Tag: XMG NEO 16

  • XMG NEO 16 & PRO 16 Lack G-Sync and Advanced Optimus Support

    XMG NEO 16 & PRO 16 Lack G-Sync and Advanced Optimus Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The XMG NEO 16 is one of the fastest gaming laptops available, offering a choice between Intel and AMD processors.
    2. It supports external water-cooling systems to maintain low temperatures and reduce fan noise.
    3. The laptop lacks G-Sync support for its internal display and Nvidia’s Advanced Optimus GPU switching, requiring a reboot to disable integrated graphics.
    4. XMG is actively working on fixes for these issues, but they will not be available for this generation of the NEO 16.
    5. Despite its speed, the NEO 16 faces disadvantages compared to high-end competitors due to missing features.

    The NEO 16 stands out as the quickest gaming laptop crafted by the German brand XMG and ranks among the most rapid gaming systems available. It’s also one of the rare high-end options that allows users to choose between Intel and AMD processors. Additionally, you can connect an external water-cooling system to help keep temperatures low and minimize fan noise. With the latest Mini-LED display, you can enjoy a high-quality screen, and we have thoroughly examined the current model.

    Issues with Features

    Nevertheless, there are some drawbacks. The NEO 16 currently does not offer G-Sync support for its internal display, nor does it have Nvidia’s Advanced Optimus GPU switching. While there is a MUX switch present, disabling the integrated graphics requires restarting the laptop. XMG has been open about these challenges since the NEO 16’s launch and has provided frequent updates on their website, indicating they are working closely with Nvidia on a resolution. Unfortunately, it has now been confirmed that these features will not be available for this generation of the NEO 16 or the XMG PRO 16.

    Solution Attempts

    XMG and Nvidia did come up with a fix, but implementing it would necessitate several updates, including a firmware upgrade for the LCD panel. However, during internal testing, this process proved to be quite unreliable and posed a risk of damaging the display. To avoid disadvantaging early customers, XMG has decided that these features will not be enabled for new purchases either.

    Competitors and Decision-Making

    This puts the XMG NEO 16 at a clear disadvantage when compared to its high-end competitors. While the MUX switch is available, disabling the integrated GPU does require a reboot, as previously noted. The absence of G-Sync for the internal display is a significant concern, even though it is available for external monitors.

    Despite these issues, the NEO 16 remains one of the fastest gaming laptops on the market. It’s up to you to determine if the lack of certain features affects your buying choice. For further details on the devices, check out our reviews of the NEO 16.

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  • AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D: Best Gaming CPU with 3D V-Cache

    AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D: Best Gaming CPU with 3D V-Cache

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD’s Ryzen 9 9955HX3D is leading gaming performance in the mobile sector, outperforming Intel’s HX processors due to its extra 3D V-cache.
    2. The Ryzen 9 9955HX3D uses less power than its Intel counterpart, making it a more efficient option.
    3. The stock availability of the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D is better, with multiple models from various brands already accessible.
    4. While the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D excels in gaming, Intel’s version offers longer battery life and supports up to 128 GB of RAM compared to AMD’s 96 GB limit.
    5. Both laptops support PCIe 5.0, and an optional external Oasis water-cooling system can help reduce temperatures and fan noise.

    AMD is back on top! After the great success of its desktop X3D processors, the company is now claiming the gaming performance lead in the mobile sector with the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D. The extra 3D V-cache gives it an edge over Intel’s HX processors in many modern games and it even uses a bit less power. This means there is finally a worthy upgrade to the previous Ryzen 9 7945HX3D. The stock seems to be better too, as there are already several models from different brands available.

    Testing the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D

    We had a chance to try out the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D in the high-end gaming laptop Neo 16 from German brand XMG, and compared it with a similar Intel model (Core Ultra 9 275HX). Both CPUs were paired with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop in its strongest 175 W variant, using the same GPU drivers (576.52), providing perfect conditions for our comparison. If you want to save some cash (XMG is currently asking for 215 Euros for the upgrade), you might consider the regular AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX, which still outperforms the Core Ultra 9 275HX by a small margin.

    Performance Considerations

    Outside of gaming performance, the situation gets trickier for AMD. The Intel version of the Neo 16 offers significantly longer battery life and includes Thunderbolt support. Additionally, the AMD Neo 16 is restricted to 96 GB of RAM, while the Intel version can be set up with up to 128 GB of RAM. Both models support PCIe 5.0 for super-fast SSDs, and the fan noise levels are similar when both systems are pushed to their limits. This brings us to the optional external Oasis water-cooling system, which effectively reduces temperatures and fan noise. For further details, including benchmark results, check out our review of the new XMG Neo 16 A25.

