Tag: ASUS

  • Asus Vivobook S15 Launches with AMD Ryzen 9 465 and 32GB RAM

    Asus Vivobook S15 Launches with AMD Ryzen 9 465 and 32GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus will unveil new laptops at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, including a new Zenbook Duo and ROG Zephyrus gaming laptops.
    2. The upcoming Vivobook S15 has been spotted on Geekbench, featuring AMD Strix Point and Qualcomm Snapdragon processors.
    3. The Vivobook S15 (M5650GA) will include the Ryzen AI 9 465, a 10-core CPU, and a Radeon 880M integrated GPU.
    4. The Ryzen AI 9 465 is expected to offer performance similar to the Ryzen AI 9 365, with a new XDNA 2 neural chipset for a 10% performance boost.
    5. Asus is likely to reveal multiple laptops at CES 2026, following their trend of frequent product launches.


    Asus has confirmed plans to unveil new laptops at CES 2026 in Las Vegas next month. They have hinted at the launch of a new Zenbook Duo. It seems that the brand is also gearing up to present new ROG Zephyrus gaming laptops as well.

    New Vivobook S15 Spotted

    Recently, the next Vivobook S15 has appeared on Geekbench. To give some background, Asus currently sells a 15.6-inch mid-range laptop that features AMD Strix Point and Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors, which is priced at $999 on Amazon right now. According to the benchmark shown below, Asus is about to enhance these options with AMD Gorgon Point APUs.

    Specifications and Performance Details

    The Vivobook S15 (M5650GA) is set to include the Ryzen AI 9 465, a 10-core CPU that should rank just below the Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 in AMD’s Gorgon Point series. It also comes with a Radeon 880M integrated GPU; essentially, the Ryzen AI 9 465 is very similar to the Ryzen AI 9 365, which Geekbench mistakenly identifies as a Strix Point chip.

    The initial benchmark results indicate that the Ryzen AI 9 465 will offer performance comparable to that of the Ryzen AI 9 365. The key distinction between the two is expected to be the addition of a new XDNA 2 neural chipset, which is projected to provide a slight 10% performance boost, bringing it to 55 TOPS. It is likely that the Vivobook S15 is just one of many laptops that Asus plans to unveil next month, considering their history of releases.

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  • Asus Zenbook Duo Revealed: Dual Batteries and Major Upgrades

    Asus Zenbook Duo Revealed: Dual Batteries and Major Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. The latest Zenbook Duo OLED features Intel’s Arrow Lake technology, improving CPU and GPU performance and offering longer battery life.
    2. Asus plans to announce a new Zenbook Duo model for 2026 at CES on January 6 in Las Vegas.
    3. The 2026 model will include a newly designed hinge for enhanced durability.
    4. The laptop will have a dual battery setup, but details on its capacity compared to the previous model are unclear.
    5. Design updates include thinner display bezels, modified port arrangement, and a new keyboard accessory with a larger trackpad and recessed keys.


    The latest Zenbook Duo OLED made a great impression on us during our review at the beginning of the year (curr. $1,889 on Amazon). It comes with Intel’s Arrow Lake technology, which provides better CPU and GPU performance compared to its Meteor Lake predecessor. This new model also boasts much longer battery life. Now, Asus is hinting at a new version for 2026, which is set to be officially announced at CES 2026 on January 6 in Las Vegas.

    Exciting Features Ahead

    Asus has just released a brief 22-second video on social media. From this, we can already see some changes compared to the 2025 model. Right from the start, Asus mentions that the Zenbook Duo 2026 has a newly designed hinge, which they claim provides “next level durability.” Also, about ten seconds into the clip, they reveal that it will feature a dual battery setup. Whether this will enhance the current 75 Wh capacity from the previous year is still unknown.

    Design Improvements

    In addition, it appears that Asus has decreased the thickness of the display bezels compared to the 2025 version, and the arrangement of ports on the laptop seems to have been modified as well. There’s also a new keyboard accessory shown in the clip, which seems to include updates like a bigger trackpad and keys that are sunk in more. It’s likely that Asus will upgrade the Zenbook Duo to Intel’s Panther Lake platform, which should provide better efficiency and performance for this dual display laptop, alongside the physical upgrades.

