Ready to ditch the lag and immerse yourself in stunning visuals? A gaming laptop unlocks a world of high-powered graphics, seamless performance, and portable gaming freedom. But with countless options on the market, choosing the right one can be daunting. Fear not! Look no further than Razer Blade gaming laptops. But which one to choose from?  This Razer Blade buyer’s guide will equip you with the knowledge to help you find the perfect gaming laptop that will meet your gaming needs, and also your budget.

First Things First

Before diving in, you need to identify what your gaming habits are and what your budget is. Are you a casual gamer seeking smooth performance for popular AAA titles, or are you a hardcore/pro gamer looking for a gaming laptop with the latest specs, do play demanding AAA titles at max settings?

Casual players can be comfortable with gaming laptops with low to mid-range specs. They’re usually less expensive and fall under the budget gaming laptop category. But they come with components or specs that meet the minimum requirements of AAA titles, but offer a good gaming experience. 

Hardcore or pro gamers look for high-end components or specs, to optimize the overall gaming experience, and to meet the maximum requirements of AAA titles. They are usually more expensive, more stylish, and fall under the top-range category. 

Check the minimum and maximum requirements of these video games, and match them to your existing gaming laptop’s specs. Do the specs meet. If yes, get the game. If not, that means getting a new gaming laptop, because sadly, you cannot fully upgrade a gaming laptop.

This is why budgeting is important. So be realistic about how much you’re willing to spend. Overall, get a gaming laptop that will meet your needs, and your budget. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro gamer, it all depends on what you want, and what you can afford.    

Peak Performance

The brains of the operation. The fast processing performer. There’s two familiar and powerful processors or CPU brands that come to mind: Intel® Core™ or the AMD Ryzen™. For casual gaming, Intel® Core™ i5 or AMD Ryzen™ 5 processors suffice.

But for hardcore/pro gamers the aim is to get the highest specced gaming laptop possible, so Intel® Core™ i7/i9 or AMD Ryzen™ 7 or 9 processors will suffice for demanding titles. But you need to note this: the better the specs of the gaming laptop, the better the overall performance, the more expensive the gaming laptop becomes.

Another thing to at, thanks to the Razer Blade buyer’s guide is the overall memory or RAM (Random Access Memory). This also affects the overall smoothness and the performance of your gaming laptop. 8GB is the minimum for casual gaming, but 16GB of more ensures smoother multitasking, smoother gaming, and futureproofing your investment.

Hardcore gamers might need 32GB for intense titles. In end, both the processor and the RAM in a gaming laptop, play a critical role in your gaming experience. Again, look at your budget and see which one you can work with. 

Game On

The muscle for rendering visuals. A graphics card or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), is needed to either play AAA games or for 3D modeling and rendering. You have a choice of either a GPU from NVIDIA or one from AMD Radeon.

They come in a series starting with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 20, 30 or 40 series, that caters for casual and hardcore gamers, respectively. Gaming laptops with NVIDIA GPUs usually cost more. 

The next is AMD Radeon RX series GPUs. They usually start from AMD Radeon RX 6000 series upwards and they offer competitive options. Laptops with these GPUs are usually cheaper. 

Overall, your gaming laptop needs a graphics card or GPU. The Razer blade gaming laptop series do have one of these GPUs, but you must choose which gaming laptop and what specs it comes with. Either you take the NVIDIA GPU of an AMD Radeon RX GPU. That’s up to you. 

IPS, FHD or 4K

Next on the Razer Blade buyers guide is the display that comes with the gaming laptop. They come in all various sizes and weight. Smaller screen sizes are usually lightweight and very portable, whereas the bigger size screens are heavier. Just keep that in mind.

Look for a refresh rate of at least 120Hz for smooth visuals, and prioritize IPS, Full HD, QHD or OLED panels for vibrant colors and wide viewing angles. Anything lower than that you’ll have choppy visuals which also slows your gaming laptop. They higher numbers, such as 144Hz up to 240Hz differ in price, but the aim is maximize on the smoothness and the overall screen visuals.

Resolution depends on the preference and GPU power: 1080p or Full HD for most laptops, 1440p for high-end options, and 4K for extreme immersion, yet it requires a powerful GPU. 

Overall, look out for the refresh rate of the gaming laptop. Whether its IPS or OLED, you need a screen with a good refresh rate. If its an 120Hz or higher, your good to go.    

SSD or HDD Storage

There was the traditional hard drives (HDD), now there’s Solid-State Drives (SSD). HDD drives offer storage as large as up to 2 or 4TBs, but loading of apps are slower. Whereas SSDs are faster as they help to reduce the load times of software or apps, and whatever OS (Operating System) is installed in, such as Windows.     

Choose between HDDs for large capacity and budget-friendliness, or solid-state drives (SSDs) for lightning-fast loading times and a premium experience. Some gaming laptops even have both – A hybrid option with both is ideal. But ideally, an SSD hard drive is a must, and most gaming laptops include it as default.

Look for a gaming laptop that includes an SSD. If you see one with both, it’s a good option, but it’s a good idea to get a gaming laptop that loads apps and other software faster.  

Others Things to Note

Some more options to look into:

• Keyboard: If a normal keyboard works then stick to it. To get a better experience get a gamepad instead, or you can opt for a mechanical keyboard for better responsiveness and a satisfying typing experience. This is entirely optional.
• Cooling: Efficient cooling ensures optimal performance and prevents overheating. Gaming laptops tend to heat up. You’ll know when the cooling fans start to work by the sound it makes. 
• Battery Life: Expect shorter battery life during heavy gaming, but prioritize good on-the-go performance if portability is crucial. Always have a charger for gaming on the go.
• Brand & Build Quality: Consider brand reputation, warranty options, and overall build quality for durability and aesthetics.
• Research and compare: Explore online reviews, benchmark tests, and user feedback for specific models. Again, check and research the specs of your a potential new gaming laptop. 
• Don’t just chase specs: Consider your real-world needs and prioritize components that matter most to your gaming style.
• Stay within your budget: Don’t overspend to chase the latest and greatest unless you truly need the extra power. There’s always a gaming laptop that will meet your budget.
• Consider refurbished options: Save money on high-quality laptops with warranties and peace of mind. It’s a good idea especially for first-time gamers.

