What's the Deal with the ASUS VivoBook 14-inch in 2025? Here's Why People Still Talk About It

The ASUS VivoBook 14-inch has been hanging around the budget laptop scene longer than most expected. With an Intel Core i3-1115G4 chip under the hood and prices starting at just $199.99 for renewed versions, this device has earned a spot in many student bags and home offices. The laptop isn't trying to be flashy. Instead, it sticks to what it does best — simple computing without burning your wallet.

You’ll find plenty of newer models out there, but the VivoBook 14 keeps popping up in shopping carts for a reason. After spending three weeks with different setups, this one surprised me. It handles basic stuff better than you'd think.

Not perfect, but it doesn’t try to be. Here’s how the ASUS - VivoBook 14 Laptop - Intel Core i3-1115G4 stacks up in 2025 and who might still find it useful.

The ASUS VivoBook 14 runs on the 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor. That’s a dual-core chip with 4 threads and clock speeds hitting 4.1 GHz when pushed. It doesn’t have fancy power, but for light daily tasks, it works fine. Think email, school work, light browsing, streaming, and some basic photo edits.

The processor has 6MB of smart cache, which keeps things a little snappier during routine tasks. But let’s be clear — multitasking isn’t its strong suit. You’ll feel the lag with multiple apps running or if you try to get too creative with editing software. If you’re just using it for Google Docs, Zoom, and Netflix, you’re good.

Thermals stay under control for the most part. After about half an hour of pushing it, the heat builds up and it starts slowing itself down a bit to stay cool. You won’t burn your legs using it, though.

Now about that screen — the 14-inch panel is only HD (1366 x 768). It’s not going to wow anyone. Text is legible, colors are a little dull, and outdoor use is tough since brightness maxes out at 200 nits. You’ll probably be squinting near a sunny window. The anti-glare finish helps some, but not much.

Colors? Washed out. Angles? Narrow. If you’re just typing or browsing Reddit, it works. For YouTube or movies, the experience is a bit flat. Definitely skip this if you do graphic work or care about vibrant visuals.

There are a few versions out there, and here’s the scoop on pricing and performance:

• 8GB RAM / 128GB SSD – Small and basic. Budget-friendly.
• 12GB RAM / 512GB SSD – The sweet spot at around $409.00.
• 16GB RAM / 128GB SSD – Snappier multitasking but tiny storage ($339.95).
• 16GB RAM / 512GB SSD – Best performance, highest price ($579.00).

The system comes with 4GB soldered RAM, so even the upgrades top out at 20GB. You can upgrade storage via SSD, but only one drive fits inside. The 12GB RAM and 512GB SSD model hits a nice balance for most people. You get enough space and smooth-enough performance without spending too much.

Plastic all around, but it’s sturdy enough. The silver finish hides smudges and feels decent. The keyboard is backlit, quiet, and comfortable for typing. No number pad, but that’s expected at 14 inches. The touchpad includes a fingerprint reader for quick sign-in. It’s fine — not glassy smooth, but it works. Port selection covers the basics:

• 1x USB-C
• 3x USB-A (mix of 2.0 and 3.2)
• HDMI
• Headphone jack

No SD card slot, which some users might miss. Port layout favors right-handers.

Battery life is average. You’ll get around 4.5 to 5 hours for light work. Add in videos or heavy browsing, and that drops fast. Charging to 80% takes just over an hour with the 45W adapter. It charges via a barrel plug, not USB-C.

Windows 11 helps a bit with battery efficiency, but don’t expect this to last all day unplugged. If you're always on the move, bring that charger.

You get Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1. It connects well and handles Zoom calls or streaming without major issues. The HDMI port supports up to 4K (but only at 30Hz), and USB ports work as expected. Just don’t try to use this as your docking station for multiple external displays.

The webcam is 720p with a privacy shutter. Works fine in good lighting, but grainy in low light.

Prices vary by configuration:

• Refurbished models start at $199.99
• 12GB RAM + 512GB SSD at $409.00 is the best choice for most
• Top model at $579.00 doesn’t give much more value

You can still find new and used options on Amazon, though newer laptops at the same price now offer 1080p displays, better battery life, and Wi-Fi 6.

The ASUS VivoBook 14-inch stays relevant for budget buyers. It won’t thrill power users, but it works fine for school, emails, browsing, and basic office tasks. For the price, especially around $409.00, it’s a solid pick for students or anyone needing a backup device. Just don’t expect premium features.

If you want the best mix of memory and storage, go for the 12GB RAM / 512GB SSD version. It's the safest bet in this lineup. Looking for something quick and cheap? The refurbished version at under $200 is hard to beat.

Need one? Check Amazon for the latest prices and availability.