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In early 2012 Acer “released” a laptop called the Acer Aspire M3. We place the word released in quotes because, although available in limited qualities and given out to journalists for review, the M3 was hard to find. It seemed to exist only so that Nvidia could announce the launch of its new GT 640M processor – a part that, even several months later, is only available in a handful of products.
This obscurity was a blessing, however, because the M3 wasn’t much of a laptop with battery like Acer Aspire TimelineX 3830T Battery , Acer AS11A3E Battery , Acer AS11A5E Battery , Acer Aspire TimelineX 4830T Battery , Acer Aspire TimelineX 5830T Battery , Acer Aspire TimelineX AS3830T Battery , Acer Aspire TimelineX AS5830T Battery , Acer Aspire TimelineX AS4830T Battery , Acer AK.006BT.094 Battery , Acer 3ICR19/66-2 Battery , Acer Extensa 4120 Battery . Maybe that’s why Acer has already launched its successor, the Aspire M5.
Acer has expanded the lineup with its update. While the M3 was only available with a 15.6-inch display, the new M5 can be had in 14- and 15.6-inch models. Buyers also have a choice between integrated graphics and discrete graphics in both models. The 14-inch version with integrated graphics starts at $680.
Our review unit is a 14-inch variant with discrete graphics.
Acer has actually taken a step backwards with the GPU — the new version has the GT 640M LE, which is less powerful than the previous GT 640M. The smaller M5 also packs a Core i5-3317U low-voltage processor. These upgrades over the base model will set you back an extra $100.
The Acer Aspire M5 is a unique product. Aside from the M3, it’s the only Ultrabook available with discrete graphics in the North American market. It’s also one of the least expensive, even when equipped with the upgrades found in our review unit.
We can’t help but wonder if Acer is a bit confused. The company sent us two laptops for review simultaneously: the Acer Aspire M5 (priced at $780) and the Acer Aspire S5 (priced at $1,399). Between these, the M5 is clearly superior. It’s more attractive, nearly as quick, far better for games, and lasts longer on a charge. Maybe they accidentally switched the labels.
The only downside to the M5 is its size and weight — which perhaps speaks to the danger of designing a laptop that’s too thin. The M5’s thickness is no doubt the reason why it offers better battery life and a discrete GPU at a much lower price than its cousin.
Acer hasn’t just beaten itself with the M5. It’s also beaten the competition. We adored the aesthetically pleasing U310, but design is the only advantage is has over the M5. We can say the same about the Toshiba Z835, Samsung Series 5, and even similarly priced versions of the Zenbook. These products all offer less for more.
Acer’s transition from the Aspire M3 to the M5 is incredible. This is among the best Ultrabooks we’ve ever handled, and it can be yours for under $800.