Choose your Blade

Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s continue with the Razer Blade buyer’s guide by introducing to you five Razer Blade gaming laptops that may suit you.  

Razer Blade 14

4.5 out of 5

Specs

The Razer Blade 14 is a good gaming laptop with a powerful processor that has the potential to be a great hit with casual gamers.

There’s a number of potential benefits that the Blade 14 offers. First off, despite the fact that it weighs over half a pound, it is three tenths of an inch thinner. It lightweight and easy to carry around.

Next, it’s performance is impressive with high scores in benchmarks, and offers great frame rates at high graphic settings.

And lastly, it’s the impressive dual audio speakers setup placed on each side of the keyboard. They offer good quality sound that puts your in the midst of a gaming session. 

However, the Blade 14 is not exactly affordable, and the battery life is short too. Just keep a charger ready when you gaming on the go. 

Overall, if you want a cheaper Razer gaming laptop, the Blade 14 is the way to go. Perfect for casual gamers that want that extra gaming experience, or the hardcore gamers who are looking for a less expensive option.   

Razer Blade 15

4.5 out of 5

Specs

Next on our Razer Blade buyers guide is the Razer Blade 15. It has a larger display. It’s an impressive gaming laptop with a powerful processor, offers a great gaming performance, and incudes a good design. .

There’s a number of benefits that the Blade 15 offers. First off, it comes with latest hardware tech from the fastest processor to the best overall graphics card that will make you go wow every time you use it. 

Next, it comes with a larger screen than the Blade 14, that offers more good visuals and color. And the overall performance also breaks benchmarks scores. 

However, the Razer Blade 15 is quite expensive. The battery life is pretty short too. Just keep a charger on hand if  you going to game on the go. 

In the end, the Blade 15 is another good choice. Overall, great performance but expensive to buy. Another good choice for pro gamers, or casual gamers with deep enough pockets. 

Razer Blade 16

4.5 out of 5

Specs

Here is the Blade 16. Another top notch gaming laptop with a larger screen.  

If you can afford to have a satisfying gaming session, then get the Razer Blade 16. The performance is impressive, with a gorgeous display that includes a high refresh rate for smooth gaming, and looks awesome as well.

Perfect for hardcore/pro gamers.

But with a high price tag, size, and attracts fingerprints, this one may not be for you. But for those who can handle it, get yourself the Razer Blade 16 gaming laptop. 

Razer Blade 17

4.5 out of 5

Specs

Pro gamers. Listen up. If you want to buy this Razer Blade gaming laptop, get ready to dig deep into your pockets. This one is not cheap. Yet it’s worth the buy.

The overall performance is worth the price. The design is awesome. The display is equally impressive, and is more silent than other Blades. 

If long battery life is what you looking for, then look elsewhere. This one has a short battery life so keep a charger in hand when gaming on the go.  

Razer Blade 18

4.0 out of 5

Specs

The Blade 18 is really one of your only alternatives if you want an 18-inch gaming laptop without having to deal with distracting LEDs. Perfect for hardcore gamers. 

It’s a respectable choice, so don’t spend more money on it than necessary. I’ve been considering the value of an extra frame a lot lately as these gaming laptops’ costs are through the roof.

The huge display, impressive performance, and its good selection of input ports, makes this gaming laptop a great buy.

However, the very high price tag and short battery life will make others rethink buying, but if you can get the Blade 18, you’ll experience the best gaming ever thanks to the high specs.

In the End

Razer gaming laptops are one of the best gaming laptops to get. They have the performance, the style, awesome display, and sound quality. It’s the perfect gaming laptop that fits your needs and budget.

But you need to keep it plugged in, especially for those long gaming sessions. The battery life is short on all models and comes with a high price tag.

So choose your Blade wisely, and enjoy the adventure. By understanding the key components, prioritizing your preferences, and conducting thorough research, you’ll be equipped to conquer any digital battlefield in style! 

Thanks for checking out my Razer Blade Buyer’s guide. If you have any comments, opinions, please leave them here below. Let’s talk about it.

If a Razer Blade is not ideal for you, then click on this link now to find other great gaming laptops for you. See you next time. 

HP Omen 16

The HP Omen 16 gaming laptop has a fantastic display and excellent performance in a stylish gaming laptop with a long battery life.

SPECS

HP Omen 16 Gaming Laptop – Overview

In the market for a reliable gaming laptop at a fair price? Your best option could be the HP Omen 16 gaming laptop. With its Ryzen 9 7940HS and RTX 4070 components, the Omen 16 delivers a potent combination. Complete the package with a respectable 16.1-inch display and long-lasting battery. What then is the catch? Although it has a poor keyboard and can become a little warm, its biggest flaw is that it doesn’t really shine in any one area. It isn’t a star, but it is okay overall.

Over the years, Omen laptops have seen several redesigns. In 2023, HP decided for a very understated style. Choosing to move away from the busier or more gaudy styles of the previous ten years, it’s a contemporary and appropriate option for the laptop market today.

The HP Omen 16 gaming laptop of today is a sleek slab with a hint of metallic sheen. Although the official color is Mica Silver, which is a dark gray, it is also available in black and white, both of which have a sleek appearance. The logo, which has a straightforward reflecting diamond above the Omen name and an overall rather clean design, is even more appealing than previous iterations.

Though it doesn’t have an overly large footprint, the Omen 16 is still far from the lightest gaming laptop available at 16 inches. The Omen 16 weighs 5.3 pounds (2,4 kg). The laptop feels heavier, maybe due to its density, but the entire set is somewhat portable when required. 

There’s no shortage of space for productivity and gaming with the 16-inch display. Especially in midrange to high-end gaming laptops, it’s been popular over the past year and offers a pleasant halfway ground between 15.6- and 17.3-inch computers. For people who like to shift their gaming laptops sometimes, the Omen’s medium weight and thin design make it a good option.

