Apple’s MacBook Pro has set the bar for premium design in the laptop world, but for anyone wanting that luxurious design without the luxurious pricetag – or MacOS – there was no alternative, until now.
Huawei’s MateBook D 14 and 15 both offer the premium design that Apple is known for, but without the pricetag and with full Windows support.
Design
I have the MateBook D14 which, like its 15-inch sibling, it oozes style. Using it while on the go has prompted people to stop and ask about the device because of its eye-catching design.
While slightly thicker than the MacBook Pro, it’s much lighter than the 13-inch MacBook Pro and therefore much easier to carry around for the entire day and much easier to take out of your bag with just one hand.
The outside lid of the MateBook features a simple brushed metal style enclosure with the word Huawei across the lid in a stylish, yet minimalistic font. This understated design continues throughout the entire laptop and conveys a sense of thoughtful and well-intentioned design.
Turning the laptop over reveals a “foot” which runs along the entire underside of the device to ensure that it doesn’t rest directly on a table or desk, but I’ve also found that it’s perfect for holding the device when not in use, unlike the MacBook which has very little grip and tends to be rather slippery – and weighty – when holding it.
When it comes to the display, Huawei has ensured that you get maximum viewing pleasure with minimal obstruction. Unlike the MacBook Pro which has thick bezels along the display, the MateBook manages to fit a full HD 14-inch display into a body that’s barely any thicker than a 13-inch MacBook Pro.
Features
The MateBook D is a Windows-based device with a few Huawei tweaks to make it even more of a multi-collaborative tool. Thanks to Huawei Share, sharing my content and audio between my Huawei phone and my MateBook is easier than using Microsoft’s “Your Phone” app, and can only be referred to as a superior answer to Apple’s AirDrop or AirPlay.
Huawei has ensured that if you’re using one of their phones with the MateBook, you’ll be able to do everything from mirror your phone to your laptop as well as drag and drop between the two devices seamlessly.
While Apple might offer similar functionality, I’ve found that it isn’t as smooth or seamless as Huawei Share nor does it offer the same range of functionality.
Another feature that I cannot live without is Huawei’s fast charge technology. It’s been a staple on my Huawei phones for years and is also available on the MateBook. Not only can the 65W fastcharger give you 46% battery in 30 minutes, it can also be used to charge your Huawei phone which means that you no longer have to carry multiple cables – an unfortunate reality for anyone who owns an iPhone and uses a MacBook.
A few other standout features of the MateBook include the combined fingerprint power button and the recessed webcam, both of which offer more security than Apple’s MacBooks.
Specs
Huawei has ensured that you get more than enough power to keep you going throughout the day, no matter what you’re doing. Both the MateBook 14 and the MateBook 15 are powered by AMD’s Ryzen 5 processor which provides better power and performance than the Intel powered MacBook, as well as a range of ports including a full-sized USB port, HDMI port, 3.5mm headphone jack and USB-C ports, unlike Apple’s MacBook which only offers USB-C ports and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Verdict
The MateBook D has taken everything that Apple’s MacBooks are known for and made it easier to use and more affordable and accessible for everyone.
At R13 499, Huawei’s MateBook D offers value for money without compromising on style, functionality, battery life or usability and is perfect for students, entrepreneurs, or creatives.
If you’re looking for a premium style laptop without the Apple pricetag, then this is for you.
The Huawei MateBook D 14 & 15 are available at Huawei’s online store:https://huaweistore.co.za as well as Incredible Connection, Evetech, Computer Mania and Takealot.
