The Asus ExpertBook B3000 is a 2-in-1 laptop that comes with a compact size and is powered by an ARM-based chipset. It can be a laptop, it can also be a tablet, although in terms of form factor we are more inclined to call this device a tablet. Because of the existence of a separate keyboard, it can be removed.
More or less, this device is similar to the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Series, but the main difference is in the operating system used. The Asus ExpertBook B3000 uses the Windows operating system from Microsoft, which is identical to a laptop or computer. On the other hand, the use of a slightly similar processor.
The Asus ExpertBook B3000 does not use an Intel or AMD processor as is usually embedded in laptops in general. However, Asus is trying to experiment with using the Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 processor. A slight difference from the Galaxy Tab S8 Series is that the Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 is a chipset designed for computer devices.
Yes, this is Qualcomm’s move to expand in the realm of computers, where so far it has been very much in the realm of mobile. Whereas in the past Intel tried to enter the realm of smartphones, but failed so it then decided to focus on computing only.
Will this Qualcomm succeed or fail like Intel? We’ll see further developments. At least, we can start from a device that already uses this chipset, namely the Asus ExpertBook B3000.
This latest Asus device is included in the detachable category, aka a laptop whose screen can be removed from the keyboard (keyboard). The design language is similar to its older siblings, such as the ROG Flow Z 13 or the Vivobook 13 Slate OLED.
The difference is that the Asus ExpertBook B3000 is intended to support hybrid mobile activities. So the performance of this laptop supports daily work and school use. What added value does this device present, here’s a full review of Alomaki.
Design
As explained above, the Asus ExpertBook B3000 is designed in a small but compact form factor. Even the weight of this laptop is only 590 grams and a thickness of about 0.9 cm. Making this device very flexible to make it easier for users to work or study wherever they are.
Not only that, the Asus ExpertBook B3000 will remain safe and durable if it accidentally drops. Because this device has pocketed Mil-STD 810H military certification, where the laptop has gone through various extreme tests to ensure its durability.
The ExpertBoard keyboard uses a magnetic system that makes it easy to install and remove. Even though it’s not the best in its class, the feel of typing on this laptop is fairly comfortable with 1.5mm key travel. Especially when the ExpertBook B3000 is attached with a keyboard, it makes it look like it has an ergolift design like most Asus laptops. Unfortunately this keyboard does not have a backlit keyboard.
A plus point for this laptop is that it is protected by Antibacterial Guard, a special protective layer that can inhibit the growth of various harmful bacteria by up to 99% within 24 hours. Another plus, this keyboard is resistant to water spills. Asus claims, this keyboard can hold up to 60 cc of liquid without harm, so small spills on the keys can be easily drained, cleaned, and dried.
On the back there is a stand cover which functions as a protector as well as a seat so that the ExpertBook B3000 can be used like a laptop.
Interestingly, the ExpertStand cover has two stand modes that allow the ExpertBook B3000 to be used vertically or horizontally. This stand cover is made using suede material which gives the impression that you are a professional worker.
Screen
Still a matter of design, the Asus ExpertBook B3000 carries a touch screen LCD panel (touchscreen) with a size of 10.5 inches, WUXGA resolution (1,920 x 1,200 pixels), and a maximum brightness level of 320 nits. It’s a shame that the bezel on this laptop doesn’t give a modern impression, considering that tablets in its class on the market today offer screen quality with better resolution.
It’s a bit unfortunate, but for the sake of maintaining eye health, this laptop has been certified for low blue light by TÜV Rheinland. This means that the ExpertBook B3000 screen has minimal blue light radiation emissions so it won’t damage eye health in the long term.
Complementing the touch screen feature is a stylus that can be stored directly in a special compartment on the ExpertBook B3000 body. When stored in its compartment, the stylus automatically charges.
Ports and Connectivity
Having a form factor like a small laptop does not make the Asus ExpertBook B3000 lose its function. On the left side there is the power button, then volume Up/Down without a Micro SD slot.
Turning to the right, this laptop only has one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C connector which supports display out, and a 3.5mm audio jack combo. It’s a shame that the number of ports presented is very limited, but USB-C can be added with a USB Hub to increase the variety of connectors.
The ExpertBoard section is equipped with a precision touchpad. The dimensions are indeed small, but it’s still comfortable to type on because even though it’s tiny, your palms don’t easily enter the touchpad. So it doesn’t take long to get used to everyday use.
Camera
Like a tablet, the ASUS ExpertBook B3000 is also equipped with two built-in cameras. One in front, one in back. Unmitigated, the rear camera has a resolution of 13MP which is quite large for the size of a tablet. Though most likely, not used too often. Because shooting with a device of this size, it’s a bit inconvenient.
Meanwhile on the front there is 5 MP which should be even more improved in quality because it will be used more. Be it for online meetings, live streaming, and so on.
The quality is fairly adequate thanks to technology based on AI ( artificial intelligence ) and ISP Spectra from Qualcomm on the Snapdragon 7c Gen 2. But of course don’t expect abundant features like a smartphone. Because, again, this is a tablet where the camera is more of a supporting feature. At the very least, here we can create moments and meetings with better quality than laptops in general.
