Unleashing the Power: Asus Strix G17 Review

Unleashing the Power: Asus Strix G17 Review

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Processor and Power Limits
3. Display and Graphics
4. Memory and Storage
5. Portability and Design
6. Keyboard and Touchpad
7. Software and Fan Control
8. Thermals and Performance
9. NVIDIA Optimus vs Mux Switch
10. Downsides and Alternatives

Introduction

In this article, we will be reviewing the ASUS Strix G17, a powerful gaming laptop that boasts impressive specifications and performance. From its overclockable Ryzen 9 5900 HX processor to its high-refresh-rate display, we will explore all the key features and capabilities of this machine. Whether you are a professional gamer or a casual user, this laptop aims to deliver top-notch performance at an affordable price point.

Processor and Power Limits

The ASUS Strix G17 is equipped with a Ryzen 9 5900 HX processor, which provides excellent processing power for both gaming and multithreaded tasks. Additionally, ASUS has implemented a custom overclocking feature that allows the processor to exceed its standard power limits. This provides a significant boost in performance, especially when subjected to intense workloads.

However, it is important to note that power limits can affect performance. The laptop reaches a maximum power draw of 76.5 watts when rendering with applications like Handbrake. Under a dual load, the CPU's power draw is slightly lower at 53.8 watts. These power limits play a crucial role in determining the performance variation between different laptops, as more electricity pushed through the components can lead to improved performance.

Display and Graphics

The ASUS Strix G17 features a 300Hz display with a brightness of 93 nits in sRGB and 75 nits in Adobe RGB. The display provides above-average brightness levels, resulting in vivid and immersive visuals. Moreover, the inclusion of adaptive sync technology eliminates screen tearing during gameplay, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

While the 300Hz refresh rate is impressive, it is worth mentioning that Quad HD (QHD) displays are becoming more popular due to their increased detail in both gaming and everyday Windows 10 usage. If you prioritize visual details and do not require the exceptionally high refresh rate, a QHD display is worth considering.

Memory and Storage

The ASUS Strix G17 comes with 16GB of DDR4 3200MHz RAM and a 1TB PCIe SSD, providing ample memory and storage for gaming and other intensive tasks. The high-speed RAM ensures smooth multitasking, while the spacious SSD offers fast data access and quick loading times for games and applications. Additionally, the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 ensures reliable and high-speed connectivity.

Portability and Design

Despite its powerful components, the ASUS Strix G17 manages to maintain a compact and lightweight design. With a thickness ranging from 0.92 inches to 1.08 inches, the laptop remains highly portable without compromising on performance. The thin chassis makes it comparable to thinner models like the Razer Blade Pro 17, while still packing in superior hardware at a more affordable price point.

Keyboard and Touchpad

The keyboard layout of the ASUS Strix G17 is highly practical, with a full-size numpad key and additional keys for home, page up, and page down. The layout ensures convenience while typing and gaming, providing a seamless user experience. Moreover, the touchpad on this machine is smooth and responsive, allowing for accurate Cursor control. The only minor downside is that the top portion of the touchpad can be slightly harder to click.

Software and Fan Control

The ASUS Strix G17 comes with the ASUS Armory Crate software, which allows users to control fan profiles and lighting customization. The software's intuitive interface makes it easy to adjust fan settings, and it remains stable without crashes or glitches. The laptop offers four fan profiles: silent, performance, turbo, and manual. The manual profile allows users to fine-tune fan speeds and achieve optimal overclocking for the GPU.

Thermals and Performance

One of the standout features of the ASUS Strix G17 is its exceptional thermal performance. Thanks to the implementation of liquid metal cooling, the laptop maintains low temperatures even under heavy workloads. During gaming Sessions, the CPU and GPU temperatures stay below 75 degrees Celsius in most cases. This level of thermal management ensures stability and prolongs the lifespan of the components.

