Chuwi CoreBook Air 226V Debuts as a Budget MacBook Air Rival With Intel Power and Thunderbolt

Chuwi CoreBook Air 226V Debuts as a Lightweight 14-Inch Laptop With Intel Core Ultra Power

Chuwi has introduced a new version of its compact CoreBook Air, and this time the lightweight notebook comes equipped with an Intel processor. The CoreBook Air 226V is designed for users who want a slim, portable laptop with modern connectivity, a sharp display, and enough performance for everyday productivity, entertainment, and mobile work.

At the center of the new model is the Intel Core Ultra 5 226V, paired with 16GB of LPDDR5X memory and a 512GB SSD. While the laptop is only listed in this single configuration for now, it does offer some storage flexibility. The SSD can be replaced through its M.2 2280 slot. Chuwi ships the device with a PCIe 3.0 SSD, but the slot supports four PCIe 4.0 lanes, giving users room for a faster upgrade later.

The CoreBook Air 226V is available for pre-order at $859, with shipping expected to begin on May 21.

One of the biggest highlights is the 14-inch IPS display. It offers a 2,880 x 1,800 resolution, giving users a crisp viewing experience for documents, streaming, web browsing, and creative tasks. The 90Hz refresh rate also gives the screen smoother motion than typical 60Hz laptop panels, which can make scrolling and general use feel more responsive.

Despite its compact build, the CoreBook Air 226V includes a strong selection of ports. It features two Thunderbolt 4 ports, which support high-speed data transfer, USB Power Delivery charging, external monitor output, and even the option to connect an external graphics card. That gives this slim notebook more versatility than many ultrabooks in its class.

Additional connectivity includes USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, USB 2.0, HDMI 2.0, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Wireless connectivity is handled by Wi-Fi 6E, offering faster and more stable connections on compatible networks. A 2-megapixel webcam is also included for video calls and online meetings.

Portability is another major selling point. The laptop weighs around 1 kg, making it easy to carry between home, school, the office, or while traveling. Its listed dimensions are 312.9 x 22.5 x 16.8 mm, positioning it as a slim and compact machine for users who value mobility.

With its Intel Core Ultra processor, high-resolution 90Hz display, Thunderbolt 4 support, upgradeable SSD, and lightweight design, the Chuwi CoreBook Air 226V aims to compete in the growing market for premium-looking portable laptops. For buyers seeking a compact 14-inch notebook with modern features and strong connectivity, this new CoreBook Air model could be an appealing option.