The ExpertBook B3000 webcam’s innovative 3D noise-reduction (3DNR) technology is claimed to reduce up to 94% random noise that naturally affects any camera. Especially in low-light situations, it greatly improves image quality without affecting exposure levels or detail.
Supporting features
As mentioned above, this device is indeed suitable for both study and work, especially for users who have high mobility. For example, often meeting outside, doing assignments with friends in a cafe, and so on.
The ExpertBook B3000 is also equipped with a two-way AI noise cancellation feature that can reduce noise when participating in online conference sessions or online meetings. For added convenience, a microphone mute button is located at the top of the keyboard for instant muting.
Since there is no cellular connection, the ASUS ExpertBook B3000 relies heavily on WiFi connectivity. So, there is Asus WiFi SmartConnect which can find the closest strongest hotspot network. The ExpertBook B3000 incorporates ASUS WiFi Master7 technology, so you can enjoy faster and more reliable WiFi connections over longer distances than before.
In addition, users can take advantage of Bluetooth 5.1 to connect various devices such as wireless mice or headphones. The Asus ExpertBook is also supported by the Windows 11 Home operating system (OS) in S Mode which is equipped with Microsoft Office 365 applications.
Then for the battery, the capacity is 38 Whrs which is claimed to last up to 21 hours for normal use. In our tests, the durability of this laptop is indeed quite promising, especially since it is also supported by 45W fast charging via a USB-C cable.
performance
On paper, Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 is equipped with an eight-core (octa-core, @ 2.55 Ghz) processor (CPU), which consists of two high-performance Cortex-A76 CPU cores, and six Cortex-A55 power-saving CPU cores. The CPU component is combined with the Adreno 618 graphics processing unit (GPU), 4GB LPDDR4X RAM, and eMMC-type storage media with a capacity of 128GB.
Thanks to the System-on-Chip (SoC), it is possible to make the ExpertBook B3000 laptop have a passive fanless cooling system. As a result, using this laptop will feel quiet without any noisy fan noise.
For daily use, the performance of this laptop is rather unique. Given that some software does not yet support ARM-based processors for Windows 11 Home laptops in S Mode. Even though it can function as a tablet, the ExpertBook B300 has a few limitations, especially game applications.
S Mode has a positive goal of increasing security and keeping the laptop’s performance stable. However, S Mode provides some limitations to users, especially when it comes to installing applications and games. Because it only allows users to install applications via the Microsoft Store only. Cannot install applications via files with an .exe extension, like Windows 11 in general.
Because you need to remember that the ExpertBook B3000 is not designed for gaming activities. In addition, there is not much software that is compatible with Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 mobile processors for Windows. Even so, we found several light games from the Microsoft Store that can be played smoothly on this laptop, such as Asphalt 8 and 9, Candy Crush Saga, Angry Birds 2.
Conclusion
Overall, the Asus ExpertBook B3000 feels more attractive than the entry laptops in its class. The form factor is detachable, making this device as flexible as a ‘premium class laptop or tablet’ which can cost tens of millions of rupiah.
For the price, the Asus ExpertBook B3000 costs only IDR 7.3 million. Although the price is not much different from the middle-class Android tablets circulating. This device is the first detachable equipped with an ARM-based Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 SoC for Windows.
As a result the usage options are very flexible, it can be a tablet or laptop according to user needs. Supporting features for WFA or hybrid work systems such as microphones and webcams are also okay. Most of the drawbacks are in the thick bezel, as well as the minimalist screen and port connections. So you can say that buying the Asus ExpertBook B3000, You will get a multifunctional device.
ASUS ExpertBook B3000 Specifications
General
| Device Type | Laptops – Detachable Tablets |
| Model / Series | ASUS ExpertBook B3000 |
| Released | 23 November, 2022 |
| Status | Available |
| Price | USD $472,99 |
Platform
| Processor | Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 7c Gen 2 (1MB L3 Cache, up to 2.55GHz, 8 cores) |
| VGA (Graphic Card) | Qualcomm® Adreno™ GPU 618 |
| RAM (Memory) | 8G LPDDR4X on board |
| Storage | 128G eMMC |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home in S Mode |
Body
| Dimensions | 26.03 x 17.21 x 0.89 ~ 0.90 cm, weight: 590 grams |
| Display | 10.5-inch, WUXGA (1920 x 1200) 16:10 60Hz, touchscreen, Wide view, Glossy display, LED Backlit, 320nits, sRGB 121% |
| Battery | 38WHrs, 2S1P, 2-cell Li-ion |
Connectivity
| Webcam | Camera 5.0 MP front-facing camera 13.0 MP world-facing camera |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Wi-fi | Wi-Fi 5(802.11ac) (Dual band) 2*2 |
| NFC | – |
| I/O Interface | 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C support display + power delivery 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack |
Other
| Audio | Built-in speaker, Built-in array microphone |
| Features | 1 year warranty + ASUS Expert Warranty |
