Huawei’s first laptop is a MacBook clone in looks alone

First of all, it has a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button that not only makes it easier to sign into your profile, but is also more convenient if more than one person is a frequent user of your laptop. All someone has to do is sign in with their finger and the laptop will load up their profile.

Apple’s butterfly keyboard was controversial for its basically travel-free setup, and even though I’m pleased with the typing experience on my MacBook, I’m glad Huawei managed to deliver keys with 1.2mm of travel here. It’s a more traditional and familiar system that makes typing more comfortable. I also like the generously sized chiclet keys, and the only buttons that appear undersized are the up and down arrows. The keyboard is also splash-resistant so you don’t have to worry about spilling a little water on it while you work.

Huawei equipped the MateBook X with a seventh-generation Intel Core i7 chip, 8GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, which should promise speed performance. I’ve only used the laptop for light multi-tasking so far, but in general it keeps pace with my demands.

The MateBook X’s battery is supposed to last long, too, as the company is estimating up to 10 hours of 1080p video playback on a single charge. Speaking of video, you’ll really enjoy the multimedia experience, not only because of the MateBook’s vibrant 13-inch 2K display, but also thanks to the Dolby Atmos-enhanced surround sound system. Unfortunately during our preview, the display was dim in bright sunlight, but audio was indeed immersive and loud.

Like the MacBook, Huawei’s laptop adopts a minimal approach to ports, which could put off many people. You’ll only get two USB C slots – one of which feeds power to the device while you’re left with the other for external connections. To alleviate the potential inconvenience here, Huawei is including a dock with each MateBook X that provides options for HDMI, USB A, USB C and VGA. Disappointingly, there is no microSD card reader.

Although the MateBook X basically stole its design from the MacBook, I still appreciate its skinny profile and light weight anyway. I also dig its shiny chrome edges and the pink and blue color options available. Plus, Huawei has consistently been on point with its product aesthetics since the original MateBook 2-in-1 from last year, which has an equally premium build and classy look. The MateBook X may look incredibly familiar, but I won’t dock points from the company for crafting something that feels so elegant.