Review of Asus Transformer Book T300FA Convertible

Asus offers a 12.5-inch convertible with the ASUS Transformer Book T300FA-FE001H. A Core M processor powers the device, so the convertible can be cooled passively. We have already reviewed two members of the Transformer Book T300-series, the Transformer Book T300LA-C4006H and the Transformer Book T300 Chi. Despite the same name, the three convertibles do not have any similarities and represent independent models.

As a convertible, the Transformer Book faces rivals from various categories. These include convertibles like the Acer Aspire Switch 12 and the HP Pavilion 13-a093na x360, as well as 12.5 and 13.3-inch notebooks like the Acer Aspire V3-371 and the HP ProBook 430 G2 that are suitable competitors.

Processor
Intel Core M-5Y10 0.8 GHz
Graphics adapter
Intel HD Graphics 5300, Core: 100-800 MHz, Single-channel, 10.18.10.3939
Memory
4096 MB  , DDR3-1600, Single-channel, soldered
Display
12.5 inch 16:9, 1366x768 pixel, capacitive, InfoVision M125NWR2 R1, IPS, glossy: yes
Mainboard
Intel Broadwell-Y PCH-LP (Premium)
Storage
SanDisk SSD i110 64 GB, 64 GB  , + HGST Travelstar Z5K500 (500 GB, 5400 rpm), 500 GB free
Weight
1.6 kg ( = 56.44 oz / 3.53 pounds), Power Supply: 141 g ( = 4.97 oz / 0.31 pounds)

The back of the tablet element is not fixed with screws but clipped in, which means it is quite easy to remove. It is recommended that you loosen the cover at the top of the tablet first  which can be easily done with a fingernail. After that, you can use a sharp object to loosen the rest. A small maintenance hatch covers a 2.5-inch hard drive at the bottom of the keyboard dock. It could be easily replaced.

Connections to the outside world can be established via WLAN. The integrated Atheros module supports the WLAN standards 802.11 b/g/n and the connection between the Transformer Book and the router was stable all the time. We did not encounter any problems. The device has a webcam that produces rather blurry pictures. There is no camera at the back of the tablet element. Asus offers a two-year warranty for its convertible.

The tablet element comes with the usual ports. In addition to a micro-USB, you also get a MicroSD reader, a micro-HDMI output and a combined stereo jack. Asus has located two more USB ports (1x USB 3.0, 1x USB 2.0) on the keyboard dock.

Keyboard

The keyboard of the dock is not illuminated. The flat and roughened keys have a medium travel and clear pressure point, but the resistance could be firmer for our taste. Asus provides a keyboard that will be sufficient for everyday use, but prolific writers should consider another device.

Touchpad

The ClickPad with multi-touch support is roughly 10.5 x 6.2 centimeters (~4.1 x ~2.4 in), which means there is enough room for gesture control. The latter can be activated and deactivated individually. The smooth surface provides good gliding capabilities for the fingers. The pad has a small travel and a clear pressure point.

Touchscreen

The capacitive touchscreen of the Transformer Book works without any problems and executes inputs quickly. It supports Windows touch inputs with 10 touch points.