(opens in new tab)Chinese manufacturer KUU has appeared on our radar repeatedly since the beginning of 2020, most recently with the Xbook (which we reviewed (opens in new tab)).
The firm currently has five laptops available at a similar price point: the K1 (opens in new tab), K2 (opens in new tab), Kbook Pro, Kbook and Xbook. They all come with 8GB of RAM and a up to 512GB SSD, providing enough memory and storage to run Windows 10 Pro (the OS bundled with these laptops) adequately.
While they share the same 14.1-inch IPS display, the Xbook stands out because of its yet-to-be-announced Intel Celeron J4115 processor and sharper, more audacious design.
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The designers have used a fine ceramic sandblasting process to give the device what KUU calls an "ultra-modern minimalist design". In other words, it looks striking and reminds us vaguely of the Xiaomi Mi Laptop Air (opens in new tab), eschewing rounded edges and embracing something which feels deliberately more modern. Bear in mind, though, it is made of plastic.
The processor used in the Xbook is about 50% faster than the 3450 present in the KBook Pro. The rest of the specification sheet, though, is fairly standard across all of the devices: a headphone jack, microSD slot, two USB ports, proprietary charging port and an HDMI port.
All in all, the Xbook offers excellent value for money and has a refreshing design. However, there's no Type-C connectivity and the battery life is average (3hr40min in our tests), so you might want to try something else if you need all day productivity away from a socket.
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Bear in mind
- If the product comes from mainland China, it will take a month to reach either the US or UK (and potentially more). You may be levied an additional tax either directly or through the courier.
- If you've managed to get your hands on a cheaper product with equivalent specifications, in stock and brand new, let us know and we'll tip our hat to you.
