Acer Aspire Vero 16 Review: I Tried the World's First Laptop Made from Oyster Shells.
Outstanding performance in the pursuit of carbon neutrality.
The Acer Aspire Vero 16 presents itself as a powerful and eco-friendly laptop offered at an affordable price. This device is made from recycled materials and a casing crafted from oyster shells, contributing to its carbon-neutral design. Although the materiality of the product may seem somewhat flimsy, the notable performance compensates for this aspect.
Among the advantages, its construction from recycled materials, exceptional performance for its price, and aesthetic design stand out. However, the casing may feel like low-quality plastic, and the weight is heavier than expected.
This laptop will be launched in April in the United States at a price of $799.99, and will be subsequently released in Europe for €1,199 during the second quarter. These figures reflect starting prices that may vary depending on the chosen specifications. Despite being a more economical option in the U.S. market, regional prices elsewhere are notably higher.
Observing the Acer Aspire Vero 16, it is evident that it is made from recycled materials, thanks to its color and design. Its chassis has an attractive marbled green finish, which covers the entire device, including the surface of the trackpad. However, to the touch, it has a fragile feel, which may generate mistrust when transporting it without an additional case.
Although the casing is plastic, its weight is 3.97 lbs (1.8 kg), making it a manageable option for daily transport. With dimensions that do not exceed 2 cm in thickness, the Vero 16 includes multiple ports, such as two Thunderbolt ports, one USB-A, one HDMI 2.1, and an audio input.
The display panel of the Vero 16 features a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels, offering remarkable brightness and vividness. Although it is not OLED, the screen quality is impressive for its price range.
In terms of specifications, the Acer Aspire Vero 16 is equipped with a processor that can reach up to an Intel Core Ultra 7 255H, Intel Arc graphics, and 32 GB of RAM, providing outstanding performance in productivity and creative tasks. With a 65Wh battery, it is estimated to last approximately 10.5 hours, sufficient to cover a workday.
In summary, the Acer Aspire Vero 16 is an excellent laptop that combines great performance at a competitive price, as well as a focus on sustainability thanks to its construction from 70% recycled materials. Despite the perceived quality of its external material, the benefits it offers make it worth considering. However, the regional price discrepancies are a concern that could be addressed before its launch.