Is there a better alternative?

The most direct comparison is the Lenovo IdeaPad S940. It’s almost identical in size, thickness, and weight to the ZenBook 13, and it’s available with a gorgeous 4K display that’s great for watching Netflix and YouTube HDR content. The IdeaPad S940 is also more expensive, at $1,500 for the same configuration of a Core i7, 8GB of RAM, 512GB SSD, and Full HD display.

　　Then, you could consider the Acer Swift 3 14, which doesn’t have the same modern aesthetic or tiny bezels as the ZenBook S13 and which uses the previous version of Intel’s 8th-gen Core i7. However, the Swift 3 significantly less expensive at $900 for a Core i7, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, and it gets equally good performance and better battery life.

　　Finally, the Dell XPS 13is an option if you don’t mind stepping down to a slightly smaller 13.3-inch display. You’ll get equally good build quality and performance, and you can spend less money for the same configuration. With the same components, the XPS 13 is $1,350 and is often discounted (currently on sale for $1,176).

　　

How long will it last?

The ZenBook S3 is a well-built laptop that feels like it will last as long as you’ll want to hold onto it. It uses up-to-date components, with the one disappointment that no Thunderbolt 3 support means more limited future-proofing and expandability. You’ll get the usual 1-year warranty, along with the added benefit of the usual Asus 1-year accident protection coverage.

　　

Should you buy it?

Yes. The ZenBook S13 packs a lot of power into a tiny chassis, and though it has compromises here and there, you won’t be disappointed by what you pay for.