Key takeaways
- Pro: Stylish, slim design with a large 15.6-inch display.
- Pro: Good range of Intel and AMD configurations for different budgets.
- Pro: Fast SSD storage keeps the system responsive.
- Pro: Newer models add OLED, touch, and Thunderbolt 4.
What's inside
The ASUS VivoBook S15 has long been a popular choice for students and professionals who want a stylish, capable laptop without a premium price. With its slim profile, large 15.6-inch display, and dependable Intel and AMD configurations, it strikes a practical balance between portability and everyday performance. It is the kind of laptop that handles work, study, and streaming without fuss.
This review looks at the ASUS VivoBook S15 and closely related VivoBook models, comparing their processors and features so you can find the configuration that suits you best.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
🎮 Get More From Your Setup — Free
Prime Gaming gives you free PC games every month, in-game loot, and a free Twitch channel sub — plus fast free shipping on all the gear above. New members get a 30-day free trial.
Watch: Asus Vivo s15 Laptop: Review & Buyer’s Guide — Video Review
Design & Build
The VivoBook S15 sports a thin and light design that belies its 15.6-inch screen, making it easy to carry between classes or meetings. The chassis feels solid for its class, with a comfortable keyboard and a clean, understated aesthetic in colors like Indie Black and Mist Blue. Newer VivoBook variants add touchscreens, OLED panels, and premium touches like Thunderbolt 4 and backlit keyboards. Build quality is respectable throughout, and the slim bezels give the display a modern look. It is a laptop designed to be both practical and pleasant to use daily.
Performance
Performance covers a wide range across the VivoBook family. The classic S15 with the Intel Core i5-1135G7, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD handles everyday productivity, web browsing, and media smoothly, and the Windows 11 version adds AI noise cancellation for calls. Newer models step up considerably, with the VivoBook S 15 featuring an Intel Ultra 7 155H, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD for stronger multitasking and light creative work. The AMD Ryzen VivoBook Go options offer efficient performance and long battery life at lower prices. Fast SSD storage keeps all of them responsive.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Stylish, slim design with a large 15.6-inch display.
- Pro: Good range of Intel and AMD configurations for different budgets.
- Pro: Fast SSD storage keeps the system responsive.
- Pro: Newer models add OLED, touch, and Thunderbolt 4.
- Con: Base configurations with 8GB of RAM limit heavy multitasking.
- Con: Integrated graphics are not suited to serious gaming.
- Con: Older models use previous-generation processors.
Alternatives to Consider
If you want more power and a premium screen, the newer VivoBook S 15 with an Intel Ultra 7 and OLED display is a strong step up from the classic S15. Budget shoppers should look at the AMD Ryzen VivoBook Go models, which offer efficient performance and good battery life for less. Those who need a smaller machine can consider the 14-inch VivoBook variants for greater portability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the VivoBook S15 good for students?
Yes. Its large display, portable design, and capable performance make it well suited to note-taking, research, essays, and streaming, and the range of price points means there is a configuration for most student budgets.
How much RAM should I get?
8GB handles everyday tasks, but 16GB, as found in the newer VivoBook S 15, is better for multitasking and future-proofing. If you keep many tabs and apps open, prioritize a 16GB configuration.
Can the VivoBook S15 run games?
It handles light and older games and esports titles on integrated graphics, but it is not a gaming laptop. For demanding modern games, you will want a machine with a dedicated GPU instead.
Should I choose Intel or AMD?
Intel models, especially the newer Ultra chips, offer strong all-around performance, while AMD Ryzen VivoBook Go options excel at efficiency and battery life for less. Choose based on whether you prioritize power or value.
Verdict
The ASUS VivoBook S15 is a dependable, stylish laptop that serves students and professionals well across a range of budgets. For everyday productivity on a budget, the classic Core i5 model is solid, while the newer VivoBook S 15 with an Intel Ultra 7 and OLED display is the pick for those wanting more power and a premium screen. Match the configuration to your needs and it delivers excellent value.