The display specs are really simple. It combines a 144Hz refresh rate with full HD (1,920 by 1,080-pixel) resolution, which is virtually the standard for contemporary gaming systems. This is a significant improvement over the typical 60Hz refresh rate of consumer laptops, and playing games at high frame rates is easier with the 1080p resolution.

At this price, it’s understandable to be dissatisfied that the screen only goes as far as full HD, or at the very least, that the refresh rate maximum isn’t greater. Other Omen 16 variants with a refresh rate of 165 Hz or 1440p are available from HP.

Nevertheless, 1080p gaming works well at 144Hz, which puts the pricing closer to the center of the market than the upper end. Although nothing special, the display quality is adequate in terms of sharpness, brightness, and color.

The remainder of the structure is typical. While there’s nothing really wrong with the keyboard, it’s also not very gratifying. The keys aren’t precisely mushy, but they also don’t provide much feedback. The touchpad, however, is spacious but has a shoddy feel about it. These comparatively little components, which make more sense in the base model than in more expensive variants, presumably aid in lowering the price.

Connectivity is one area where the Omen 16 shines. There are a few ports on each flank, and a few more around the back.

A USB Type-A (5Gbps) port, an Ethernet port, and a headphone jack are located on the left side, while two more 5Gbps USB-A ports are located on the right. The power connector, two 10Gbps USB Type-C ports with power supply, and an HDMI monitor port are located on the back.

Overall, the HP Omen 16 gaming laptop comes with midrange specs that is reflected according to the price. Let’s see in more detail what this midrange gaming laptop is all about.   

Design

Once more, the Omen 16 has a sophisticated appearance thanks to its velvety black finish and glossy black Omen logo. The inside is simple black, with a keyboard typeface and 16 logo that seem a touch too gamey. Although the display’s bezels are rather narrow, there is still space at the top for a camera and privacy shutter.

The HP Omen 16 measures 14.5 x 10.2 x 0.9 inches and weighs 5.4 pounds. Like its twin, the keys aren’t clicky; rather, they seem a little spongy and tiny, although they are sufficiently spaced. Although the absence of texture on the keys initially confused me, it wasn’t that horrible after I got used to it.

The keys could need more feedback, though. The WASD keys are located in one of the four key illumination zones on the Omen 16. The Light Studio is located in the Omen Game Hub, but you’ll need to install it because it’s not already there. You may then alter your lighting profile from there.

The HP Omen 16 has ports all over it. Two Thunderbolt 4 connectors and a headphone jack are located on the device’s left side, while one USB Type-A port is located on its right side. The power jack, an Ethernet connector, an HDMI port, and one USB Type-A port are all located on the rear of the Omen. If theses are not enough, you can always get a USB Hub. 

Bottomline. The HP Omen 16 gaming laptop comes with a stylish design. It’s not that heavy, has a sufficient number of input ports, and comes with a backlit keyboard that may take awhile to get used to. 

Display

You have enough of workspace for gaming and working on the 16.1-inch display. It’s a popular size that falls between 15.6- and 17.3-inch computers, and it’s notably common in mid-range to high-end gaming laptops.

The Omen 16 is a good compromise for individuals who wish to move their gaming laptops at least sometimes given its thin design and middleweight weight.

The Omen 16’s display features full HD (1,920 by 1,080-pixel) resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate, which is virtually the standard for contemporary gaming systems. The latter is a notable improvement above the typical 60Hz refresh rate of consumer laptops, and the 1080p resolution is easier to run games at high frame rates.

At this price, it’s reasonable to be dissatisfied that the screen’s resolution is limited to full HD, or at the very least, that the refresh rate maximum isn’t greater. Other Omen 16 models with 1440p resolution are available from HP.

The pricing is kept in the center rather than at the top end of the market since 165Hz is still a good match for 1080p gaming. Although the display quality isn’t exceptional, it is sufficient in terms of sharpness, brightness, and color.

Overall, the display of the HP Omen 16 gaming laptop does the job well but it would be better. It’s detailed, produces great colors and good brightness, and gaming looks and feels awesome, but 1080p feels standard, and this is not a cheap gaming laptop.    

Performance

With its powerful AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, the Omen 16 is powered by a unique combination that is hard to find in other modern devices.

Even while the comparatively meager 16 GB of RAM and the rather modest 512-GB SSD support these components, you may at least more easily update those parts if you want additional memory.

Performance is just amazing. I tested the Omen 16 against almost every benchmark, and it handily outperformed the competition in every one of them, with the only close call being a narrowly missed score on the VRMark Orange Room test, where it just missed the high standard established by other laptops such as the HP Envy 16. 

The system performed 2 to 30% better on everything else, and it even surprised me by demonstrating battery life of almost 8 hours while testing full-screen YouTube playing. That’s a huge boost because while testing gaming rigs in the last few years, including earlier Omen models, I was fortunate enough to get two hours of runtime.

Overall, the performance of the HP Omen 16 gaming laptop is impressive. For daily use its works very well, for gaming it also performs well but with a short battery capacity. It’s best that it’s plugged in for longer gaming sessions.   

Battery Life

Thanks to its 83Wh battery, the HP Omen 16 has good battery life. In this category, the majority of gaming laptops are powered by 70–80 watts, which gives the Omen the advantage. Exact run times will be greatly influenced by workload and screen brightness.

All of our measurements were made with the brightness at 50%. On medium settings, we were able to attain 10.75 hours of idle runtime, 6 hours of movie playback, and 78 minutes of gaming. Very good figures for a gaming laptop.

Other Features

It’s not terrible, which is impressive for a little 1080p laptop webcam. The test photo from the Omen 16 did a really good job of capturing the hues in my face and clothing, emphasizing my pinkish skin tone and blue shirt.

However, the open window and the weak contrast caused my whole background to be blown out. The image was clear enough to show each of my head’s individual curls.

