Acer’s latest product offering, the TravelMate P2, is an entry-level notebook designed exclusively for business use, and Business Tech Africa recently got the opportunity to take it for a spin and see what it has to offer.
The Acer TravelMate P2 is designed with a straightforward approach, which caters to the business environment. Its design is minimalistic, and features a brushed metal grey exterior that prioritizes function over form. Although not visually striking, it is built to blend seamlessly into an office setting, where aesthetics take a back seat to utility.
The laptop offers a robust collection of ports, including two USB-A (3.2), one Thunderbolt 4, Ethernet, a headphone/mic combo, HDMI, and a microSD reader. The full-sized keyboard, complete with a number pad, is well-spaced and smooth, adding to the overall user experience. Encased in a brushed metal chassis, the TravelMate P2 is built for durability, ensuring peace of mind during accidental drops.
Performance and Portability
The review laptop came with a 13th-gen Intel Core i3-1315U processor, integrated Intel Xe GPU, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of NVMe storage. As much as this setup is not designed for intensive tasks, it can handle basic office work with ease, including multitasking, web browsing, and light gaming. The laptop’s 56Wh battery further enhances its appeal, offering a full day of use without needing a charge, even in power-hungry scenarios.
However, the “TravelMate” name may not be as totally suitable, as the laptop’s weight, is not the most portable. It is more suited for stationary use in an office rather than frequent travel.
Display and Media
The biggest concern about the TravelMate P2 is its 14-inch IPS display, which is limited in terms of brightness. Even at maximum brightness, the display is adequate only for office use, where ambient lighting is controlled. The 1920 x 1200 resolution and 16:10 aspect ratio is standard, providing enough screen real estate for typical business tasks, but the display lacks the vibrancy and clarity found in higher-end models.
The Acer TravelMate P2 is a solid entry-level business laptop that excels in its intended purpose. It offers dependable performance for everyday office tasks and comes equipped with a durable build and a variety of ports. While its design and display may not impress those looking for a more versatile or visually appealing device, it remains a practical choice for businesses seeking a cost-effective solution.
Main Image: Acer
