ASUS released a new 2026-spec Zenbook S 14 model UX5406AA. Compared to the 2024/5 model (UX5406SA), the new model is similar in dimensions but with changes to design elements. On the official website, both models are featured on the same product page, differentiated only by the hardware specs. The UX5406SA (2024/5) runs on Intel Core Ultra 7 Processor 258V 32GB 1.8GHz while the new UX5406AA runs on Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor 386H 2.1GHz. The model difference is obvious from the lid panel design.
On the user experience, the new Zenbook S14 offers no major deviation from what I felt in the previous version. The Ceraluminum technology gives the laptop body a matt plastic feel yet it is sturdy like metal and is resistent to scratches and wear. The touchscreen is responsive and a quick way to interact with the screen content. I just tap on whatever I need on the screen instead of moving my mouse. All the connection ports are full-sized so you do not need a separate hub for your USB-A or HDMI peripherals. It even has a 3.5mm audio port so that you can still enjoy personal audio with your wired headphones.
The keyboard travel is just nice for quick typing. It has a coat of Excimer that is nice to type on and apparently tested to withstand 50,000 rubbing cycles without wear. This is something that I would love to see on all keyboards as I always wear the keys until I cannot see the character. The large trackpad offers ease of mouse movement over a large space. Sliding along the sides will invoke shortcut volume and brightness controls.
Speakers deliver full and loud audio with generous midrange and bass feels. I don’t have any problems hearing the audio from arm’s length. Battery life is generous, I do not feel anxiety when using them as the power level does not nosedive during heavy use. I can use them for over a day without charging.
I love how the camera senses me using the laptop. When it detects I am moving away from the laptop, it will promptly turn off the display, and when it detects my presence, it would wake up the display and perform facial unlock.
As a laptop, I truly enjoy the Zenbook S14 experience, and if you can afford the S$3299 price tag (or S$2799 for the older processor model), then I would highly recommend getting one. Visit the official product page for more information.