 in the Ultralight Market
Final Assessment
The LG Gram 16 stands out for its ultralight design, making it a strong contender in the portable laptop market. Its performance, while adequate for everyday computing, does not fully capitalize on the potential of its Intel processor, especially in comparison to its rivals. The review concludes that while the LG Gram 16 offers significant benefits in terms of weight and portability, its performance and build quality may not satisfy all users, especially considering its price point and the competition.
