When compared to the older 2019 design, the 2021 model has narrower top and bottom bezels for a smaller footprint while using the same metal and plastic materials. The speaker grilles along the top of the keyboard are now gone for a more simplistic appearance. It’s a basic matte impression with none of the flashy chrome-cut trims or sharp MacBook-like edges of the Spectre or Envy, respectively. Whether it looks any better than a competing Asus VivoBook or Lenovo IdeaPad is up to user preference.

Chassis rigidity is weak around the lid and front corners of the base where the system is most susceptible to twisting. It’s only a bit better than the aforementioned VivoBook or IdeaPad but not enough to really make a difference in the long term.