Asus has taken the gaming laptop experience up a notch with the unveiling of the enhanced ROG Zephyrus G14 and G16 models at CES 2024. These devices have been a favourite among gamers for years, and the latest updates promise a thinner, faster, and more versatile gaming experience.
The 2024 models come with new aluminium builds, showcasing a sleeker design and a smaller hinge that adds a touch of sophistication. Notably, the laptops are thinner without compromising on thermals or usability, offering a winning combination of style and substance.
Both the G14 and G16 boast 16:10 OLED screens, providing vivid and crisp visuals that enhance the gaming experience. The G14 features a 2880 x 1800 resolution at 120Hz, while the G16 boasts a 2560 x 1600 resolution at an impressive 240Hz. However, the GPUs remain from the previous year’s class, with the G14 configurable up to an RTX 4070 and the G16 up to the RTX 4090.
| Model | Resolution | Refresh Rate | GPU Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| G14 | 2880 x 1800 | 120Hz | Up to RTX 4070 |
| G16 | 2560 x 1600 | 240Hz | Up to RTX 4090 |
The performance is set to receive a boost with new chips, ranging from AMD’s Ryzen 8000 series in the G14 to Intel’s Meteor Lake in the G16. Both laptops can be equipped with up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM, ensuring seamless multitasking during gaming and non-gaming tasks.
One of the notable upgrades is the introduction of a new six-speaker audio setup, even in the smaller 14-inch model. The keyboards have been improved for a better typing experience, and the trackpads, although slightly stiff, offer ample space for smooth navigation. The addition of customizable white lighting on the lids adds a touch of flair without being overly attention-grabbing.
The laptops maintain a generous port selection, catering to both gaming and everyday computing needs. The G14 and G16 come with USB 4, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, HDMI 2.1, 3.5mm audio jacks, and card slots, with some variations between the two models. Notably, a new fast-charging port with a reversible plug has been introduced, complementing the existing USB-C charging capabilities.
The redesign has led to thinner sizes without sacrificing usability. The G14 weighs in at just 3.31 pounds (1.5kg), while the G16 is a manageable 4.3 pounds (1.95kg) in its 4080 or 4090 configuration.
Early preview models of both the ROG Zephyrus G14 and Zephyrus G16 have shown impressive improvements in design and functionality. Gaming performance remains strong, and while the fans can get loud during graphics-intensive tasks, the overall tradeoff for the thin and light design seems justifiable.
Asus plans to launch these laptops in February, with final pricing yet to be disclosed. Given the promising features and design upgrades, the new ROG Zephyrus models are poised to make a significant impact in the gaming laptop market. Stay tuned for full reviews once these laptops hit the shelves.
In other Republic of Gamers updates, Asus is introducing more modest updates to the ROG Strix and Strix Scar models, set to launch later in January. The 2024 Strix and Strix Scar offer 16:10 QHD screens with 240Hz refresh rates, 14th Gen Intel processors up to the 14900HX, and Nvidia GPUs configurable up to an RTX 4080 or 4090. The higher-end Strix Scar starts at R54,999.99 for a 16-inch and R59,999.99 for the 18-inch, with customizable configurations potentially reaching prices upward of R76,000. Pricing for the ROG Strix is yet to be disclosed.
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