Asus BR1402F: The Perfect Combination of a Tablet and Laptop for Education
In the world of educational technology, the Asus BR1402F stands out as a unique and innovative device. Built primarily for the educational market, this 2-in-1 device combines the functionality of a large 14-inch tablet with the durability of a rugged splash-resistant laptop. While 2-in-1 designs have gained popularity in creative fields, their success in education depends heavily on the software used and whether it supports stylus or touch input. If not, the tablet mode of the BR1402F becomes somewhat redundant.
One area where the BR1402F truly excels is its impressive array of ports. Asus has equipped this device with Ethernet, HDMI out, USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A and Type-C), an audio jack, and a Kensington lock slot. It also offers the option for fingerprint reading, and every machine comes with a stylus that can be conveniently stored in a spring-loaded garage.
Internally, the BR1402F features a modular design, making it relatively easy to repair in case of panel, I/O, or battery damage. This is a crucial feature for educational institutions looking for a cost-effective solution that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
Priced at around $600, the Asus BR1402F may seem like a bargain on paper. However, there is one significant drawback that potential buyers should be aware of. The machine is equipped with the Core i3-N305 processor, which, while having eight cores, lacks hyperthreading. Paired with the UHD Graphics (32 EU) graphics, this combination falls short of delivering optimal performance, especially for a Windows 11 system. This minimal processing power can limit the device’s functionality and longevity in an ever-changing technological landscape.
Another consideration when choosing the BR1402F is its weight. Weighing in at 1.56 kg (3.44 lbs), it may be too heavy for adults to hold comfortably in tablet mode, let alone for children who may struggle to maintain control.
Despite these limitations, the Asus BR1402F remains a viable option for educational institutions on a budget. Its durability, versatile design, and ample ports make it a practical choice for classroom use. Furthermore, the typical lifespan of educational devices suggests that they may not require repurposing before being replaced altogether.
Available for purchase now, the Asus BR1402F starts at £439.99 on the official UK Asus store. However, it’s worth noting that this price is for a model with only 128GB of storage. The review hardware model, i3S15XAS SKU, is not listed on the UK Asus store, but a similar option, the BR1402C-i381XA-3Y, is available for £412.88 from Ballcom. This alternate model has less storage but the same processor and memory configuration as the reviewed machine. As for availability and pricing in the US, there is currently no information, and interested customers are advised to contact Asus directly.
In terms of design, the Asus BR1402F prioritizes durability above all else. Asus engineers sought to create a device capable of withstanding rough handling by children. While achieving complete robustness is challenging, they succeeded in delivering a sturdy 2-in-1 design that maintains balance between the screen and the base. The device features a sleek ‘Mineral Grey’ plastic finish on the top surfaces, making it easy to clean, and a textured grip on the underside.
One notable aspect of the BR1402F’s design is its 2-in-1 functionality, allowing it to operate as a laptop or tablet. It also offers various modes such as tent mode for presentations. However, it’s worth mentioning that the keyboard does not retract when in tablet mode, although it is deactivated to prevent accidental keystrokes.
The BR1402F comes with a stylus housed in a garage on the left side. The stylus is 13cm long and can be easily deployed with a spring-loaded click. It is worth noting that there is no lanyard to keep the stylus with the device, which could be a concern for teachers.
In terms of connectivity, all ports are located on the sides due to the 360-degree hinge. There are no ports or slots on the front or back of the device. One standout feature is the trackpad and keyboard, both of which are sized appropriately and offer a positive user experience. The trackpad, in particular, does not have physical mouse buttons but instead has a flexible front edge, making it easy to perform drag operations.
The Asus BR1402F offers several attractive features, including an Intel Core i3 processor, a maximum of 16GB DDR4 RAM, and a 512GB NVMe M.2 storage. The 14.0-inch touchscreen display boasts a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The device is equipped with a variety of ports, including USB Type-C, USB Type-A, HDMI, audio jack, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. It runs on Windows 11 Pro Education and features a fingerprint reader on the power button. The battery life is impressive, with the 3-cell Li-ion battery offering up to a full working day of usage.
When it comes to performance, the Asus BR1402F may not impress power users. The Core i3-N305 processor, combined with limited PCIe lanes, results in less-than-stellar performance. However, for educational purposes, it should be sufficient for basic tasks. The device also scored well in various benchmarks, including 3DMark, Cinebench, GeekBench, and CrystalDiskMark. The battery test revealed an impressive runtime of 9 hours and 55 minutes.
In summary, the Asus BR1402F is a versatile and durable device designed with the educational market in mind. While it may not offer the most powerful performance or the lightest weight, it compensates with a range of ports, a reliable stylus, and a robust design. With an affordable price point starting at £439.99, this device is a practical choice for educational institutions looking for a budget-friendly option.
(Note: The content above was written by a proficient SEO and high-end writer, Pierre Herubel.)
