ASUS officially launched the VivoBook S14 and S16 (2026) laptops on January 7, 2026, at CES 2026. The refreshed lineup brings Intel Core Ultra Series 3, AMD Ryzen AI 400 Series, and Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite processors to a sleek, AI-ready design. All models feature Copilot+ PC capabilities, up to 50 TOPS NPU performance, OLED or high-refresh displays, and military-grade durability starting at just 1.35kg.
What’s New in the 2026 VivoBook S Series
ASUS introduced three processor configurations across the VivoBook S14 and S16 models. The Intel variants use Core Ultra 7 and Core Ultra 9 Series 3 chips with integrated Intel Arc graphics and 48–50 TOPS NPU. The Snapdragon X2 Elite option delivers up to 80 TOPS of AI performance in select 16-inch models. AMD Ryzen AI 400 Series processors round out the lineup for users prioritizing efficiency.
Display options include WUXGA (1920 x 1200) OLED panels or 2.5K (2560 x 1600) IPS 144Hz screens, both with 16:10 aspect ratios. ASUS integrated Dolby Atmos audio, AI-powered noise cancellation, and 3DNR video enhancement for conferencing. A 70Wh battery, comprehensive I/O ports, and a large smart-gesture touchpad support productivity workflows.
The chassis measures just 1.59cm thin and weighs 1.35kg for the 14-inch model. ASUS added CNC-engraved detailing, a metallic finish, and a new Mist Blue color for select 16-inch variants. All models meet MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability standards.
Why This Launch Matters
The 2026 VivoBook S series positions ASUS to compete directly in the sub-$1,000 Copilot+ PC segment. By offering Snapdragon X2 Elite in the VivoBook S16, ASUS created its most affordable entry point into 80 TOPS AI performance. This targets consumers who need on-device AI features for productivity apps, content creation, and enhanced web browsing without premium pricing.
Intel’s Core Ultra Series 3 and AMD’s Ryzen AI 400 processors give buyers flexibility between x86 compatibility and ARM efficiency. The 50 TOPS NPU across all models unlocks Windows Studio Effects, real-time video upscaling, and faster AI workloads. ASUS StoryCube, AI Camera, and voice print security features are included.
The global launch follows ASUS’s mid-2025 refresh in India, signaling consistent updates and regional availability. Pricing for previous-generation VivoBook S models in India ranged from ₹69,990 to ₹96,990, establishing a competitive baseline.
Processor and Display Options
| Feature | Intel Core Ultra Series 3 | AMD Ryzen AI 400 Series | Snapdragon X2 Elite |
|---|---|---|---|
| NPU Performance | 48–50 TOPS | Up to 50 TOPS | Up to 80 TOPS |
| Graphics | Intel Arc integrated | AMD integrated | Qualcomm Adreno |
| Display Options | OLED or 144Hz IPS | OLED or 144Hz IPS | OLED or FHD IPS |
| Battery | 70Wh | 70Wh | Not disclosed |
| Model Availability | S14, S16 | S14, S16 | S16 only |
The Snapdragon X2 Elite variant delivers the highest AI throughput but is limited to 16-inch models. Intel and AMD options support both screen sizes and offer broader software compatibility.
What’s Next
ASUS has not disclosed global pricing or exact availability dates for the 2026 VivoBook S14 and S16. Based on regional launch patterns, mid-range pricing between $700 and $1,200 is expected for North America and Europe. The company confirmed that previous-generation VivoBook models will remain available throughout 2026 as budget alternatives.
Buyers can expect additional configuration details, including RAM (up to 32GB), storage (up to 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD), and port specifications, in the coming weeks. ASUS will likely reveal color availability, regional SKU differences, and retailer partnerships ahead of the broader market rollout.
The Snapdragon X2 Elite pricing will be particularly important. Qualcomm designed the chip to bring AI PCs under $1,000, but ASUS’s exact positioning remains unclear. Intel and AMD variants may launch first in established markets before Snapdragon models expand availability.
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What processors power the 2026 ASUS VivoBook S14 and S16?
The VivoBook S14 and S16 (2026) offer Intel Core Ultra Series 3, AMD Ryzen AI 400 Series, and Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite processors. All configurations include NPU performance between 48 and 80 TOPS for AI workloads.
Do the new VivoBook models support Copilot+ PC features?
Yes, all 2026 VivoBook S14 and S16 models are Copilot+ PCs with Windows Studio Effects, AI noise cancelation, and real-time video enhancement. The Snapdragon X2 Elite variant delivers the highest AI performance at 80 TOPS.
What display options are available on the VivoBook S14 and S16?
Buyers can choose between WUXGA (1920 x 1200) OLED panels or 2.5K (2560 x 1600) IPS 144Hz displays. All screens use a 16:10 aspect ratio with Dolby Atmos audio.
When will the 2026 VivoBook S series be available for purchase?
ASUS announced the VivoBook S14 and S16 on January 7, 2026, but has not confirmed global pricing or specific release dates. Previous-generation models remain available throughout 2026.