The HP Omen 16 had strong audio when using a pair of Bang & Olufsen speakers, however occasionally the crucial noises were missed. I turned up Kami Kehoe’s “SLEEP WHEN IM DEAD,” and the song’s opening vocals exploded through the speakers with a powerful punch.

The drums were heavy and the electric guitar was bright, but every now and then the two would blend together in the tune. The voices, however, were clear and prominent throughout.

The conversation and oncoming cars were audibly loud and clear in Cyberpunk 2077. However, occasionally the background music would drown out the conversation, so you would need to change the settings and experiment with sound mixing.

It didn’t sound as thick and weighty as I would have liked it to when I fired my shotgun at the attackers above. Instead, the sound was metallic yet hollow.

It may get hot so be careful where you put it. After playing for 15 minutes, the bottom reached 114 degrees Fahrenheit. The center of the touchpad and keyboard were each at an angle of 75 degrees.

The frightening statistic, however, is the far-rear underside, which measures 133 degrees. When not used for gaming, we have observed the bottom to be 95 degrees, the keyboard to be 89 degrees, and the touchpad to be 80 degrees.

Verdict

The HP Omen 16 gaming laptop isn’t the best gaming laptop in the market right now. However, rather focusing on its drawbacks such as the mediocre keyboard and its tendency to overheat in less than ideal locations, the HP Omen 16 is a good gaming laptop overall and well worth the money it currently costs.

If you like the review of the HP Omen 16 gaming laptop, please leave a comment below. If you have any questions to ask, you’re more than welcome to leave one below and I’ll get back to you soonest. It helps with exposure online and motivates us to create more interesting content such as this one in the future.  

After all that, if you’re looking for a decent gaming laptop at a mid-range price than look no further than the HP Omen 16 gaming laptop. Click here to fin out more and to purchase if you desire so. 

ASUS ROG Ally Gaming Handheld

The Asus ROG Ally gaming handheld console is an amazing mobile device. Although it presents a short battery life, a lack of touchpads, and a difficult user interface, it excels in stunning visuals, great design and great gaming performance.  

Specs

Overview

The Asus ROG Ally gaming handheld is the upcoming competitor in the field of portable PC gaming. With its stunning 1080p screen, 120Hz refresh rate, AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Zen 4 processor, and its fair price, this new handheld is sure to catch the attention of anybody searching for a genuine Steam Deck rival.

The Z1 Extreme-powered ROG Ally costs between US$800 and US$1000, which is more than the Valve’s Steam Deck gaming handheld. Yet it comes with a ton of technological upgrades compared to Valve’s practical gadget. For better or worse, it is also not constrained by Steam Deck’s operating system which is Linux-based, called SteamOS.

The ROG Ally could be what you’re seeking for if you’ve always wanted a Windows-based portable PC. It really pushes the envelope in terms of functionality, not overly priced, and plays almost all PC games, even Xbox Game Pass games natively on the go.

Design & other Features

When it comes to gaming on the move, the design strategy of the Asus ROG Ally continues to adhere to the majority of industry norms. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel when it comes to managing your video games on a portable device with its central 7-inch screen and side-form controls, which are also found on the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, Ayaneo 2, and other devices.

The face buttons on the Ally handheld have a typical ABXY configuration that is quick and responsive. This is in addition to ‘View’ and ‘Menu’ buttons that resemble those on the Xbox controller.

There are also dedicated buttons geared to launch ROG Armory Crate or a specification configuration menu where you can change performance modes, change the resolution from 1080p to 720p, cap the frame rate, or even change controller settings for the game you’re playing. I thought the circular cross layout of the D-pad to be more practical than individual buttons, but it also gave the otherwise premium-looking gadget a cheap aspect.

Although comparisons between the ROG Ally and Steam Deck are unavoidable, I don’t want to focus this entire review on them, but the Steam Deck’s pressure-sensitive touchpads are something that the Ally lacks.

Many gamers won’t find this to be a significant concern, but it’s still a noticeable missing that may limit your ability to pick the type of game you want to play when you’re on the road. Lacking touchpads here is unquestionably a check in the Steam Deck’s column because they make operating mouse-based games on the Deck much easier, especially when paired with the multitude of community control profiles available.

When you’re not playing games, the joysticks function as a mouse cursor. If you need a little bit more precision, they can support touch controls. Although it doesn’t feel great, this is still extremely good.

Overall, if you want to use it as a regular computer at any time, I advise connecting a wireless keyboard and mouse. You can instantly reach the Windows toolbar on this screen by swiping up at any time, which is quite helpful for constantly navigating the device.

The ROG Ally boasts an exceptionally slim and light design, measuring 280 x 113 x 39 mm and weighing only 608g. While it may not feel completely secure in both of your hands, its slanted sides and slimmer design do help to make it comfy for longer gaming sessions.

In contrast to the Ayaneo 2, another portable rival, the ROG Ally has bezels on every side of its screen. When you initially use it, it might make the playing area seem a little constrained, but as the screen starts up and you become engrossed in its stunning sights, everything is quickly forgotten.

Display

The Ally’s 7-inch LCD touchscreen, which has a resolution of 1920 x 1080 and a brightness of 500 nits, is highly colorful and performs astonishingly well outside or in bright sunlight. Although the screen performs quite well for individuals who prefer to travel on some of the sunnier days of the year, details can occasionally seem washed out.

Many devices find it challenging to handle Full HD+ quality, but the new AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU performs an excellent job of dividing its responsibilities between CPU and graphics.

User experience

The operating system is one of the main distinctions between the Steam Deck and the ROG Ally. The Ally uses standard Windows 11, as opposed to the Steam Deck, which runs SteamOS. This is both its strongest point and biggest flaw.

The Steam Deck is confined to Steam games exclusively, whereas the ROG Ally supports any PC game without any problems. You are therefore free to purchase your games from other online retailers, including Epic, GOG, and Xbox Game Pass.

