How To Choose an AI PC That Will Help Kickstart Your Career

Jul 12, 2024

If you’re about to start your career, you may feel like it’s all just too overwhelming — things are already extremely competitive, and now, AI is entering the picture. It is not uncommon to hear about entry-level office jobs being threatened by the emergence of AI, but this may not be the right way to look at things.

Similar opinions were circulating when computers came about. And yet, these machines did not replace us but rather became a tool for employees. We might look at AI in the same way, and you can learn how to use it to your advantage to prepare yourself for the jobs of the future.

But first, you need a tool that will help you take advantage of the latest advancements in AI. This article will help you choose a laptop equipped to help kickstart your career.

The first step is to check whether the laptop is an AI PC. The easiest way to do so is to look at the processor. If the CPU features a neural processing unit (NPU), it's well-positioned to handle AI processes. Options can include most of the latest-generation Intel® Core™ Ultra series processors, the latest laptop CPU offerings from AMD, featuring AMD Ryzen™ AI, or even something like the Qualcomm® Snapdragon® X Elite processor. When choosing an AI-powered CPU, pay attention to the TOPS (trillion operations per second) number in the specifications table. Ideally, you’ll want 45 TOPS or more.

Additionally, it’s great if the laptop is described as a Copilot+ PC. That means that the laptop is designed to provide you with a next-level AI experiences, with enhanced security, speed, and personalization options. These laptops feature the latest, most up-to-date version of Copilot — the personal AI assistant from Microsoft. You can launch it with a single click of the dedicated Copilot key on the keyboard and get to work quickly on various tasks, including the Copilot+ features, such as Recall, Live Captions, Cocreator, and more. (Read more about Copilot features in this article).

The latest AI PCs from ASUS also feature a whole lineup of ASUS-exclusive AI-powered smart tools that make all your user experiences pleasant. These include the new ASUS StoryCube, ASUS Two-Way AI Noise Cancelation, and ASUS Adaptive Dimming and Adaptive Lock.

Aside from handling AI, your new laptop will also need to do well with plenty of other common work tasks, such as browsing the internet, word processing, or videoconferencing. Depending on the job type, you may also be required to handle some slightly heavier tasks, e.g. running creative apps for image or video editing. Additionally, you may need to be able to store large files.

A laptop that would be well-positioned to handle most work tasks will have an exceptional CPU — like an Intel® Core™ 5 Ultra, a latest-generation AMD Ryzen™ 5, or a Qualcomm® Snapdragon® X Elite. Of course, the stronger the CPU, the faster your laptop will work. As a rule of thumb, the higher the number following the brand name, the stronger the CPU. All of the CPUs mentioned above feature NPUs for AI processing, as well as integrated GPUs ready for most common tasks or even some multimedia editing or light gaming! Additionally, you’ll want a good amount of RAM. 16 GB is a solid minimum. And of course you’ll want plenty of storage space — 1 TB or better is recommended.

The lighter and thinner the laptop, the easier it is to take with you. ASUS offers multiple AI PCs that that weight 1.5 kg or less and have a thin profile of around 1.5 cm or less ― perfect for on-the-go lifestyles.

When it comes to screen size, you'll want enough space to comfortably work, but nothing too large. Usually, something like 15.6 – 16 inches proves to be a sweet spot.

Additionally, to work uninterrupted regardless of location, you’ll want a strong, long-lasting battery. New ASUS AI PCs offer up to over 18 hours of seamless productivity on a single charge. This should carry you through the whole workday without needing to bring a charger ― so you can pack light for the day and even have power left for entertainment on your commute home.

And finally, to make sure you get to take advantage of any setup you find yourself working at — no matter if at home, in the office, or at a coworking space or a cafe — you’ll need a rich lineup of I/O ports. Look for a combination of USB4® (best if with power delivery and display support) and USB 3.2 Type-A ports, as well as an HDMI® 2.1 slot and an audio jack. If the laptop has a MicroSD card reader, this can be very useful too, especially if your work involves photography or video footage.

Here are two newest AI PCs from ASUS that we think are great career-enhancing options for anyone.

ASUS Vivobook S 15

ASUS Vivobook S 15 is the first ASUS Copilot+ PC. Powered by Qualcomm® Snapdragon® X Elite processor and with the latest version of the Windows OS and ASUS AI-powered apps, this 15.6-inch laptop offers up to over 18 hours of battery life. The powerful battery and components fit into a 1.47 cm thin, 1.42 kg light chassis with an impressive 3K 120 Hz ASUS Lumina OLED display. It's a perfect machine for those wishing to use AI to boost productivity or to kick off their careers. Available in Cool Silver color and with a sleek, modern design that includes a customizable single-zone RGB keyboard (featuring a dedicated Copilot key), this ASUS laptop looks great in any setting. And thanks to a full I/O lineup, you’ll have ultimate flexibility anywhere ― all an affordable price.

ASUS Zenbook S 16

ASUS Zenbook S 16 is a 16-inch thin (1.1 cm) and lightweight (1.5 kg) laptop designed for seamless, productivity and mobility. Powered by advanced AI technology, this next-gen AI PC features the newest AMD processor with Ryzen™ AI, boosted by powerful yet quiet cooling. This premium device is sure to impress. Inspired by natural colors, it features a Ceraluminum™ finish for a durable look that also feels great to the touch with a ceramic texture. The quality of this laptop is ensured by the precise CNC machining process used in its creation. You can count on great user experiences, thanks to smart privacy features, a long-lasting 78-watt-hour battery, immersive 6-speaker audio, and a comprehensive I/O port lineup.

When you’re ready to buy, check out the ASUS Store for laptop deals.