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  • XMG Neo 16 E25 Review: Top Gaming Laptop with G-Sync Issues

    XMG Neo 16 E25 Review: Top Gaming Laptop with G-Sync Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. The XMG Neo 16 features a split motherboard and offers high-end Intel and AMD processors for superior performance.
    2. Its advanced cooling system allows it to maximize Nvidia’s new Blackwell GPUs, reducing noise and emissions under heavy loads.
    3. The optional mini LED display provides outstanding visual quality with a 300 Hz refresh rate and full P3 color space coverage.
    4. Critiques include the lack of Wi-Fi 7, Thunderbolt 5, and Advanced Optimus graphics switching, which raises concerns given its high price.
    5. Despite some flaws, the Neo 16 E25 is considered one of the fastest gaming laptops available, appealing to both gamers and content creators.

    The XMG Neo 16 is a premium gaming laptop that has received multiple enhancements for 2025. It boasts a revamped internal architecture featuring a split motherboard. In addition to housing the latest Intel Core Ultra 9 2775HX, the Neo 16 is also offered with AMD’s high-end Ryzen 9 9955HX and 9955HX3D processors. Furthermore, it includes a PCIe 5.0 slot for top-tier SSDs.

    Performance and Cooling System

    With its advanced cooling setup, the Neo 16 can take full advantage of Nvidia’s new Blackwell GPUs, making it one of the quickest laptops in our synthetic tests, even without the use of external water cooling. This effectively lowers emissions and fan noise while providing the processor with extra breathing room, especially under heavy CPU and GPU loads. Nevertheless, the raw GPU capabilities remain the same, as the Neo 16 consumes the entire 175 watts of TGP, even when in standard fan mode. An additional perk is that the Ryzen CPUs can be paired with the fastest graphics cards, which is often not possible with other brands. We expect to receive a Neo 16 featuring the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D and the RTX 5090 laptop GPU soon, which should enhance gaming performance even further.

    Display Features

    A significant upgrade is the optional mini LED display, which excels in almost every area. The subjective visual quality of the matte panel is outstanding: it is remarkably bright, and the smooth playback is supported by a 300 Hz refresh rate. Local dimming can be turned off, which is beneficial for image editing tasks. The P3 color space is completely covered, and pre-calibrated color profiles for sRGB and P3 are available, although the two P3 profiles do have minor color discrepancies. Nonetheless, we managed to significantly enhance these profiles through our own calibration (the respective color profiles can be downloaded for free in our Neo 16 review).

    Critiques and Considerations

    However, the XMG Neo 16 does have its flaws. It is missing Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 5. The absence of Advanced Optimus graphics switching and G-Sync support for the internal display is concerning, particularly given the high price tag. Although a MUX switch is present, turning off the iGPU necessitates a system restart. XMG is currently collaborating with Nvidia to address this issue, and their transparent communication is commendable, as they provide extensive updates about the problem on their website. However, there is no assurance that these two features will be integrated in the future.

    In conclusion, the Neo 16 E25 remains one of the top and fastest gaming laptops on the market today. With the new mini-LED display, it has also become appealing to content creators, adding to its versatility.

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    XMG Neo 16 E25 Review: Top Gaming Laptop with G-Sync Issues
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  • XMG Pre-Selling NEO 16 Laptops with RTX 5090 and Latest APUs

    XMG Pre-Selling NEO 16 Laptops with RTX 5090 and Latest APUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Processor Options: The NEO 16 series features Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX and AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX/9955HX3D processors, catering to both Intel and AMD enthusiasts.

    2. Graphics Performance: Graphics options include the RTX 5070 Ti, RTX 5080, and RTX 5090, with enhanced cooling through the improved OASIS external water cooling solution.

    3. Display and Design: Two 16-inch display options are available, with a reinforced aluminum chassis and a customizable RGB LED light bar, weighing between 2.65 kg and 2.8 kg.

    4. Storage and RAM: Supports dual M.2 SSDs up to 16 TB and offers up to 96 GB of RAM (with plans for 128 GB), utilizing DDR5-6400 for Intel and DDR5-5600 for AMD models.

    5. Connectivity Features: Both models feature a range of ports, including Mini DisplayPort 2.1 and Thunderbolt 4 (Intel only), alongside USB-A, HDMI 2.1, and a high-speed SD card reader.

    Earlier this year, at CES 2025, XMG and Schenker revealed the 2025 series of NEO 16 laptops that come equipped with Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processors. These new models are now up for pre-sale. In an effort to appeal to AMD enthusiasts, the NEO 16 2025 range also incorporates AMD options, including the robust Ryzen 9 9955HX3D.