Asus included an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 3-month trial. It’s wonderful to have Game Pass access right out of the box on a gadget like this, and it’s by far my favorite aspect of the portable. You don’t even need a sizable library to get started with instant access to hundreds of titles.

Running Windows, however, has the drawback of preventing the ROG Ally from taking advantage of all the software-based adjustments Valve has made to the Steam Deck. The lack of true hardware/software synergy is still noticeable even if there are certain levels of software tinkering available here. You can change power settings, resolution, and set a framerate cap, for instance, using Armoury Crate.

The ROG Ally’s user interface might be a little intimidating at first. I have to admit, my initial thoughts weren’t exactly positive. I had a few crashes in the first few hours using the handheld. There were a few more times when I felt like a short reset was necessary to get back on course.

Many of the issues were caused by the ROG Armory Crate, which felt awkward. It sometimes stayed on my screen for 10 to 20 seconds after a game launched. As a result, I ended up being disappointed with the mobile device. 

Using Steam in the ROG Ally seemed slow, as opposed to using it in the Steam Deck. The Xbox PC launcher is still infamously glitchy, just like on the desktop. The Ally’s inability to pause and restart a game with the press of a button, like the Steam Deck and the Switch, is its major drawback.

This implies that if you wish to stop playing for a longer period of time than a brief break, you must save your game, exit the application, and restart it from scratch. Of course, things work on a desktop in this manner by default.

However, I had a lot of fun once I got past all the riff-raff and started gaming. It was quite pleasant to not need to pull out an online manual and jump through a number of workaround hoops in order to start gaming on the go after switching between all the different launchers, including Epic, GOG, Steam, and Xbox. It is a sight to behold and is definitely worth the cost of admission over the Steam Deck when everything is operating as intended.

Gaming performance

The AMD Z1 Extreme mobile CPU, which is noticeably more powerful than the Steam Deck’s, the AMD Ryzen 7 6800U, is used for the first time in a portable gaming PC with the ROG Ally. When plugged in, the Z1 Extreme’s 8-core Zen 4 CPU and RDNA 3-powered graphics may be turned up to a maximum of 30W. In contrast, the Steam Deck’s 4-core proprietary Zen 2 APU has a maximum power limit of 15W whether it is powered by a cord or a battery.

Although it can also operate at 720p (and there is a convenient toggle that enables you simply switch between the two resolutions), the ROG Ally aims a higher resolution than the Steam Deck – 1080p as compared to 800p.

After benchmark performance testing, the best graphic settings to optimize overall gameplay is to play PC games at ‘medium’ to ‘low’ with the ROG Ally. This is the same for the Steam Deck. The biggest distinction is that, with the appropriate adjustments, you’ll be able to play on the ROG Ally at ‘High’ or even ‘Ultra’ settings, maybe even exceeding 60 frames per second.

Battery life

When it comes to the battery life, the ROG Ally is not its strongest feature. Similar to the Steam Deck, Asus claims a maximum battery life of 8 hours. This is likely to be achieved with the lowest graphics settings, 720p, silent mode, low interior lighting, and a classic side scroller. 

You will only be able to play graphics demanding games for a total of no more than two hours. After testing it with a few PC games in performance mode at 1080p with low-medium settings, the maximum playtime was approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Price

The entry model Asus ROG Ally, powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, retails between US$800 and US$900. Even while the ROG Ally is primarily a mobile gaming device, it’s important to keep in mind that it functions as a small Windows PC. With those specifications in place it justifies the high price.

In terms of overall affordability for portable PC handheld in 2023, the Asus ROG Ally gaming device often falls in the center. With the Ayaneo 2 costing between $1099 and $1499, and the Steam Deck costing less than US$600, it’s not the most lavishing price we’ve heard, yet it really seems very reasonable for what you’re receiving.

Verdict

The Asus ROG Ally gaming PC is an amazing mobile gaming device. You can take it and play it anywhere you want, and experience the best of what mobile gaming has to offer. Yes, it has a short battery life, a clumsy user interface and lacks the touchpads for precision gaming. But it makes up for it in providing amazing graphics, smooth gaming, and a stunning display.

The portable Xbox Game Pass device that many fans have been begging for really feels like the Asus ROG Ally gaming handheld is the better choice. Steam Deck may have a few good perks, but it’s impossible to deny how much fun the ROG Ally handheld is to use when it gets going. It turns out that the ROG Ally is indeed very much a rival to the Steam Deck gaming handheld.

If you have any comments, or questions, you’re more than welcome to leave them here below. It’s truly encouraging, and motivates us to keep creating better content. So what next? Is the Asus ROG Ally gaming PC your choice of a mobile gaming device? Then click here to find out more, and also purchase it, if you so desire.  

The Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 (2023) features the best performing components to optimize your gaming experience. 

SPECS

Overview

The specs of the 2023 ROG Strix Scar 17 make it obvious that it’s all about performance. It not only features Nvidia’s top-tier laptop graphics card, but it also has AMD’s most recent mobile processor, so it’s ready to munch its way through all of the current titles at high settings.

That means it’s a big PC with considerable cooling technology to keep temperatures under control, and it’s also incredibly expensive. However, it is not excessive for the quality on offer, and if you’re looking for desktop-level performance in something more portable, this may be a great alternative. After a few weeks of testing this incredible gaming laptop, here are my impressions.

Performance

Under the hood, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 (2023) packs a punch. Powered by the latest generation CPU from AMD, and the latest GPU from Nvidia, it delivers blazing-fast performance that can handle even the most demanding games and apps with ease. Say goodbye to lag and hello to smooth gameplay and lightning-quick multitasking. 

When it comes to memory and storage, the gaming laptop doesn’t disappoint. With ample RAM and vast storage available, you can have all your games, files, and programs at your fingertips. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a content creator, this laptop has the storage capacity to meet your needs.

In benchmark tests, the Strix Scar 17 consistently shines. It surpasses expectations, delivering exceptional performance and impressive frame rates. The laptop’s hardware configuration and optimization make it a force to be reckoned with in the gaming world, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience.

