ASUS have just released the K42J, the latest model in the K series of laptops. The K42J is designed as an affordable yet high performance mobile computer, with an Intel Core i5 processor, discrete graphics, and a 14 inch display. The K42J may not be the best looking computer in the world, but it does offer solid performance at a reasonable if not cheap price.
With a 14 inch screen and weight of 4.8 pounds, the K42J is certainly not an ultraportable solution. However, it is lighter than some of its competitors and provides a reasonable price to performance ratio. The overall design of the K42J is fairly so-so and feels a little uninspired, with a glossy black lid and a brownish interior that looks dated already. I think it’s fair to say that this is not a sexy laptop by anyone’s standards.
However, the saving grace for the K42J is in terms of performance, which is due mainly to its 2.26GHz Intel Core i5 CPU and fast 7,200 hard drive. While the included Nvidia Optimus graphics may help with overall battery performance, the overall visual experience is average at best. The 1366 x 768 screen resolution looks OK, but has very narrow vertical and horizontal viewing angles.
Multitouch gestures are not supported on the touchpad, although the keyboard itself has a nice feel and looks to be well made. The K42J has a fairly good collection of ports, with three USB ports and all the usual suspects for media and networking connections. There is even a webcam, which is a handy inclusion even if it only offers a grainy 0.3MP resolution.
With the inclusion of Nvidia GeForce technology, users were expecting a lot more in terms of battery performance from the K42J, which averaged about 3 1/2 hours while surfing the Internet. This is not too bad I guess, but is notably lower than many other laptops that sell for a similar price. Overall, the ASUS K42J laptop performs well enough, but is let down by its average display, mediocre battery life, and dated design. The K42J is selling for about $899 depending on the retailer.
Specifications
Intel Core i5 2.26GHz
Nvidia GeForce 310M graphics
14 inch LED screen
1366 x 768 resolution
4GB RAM
500GB HDD
802.11 WiFi
DVD SuperMulti
6-cell battery
