Asus ExpertBook B5 Review: Impressive 16-Inch Display, Yet Quality Concerns Persist

Asus has expanded its lineup of business laptops with the new ExpertBook B5 5605, a sleek 16-inch powerhouse designed for professionals. Priced at approximately €1,300 (around $1,526), this laptop is equipped with modern hardware that promises to enhance everyday office tasks efficiently.

At the heart of this machine is the latest Arrow Lake processor from Intel, delivering robust performance. The laptop also offers easy RAM upgrades and a suite of comprehensive security features, including an optional SmartCard reader for added protection.

One of the standout features is the high-resolution, matte IPS display. Clocking in with a 144 Hz refresh rate, this screen ensures sharp visuals and vibrant colors, while its non-reflective surface makes it ideal for productivity. Crucially, there’s no PWM flickering, making it easy on the eyes during lengthy work sessions.

However, in the competitive business laptop market, where brands like Dell, HP, and Lenovo dominate, the ExpertBook B5 shows certain drawbacks. The build quality presents some issues: the base flexes slightly, producing creaking noises, and the hinges are looser than preferred. Additionally, the display tends to wobble, and the clickpad, particularly in the lower right corner, is somewhat detached, causing it to rattle—a concern for a device at this price point.

Currently, the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 is under review as a direct competitor, and it will be intriguing to see how they match up. For those interested in a deeper dive into the ExpertBook B5’s features and performance, comprehensive reviews offer further insights.

For enthusiasts and professionals alike, the ExpertBook B5 5605 represents a compelling choice, with modern performance tailored for today’s business needs, albeit with a few considerations regarding its build quality.