When it comes to gaming, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 truly shines. With its powerful hardware configuration, including the latest processor and graphics card, you can expect smooth gameplay and high frame rates. Whether you’re playing the latest AAA titles or engaging in competitive esports, this laptop can handle it all with ease.

Optimizing graphics settings can sometimes be a cumbersome task, but not with the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17. The laptop comes with software that automatically optimizes game settings, ensuring you get the best balance between performance and visuals. This takes the guesswork out of tweaking individual settings and allows you to focus on enjoying your gaming experience.

For gamers who crave realistic lighting and visuals, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 has got you covered. The laptop supports ray tracing technology, which adds a new level of immersion to supported games by simulating the behavior of light. Additionally, it also supports DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) technology, which enhances performance and image quality by using AI algorithms. These features combine to deliver stunning visuals that bring games to life.

Display

The display on the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 (2023) is a visual treat. With its high-resolution panel, colors pop and details come to life, offering an immersive gaming experience. The vibrant and crisp visuals make every game, movie, or whatever you viewing an absolute delight to behold.

Color accuracy and brightness are critical factors when it comes to gaming and content creation. The Strix Scar 17 excels in both areas, delivering accurate colors and great brightness levels. This ensures that you see every shade and hue as intended, enhancing your gaming and visual experience.

To further enhance the visual experience, it comes equipped with a high refresh rate and adaptive sync technology. This combination results in ultra-smooth gameplay, minimizing screen tearing and stuttering. Whether you’re engaging in fast-paced action or exploring breathtaking open worlds, the display keeps up with your every move.

Design

In terms of aesthetics, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 (2023) strikes the perfect balance between bold and sleek. Its angular design and matte black finish give it a stealthy appearance that screams gaming prowess. The slim bezels surrounding the display further enhance the overall look and provide an immersive viewing experience.

Constructed with precision and durability in mind, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 (2023) boasts a robust build quality. The laptop feels solid and well-built, with no flex or creaking even under pressure. The use of premium materials adds to its overall sturdiness, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of gaming on-the-go.

There are some sci-fi-inspired highlights here and there, but for the most part, it’s a really basic approach. And the laptop wouldn’t appear out of place in a professional environment. As long as you switch off the RGB lighting. Because when you turn on the computer, you will be welcomed with a rainbow of colors all over the keyboard and around the underside of the laptop.

The huge ROG logo lights with a white outline on the back, which is a great touch that reminds me of previous MacBook models. Other than that, the RGB lighting looks absolutely excellent; it’s really bright, has rich colors, and has seamless transitions.

It, like most other ROG products, can be connected with various devices using Aura Sync, so your entire desk may light in harmony – or you can turn it off entirely.

As a gaming laptop, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 isn’t the most portable option out there. It’s a bit on the heavier side, which can make it less than ideal for frequent travel.

However, if you’re primarily looking for a powerful gaming machine that you can move around occasionally, the weight shouldn’t be a dealbreaker. The laptop’s solid build quality and powerful performance make up for its slightly bulkier form factor.

Keyboard & Touchpad

The keyboard on the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 is a pleasure to type on, with a well-spaced layout that makes it easy to find your way around. The keys have a satisfying amount of travel, striking a balance between responsiveness and tactile feedback.

Whether you’re typing up a document or engaging in an intense gaming session, the keyboard provides a comfortable and accurate typing experience.

If you’re a fan of flashy aesthetics, you’ll love the RGB lighting options on the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17. The keyboard features per-key customizable RGB lighting, allowing you to create your own unique lighting effects or choose from a range of pre-set options. The lighting is bright and vibrant, adding an extra touch of personality to your gaming setup.

While the focus of the Strix Scar 17 is undoubtedly gaming, the trackpad works on average but not impressive. For normal use it’s fine but it’s best you get a good gaming mouse for gaming sessions. 

Heat Control

No one wants their gaming laptop to overheat, and with the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17, you can rest easy. The laptop features a robust thermal design and an efficient cooling solution that keeps temperatures in check, even during demanding gaming sessions. This means you can play for hours without worrying about overheating issues affecting your performance.

While the cooling system does an excellent job at keeping temperatures under control, it’s not completely silent. During intense gaming, you can expect the fans to ramp up and generate some noise. However, it’s worth noting that the noise levels are still within acceptable limits and shouldn’t be overly distracting. Plus, when you’re immersed in the game, you’ll hardly notice the hum of the fans.

Battery life

Given the powerful hardware inside, it’s not surprising that the battery life on the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 is not its strongest aspect. While it can handle light usage and productivity tasks, the battery drains relatively quickly during gaming sessions. If you’re planning on gaming on the go, it’s advisable to keep the power adapter handy.

The power adapter that comes with the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 is capable of delivering ample power to keep the laptop running at its full potential.

It charges the battery relatively quickly, allowing you to get back in the game with minimal downtime. The charging speed is impressive, ensuring you spend more time gaming and less time waiting for your laptop to recharge.

Verdict

The Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 (2023) proves to be a formidable gaming laptop that excels in both design and performance. With its sleek aesthetics, powerful specifications, immersive display, responsive keyboard, and efficient cooling system, it offers an outstanding gaming experience for enthusiasts.

While its battery life may be a slight drawback for those seeking prolonged portability, the Scar 17’s overall performance and features make it a highly desirable choice for gamers who demand top-tier performance. With the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 (2023), you can elevate your gaming sessions to new heights.

If you’re looking for a top-notch desktop replacement, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 (2023) is the ultimate choice. Although it may not be the most portable or long-lasting in terms of battery life, it more than compensates with its exceptional speed and performance. When it comes to gaming performance, there are very few, if any, machines that can surpass it.

Yes, it’s expensive, but it boasts one of the most well-balanced spec sheets I’ve encountered in this category. This means that your hard-earned money is being invested in the components that truly matter, rather than wasting it on excessive memory or a display that the GPU can’t fully utilize.

If you’re on the hunt for the absolute top-notch option, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17 (2023) is a force to be reckoned with and deserves your undivided attention.

