The gaming laptop market has been flooded with numerous impressive releases at CES 2024. From budget-friendly options to those with innovative liquid cooling systems, the choices seem endless. Among the crowd, however, stands out the redesigned Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 2024. While the Zephyrus G14 lineup has undergone changes in its specifications over the years, its overall design has remained relatively constant. Although the previous G14 model, released in 2023, was highly regarded as one of the best gaming laptops available, it is refreshing to see Asus take a step back to the drawing board for the new G14 in 2024. This newer model features a reduction in plastic components and an increase in metal, providing a more premium feel. Notably, the addition of new speakers on both sides of the keyboard promises improved audio quality. Although I was unable to test this feature in the noisy Asus booth, the company asserts that the new G14 is 252% louder than its predecessor with decent bass response, within reasonable limits.
One cannot help but admire the sleek appearance of the new G14 model. The AniMe Matrix lighting, a signature feature of previous G14 iterations, has been replaced by a more refined slash lighting. The reduction in lighting presence contributes to an overall more mature aesthetic. Furthermore, the use of an aluminum chassis with expanded coverage enhances durability and reduces flex, resulting in a laptop that feels sturdier and more comfortable to hold. Additionally, the touchpad now extends almost all the way to the edges, starting directly beneath the space bar without a top bezel. This change not only improves the visual appeal but also enhances the usability of the touchpad.
For now, there is only one available model: the GA403UI. However, it strikes a commendable balance in terms of specifications. Equipped with an RTX 4070 and Ryzen 9 8945HS, this configuration fulfills the requirements of most gamers in 2024. The size of this laptop does not necessitate the inclusion of an RTX 4090, and Asus made the right choice by opting for a more practical combination.
One notable change from the previous G14 model is the screen. Asus has now incorporated an OLED ROG Nebula Display, boasting a resolution of 2880 x 1800. With a 16:10 aspect ratio, the display provides a more immersive viewing experience than the standard 16:9 ratio. Additionally, the 120Hz refresh rate and 0.2ms response time (thanks to OLED technology) contribute to a smooth and responsive gaming experience. However, it is important to note that achieving the full potential of the display may require adjusting graphics settings, particularly when running graphically demanding games. Fortunately, features such as DLSS 3 and frame generation can assist in optimizing performance. To ensure seamless multitasking and storage capacity, the G14 offers 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe storage solution. The laptop also includes a multitude of connectivity options, catering to the needs of various users.
One of the reasons the G14 series has garnered a loyal following is its portability and extensive range of ports. The 2024 G14 retains this advantage, allowing users to connect multiple peripherals without compromise. The battery capacity remains consistent with the previous model at 76WHrs. Nevertheless, the overall weight of the laptop has been reduced by 12%, now weighing in at 1.5 Kg. Although I had limited hands-on experience with the G14, it appeared to strike a good balance between portability and performance. With its sleek design and lightweight build, the G14 is a highly portable gaming solution.
The redesigned Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 2024 presents a promising leap forward in the realm of gaming laptops. With its attention to detail and improved build quality, Asus has demonstrated its commitment to providing users with a premium gaming experience. While pricing details for this model are yet to be announced, it is unrealistic to expect it to maintain the affordability factor of its predecessor, the affordable hero amongst gaming laptops. Nonetheless, it is hoped that the G14 2024 will emerge as a more reasonably priced alternative to comparable offerings, such as the Razer Blade. As the release date draws near, gaming enthusiasts eagerly await the opportunity to experience the performance and allure of the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 2024 firsthand.
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