Key Takeaways
1. The Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 features a multimedia variant, the ProArt P16, now upgraded with high-end GPUs like the GeForce RTX 5090.
2. Enhanced cooling with a new vapor chamber system allows maximum TGP of 120 Watts for improved performance in both models, though the P16 lacks Advanced Optimus GPU switching.
3. The Lumina Pro OLED display now offers 4K resolution, 120 Hz refresh rate, and significantly improved brightness of up to 1600 nits in HDR mode.
4. The ProArt P16 provides increased VRAM (12-24 GB) and up to 64 GB of soldered RAM, suitable for demanding photo and video editing tasks.
5. Despite its strengths, the ProArt P16 has a high price tag of €4,799 and doesn’t outperform competitors in every aspect, such as CPU capabilities and battery life.
The Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 is an advanced and relatively slim gaming laptop, with a multimedia variant known as the ProArt P16. Until now, the P16 was only offered with the mobile RTX 5070 as its top GPU choice, and the 2.8K OLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate was somewhat underwhelming in terms of its peak brightness. The company has finally released a faster model, and we’ve already taken a look at the high-end version featuring the GeForce RTX 5090.
Enhanced Cooling and Performance
Similar to the gaming-focused ROG Zephyrus G16, the new P16 has a slightly bulkier chassis to accommodate an upgraded vapor chamber cooling system. The high-end mobile GPUs (RTX 5070 Ti, RTX 5080, or RTX 5090) operate with a maximum TGP of 120 Watts, and overall, the performance of both models is nearly identical. This includes gaming capabilities, despite the P16 lacking support for Advanced Optimus GPU switching. In contrast to earlier P16 versions, users will enjoy increased VRAM (12-24 GB depending on the GPU) for photo and video editing tasks. Additionally, up to 64 GB of RAM is available, though it’s soldered in, meaning upgrades aren’t possible.
Stunning Display Improvements
Another significant update is the Lumina Pro OLED display that boasts a 4K resolution and 120 Hz refresh rate. This OLED panel, also seen in devices like the Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i 16, delivers remarkable image quality that isn’t compromised by the touch layer. Asus has notably enhanced the brightness, now achieving close to 700 nits in SDR mode and up to 1600 nits in HDR mode. This advancement means the new OLED screens are now competitive with Mini-LED displays. The color profiles for sRGB and P3 remain well calibrated. Although the battery life does take a small hit, most users will likely consider this trade-off worthwhile for the enhanced display quality.
Overall Impressions
While the ProArt P16 doesn’t excel in every single aspect (the Yoga Pro 9i 16 has its edge in color gamut, SDR brightness, and PWM; the MacBook Pro outperforms in CPU capabilities and battery longevity), it offers a compelling overall package that’s tough to surpass. However, Asus has set a high price point, with our premium review configuration priced at €4,799. For more detailed insights, be sure to check out our full review on the new ProArt P16.
Leave a Reply