In terms of performance, the ASUS Strix G17 surpasses expectations. In benchmark tests like Cinebench R20 and R23, the laptop outperforms other laptops in the same price range by a significant margin. The Ryzen 9 5900 HX processor offers unmatched processing power, allowing for smooth multitasking, fast rendering, and high frame rates in games. Coupled with the RTX 3070 graphics card, the laptop delivers an immersive gaming experience with impressive visuals and smooth gameplay.

NVIDIA Optimus vs Mux Switch

One crucial aspect to consider is the use of NVIDIA Optimus technology in the ASUS Strix G17. While Optimus enhances battery life and prevents screen tearing through AMD FreeSync, it can slightly affect the performance of CPU-bound games. In certain scenarios, such as using higher resolutions like QHD or 4K, the impact of Optimus is minimized as games become more GPU-bound. However, if esports gaming is a priority and you require full GPU performance on the laptop's internal display, a laptop with a mux switch would be a better choice.

Downsides and Alternatives

Despite its outstanding features, the ASUS Strix G17 does have a few downsides. Firstly, the performance reduction caused by NVIDIA Optimus in CPU-bound games can be a drawback for some users. Secondly, the absence of a full-size SD card slot and Thunderbolt support may limit the laptop's connectivity options for certain users. Additionally, the lack of a built-in webcam in this era of video conferencing may be seen as a disadvantage. Lastly, the laptop comes with some pre-installed bloatware, which can be a bit disappointing.

However, there are viable alternatives available in this price range. The ASUS Zephyrus G15 offers a thinner and lighter design with a QHD 165Hz display, making it a great choice for those seeking portability without compromising on performance. Another alternative is the Aorus 15G, which comes with an RTX 3080 Max-Q graphics card and 32GB of RAM for an additional cost of $200. Both alternatives have their own unique strengths and may be better suited to individual preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ASUS Strix G17 stands out as an exceptional gaming laptop that combines powerful hardware, excellent thermal management, and competitive pricing. Its Ryzen 9 5900 HX processor, RTX 3070 graphics card, and high-refresh-rate display provide an immersive gaming experience. While the use of NVIDIA Optimus technology may slightly impact CPU-bound Game performance, the overall performance of this laptop surpasses that of more expensive alternatives in the market. If you are in search of a gaming laptop that offers great value for money without compromising on performance, the ASUS Strix G17 is definitely worth considering.

Highlights:

• Powerful Ryzen 9 5900 HX processor and RTX 3070 graphics
• Impressive thermal management with liquid metal cooling
• High-refresh-rate display and adaptive sync technology
• Spacious memory and storage options
• Portable and lightweight design for easy mobility
• Reliable keyboard and responsive touchpad
• Intuitive software for fan control and overclocking
• Excellent performance in gaming and multitasking
• NVIDIA Optimus technology for extended battery life
• Downsides: Reduced performance with NVIDIA Optimus, no full-size SD card slot or Thunderbolt support, absence of built-in webcam

FAQ:

Q: Can I overclock the ASUS Strix G17 even further? A: Out of the box, the laptop only allows for the ASUS overclock that is included with the system. However, the excellent thermal management of this laptop makes it capable of handling higher CPU loads. Attempting additional overclocking may require manual adjustments and careful monitoring.

Q: Does the ASUS Strix G17 support G-Sync? A: No, the ASUS Strix G17 utilizes AMD FreeSync technology instead of G-Sync. This allows for smoother gameplay and prevents screen tearing without the need for a G-Sync module. However, it is worth noting that G-Sync may still be preferred by some users due to its wider compatibility and broader support in games.

Q: Are there alternative laptops in a similar price range with similar performance? A: Yes, there are alternatives available in the market. The ASUS Zephyrus G15 is a thinner and lighter option with a QHD display, offering similar performance and portability. The Aorus 15G with an RTX 3080 Max-Q graphics card and 32GB of RAM is also worth considering if you are willing to invest an additional $200. Both alternatives have their own unique strengths and may be a better fit depending on individual preferences.

Resources:

• ASUS Strix G17 product page
• ASUS Zephyrus G15 product page
• Aorus 15G product page
• NVIDIA Optimus technology