ASUS VivoBook 15 F515JA laptop: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS VivoBook 15 F515JA is a 15.6-inch everyday laptop with an Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB of memory and a 128GB solid-state drive. It's aimed at basic computing: web browsing, email, documents, streaming and online classes. Here is what its specs mean and where its limits are.

The 15.6-inch Full HD display

The screen is Full HD (1920 x 1080) with ASUS's NanoEdge slim bezels, which ASUS says give an 83% screen-to-body ratio. Slim bezels mean a larger display in a smaller body than older laptops with thick frames. Full HD is a comfortable resolution at this size for documents, video and browsing with several windows side by side.

Intel Core i3-1005G1

The processor runs at 1.2 GHz and boosts up to 3.4 GHz, with 4MB of cache. It's a dual-core chip from Intel's 10th-generation family, designed for low power draw. In general, a Core i3 of this type handles office tasks, web browsing and video playback well, but it isn't intended for demanding games, heavy photo or video editing, or running many programs at once.

Memory, storage and Windows

The listing gives 4GB of DDR4 memory and a 128GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD. An SSD loads the system and programs much faster than a traditional hard drive. With 4GB of RAM, though, memory can fill up if you keep many browser tabs open. The 128GB drive is modest, so large photo, video or game libraries will need external storage or cloud storage.

It comes with Windows 10 Home in S Mode, a locked-down version that runs only apps from Microsoft's own app catalogue. Switching out of S Mode is possible if you need other software; check Microsoft's current instructions. ASUS notes a free upgrade to Windows 11 for eligible devices, so read its compatibility page for details.

Keyboard, security and ports

There's a backlit ergonomic keyboard and a fingerprint sensor that works with Windows Hello for quick sign-in. Connections include USB 3.2 Type-A (Gen 1), USB 3.2 Type-C (Gen 1), USB 2.0, an SD card reader and HDMI. That's a useful mix for plugging in a mouse, a memory card or an external display. Weight is about 4 lb (1.8 kg), and the body is about 0.8 inches (2 cm) thick.

Who it suits

It suits students, home users and anyone who wants a straightforward laptop for browsing, writing and video calls. It's a sensible match for a second computer or for lighter tasks, and not for gaming or professional creative work.

What to check before you buy

• Memory: 4GB is the minimum for comfortable use with Windows; check whether the memory can be upgraded in this model.
• Storage: 128GB fills quickly; plan for cloud or external storage.
• S Mode: confirm that all the software you need is available in that catalogue, or that you're happy to switch modes.
• Windows 11: check ASUS's page to confirm upgrade eligibility.
• Battery and charger: look at the battery figures and what's in the box.

The short version

• A 15.6-inch, Full HD laptop with slim NanoEdge bezels.
• Intel Core i3-1005G1, 4GB DDR4 and a 128GB NVMe SSD.
• Backlit keyboard, Windows Hello fingerprint sensor, SD card reader and HDMI.
• Windows 10 Home in S Mode, with a free upgrade to Windows 11 for eligible devices.
• Suited to everyday tasks rather than demanding work.

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