TheGeekyThings continues reviews of the best gaming laptops in 2023. Today we talk about one of the ASUS ROG Series Laptops.
For those in pursuit of the best gaming laptops, look no further than the ASUS ROG series. Designed specifically for the most discerning gamers, these top-of-the-line laptops boast potent processors, high-performance graphics cards, and cutting-edge cooling systems – all packed into machines tailored for an unparalleled gaming experience.
ASUS has divided its ROG series into three primary subcategories: Zephyrus, Strix, and Flow.

• ROG Zephyrus laptops sport ultra-slim and lightweight designs, catering to gamers seeking power and portability in one sleek package.
• ROG Strix laptops offer a more traditional gaming laptop experience, delivering exceptional performance and value for your money.
• ROG Flow laptops are uniquely versatile 2-in-1 devices, functioning both as a laptop and a tablet for gamers on the go.

Regardless of which ROG series laptop you choose, each comes equipped with an array of gaming-focused features, including refresh rates reaching up to 360Hz, ROG laptops provide astoundingly smooth visuals and highly responsive gameplay. Outfitted with the latest premier processors and graphics cards from Intel and NVIDIA, these laptops ensure they can tackle even the most resource-intensive games. Innovative cooling systems of ROG laptops employ groundbreaking cooling solutions to maintain cool and quiet operation, even under intensive workloads.
From RGB lighting and customizable keyboard layouts to dedicated gaming keys, the ROG series truly embraces gaming aesthetics and functionality.

In today's review, we'll be delving into the impressive ASUS ROG Strix Scar 16, equipped with the Intel Core i9 CPU, 32 GB DDR5 memory, and the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card. Stay tuned for an analysis that will help you make an informed decision on the best gaming laptop in 2023.

This gaming laptop features a slim front profile that gradually expands towards the back, with eye-catching RGB lighting illuminating both its side and front panels. Additionally, the keyboard comes with customizable RGB backlighting, and several transparent keycaps to enhance the gaming vibe. Sporting a dark color scheme, the laptop ensures optimal airflow through a series of well-designed vents and openings at the base, styled in the iconic ROG fashion.

Equipped with a 16:10 aspect ratio display, this gaming laptop allows easy access to the screen with just one hand, providing up to 130° of flexibility while opening. The durable metal lid further complements the overall design, while the remaining frame is constructed of high-quality plastic.

A variety of connectivity options are situated on the left side of the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 laptop. The right side houses two standard USB Type-A ports, while the left side features a pair of versatile USB Type-C connections. Notably, one of these Type-C ports comes with Thunderbolt 4 compatibility, whereas the other supports DisplayPort and Power Delivery features. However, it's essential to mention that USB-C power delivery is capped at 100 watts and 20 volts.
Although the laptop's webcam only offers a modest 720p resolution, it's not a significant drawback considering the device's primary aim is to deliver a top-notch gaming experience.

Sporting a chiclet-style keyboard, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 offers a pleasing typing experience due to its 1.9 mm key travel depth and responsive feedback. One aspect that sets this keyboard apart is its similarity to those found on high-end gaming laptops, including RGB backlighting. Furthermore, several gaming-specific keys feature translucent surfaces for added distinction. Users will also benefit from a set of customizable keys situated above the standard keyboard layout, designed for assigning various gaming functions.

The generously sized touchpad ensures convenience and precision during use. You won't have to worry about it interfering with the keyboard, as its position is both user-friendly and non-intrusive. When using the touchpad, fingers glide effortlessly across its surface, resulting in highly accurate input and sensitivity.

Visual appeal is a crucial factor in selecting the best gaming laptop for 2023, and the ROG Strix Scar 16 16-inch QHD+ display does not disappoint. It boasts a 16:10 aspect ratio and a smooth 240 Hz refresh rate, making it an ideal choice for gamers. With a rapid 3 ms response time and adequate sRGB coverage, this laptop's display is well-suited for all gaming needs.
Considering noise levels and temperature management, the system provides different profiles that affect performance. Users choosing the Silent profile will experience substantially lower noise than those opting for Turbo, which generates more fan activity in exchange for increased power.

One noteworthy component of this gaming laptop is its inclusion of a 13th-generation Intel processor, "Raptor Lake." The tested Strix Scar 16 model utilized a powerful Core i9-13980HX, which is specifically engineered for high-performance laptops with efficient cooling systems with 2 big fans. Liquid metal is applied to both the CPU and GPU, and a third intake fan is added along with other premium features. With eight P-cores and 16 E-cores, it can handle 32 threads, making it a true powerhouse. The Core i9 integrated into the ROG Strix Scar 16 consistently shows impressive results in benchmark tests, solidifying its place as one of the best gaming laptops for 2023.

Currently one of the top-ranked gaming laptops on the market, this advanced model boasts an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card. The RTX 4080 GPU features 12 GB of GDDR6 video memory, ensuring smooth gameplay and high-quality visuals. This cutting-edge graphics processor is paired with an ingenious cooling system that sustains optimal heating levels, allowing for comfortable use even during prolonged periods of gaming.

Experience unrivaled performance with the ROG Strix Scar 16, which effortlessly delivers high frame rates in games at native QHD resolution. Advanced ray tracing technology is seamlessly integrated, enabling stunning realism and enhanced graphics to elevate your gaming experience.

The laptop features two front-facing, downward-directed speakers handling low and mid frequencies, while a pair of tweeters situated in the hinge area handle the high frequencies. The result is a spacious, high-quality sound with a well-rounded balance of mids and highs.
The impressive battery capacity of the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 16 allows for uninterrupted gaming sessions. Boasting a 90 W/Hrs battery capacity, the laptop offers over 9 hours of operation at a brightness of 150 cd/m2 - a truly outstanding accomplishment for a gaming laptop released in 2023.

The perfect balance between performance and cooling has been achieved by the inclusion of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 mobile graphics card in the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 16. Enjoy near-silent gameplay with the laptop's Silent profile mode, which provides an excellent frame rate and significantly reduced noise levels. In addition, take benefit of a bonus 3-month free XBOX GAME PASS ULTIMATE subscription to further elevate your gaming experience.

In conclusion, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 16 ranks as one of the best gaming laptops of 2023 thanks to its cutting-edge graphics, immersive audio, and exceptional battery life, making it the ideal choice for gamers.

Source: Asus