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The final time I felt a laptop computer this remarkably light-weight was the last Dynabook I checked out years ago. There’s one thing about holding a laptop computer this gentle, particularly in comparison with my 14-inch M4 Professional MacBook Professional and my Dell Precision 5690, in addition to among the different skinny laptops I’m testing. Nothing comes near how gentle the Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N Copilot+PC is.
At first look, and first really feel, the Dynabook feels prefer it’s not even an actual laptop computer. Coming from the world of hefty machines, it is exhausting to suppose {that a} laptop computer this gentle might be something greater than a shell or a prop. Nonetheless, it boasts an Intel Core Extremely 7 processor, Intel Arc graphics, wonderful ports, nice wi-fi connectivity, and strong AI capabilities in-built.
I have been utilizing this laptop computer in my rotation for over a month, and I am nonetheless amazed by its weight (or lack of it). Simply this morning, I double-checked my bag moments after placing this laptop computer in there, pondering I should have forgotten it.
Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N: Pricing & Availability
This Dynabook starts at just under $2,000 for a Core Ultra 5 model with 16GB, 512GB, and can run up above $2,000 for the Core Ultra 7 model with 32GB, 2TB. You can pick one up from Dynabook’s website globally, but it is available from selected online retailers.
Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N: Unboxing & first impressions
The incredible weightlessness of this laptop began when I first grabbed the packaging. It felt like there was nothing inside the box. Grabbing the laptop from the box, I noticed the texture of the computer.
With so many laptops being made from aluminum and other metallic materials, this one stands out as being made of a lighter plastic. It does, admittedly, make it feel a bit cheaper, but then I noticed the chipset and started utilizing it.
Once I logged in and got to work, responding to emails, handling project management, researching, and going about my workday, I realized that most things were working better than expected. This laptop felt minimal, but was surprisingly capable.
I was genuinely surprised and impressed by how thin and sleek this phone felt, especially considering its durability on paper. I was also happy to see USB-C — even though it’s now standard practice, it’s still good to see.
Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N: Design & build quality
Specs
Weight: 2.11 lbs
Processor: Intel Core Ultra 5
Display: 14-inch 1920 x 1200
Networking: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth,
Ports: HDMI, USB-C x2, USB-A x2, RJ-45, Headphone Jack, microSD
The choice of alloy in the Portégé Z40L-N provides ultralight weight, but it also makes this computer feel less than premium. The edges are crisp, the ports are great, the screen is good enough, and other elements are solid. But, coming from someone who usually works with more premium laptops, this one does feel a bit lower quality. However, that is an obvious tradeoff for having something so lightweight — one that many would be willing to make.
Another interesting feature of this design is the return of a removable and replaceable battery. This not only helps extend the device’s longevity but also makes it easier to replace or repair the battery if any issues arise in the future.
The last notable feature of this laptop is that, despite its lightweight and portable design, it still offers more ports than most modern computers. Even some of the most premium, professional-focused laptops have transitioned to almost entirely USB-C or a Thunderbolt port — that’s it. Dynabook chose to completely surprise us all by including an abundance of ports in this laptop, making it even more fantastic for those who are on the go. With the Portégé Z40L-N, you won’t feel any weight in your bag, and you won’t need to add a dock either.
Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N: In use
In the last month, the Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N has stood up to pretty much everything that I’ve thrown at it – surprisingly. Granted, I’m not expecting this machine to be the best video editing laptop or a machine to run native LLMs on, nor am I designing 3D fashions on it, however for on a regular basis skilled enterprise duties, it really works surprisingly properly. It is no shock, although, that the true advantage of this laptop computer is its portability. I have been in a position to take this nearly anyplace I’ve gone, tossing this into even my lightest backpack to take with me for the day.
The Core Extremely chip handles primary productiveness, messaging, emails, analysis, and extra with none points. Plus, if you happen to’re the one who could have to current or plug into one thing in some unspecified time in the future, having that peace of thoughts that you just will not want a dongle is nice.
Whereas the laptop computer itself is comparatively small, you may develop the workspace by plugging right into a docking station or choosing one of many prime business monitors that function a USB-C enter and a built-in dock.
Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N: Final verdict
The Dynabook Portégé Z40L‑N is a surprising laptop. On one hand, it is an unfathomably lightweight machine that feels so lightweight it’s almost toy-like. But, on the other hand, it’s also surprisingly capable, boasting impressive ports and a powerful chip. It’s shockingly rugged yet also lightweight, it’s powerful yet portable, and it’s AI-smart yet simple. If you are looking for a new laptop and want something highly portable as a top priority, this laptop is one that you should consider, especially if you stick to standard business-type work.
|
Attributes |
Notes |
Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
Design |
Incredibly minimal |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Ease of use |
Easy to use |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Practicality |
Practical for portable / nomatic users |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Price |
Pricy for what it is |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
For more options, we’ve reviewed the best business laptops for engaged on the go.