ASUS Zenbook Duo (2025): Dual Screens, Mighty Performance, Hefty Price

The ASUS Zenbook Duo (2025) UX8406CA-PZ106WS features innovative dual 3K OLED screens and a powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 processor. While its design impresses content creators, battery life struggles under intensive use. At ₹2,39,990, it represents a significant investment, suited for professionals who prioritize screen real estate over battery life and value.
Design and Build Quality
The Zenbook Duo sports a premium Inkwell Gray aluminum chassis, weighing just 1.65kg despite its dual screens. Its 14.9mm profile enhances portability, with an innovative detachable magnetic keyboard. Though solidly built, the hinge feels less refined than competitors, and the keyboard sacrifices durability compared to the Dell XPS 13.
Display
Dual 14-inch 3K OLED touchscreens with 120Hz refresh rates deliver stunning visuals with 100% DCI-P3 coverage and 500 nits of brightness. They outperform the MacBook Pro for multitasking. However, their glossy finish creates glare issues, and gaming visuals don’t match the HP Spectre x360’s due to integrated graphics limitations.
Software
Windows 11 Pro with 24H2 update brings AI-powered Copilot+ features. ASUS’s MyASUS and ScreenXpert utilities optimize the dual-screen experience, surpassing Lenovo Yoga Book 9i’s software. Stylus support and Intel’s AI Boost add versatility, though occasional ScreenXpert bugs disrupt workflow.
Performance
The Zenbook Duo combines an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor with 32GB LPDDR5X RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. Its Arrow Lake architecture excels at multitasking, handling 4K video editing smoothly. While it outperforms the MacBook Pro M3 in raw power, it falls behind the Dell XPS 13 in sustained performance due to thermal throttling.
Intel Arc Graphics manages casual gaming – Fortnite runs at medium settings – but struggles with AAA titles compared to the Spectre x360’s GPU options. The NPU accelerates AI tasks impressively, while the fast SSD ensures quick file transfers. In India’s warm climate, the Zenbook delivers strong performance for most professional tasks but may require breaks during intensive rendering.
Battery Life
Despite ASUS’s 18-hour claim, the 75Wh battery delivers 12-14 hours for light tasks and 7-9 hours with both screens. Heavy workloads drain it in under 5 hours, behind the MacBook Pro. The 65W USB-C charger restores 80% in 1.5 hours.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The detachable backlit keyboard provides 1.4mm key travel, shallow compared to the XPS 13. The touchscreen trackpad responds well but lacks physical feedback. A fingerprint reader enhances security, though design prioritizes innovation over typing comfort.
Ports and Connectivity
Connectivity includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, one USB-A, HDMI 2.1, and a headphone jack. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 outpace the Yoga Book 9i’s Wi-Fi 6E, though content creators will miss an SD card slot.
Audio and Webcam
Harman Kardon speakers deliver clear audio with limited bass, below the MacBook Pro’s quality. The 1080p IR webcam performs well in varying light conditions, and AI-enhanced microphones outshine the Spectre x360’s clarity.
Thermal Performance
Dual fans maintain temperatures at 40-45°C during intensive tasks, operating more quietly than the XPS 13. Thermal throttling occurs during sustained workloads but remains manageable for typical professional use.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Innovative dual 3K OLED touchscreens
- Powerful Core Ultra 9 processor and 32GB RAM
- Premium, lightweight aluminum build
- Advanced Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity
Cons
- Premium price point
- Subpar battery life with dual screens
- Shallow keyboard feel
- No SD card reader
Market Buzz
Online feedback highlights enthusiasm for the dual screens and performance. Users report 7-9 hours of battery life, with many praising the portability. However, the steep price draws criticism when compared to single-screen competitors.
Pricing
- UX8406CA-PZ106WS (Core Ultra 9, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD): ₹2,39,990
Value for Money
At ₹2,39,990, the Zenbook Duo targets a niche market. While its dual-screen design justifies the premium for content creators, alternatives like the XPS 13 offer similar performance at lower prices, and the MacBook Pro provides better efficiency.
Final Verdict
The ASUS Zenbook Duo (2025) delivers groundbreaking dual-screen technology for creative professionals in India. Despite battery limitations and premium pricing, it remains compelling for multitaskers valuing screen real estate.