In the realm of ultrabooks, LG has carved a niche for itself with the Gram series, and the LG Gram 17 is a standout example of the brand’s dedication to combining performance with unparalleled portability. This review delves into the myriad features that make the LG Gram 17 an enticing choice for those seeking a balance between a large, immersive display and the convenience of a lightweight form factor.
Design and Build Quality:
The LG Gram 17 immediately catches the eye with its sleek, minimalist design. Crafted from a magnesium alloy, the laptop’s construction ensures a surprising balance between durability and weight. Weighing in at a mere 2.98 pounds (1.35 kg), the Gram 17 is a featherweight in its class, challenging the notion that a larger screen must come with a bulkier chassis. The silver color adds a touch of sophistication, and the slim bezels surrounding the expansive 17-inch display contribute to a modern and immersive visual experience.
The build quality is impressive, and the laptop successfully passes MIL-STD-810G durability tests, ensuring that it can withstand a range of environmental conditions. The lightweight nature of the Gram 17 doesn’t compromise its sturdiness, making it an ideal companion for users who are constantly on the move.
Display:
The star of the show is undoubtedly the 17-inch WQXGA IPS display, offering a stunning 2560 x 1600 resolution. The aspect ratio of 16:10 provides additional vertical space, enhancing productivity and providing a more immersive viewing experience. The color accuracy and sharpness of the display make it equally suitable for creative professionals who demand precise visuals.
The brightness levels are commendable, making the Gram 17 a reliable choice for both indoor and outdoor use. LG’s decision to stick with a non-reflective screen minimizes glare, contributing to a comfortable viewing experience in various lighting conditions.
Performance:
Under the hood, the LG Gram 17 boasts an Intel Core i7 processor, ensuring snappy performance for everyday tasks and more. The inclusion of a fast SSD further enhances the laptop’s responsiveness, resulting in quick boot times and swift application launches. While the Gram 17 is not marketed as a gaming laptop, its integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics handle casual gaming with ease, adding a layer of versatility to its capabilities.
The efficiency of the thermal management system deserves recognition. The laptop remains surprisingly cool even under prolonged heavy workloads, thanks to the innovative use of heat pipes and a fan system. This ensures that the performance is consistent and doesn’t suffer from thermal throttling.
Keyboard and Trackpad:
The keyboard on the LG Gram 17 is a pleasure to type on. The keys have a satisfying travel distance and a crisp response, making long typing sessions comfortable. The inclusion of a dedicated numeric keypad adds to the convenience, catering to users who regularly work with numerical data.
The large precision touchpad is responsive and supports multi-touch gestures, contributing to a seamless user experience. The overall design of the keyboard and trackpad reflects LG’s commitment to user comfort and productivity.
Battery Life:
One of the standout features of the LG Gram 17 is its exceptional battery life. The laptop boasts an impressive runtime, easily lasting a full workday on a single charge. The combination of a large 80Wh battery and the power-efficient components ensures that users can go about their tasks without constantly worrying about finding a power outlet. This extended battery life is a game-changer for professionals who are frequently on the move.
Connectivity:
In terms of connectivity, the LG Gram 17 doesn’t disappoint. The laptop comes equipped with a diverse range of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, HDMI, and a microSD card slot. The inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 not only provides high-speed data transfer but also supports external displays and charging, adding to the laptop’s versatility.
Software and User Experience:
The LG Gram 17 runs on Windows 10, providing users with a familiar and user-friendly operating system. LG’s software additions are minimal, allowing for a clean and bloat-free experience. The laptop also features a fingerprint sensor for secure and convenient logins, adding an extra layer of security to the device.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the LG Gram 17 stands as a testament to LG’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of ultrabook design. The combination of a large, high-resolution display, exceptional battery life, and a lightweight form factor makes it an attractive choice for professionals and content creators. While the price point may be higher than some competitors, the LG Gram 17 justifies its cost with a perfect blend of performance, portability, and an impressive display. If you prioritize a larger screen without compromising on weight and portability, the LG Gram 17 is a compelling option that redefines expectations in the ultrabook category.