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  • Asus ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 Update: Shipments Resumed

    Asus ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 Update: Shipments Resumed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has halted the delivery of the ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 due to quality control issues.
    2. The company acknowledged a delay but stated it is for enhancing product quality and customer satisfaction.
    3. Asus confirmed there is no product recall and plans to resume shipments shortly.
    4. Existing customers who received their GPUs before the launch can continue using them without issues.
    5. The ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 is a high-end graphics card priced at around $4,000, with a limited production of only 1,000 units.


    Several news sources shared last week that Asus has halted the delivery of the ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090. A retailer in Sweden told a customer that Asus is looking into some quality control problems with the graphics card. The Taiwanese firm has now given more details regarding this matter.

    Delay Acknowledged

    Asus Germany confirmed that there is indeed a delay. However, they mentioned that the shipments were paused to enhance the product quality and overall customer satisfaction. They will soon resume sending stock to retailers.

    Statement from Asus

    In the words of Asus’ PR executive, Christian Wefers, “There is no product recall for the ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090. We proactively adjusted the original timeline to allow additional time for product improvements and to ensure an optimal customer experience. The products will arrive at our partners within the next few days. Availability may vary by region.”

    Existing Customers Not Affected

    Asus also reassured that customers who got their GPUs before the official launch can keep using their devices without any issues.

    The ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 stands out as one of the most costly versions of the card, priced at around $4,000. It features four cooling fans and can consume up to 800 watts when used with Asus’ Advanced BTF motherboard and a 12V-2×6 power supply. Only 1,000 units are being made worldwide, making it a truly collectible GPU.

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  • Asus TUF Gaming A18: Budget Laptop with Restart and Freeze Issues

    Asus TUF Gaming A18: Budget Laptop with Restart and Freeze Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Occasional Instability: The TUF Gaming A18 showed infrequent instability during testing, though it did not significantly affect the overall score.

    2. 4K Gaming Experience Issues: The laptop experienced restarts and unresponsiveness when connected to an external monitor for 4K gaming.

    3. High Latencies Detected: LatencyMon indicated high latencies, suggesting performance issues despite smooth playback of YouTube videos.

    4. Need for Optimization: The laptop is not fully optimized, with potential driver issues and unnecessary Asus-specific processes contributing to performance problems.

    5. Suggestion for Manufacturer: Asus should address underlying issues and reduce preloaded bloatware to improve overall performance and stability.


    In previous discussions, we looked at the unique performance mode and considered if this lightweight, quiet, and efficient laptop is aiming to appeal to budget-conscious creatives. Our evaluations revealed that the TUF Gaming A18 ($1,989 on Amazon) achieved a respectable score of 84 percent. Today, we want to touch on some details that may not be reflected—or are just slightly reflected—in the overall score.

    Occasional Instability

    While we were testing, the 18-inch laptop showed signs of instability from time to time. These glitches were infrequent and mostly unrepeatable, so they didn’t directly affect the final score. Nevertheless, we believe it’s essential to share this information with our audience.

    4K Gaming Experience

    In addition to our regular testing, we also tried out the gaming laptop at a 4K resolution with various games by connecting it to an external monitor. The very first time we hooked up the HDMI cable, the laptop surprisingly restarted itself.

    At two different points during testing, the device would suddenly become unresponsive. In each instance, we had to perform a manual restart to get it working again. The tool LatencyMon indicated fairly high latencies, but at least our YouTube test video played smoothly without frame drops. It appears that the Kernel Mode Driver Framework might be behind some of these issues.

    Need for Optimization

    Such problems are not typical and ideally should not occur. They suggest that the A18 is not yet fully optimized. Issues with drivers or processes could be partly to blame, but the numerous Asus-specific processes might also contribute to the situation. Asus tends to install a lot of apps and processes that aren’t really necessary, which increases the likelihood of encountering problems.

