Following the launch of Intel’s new 8th-gen hexa core processors, we are seeing a wave of manufacturers releasing updates on their laptop lines.
ASUS released two new laptops today, both featuring the new i7-8750H chipset, which is also seen in the Gigabyte AERO 15.
The new Zephyrus M, which is under the ROG sub-brand, promises to deliver uncompromised performance. It sports a slightly different design from the original Zephyrus. As the “M” in the name might suggest, it opts for a more mobile friendly keyboard and trackpad layout.
It has a desktop-grade GTX 1070, which Nvidia now labels as the the 1070 P (P for Performance). This is to differentiate from the Max-Q versions commonly found in ultraportables.
To deal with the power-hungry GPU, ROG has implemented its Optimus technology, which allows the user to turn off the GPU completely on-the-fly, and using the Intel integrated graphics instead. This effectively prolongs the battery life, when performance from the discrete GPU is not needed.
Another exciting release is the new TUF product line from ASUS. TUF stands for The Ultimate Force, and there might be some who are familiar with this branding, as it has been around on its motherboard product line.
The new TUF FX504 seeks to be the entry level gaming system from ASUS, providing performance at an affordable price point. It prioritizes durability and stability as compared to the Zephyrus which aims for portability.
The design language is not new, and is very similar to what we see on the HP Omen or Lenovo Legion, with the black and red accents.
It uses the same i7-8750H processor, along with options for a GTX 1050 or 1050 Ti.
Both laptops feature the ASUS proprietary Anti-Dust Cooling (ADC) system, a feature that was only found in ROG systems before.
The ROG Zephyrus M will retail at a price tag of S$3,898 from early May, while the ASUS TUF Gaming FX504 will be retailing from S$1,598 starting 17th April, 2018. The FX504 can be pre-ordered starting today, and the first 50 pre-orders will receive S$30 in Steam credits. You can find both models after release at all ASUS brand stores and authorized retailers.
Timothy is a freelance photographer and fellow geek. His professional work spans many genres and he shoots on film for leisure.
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