Chuwi Hi13 Review

Last Updated on March 29, 2020

Nowadays, hybrid Windows tablets are so plentiful that it’s hard to tell them apart. Most models attempt to copy the Microsoft Surface while undercutting it on price. That’s why it’s unusual to find a hybrid tab that stands out.

The Chuwi Hi13 manages to differentiate itself from the pack using a mixture of admirable performance, aesthetics and versatility. If you want a Windows hybrid that’s memorable, the Chuwi Hi13 is an intriguing option.

Layout and Looks

The first thing you’ll notice about the Chuwi Hi13 is its resemblance to the iPad Pro. Measuring 302.9 mm by 194.9 mm, its dimensions are certainly similar to other flagship full-size tablet models.

While its 9.2 mm thick and weighs about 970 grams, it never feels like a bulky machine. The sleek all-metal uni-body houses a 2.0 MP front camera, a 5.0 MP rear lens and four high-quality AAC speakers.

 

CHUWI Hi13 13.5 inch 3K Screen 2 in1 Tablet PC

Horsepower, Storage & Display

The Chuwi Hi13 is powered by the Intel Apollo Lake Celeron N3450 quad-core CPU, 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of eMMC ROM. While the base clock of the N3450 is a mere 1.1 GHz, it can hit 2.2 GHz thanks to Intel Turbo Boost technology.

The 13.5-inch display boasts a resolution of 3,000 x 2,000 pixels with a 3:2 aspect ratio and 480 nits of brightness.

 

OS, UI and Included Software

The default operating system that comes with the new Hi13 is a stock version of Windows 10. That means that buyers get the Edge web browser, the Cortana virtual assistant app and the classic Start Menu.

What’s more, the Chuwi Hi13 boasts support for Ubuntu Linux if you’re a fan of dual-booting multiple operating systems. Mercifully, Chuwi has eliminated the bloatware that you’d find on most hybrid tablets.

Networking and Peripherals

As you’d expect, the Hi13 comes with the usual wireless capabilities including dual-band 802.11 Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0 and WiDi wireless display. As far as ports are concerned, you get Micro HDMI, Type-C USB and a TF card slot.

If you get the optional full-QWERTY keyboard, you’ll get two additional full-sized USB slots. The Chuwi Hi13 supports the HiPen H1 and HiPen H3 styluses, each of which boasts 1,024 levels of pressure sensitivity.

Performance in the Field

Thanks to advanced Intel Gen9 HD Graphics, the Hi13 boasts a 70% increase in graphics performance over the 8th generation GPU. DirectX12 3D rendering allows users to easily decode 4K videos without taxing the hardware.

With the optional keyboard attached, you can use the Chuwi Hi13 in a variety of modes including laptop, tent and stand. In everyday computing scenarios, you’ll get about 7 hours of life out of the on-board 10,000 mAh quick-charge battery.

Chuwi Hi13 Pros and Cons

For many buyers, the biggest upside of the Chuwi Hi13 will be its highly attractive MSRP of about $370. On top of that, there’s the Hi13’s great build quality, fetching looks and excellent peripherals.

Finally, the Hi13’s fanless design makes it the quietest quasi-laptop you’ll ever own. The main downside is performance. The Hi13’s Celeron simply can’t keep up with the CPUs you’d find in a Surface Pro.

The Ideal Chuwi Hi13 Buyer

If you don’t need the most powerful hybrid in the world, the Hi13 is a compelling option. Consumers looking for a lightweight tablet with a full installation of Windows 10 that can handle run-of-the-mill office work will be more than satisfied.

It’s not hard to imagine small businesses buying the Hi13 in bulk for their employees. Ultimately, the Hi13 gives you more bang for your buck than most tablets on the market.

Comparison with iPad Pro and Surface Book

 

Hi13 Surface Book iPad Pro
Price (Can Vary): $369 $1499+ $799+
OS: Win 10 Win 10 iOS 10
Screen size: 13.5 inch 13.5 inch 12.9 inch
Resolution: 3000 x 2000 3000 x 2000 2732 x 2048
PPI: 267 267 264
Aspect ratio: 03:02 03:02 04:03
Speakers: 4 2 2
Thinness: 9.2mm 13.0mm 6.9mm
Processor: Apollo Lake i5/i7 A9X