    Asus needs to promptly look into the underlying issues and release updates. It’s also wise for the manufacturer to reduce, merge, or streamline the preloaded bloatware, apps, and processes. Do gaming laptops really need to run this many Asus-specific tasks (refer to the screenshot)?

  • ASUS and AMD Launch Call of Duty Black Ops 7 TUF Gaming RX 9070 XT

    ASUS and AMD Launch Call of Duty Black Ops 7 TUF Gaming RX 9070 XT

    Key Takeaways

    1. ASUS, AMD, and Call of Duty collaborated to launch a limited-edition TUF Gaming Radeon RX 9070 XT graphics card, themed after Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.
    2. The graphics card features AMD’s RDNA 4 architecture, 16 GB of GDDR6 memory, and supports FSR 4 upscaling technology for enhanced visuals and performance.
    3. Enhanced cooling and durability are provided by three Axial-tech fans, a phase-change thermal pad, and a metal exoskeleton, along with a Dual BIOS switch for performance control.
    4. The graphics card includes a digital version of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 and will be available at select retailers, with only about 1,000 units produced worldwide.
    5. The unique design and limited availability may lead to higher prices and increased collectibility among fans and gamers.


    ASUS has teamed up with AMD and Call of Duty to unveil a limited-edition TUF Gaming Radeon RX 9070 XT, inspired by Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. This partnership was first announced at the Call of Duty NEXT event in Las Vegas on September 30, paving the way for the game’s worldwide launch on November 14, 2025. The graphics card features a unique design that showcases the Black Ops emblem along with distinct orange highlights, making it instantly appealing to fans of the franchise. Each graphics card will come with a digital version of the standard PC game and will be sold through selected retailers across the globe.

    Specifications and Features

    The Call of Duty Black Ops 7 Special Edition graphics card is built on AMD’s cutting-edge RDNA 4 architecture and is equipped with 16 GB of GDDR6 memory. It also supports AMD’s FSR 4 upscaling technology, which employs machine learning to enhance visuals and boost frame rates in over 85 games. For display connectivity, ASUS provides DisplayPort 2.1 outputs, which can handle high refresh rates and ultra-high resolutions, making this card well-suited for high-performance gaming setups.

    Cooling and Durability

    In terms of cooling and durability, ASUS has enhanced this model with three 11-blade Axial-tech fans that ensure steady airflow through a well-designed heatsink. The fans can completely shut off during light tasks to ensure quiet operation, while large vents on the aluminum backplate allow heat to escape efficiently. Additionally, the card features a Dual BIOS switch, enabling users to toggle between performance and quiet modes without needing extra software. ASUS GPU Tweak III software offers even more control, allowing users to adjust settings, monitor temperatures, and change fan speeds right from their desktops.

    Innovative Design

    Rather than using conventional thermal paste, ASUS has implemented a phase-change thermal pad that liquefies under heat to fill tiny gaps between the GPU and cooler, enhancing heat transfer and promoting long-term reliability. The metal exoskeleton adds extra strength, and dual-ball fan bearings prolong the life of the fans. A built-in GPU holder keeps the card stable within a case, preventing sagging over time. These thoughtful design elements make the TUF Gaming line attractive to builders who prioritize both performance and durability.

    Despite sharing the same core components as the standard TUF Gaming RX 9070 XT, this special edition distinguishes itself with its unique design and exclusivity. It is reported that ASUS will manufacture only about 1,000 units worldwide, which naturally increases its collectibility. The bundle that includes the game makes it even more enticing for fans eager to play Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 on PC. However, the limited availability may result in higher prices and potential shortages in various markets.

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  • ASUS Launches 8K ProArt Display with Motorized Calibration

    ASUS Launches 8K ProArt Display with Motorized Calibration

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8K UHD Resolution: The ProArt Display 8K PA32KCX features an 8K resolution with 4,032 local dimming zones for enhanced contrast and brightness.

    2. Color Accuracy: It offers 100% sRGB, 99% Adobe RGB, and 97% DCI-P3 color coverage, with a 10-bit depth and a calibration target of ΔE < 1.