If you like this review, please leave a comment below. If you have any questions, you’re welcome to leave them here below and I will get back to you soonest. It’s encouraging and motivates us to bring you more great content.

The Lenovo Legion Pro 5 is a powerful gaming laptop that aims to provide an unmatched gaming experience. As part of the widely acclaimed Legion series, this device combines cutting-edge hardware, advanced gaming features, and a sleek design to cater to the needs of hardcore gamers. In this review, we will delve into the various aspects of the Lenovo Legion Pro 5, including its design, performance, display quality, battery life, software features, and more. By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of whether the Lenovo Legion Pro 5 is the ultimate gaming laptop you’ve been waiting for.

Lenovo Legion Pro 5

SPECS

Overview

The Lenovo Legion Pro 5 is a gaming beast that’s ready to take your gaming experience to the next level. Packed with powerful hardware, this gaming laptop is designed to deliver exceptional performance and immersive gameplay.

It’s powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 processor and features a generous amount of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and seamless gameplay. It also boasts impressive graphics capabilities, thanks to the RTX mobile GPU, allowing you to enjoy your favorite games in stunning detail.

With its high-quality display, comfortable keyboard, and fast storage options, the Legion Pro 5 ticks all the boxes for a top-notch gaming laptop.

Let’s See its Build

The Legion Pro 5 sports a sleek and modern design that exudes a premium feel. It features a backlit keyboard that not only enhances the overall aesthetics but also aids in gaming in low-light conditions. The ergonomics of the laptop are well thought out, providing a comfortable typing experience and easy access to all the essential ports.

Built with quality materials, the Legion Pro 5 feels sturdy and well-made. The laptop can endure the rigors of gaming sessions and daily use without showing signs of wear and tear. The construction is solid and reliable, ensuring the longevity of the device.

While the Legion Pro 5 is not the lightest gaming laptop on the market, it strikes a good balance between portability and performance. It is relatively slim considering its powerful hardware, making it easy to carry around for on-the-go gaming sessions. However, it’s worth noting that the laptop’s weight might be a factor to consider if you plan on traveling frequently with it.

Let’s Game

Equipped with a high-performance processor and ample RAM, the Legion Pro 5 delivers exceptional performance in both gaming and multitasking. You can expect smooth gameplay, quick load times, and seamless transitions between applications, giving you a hassle-free gaming experience.

The Legion Pro 5 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to graphics capabilities. With its powerful graphics card, it can handle demanding games and deliver stunning visuals. Additionally, if you’re into virtual reality, this laptop supports VR, providing an immersive experience like no other.

When it comes to gaming performance, the Legion Pro 5 shines. It can handle even the most demanding games with ease, offering smooth frame rates and minimal lag. Whether you’re playing fast-paced shooters or graphically-intensive RPGs, this laptop delivers a responsive and enjoyable gaming experience.

Let’s See the Display

The Legion Pro 5 features a high-quality IPS display that enhances your gaming visuals. With its vibrant colors and sharp details, every game comes to life on the screen. The size of the display is generous, providing an immersive viewing experience that pulls you into the game world.

The resolution of the Legion Pro 5’s display is on point, offering crisp and clear visuals. Colors are accurately reproduced, ensuring that you see the game as the developers intended. Whether you’re exploring fantastical realms or engaging in intense battles, the display’s color accuracy adds depth to your gaming experience.

While the gaming laptop comes with a compromise of an IPS display, it makes up for it thanks to the high refresh rate, the color accuracy and quick response time. The Legion Pro 5 minimizes motion blur and ghosting, resulting in smooth and fluid gameplay.

You won’t miss a single frame, and your actions register instantaneously, giving you the competitive edge you need in fast-paced games. Say goodbye to frustrating lag and hello to a seamless gaming experience.

Battery & Cooling Power

When it comes to gaming laptops, battery life is often a concern. Thankfully, the Lenovo Legion Pro 5 doesn’t disappoint in this department. Its battery performance is impressive, lasting for hours on end even during intense gaming sessions. With a decent battery capacity, you won’t constantly find yourself tethered to a power outlet, allowing you to truly enjoy the freedom of gaming anywhere.

Gone are the days of eternal waiting for your laptop to charge. The Lenovo Legion Pro 5 offers fast charging capabilities, ensuring that you spend minimal time plugged in and more time immersed in your gaming adventures. Additionally, the laptop provides various charging options, giving you the flexibility to charge through different ports or even wirelessly, depending on your preference.

No gamer wants their laptop to turn into a mini volcano during intense gaming sessions. That’s where the cooling system of the Lenovo Legion Pro 5 shines. It keeps your laptop cool and prevents overheating, even when pushing the hardware to its limits. The efficient cooling system ensures optimal performance, allowing you to focus on dominating virtual worlds without worrying about your laptop melting away.

Verdict

To sum it up, the Lenovo Legion Pro 5 impresses with its battery life, sleek design, and its efficient cooling system. It offers great gaming performance, features, and optimizations that cater to both casual and serious gamers.

It’s important to note that the Lenovo Legion Pro 5 may come with quite a high price tag. The weight may not be ideal for those who are constantly on the go, and the IPS display may be outdated or appeal to all, yet it still looks good so it really doesn’t disappoint. 

After thoroughly examining the Lenovo Legion Pro 5, it is evident that this gaming laptop offers an exceptional gaming experience that is hard to match. 

If you’re in the market for a gaming laptop that delivers on performance, battery life, and an exceptional gaming experience, the Lenovo Legion Pro 5 is a solid choice. Its impressive features and capabilities make it a worthy investment for gamers looking to take their gaming to the next level. Just be prepared to shell out a bit more and consider your portability needs before making the purchase.

We hope you enjoy the Lenovo Legion Pro 5 review.  Any questions or comments, leave them down here below. It’s encouraging and motivates us to deliver better content. 

