PC Specialist UltraNote IV 14
A bespoke build that brings together strong core components, unbeatable storage and a decent screen
While most of this month’s systems are mass-produced by global corporations, the UltraNote IV 14 is assembled to order in Wakefield – an approach that helps ensure you get the right components for your needs.
In this case, those include a Core i5-7200U processor, 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. It’s a strong specification, although in our application benchmarks, the UltraNote IV 14 fell slightly behind the Dell Vostro with an overall score of 46. Still, the gap isn’t huge, and the UltraNote rallied in our gaming test, with an average frame rate of 35fps at 720p with high detail.
On paper, the UltraNote IV 14 looks very similar to the Dell, but PC Specialist has wisely chosen a Full HD display, which lets Windows feel sharp and spacious. While its 697:1 contrast ratio is unexceptional, a maximum brightness of 304cd/m2 keeps things from looking too dull.
The system builder also impressed us by cramming in a 1TB mechanical disk alongside the SSD. That’s a great bonus, achieved by using an M.2 SSD as the system drive instead of a SATA model. That also permits a modest performance boost, delivering read speeds up to 520MB/sec – slightly faster than SATA can sustain.
The battery, alas, is a less positive story. We were pleased to note that the battery pack is replaceable – a rarity these days – but its 2,910mAh capacity was the lowest of any system this month. As a result, the UltraNote IV 14 gave us just 5hrs 31mins of video playback on a full charge; only the HP Pavilion x360 fared worse.
We’ve a few other niggles too, largely to do with the generic Clevo case. The unbranded grey exterior looks suspiciously anonymous, and it’s comparatively chunky, measuring 31mm thick. Inside, the keyboard is sturdy, but it’s let down by the touchpad, which is too small and fiddly for our liking; it’s annoying, as there’s plenty of space for a larger one. It also makes a springy rattle when you tap it, which cheapens the overall impression.
If portability is paramount, the UltraNote IV 14’s size and battery life count against it. With no touchscreen or tablet mode, it’s also less versatile than some rivals. All the same, this is a very capable laptop; if you can look past the drab case and disappointing touchpad, its high-resolution screen and generous storage make it a smart alternative to the Dell Vostro.