Hands-On First Look: 2024 Acer Swift Go AI PC

Colburn_Ngai · January 8

Recently unveiled in Las Vegas, the Swift Go AI PC returns in 2024. This time in 14-inch and 16-inch versions, featuring a sleek and newly refreshed all-metal design. Equipped with Intel’s Core Ultra 9 processor, the laptop projects to perform exceptionally well in the realm of AI-assisted workflows and creation, elevating the Swift Go series of laptops to new heights. So without further ado, let’s have a look at its key specifications:

Processor: Up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor with AI Boost and built-in Arc graphics
Display:
- Swift Go 14: 14” 2.8K 90Hz OLED display
- Swift Go 16: 16” 3.2K 120Hz OLED display
RAM: Up to 32 GB LPDDR5X RAM
Storage: Up to 2 TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD
Weight:
- Swift Go 14: 1.3kg (2.87 pounds)
- Swift Go 16: 1.6kg (3.53 pounds)
Dimensions:
- Swift Go 14: 312.9 x 217.9 x 14.9 mm (12.32 x 8.58 x 0.59 inches)
- Swift Go 16: 356 x 244.45 x 14.9 mm (14.02 x 9.62 x 0.59 inches)
Ports: Two USB Type-C (Thunderbolt 4 / USB 4), two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, HDMI 2.1, MicroSD slot, Bluetooth 5.3 with LE audio, headphone jack
Webcam: 1440p QHD webcam
Wireless: Wi-Fi 7

AI-Boosted Performance with the Intel Core Ultra 9

At the heart of Swift Go AI PC is the newly named Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, Intel’s top-of-the-line mobile chip, which marks a significant milestone in the company’s extensive history. The name itself alludes to Core Ultra’s revamped architecture compared to its predecessor, offering better power efficiency, enhanced graphical performance, and—perhaps most importantly for an AI PC—a significant improvement in AI processing capabilities. That’s because Intel Core Ultra’s NPU (Neural Processing Unit) or AI Boost, outperforms what the CPU can handle in both speed and power efficiency when running apps like Stable Diffusion locally. This translates to optimized performance not only for apps like Stable Diffusion, but for other apps like Audacity, Microsoft Teams, and Copilot as well. With hundreds of apps in Intel's AI ecosystem optimized for AI Boost, Swift Go offers exceptional AI performance in a laptop—a game-changer for AI on the go.

Immersive OLED

The OLED displays on both Swift Go models offer a nice visual feast for the eyes, with deep blacks and vivid HDR. At 16:10, the aspect ratio provides additional viewing space that proves handy during extended scrolling sessions. The Swift Go 14 has a 90Hz refresh rate, while its counterpart, the Swift Go 16, elevates the experience with a faster 120Hz refresh rate. Both models are responsive and fluid, even during light gaming sessions—also due in part to the fact it has built-in Intel Arc graphics—and there are also 14 and 16-inch touchscreen versions for those who appreciate more tactile finesse.

A Newly Refined Design

Speaking of tactile finesse, the Swift Go 16 has a spacious touchpad that happens to be made of recycled ocean plastic, which is a nice eco-friendly touch. Acer has dedicated significant attention to enhancing the computing experience on Swift Go, and it’s evident in this year’s design. One notable addition is a subtle 'notch' that protrudes over the top of the device near the webcam. This not only adds a bit of aesthetic definition to the device, but also serves a practical function—assisting in the oh-so-satisfying one-handed opening experience—and bringing a touch of gratification each time it gets opened. Additionally, the device can be extended up to 180 degrees, providing greater flexibility for collaborative settings. The Swift Go 14 also features a multi-control touchpad—simply swipe the glowing ‘Swift’ to activate and seamlessly navigate through your music, YouTube, or Netflix content.

The Best of the Rest

Rounding out the rest of the features on the Swift Go AI PC is the AcerSense key, which launches a nice little control hub where you can check system performance, manage power modes, and even access the AI Zone, where you can access all the devices AI solutions such as Acer PurifiedView, which features background blur, auto-framing and noise suppression on the 1440p QHD webcam. That's not to mention all the essential ports and connectivity, including Thunderbolt 4 and even a microSD slot.

Conclusion

The 2024 Acer Swift Go AI PC emerges as a testament to Acer's commitment to innovation and user-centric design. With a powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 processor driving its AI-assisted capabilities, this laptop opens new horizons for on-the-go AI productivity, while the immersive OLED display and thoughtful design enhancements contribute to a computing experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Whether you're seeking seamless AI workflows or just want a thin and light device without compromising performance, the Acer Swift Go AI PC is poised to be your indispensable companion, wherever your technological endeavors take you.

Unlock AI on the go with the 2024 Swift Go AI PC available in February at the Acer Store or authorized retailers.