The top-of-the-range smartphone in the iPhone 13 series, the iPhone 13 Pro Max, comes with the best features to compete for the top spot in this year’s best smartphone of 2021. It’s called a Pro Max for a reason. It has a bigger battery, a better camera, a faster chip, bigger storage, the list goes on. Compared to other top flagship phones is it better or worse off? Let’s check the iPhone 13 Pro Max review.  

Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max

Specifications

Overview

I’m sure you know what an iPhone is. Everybody does. But this is no ordinary iPhone. No. This is the iPhone 13 Pro Max! The elite. The headliner. The top-range iPhone with all the premium features in the iPhone 13 series. These great features include:

 All of these are encased in a stainless steel frame, with a strong glass front and back. Did I mention that it’s water and dust-resistant?

What’s to Like

With the overview out of the way let’s dig deep and see what this amazing iPhone has in store. 

1) High refresh rate

The iPhone 13 Pro Max comes with a 120Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling through the iOS that much smoother. In addition, it also has a large 6.7-inch display, with a screen resolution of 1284 x 2778 pixels. Check out the display specs of the iPhone 12 Pro Max, and you’ll see that they are pretty much the same.

The only difference is that it’s got better brightness and smoother iOS scrolling. The display still looks stunning, producing sharp, clear, and colorful content. In short. You get a large, bright, and gorgeous display, with a high refresh rate for smooth scrolling. 

2) Outstanding performance

Before we get into it, each of the four iPhone 13 smartphones in the series is powered by the new A15 Bionic 6-core chip. This chip is fast. Really fast. So fast it’s one of the faster processing chips around. Combined with the 6GB memory, you get outstanding performance. A great performer for normal daily use. If you’re gaming, then the iPhone 13 Pro Max has the power. 

It beats other top-range smartphones by over 30% in GPU benchmark scores. Making it the one phone to handle gaming. And with a 120Hz display, it can handle demanding games capped at 60fps. Overall. Great performance for normal use and for gaming as well.

3) Great durability and design

The iPhone 13 Pro Max comes in a stainless steel frame built with strong glass front and back. It comes with an IP68 rating meaning that it has water and dust protection. To me, this means that this phone can survive almost anything. And it’s pretty strong too. That’s great durability.   

Main view of the Gold iPhone 13 Pro Max

It also comes available with a choice of four: Blue, Silver, Gold, and Graphite (dark grey). Nothing to go crazy about. The design just looks good. 

4) Great camera features

The 13 Pro Max comes with a three-lens camera at the back. It includes a 12MP wide, a 12MP telephoto with 3 times optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide sensor. The selfie camera in front comes with a teardrop 12MP wide lens that also works as a face scanner. If recording videos is more your thing, you can record up to 4K quality videos at 60fps with the rear camera. Same for the front camera as well.

For a 12MP camera, from all three lenses, the pictures look excellent. They are sharp and detailed with a good color presentation. Taking pictures at night is no issue either as they come out just as detailed.

With videos, the quality is very good. 4K videos look smooth and detailed. Careful though. Unless you have the 1TB model, your storage will fill up very quickly. Overall. Great camera setup. 12MP of excellent and detailed pictures and videos.

5) Awesome battery life

With the 13 Pro Max, you are not going to run out of power anytime soon. This phone comes with a big 4352mAh battery that supports fast charging and wireless charging.

Triple-lens camera of the iPhone 13 Pro Max

Now with calls, you can get a good 27 hours. For web browsing, it comes down to 20 hours and if you like watching videos, you can get a good 24 hours. This is from testing with a 60Hz refresh rate. If you increase the refresh rate to 120Hz then the phone will use more power from the battery.

Suffice it to say, if you use the 13 Pro Max moderately, it will last up to 5 days of battery life. With charging speed, note that the iPhone 13 Pro Max ships without a charger. If you can get your hands on a 20W charger, you’re safe… relatively. 

Because with the 20W charger, you can get a good 42% charge in 30 minutes. If you can a better charger, 65W for example, you can get a better charging speed. In this instance, 55% in 30 minutes. Lastly, in terms of charging speed, wireless charging is not the best option. It’s a 15W device, so the phone charges slower and takes over 2 hours to get to full charge. In short, the 13 Pro Max supports fast charging and wireless charging. It’s better to charge it using a 65W charger as it’s will reach full charge faster.

What’s not to Like

1) Expensive

Starting at over US$ 1000 for the 128GB model, the iPhone 13 Pro Max is an expensive smartphone. What can you expect? It’s the top-range smartphone in the iPhone 13 series. But it’s a great phone. You get what you pay for here. So if there is a bonus coming your way and you looking out for this one, I suggest you get it. 

2) Heavy

The iPhone 13 Pro Max smartphone weighs 240 g (8.46 oz). The iPhone 12 Pro Max weighs 228 g (8.04 oz). The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra weighs 229 g (8.07 oz). Comparing it with these two top-range giants, you can see that it’s gonna put weight in your pocket. 

3) Similar design

If you put the two iPhones together, the iPhone 12 Pro Max and the iPhone 13 Pro Max, you don’t really see a difference.

All colors of the iPhone 13 Pro Max

The camera lenses at the back are positioned exactly the same way. The four edges of both phones are all rounded corners. So there are no major changes to the design. But if it works… it works. That’s not a major issue as other top brands are doing the same thing. 

Verdict

I don’t like the iPhone 13 Pro Max. It’s heavy. It’s expensive and most of its features are from the previous iPhone 12 Pro Max. But I’m truly impressed with it. The overall performance is excellent. It looks great. Takes excellent pictures and videos and the battery life is awesome. That’s why I recommend the iPhone 13 Pro Max. If you have the 12 Pro Max then I suggest not upgrading to this one. So what’s left for you to do, is up to you. 

I say check out the iPhone 13 Pro Max, get more info, and buy it if you so desire. Tell me how you find this review. Is it informative? Did you learn anything new? Do you own the iPhone 13 Pro Max? If not, do you want to upgrade? Any questions or comments, you’re more than happy to leave them here below. I will get back to you as soon as possible. Thanks for checking out my review. Stay safe. Take care. Cheers!