    Specifications of NEO 16 Models

    The NEO 16 E25 models are powered by the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, which has 8 P-cores and 16 E-cores. On the other hand, the NEO 16 A25 comes with either the Ryzen 9 9955HX or the 9955HX3D variant that features 16 Zen 5 cores and supports 32 threads.

    Graphics Options

    For graphics, XMG provides the RTX 5070 Ti with 12 GB VRAM and a total graphics power (TGP) of 140 W. Additionally, there’s the RTX 5080 that includes 16 GB VRAM and the RTX 5090 with 24 GB VRAM, both sporting a TGP of 175 W.

    XMG has also enhanced the OASIS external water cooling solution (Mk2-V4), which is offered as a reliable choice for optimal cooling performance. The updated V4 model has a quieter pump and swaps the old magnetic connector for a snap-in mounting solution, while keeping self-sealing connectors. Although the standard air cooling for the compact 16-inch laptop provides impressive performance, the XMG OASIS enables even better performance with reduced noise levels, particularly for the RTX 5090 GPU.

    Display Choices and Chassis Design

    Customers can select between two 16-inch 16:10 display options, depending on their budget. The all-aluminum laptop chassis, which contains a 99.8 Wh battery, measures 356.7 x 259.9 x 27.9 mm. The weight fluctuates based on the display choice, with the more efficient IPS panel weighing around 2.65 kg and the power-hungry Mini LED panel weighing about 2.8 kg. The chassis design remains similar to its predecessor but has been slightly reinforced. The front of the laptop now showcases a larger RGB LED light bar, which can be turned off if desired.

    In terms of weight, the new package features lighter power supplies made with silicon carbide semiconductors. The RTX 5080 and 590 models come with a PSU measuring 179 x 81 x 27 mm, weighing 834 g, whereas the RTX 5070 Ti models include a smaller PSU of 65 x 75 x 25 mm, weighing 751 g.

    Storage and RAM Capacity

    For storage, XMG supports dual M.2 SSDs, each capable of up to 8 TB, with one using PCIe 5.0 and the other PCIe 4.0. The current maximum RAM capacity is set at 96 GB, but XMG plans to allow up to 128 GB in the future. The Intel model supports DDR5-6400 RAM, while the AMD model is limited to DDR5-5600 RAM modules.

    Connectivity Options

    The ports differ across the two models. Both the Intel and AMD versions now have a Mini DisplayPort 2.1 (DP80), but the Intel versions support Thunderbolt 4 with an integrated DisplayPort 2.1 (DP80) at the back, while the AMD versions only have USB-C 3.2 Gen2 with DisplayPort 1.4a. The left-side USB-C 3.2 Gen2 port supports DisplayPort 1.4a and can deliver 100W Power. Additional connectivity features include a high-speed full-size SD card reader compatible with SD Express, three USB-A ports, 2.5 Gigabit LAN, HDMI 2.1, and a 2-in-1 audio jack.

    The base model of the XMG NEO 16 (E25) or XMG NEO 16 (A25), which can be customized at bestware.com, comes with an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX or AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti, 32 GB DDR5-5600 RAM, a 1 TB Kingston Fury Renegade SSD, and a 300 Hz 1600p IPS display. The starting prices are €2,699 for Intel and €2,649 for AMD, both including 19% VAT. Upgrades are available at extra costs, such as an RTX 5080 (€595), an RTX 5090 (€1,450), a 300 Hz Mini LED display (€175), and different SSD and RAM configurations. For the AMD-based NEO 16, an upgrade to the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D is available for €215, while the Intel version allows faster CSO DIMM RAM up to 6400 MT/s in the configurator on bestware.com.

    Pre-orders for all variants are open now, with shipping anticipated to start in April, depending on the chosen configuration and NVIDIA’s current sales embargo.

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    XMG Pre-Selling NEO 16 Laptops with RTX 5090 and Latest APUsXMG Pre-Selling NEO 16 Laptops with RTX 5090 and Latest APUsXMG Pre-Selling NEO 16 Laptops with RTX 5090 and Latest APUsXMG Pre-Selling NEO 16 Laptops with RTX 5090 and Latest APUsXMG Pre-Selling NEO 16 Laptops with RTX 5090 and Latest APUsXMG Pre-Selling NEO 16 Laptops with RTX 5090 and Latest APUsXMG Pre-Selling NEO 16 Laptops with RTX 5090 and Latest APUsXMG Pre-Selling NEO 16 Laptops with RTX 5090 and Latest APUs

     

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