As a sub-$500 convertible, the Asus VivoBook 14 ($449) is inherently intriguing. The 2-in-1 laptop has a stylish, clean design that is both practical and pretty. But while it's an attractive package on the surface, the ZenBook lets users down because of what lies inside. A bland display, an underpowered processor and an awful webcam are simply too much to overlook. If you want an inexpensive laptop that can flip into a tablet, we suggest you avoid the VivoBook Flip 14. Fortunately, there are excellent alternatives to recommend instead.

Design

The Asus VivoBook Flip 14 has a clean, if somewhat bland design. Its rounded corners, gray finish and notched base mimic the MacBook Pro, but the similarities end there. This 14-inch 2-in-1 has a massive bezel under the display, and its lid is fairly thick. When closed, the oddly shaped laptop reminds me of an ice cream sandwich.