    3. Integrated Calibration: The monitor includes a motorized colorimeter for self and auto-calibration, compatible with Calman and Light Illusion ColourSpace software.

    4. Advanced Connectivity: Equipped with dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, and an Auto KVM function for seamless workstation switching.

    5. Sustainability Focus: The monitor features recyclable packaging, energy-efficient components, and adjustable stand for ergonomic use.


    ASUS has launched its very first 8K HDR monitor, the ProArt Display 8K PA32KCX. This product is tailored for creators who require precise color accuracy, even in the tiniest details. The 32-inch Mini LED screen is perfect for various tasks, including post-production, visual effects, and color grading.

    Advanced Display Features

    The monitor features an 8K UHD resolution and boasts 4,032 local dimming zones, which enhance both contrast and brightness control. The technology firm claims that the screen achieves a peak brightness of 1,200 nits and a sustained brightness of 1,000 nits. This capability is supported by the integration of HDR10 and HLG formats within the monitor.

    Future-Ready Capabilities

    According to the company’s website, Dolby Vision will be available through a firmware update anticipated in Q3 2025. It provides a color coverage of 100% sRGB, 99% Adobe RGB, and 97% DCI-P3, featuring a 10-bit depth and a ΔE < 1 calibration target.

    Enhanced Usability

    An integrated motorized colorimeter takes care of both self and auto-calibration, allowing for more efficient work processes. The monitor is compatible with Calman and Light Illusion ColourSpace software to ensure uniformity across various editing projects. ASUS has also included a Light Sync system that adjusts the panel’s output based on the surrounding lighting, utilizing both front and rear sensors.

    Connectivity and Functionality

    In terms of connectivity, it has dual Thunderbolt 4 ports that offer 96 W of power delivery, along with HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, and a USB hub. There’s an Auto KVM function that lets two connected systems share a single keyboard and mouse, which is especially useful for editors who frequently switch between workstations.

    Commitment to Sustainability

    The ProArt Display PA32KCX also emphasizes sustainability. ASUS claims it features recyclable packaging and energy-efficient components. The stand allows for full tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustments. Although 8K workflows are still not widely adopted, monitors like this one indicate how high-resolution production tools are slowly integrating into everyday studio environments.

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  • Xbox President: Asus Sets ROG Ally Price Amid Handheld Confusion

    Xbox President: Asus Sets ROG Ally Price Amid Handheld Confusion

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft allowed Asus to set the final prices for the ROG Xbox Ally handheld devices.
    2. The ROG Xbox Ally X is priced at $999.99, targeted at performance-focused gamers, while the standard version is $599.99 for casual gamers.
    3. The higher-priced model quickly sold out, but some believe supply may have been intentionally limited.
    4. Concerns about the handhelds’ pricing and compatibility with all Xbox games have been raised by potential buyers.
    5. Microsoft is working on new Xbox consoles, but their design and features remain uncertain.


    Even after the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally, gamers are left with lingering inquiries about the handheld devices. While they do have Xbox branding, it remains uncertain whether Microsoft or Asus had the final say on specifications or pricing. In a recent interview with Variety, Xbox President Sarah Bond provided some clarity regarding the pricing of the ROG Xbox Ally.

    Insight from Xbox’s President

    Bond stated that due to Asus’ background in creating Windows gaming handhelds, Microsoft entrusted the company to “set the final prices of the devices.” She expressed that the $999.99 ROG Xbox Ally X is a good deal for those who really value performance. On the other hand, the ROG Xbox Ally priced at $599.99 caters to more casual gamers who might not need top-tier specs.

    Sales and Supply Concerns

    Despite worries about pricing, Bond highlighted the swift pre-order sales for the devices. The pricier version featuring the Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor quickly sold out on the Microsoft Store. However, some gamers think the companies might have purposely limited the supply. Other skeptics argue that even the ROG Xbox Ally may be too costly for what it offers.

