When delving into the realm of 18-inch gaming laptops, one often underestimates the sheer magnitude until it’s physically in front of them. The 2024 Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 epitomises this sentiment. Despite encountering numerous gaming laptops over the years, the sheer enormity of the Scar 18 never fails to astound me. Even after exhaustive testing and living with the laptop, its colossal presence continues to amaze.
Key Sections:
| Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 (2024) | |
| Dimensions | 0.91 x 11.57 x 15.71 inches |
| Weight | 6.83 pounds |
| Processor | Intel Core i9-14900HX |
| Graphics | Nvidia RTX 4090 laptop GPU |
| RAM | 32GB DDR5-5600 |
| Display | 16-inch 2,560 x 1,600, mini-LED, 240Hz |
| Storage | 2TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD |
| Touch | N/A |
| Ports | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 1x Thunderbolt 4, 1x 2.5G LAN port, 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x 3.5mm |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Webcam | 720p |
| Operating system | Windows 11 Pro |
| Battery | 90 watt-hour |
| Price | $3,900 |
Specifications:
- The Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 boasts flagship status, available in two configurations, each packed with potent hardware.
- With dimensions measuring 0.91 x 11.57 x 15.71 inches and weighing 6.83 pounds, it’s a substantial machine.
- Powered by an Intel Core i9-14900HX processor, Nvidia RTX 4090 GPU, 32GB DDR5-5600 RAM, and a 2TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD.
- Features a 16-inch 2,560 x 1,600 mini-LED display with a 240Hz refresh rate and a plethora of connectivity options.
Design:
- The Scar 18’s design is unmistakably robust and impractical for portability, embracing its role as a desktop replacement.
- Its 18-inch, 16:10 display necessitates a sizable frame, contributing to its imposing stature.
- Despite its plastic shell, the laptop’s build quality feels sturdy, although some improvements in screen support could enhance user experience.
- Noteworthy RGB lighting elements accentuate its gaming identity, adding flair to its design.
Ports:
- The laptop offers a commendable array of ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 2, Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and more.
- However, the distribution of ports could be more balanced, with most concentrated on one side, leading to potential cable clutter.
Keyboard and Trackpad:
- The keyboard impresses with its spacious layout, offering dedicated media keys and a number pad.
- The trackpad, while functional, leaves room for improvement in size considering the laptop’s ample dimensions.
Display:
- Boasting a mini-LED Nebula HDR display, the Scar 18 delivers outstanding visuals with impressive brightness and color accuracy.
- Its 1600p resolution, 240Hz refresh rate, and support for various HDR standards elevate the gaming and viewing experience.
Performance:
- The Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and Nvidia RTX 4090 GPU combine to deliver exceptional performance in both gaming and creative tasks.
- Despite its substantial power, the laptop maintains manageable noise levels during intense usage.
Battery Life:
- While not exceptional, the Scar 18 offers surprisingly decent battery life thanks to intelligent power management features.
Verdict:
- The Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 is a powerhouse that excels as a desktop replacement, offering top-tier performance and a stunning display.
- However, its exorbitant price and unwieldy size may limit its appeal to a niche audience seeking uncompromising performance and willing to overlook portability concerns.
Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 More Information
In summary, the 2024 Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 is a formidable gaming laptop that commands attention with its imposing presence and unrivalled performance, albeit with trade-offs in mobility and affordability.