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| The Vivobook 14 and the Vivobook 16 features up to 32 GB of RAM |
LAS VEGAS – The laptop arena just got more interesting. At CES 2026, Asus pulled the wraps off a significant refresh of its popular Vivobook S series, announcing updated versions of the Vivobook S14 and Vivobook S16. This year’s update is all about power and choice, giving consumers a wider array of cutting-edge processor options than ever before, all packed into a consistently sleek and portable chassis.
Gone are the days of being locked into a single chipset family. Asus is embracing a multi-platform strategy in a big way.
Processor Power: A Trifecta of Options
The headline news is under the hood. For the first time in the series, users can configure their new Vivobook with next-generation silicon from all three major players:
- AMD Ryzen AI: Expected to be from the new Ryzen AI 400 series, these chips promise significant on-device AI acceleration for smarter, more responsive everyday tasks.
- Intel Core Ultra 9 Series 3: Catering to the performance-seeking user, these Intel processors aim to deliver robust productivity and creative performance.
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite (Exclusive to S16): In a strategic move, Asus has reserved its most powerful Qualcomm option for the larger Vivobook S16. The Snapdragon X2 Elite chipset, likely focusing on exceptional battery life and always-connected capabilities, gives the S16 a unique edge in the lineup.
Design & Build: Consistent Elegance, Subtle Differences
Visually, the new models retain the sophisticated, minimalist aesthetic the S-series is known for. Both the 14-inch and 16-inch variants sport a clean metallic chassis accented by a subtle, CNC-engraved Asus logo.
In a feat of engineering, all three processor variants share an impressively slim profile of just 1.59 cm (0.62 inches). Weight, however, tells a more nuanced story. If ultimate portability is your goal, the Intel variants are the champions, tipping the scales at a light 1.40 kg (3.08 lbs). The AMD and Snapdragon configurations come in slightly heavier at 1.70 kg (3.74 lbs), a trade-off for their unique architectures and capabilities.
Display Choices: Size and Tech to Suit Your Needs
The display strategy varies interestingly between models:
- Vivobook S16 (Snapdragon): Buyers get the most choice, opting between a crisp 2.5K IPS panel or a stunning, contrast-rich WUXGA OLED display.
- Vivobook S14 & S16 (Intel/AMD): These models come standard with a WUXGA (1920 x 1200) display that boasts impressive color, covering 95% of the DCI-P3 gamut for vivid, accurate visuals ideal for content consumption and casual creation.
Unified Features: No Compromises on the Essentials
Regardless of the processor or screen you choose, Asus has equipped all the new Vivobooks with a robust set of modern features:
- Memory & Storage: Configurations go up to a generous 32GB of RAM and 1TB of fast PCIe SSD storage.
- Audio & Connectivity: Dolby Atmos-powered speakers and Wi-Fi 6 support are standard for immersive audio and reliable wireless speeds.
- Battery & Input: A large 70Wh battery promises all-day endurance, while a spacious touchpad with smart gesture support enhances the user experience.
Port selection is comprehensive, future-proofing the devices with dual USB 4 ports, legacy USB 3.2 Type-A and Type-C ports, an HDMI 2.1 output, and the ever-essential 3.5mm headphone jack.
Availability & Final Thoughts
Asus has not yet announced official pricing or a precise global availability date for the refreshed Vivobook S14 and S16 models. The showcase at CES 2026 indicates a likely launch in the first half of the year.
This strategic refresh positions the Vivobook S series as a remarkably flexible contender in the mainstream premium laptop market. By offering such a wide spectrum of processing power—from x86 performance cores to AI-optimized and always-connected ARM platforms—Asus isn't just releasing new laptops; it's inviting users to choose the exact type of computing experience that fits their life.
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| The Asus Vivobook S16 Qualcomm variant |
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| The Asus Vivobook S14/S16 Intel variant |
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| The Asus Vivobook S14 AMD variant |