    The postponement of announcing the ROG Xbox Ally price at Gamescom raised some eyebrows. Pure Xbox talked about rumors that hinted at the possibility of subsidizing the costs. Manufacturers sometimes accept losses on hardware to gain profits from games and accessories later on. Unfortunately, this strategy didn’t materialize with this launch, resulting in the handhelds being pricier than anticipated.

    Compatibility Issues

    Some potential buyers are not only concerned about the prices of the Windows 11 handhelds but also about their inability to run all Xbox games, making them a questionable investment. Emulation might be a path Microsoft could pursue to address compatibility issues. Bond reassured fans that Microsoft is working on new Xbox consoles internally. However, with AMD seemingly at the forefront, it remains to be seen if these systems will resemble typical consoles.

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  • Asus ROG Strix XG27AQWMG: Release Details and Price Update

    Asus ROG Strix XG27AQWMG: Release Details and Price Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch and Pricing: The ROG Strix XG27AQWMG is set to launch between November and December 2025, with a retail price anticipated at $599, lower than the initially expected $699.

    2. Competitive Pricing: If the price remains at $599, it will be the least expensive Tandem OLED monitor available, compared to competitors priced above $600.

    3. Key Specifications: The monitor features a 280Hz refresh rate, a 0.03 ms response time, and a unique TrueBlack Glossy finish for enhanced image quality.

    4. Brightness and Color: It can achieve a peak brightness of 335 nits in SDR and 1,500 nits in HDR, covering 99.5% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and certified with DisplayHDR 500 True Black.

    5. Connectivity: The monitor includes HDMI 2.1 inputs and DisplayPort 1.4 but does not feature USB-C or a KVM switch.


    The ROG Strix XG27AQWMG is a top-notch 1440p 280Hz OLED gaming monitor that features the latest LG Primary RGB Tandem WOLED panel, which is also used in the Gigabyte MO27Q28G and the LG Ultragear 27GX700A-B (current price: $847.99 at Amazon). This monitor was initially announced during Gamescom 2025, and now Asus has shared details about its release timing and cost.

    Release and Pricing Updates

    Asus has told TFTCentral that the ROG Strix XG27AQWMG is set to launch between November and December, just as we reported earlier. The most shocking news is regarding the pricing. The XG27AQWMG is now anticipated to retail for $599, which is lower than the previously expected $699. However, the final price might change based on tariffs.

    Competitive Pricing

    If this price stays, it would make the XG27AQWMG the least expensive Tandem OLED monitor available yet. For instance, the LG Ultragear 27GX700A-B debuted at $849.99, and the Gigabyte MO27Q28G is currently listed for preorder at £499.99 (approximately $662) in the UK.

    The ROG Strix XG27AQWMG has a lot of shared specifications with other Tandem OLED gaming monitors, like its 280Hz refresh rate and an impressive 0.03 ms response time. The unique aspect here is the coating on the panel. Asus employs what they call a TrueBlack Glossy finish, which is claimed to preserve deep blacks and crisper images even in bright environments. Additionally, there’s a presence sensor that turns off the monitor when the user leaves the vicinity.

    Features and Specs

    The additional features align with other 4th Gen WOLED monitors. The XG27AQWMG can reach a peak brightness of 335 nits in SDR and up to 1,500 nits in HDR mode. It covers an impressive 99.5% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and has received DisplayHDR 500 True Black certification. Similar to the Gigabyte MO27Q28G, it includes HDMI 2.1 inputs and a DisplayPort 1.4, but lacks USB-C and a KVM switch.

    Asus has been quite clear on this product, keeping enthusiasts in the loop on this exciting new monitor.

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  • Asus ProArt 16: New Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti, 5080, 5090 Variants

    Asus ProArt 16: New Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti, 5080, 5090 Variants

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus updated the ProArt P16 laptop with Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 50 series and retained the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU.
    2. The ProArt P16 with GeForce RTX 5090 is priced at $3,999 in the U.S. and CNY 29,999 (around $4,214) in China.
    3. A more affordable GeForce RTX 5080 variant was introduced alongside the RTX 5090 in China.
    4. In Italy, Asus launched the RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 variants, but not the RTX 5060 or RTX 5070 models available in other Eurozone countries.
    5. Pricing for the ProArt P16 in the Eurozone starts at €3,199 (around $3,748) for the RTX 5070 Ti, with the RTX 5090 variant priced at €4,699 (approximately $5,505).


