Infinix InBook Air Review: Perfect Laptop for Students and Simple Workflows

In the budget laptop market, where manufacturers often overpromise, Infinix has taken a more measured approach with the InBook Air.

This isn’t a laptop trying to be something it’s not. It’s a straightforward machine that understands its role and executes it well.

Design and Display

The InBook Air makes a solid first impression with its portability. At 1.24kg and just 15mm thick, it’s genuinely easy to carry around without the weight penalty of bulkier laptops. The aluminum alloy construction feels sturdy for everyday use while maintaining a clean, professional appearance.

The hinge mechanism works smoothly and can open to 180 degrees, which proves useful for various working positions. Ventilation is handled through bottom-mounted vents that maintain adequate airflow during typical usage scenarios.

When it comes to display, the 14-inch screen delivers one of the InBook Air’s better features. The slim bezels help create a more compact footprint than you’d expect from a 14-inch display, making it feel surprisingly portable for its screen size.

The 1920 x 1200 resolution provides sharp text and decent detail for most tasks. Colors look natural thanks to the 100% sRGB coverage, making it suitable for basic photo work and content viewing.

Its matte finish also effectively reduces glare in most lighting conditions, though the 300-nit brightness can feel limited in very bright environments.

Processor and Performance

The Intel Core i5 13th Gen processor takes a practical approach to performance. It handles everyday computing tasks competently without trying to compete with higher-end machines.

Web browsing with multiple tabs, document editing, and media consumption all run smoothly within expected parameters.

If you buy the 16GB RAM configuration, you’ll get adequate multitasking capability for typical workflows, while the 512GB SSD will ensure quick boot times and responsive file operations.

The Intel Iris Xe graphics handle basic visual tasks and light creative work, though this clearly isn’t designed for demanding applications.

User Experience

The keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience with good key travel and spacing. The backlit keys with adjustable brightness levels add practical value for various lighting conditions. Extended typing sessions feel natural without any noticeable fatigue.

Meanwhile, the trackpad is adequately sized and supports Windows gestures, though the clicking mechanism feels more responsive at the bottom than at the top or center. It’s functional but not exceptional.

Battery and Connectivity

Battery life consistently delivers 8-10 hours of real-world usage, which covers most full working days. The 45W USB-C charging is reasonably fast for the 57Wh battery and uses a compact adapter that’s easy to travel with.

Port selection covers essential connectivity needs with two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, HDMI, and a headphone jack. While not extensive, it handles most common peripherals and external displays without requiring additional adapters.

Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 provide reliable wireless connectivity, and the 720p webcam with LED lighting proves to be good enough for video calls.

Software and Features

The Infinix InBook Air runs on Windows 11 Home without significant bloatware. Infinix has added some system management tools and basic ecosystem integration features, though these feel somewhat basic compared to more established manufacturers.

When it comes to security, the facial recognition login works reliably and adds convenient security without complexity.

Verdict: A Lightweight Laptop for Everyday Tasks

At approximately KES 50,000-60,000 (depending on the configuration you get), the InBook Air is reasonably priced in the budget laptop segment.

It delivers core functionality in a portable package without major compromises in build quality or user experience.

Infinix has designed a laptop geared towards students, professionals with basic computing needs, and users who prioritize portability over raw performance. It doesn’t push boundaries or offer premium features, but it executes the basics competently.

For users seeking a reliable machine for standard laptop tasks without premium pricing, the Infinix InBook Air is a straightforward choice.