    Almost two weeks ago, Asus revealed an updated version of its ProArt P16 creator laptop. To summarize, the company upgraded the ProArt P16 with Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 50 laptop series this spring, while keeping the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU. Then, at the beginning of last month, Asus launched a GeForce RTX 5090 edition with a price tag of $3,999, though they did not start pre-orders at that time.

    New Variants in China

    Shortly after the initial release, Asus began selling the GeForce RTX 5090 variant in China for CNY 29,999 (around $4,214). They also introduced a more affordable GeForce RTX 5080 version for the first time. In other regions, the ProArt P16 has been available with a choice between Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5060 and GeForce RTX 5070 laptop GPUs, currently priced at $2,899 on Amazon.

    Expansion to Italy

    Now, Asus has quietly launched the GeForce RTX 5080 and GeForce RTX 5090 variants in Italy, along with a lower-tier GeForce RTX 5070 Ti variant. Interestingly, the company has opted not to sell GeForce RTX 5060 or GeForce RTX 5070 models in Italy, which are available in other Eurozone countries like Germany.

    Pricing details for the ProArt P16 start at €3,199 (about $3,748) in the Eurozone with a GeForce RTX 5070 Ti, 32 GB of RAM, and 2 TB of storage. If you choose the GeForce RTX 5080, it automatically comes with 64 GB of RAM for a price of €4,099 (around $4,803). Finally, if you select the GeForce RTX 5090, the price of the ProArt jumps to €4,699 (approximately $5,505) since it includes 4 TB of storage to go along with its 64 GB of RAM. At the moment, it’s uncertain when these GPU options will become available in other markets. All prices mentioned include a 22% VAT.

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  • Asus TUF Gaming A16: Enhanced 165Hz Display & Upgradeable RAM

    Asus TUF Gaming A16: Enhanced 165Hz Display & Upgradeable RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. The TUF Gaming A16 features a familiar design with a plastic body and aluminum lid, suitable for professional settings.
    2. Upgrades include two SO-DIMM slots for RAM expansion and two SSD slots (M.2-2280, PCIe 4.0) for better maintenance options.
    3. The display has improved to a WQHD panel with a resolution of 165 Hz and G-Sync capability.
    4. The matte IPS display offers excellent image quality, full sRGB coverage, and avoids PWM flickering.
    5. While not as visually striking as OLED displays, the TUF Gaming A16’s display provides high refresh rates and quick response times for gamers.


    The TUF Gaming laptops from Asus offer a midrange gaming experience, and we recently took a look at the latest TUF Gaming A16 model. This version maintains the same familiar design as last year’s model, featuring a plastic body with an aluminum lid. The quality of the chassis is decent, and we appreciate how well the hinge operates. While it lacks flashy lights, this minimalist design allows the TUF Gaming A16 to fit into more professional settings without issue.

    Internal Improvements

    There have been several upgrades inside the chassis. One significant problem with the prior model was the soldered RAM, which seemed unnecessary for a large gaming laptop. Asus addressed this concern in the 2025 iteration, now providing two SO-DIMM slots, making it much easier to enhance the RAM. Alongside this, the device is equipped with two SSD slots (M.2-2280, PCIe 4.0), offering excellent maintenance options.

    Enhanced Display

    The display has also seen improvements. The earlier version we reviewed came with a rather average 1080p screen, but this model boasts a WQHD panel with a resolution of 165 Hz and G-Sync capability. The matte IPS display delivers commendable image quality, and the factory calibration is quite impressive. With full sRGB coverage, editing photos and videos is a breeze. While it may not match the visual appeal of OLED displays, it compensates for this by avoiding PWM flickering. Combining G-Sync with high refresh rates and quick response times, the IPS display serves as a solid option for gamers.