ASUS has clearly been busy at Computex with even more product announcements. So let’s get started.
ZenBook Pro Series
ASUS announced the groundbreaking new ZenBook Pro Series, a family of high-performance Windows 10 laptops for professionals that introduces the futuristic new ScreenPad™— an ASUS innovation that revolutionizes the way users work and interact with their laptop.
ScreenPad cleverly combines a touchpad with a high-resolution, full-colour touchscreen to offer novel ways of interacting intelligently with both Windows apps and dedicated programs called ScreenPad Apps. Adaptive functions with context-sensitive tools enhance workflow and productivity, and ScreenPad is fully customizable to allow users to personalize their experience.
The new ZenBook Pro Series continues the all-conquering legacy of the ZenBook Pro family, offering class-leading performance in slim, lightweight and supremely elegant packages. Powered by up to the latest 8th Generation Intel Core processors with up to 16GB RAM, gaming-grade NVIDIA®discrete graphics, and the fastest PCIe®3.0 x4 SSDs, ZenBook Pro is designed to handle the most demanding tasks with ease. Comprehensive connectivity includes up to gigabit-class 802.11ac Wi-Fi, USB-C with Thunderbolt™3, USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A, and standard HDMI output.
ZenBook Pro Series laptops also feature face recognition and built-in support for Amazon Alexa Voice services,giving users new, smart ways to interact with their laptop. They can sign in effortlessly using just their face with Windows Hello, or enjoy hands-free control using Alexa’s voice recognition to get more done: hear the weather, listen to music, schedule appointments and more.
ZenBook Pro 15 with ScreenPad (UX580) is the first ScreenPad-enabled model in the series, featuring a 15-inch 4K UHD PANTONE®Validated display, up to an Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti graphics. The 14-inch ZenBook Pro 14 (UX480) will launch later in 2018, with up to the latest Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q graphics.
ZenBook Pro is designed for professional artists, designers, programmers, or any kind of creator who’s excited by new technology. ScreenPad also offers an exciting opportunity for developers to create new ScreenPad Apps or ways of integrating with desktop apps, delivering endless possibilities to users.
ScreenPad: Touch the future
ScreenPad is a Windows Precision Touchpad (PTP) combined with an interactive 5.5-inch FHD touchscreen that offers a revolutionary new way to work with a laptop. ScreenPad has helpful functions that can intelligently adapt to match whatever the user is doing, making it easier and quicker to multitask and get things done. A simple press of the F6 function key toggles ScreenPad between touchscreen mode and touchpad mode.
ScreenPad can be used in several different ways. Special dedicated ScreenPad Apps run within ScreenPad itself, with a variety of useful tools including Calculator, Music Player, NumKey and Launcher. Launcher allows users to open or switch between desktop apps via user-customizable shortcuts. NumKey turns ScreenPad into a handy numeric keypad for data entry. Screen Extender mode allows ScreenPad to be used as an extension to the main display, further aiding multitasking and productivity.
Selected desktop apps — at present limited to Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, but with other popular apps in the pipeline — offer even closer integration with ScreenPad, with adaptive menus and editing controls on ScreenPad that change automatically according to the app and what task is being performed. With ScreenPad, workflow efficiency is enhanced for better productivity.
Another innovative form of adaptive ScreenPad integration is via browser extensions, such as the ScreenPad YouTube Player for Chrome: this puts video playback controls for YouTube videos at the user’s fingertips.
Live updates ensure ScreenPad is always running the latest version, and new apps can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store. A ScreenPad SDK is available for developers wishing to create new apps and explore the endless possibilities of ScreenPad.
ZenBook Pro 15: Effortless performance
ZenBook Pro 15 is built to deliver the ultimate on-the-go performance for discerning professional users. It’s powered by up to the latest 8th Generation Intel Core i9 hexa-core processor, with up to 16GB of high-performance 2400Hz DDR4 RAM and up to a 1TB PCIe 3.0 x4 SSD that easily outperforms the PCIe x2 and SATA 3 SSDs used in rival laptops: its ultrafast performance lets ZenBook Pro 15 boot instantly and open apps in a heartbeat.
ZenBook Pro 15 uses up to the latest gaming-grade NVIDIA®GeForce®GTX 1050 Ti GPU for graphics performance that’s nearly twice as fast as a GeForce GTX 960M. This DirectX®12-compatible GPU delivers all the horsepower needed for even the most graphics-intensive tasks, such as 3D rendering or 4K UHD video playback, and flawless gaming visuals.
ZenBook Pro 15: Beauty that inspires
Elegance, sophistication and precision craftsmanship are the hallmarks of every ZenBook. The prestigious Deep Dive Blue and Rose Gold colour scheme chosen for ZenBook Pro 15 is luxuriously stylish without being brash, and for a discreetly indulgent finishing touch, there’s a gold keyboard backlight and lid logo.
The 15-inch NanoEdge 4K UHD ultraslim-bezel touchscreen on ZenBook Pro 15 is truly awe-inspiring, with pin-sharp detail and bright, vivid colours for more lifelike images. It’s gorgeous for everyday use, and the PANTONE® Validated colour rendering, built-in ASUS Calibration Technology for easy colour calibration and impressively low Delta-E value for super-accurate colours make it a dream for graphics professionals. Combined with the optional ASUS Pen, ZenBook Pro 15 really lets creativity flow.
As well as displaying beautiful true-to-life colours from almost any angle, the stunning NanoEdge display is the key to ZenBook Pro 15’s incredibly compact footprint. Its ultraslim bezel gives allows the maximum amount of screen real estate in the minimum space, making ZenBook Pro 15 comparable in size to many 14-inch laptops.
ZenBook Pro 15: Comprehensive connectivity
A comprehensive set of high-performance I/O ports — including two USB-C ports with the latest Thunderbolt™3, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports and an HDMI port — gives ZenBook Pro 15 the ultimate, hassle-free connectivity for versatile flexibility both in the office and on the road. The integrated gigabit-class dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi is capable of faster-than-wired speeds of up to 1734Mbps — 12 times faster than 802.11n — for smooth streaming of 4K UHD online videos, with greater range and more stable network connections.
ZenBook Pro 14 (UX480): Coming soon!
Later in 2018, ZenBook Pro 14 will join the ZenBook Pro family, offering breathtaking performance in an even more compact form factor with a stunning new design. It incorporates the unique ASUS ErgoLift hinge mechanism that automatically tilts the keyboard for more comfortable typing. Powered by up to the latest Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 MAX-Q graphics, ZenBook Pro 14 will also include support for Intel Optane™memory, a FHD NanoEdge display, an infrared camera for facial recognition and built-in support for Amazon Alexa voice-powered services.Detailed product specifications will be announced at launch.
TUF Gaming
The PC gaming renaissance is bringing a new generation of recruits into the ranks. They’re joining a community that’s increasingly diverse and frequently unfamiliar with the intricacies of building a complete rig. TUF Gaming aims to make the process more approachable by smoothing out the wrinkles in the DIY experience. Designed for gamers seeking stability and performance at an affordable price, it focuses on delivering durable gear that can survive the rigors of punishing play now and still deliver reliability in the future.
TUF Gaming takes battle-hardened aesthetics in a forward direction. Although it started with motherboards, the family is expanding to peripherals and other components that embrace the same style, making it easier than ever to assemble a cohesive gaming setup. All-new additions include the TUF Gaming M5 mouse, K5 keyboard, H5 headset, and GT501 chassis developed by our own internal teams, plus an array of components produced by TUF Gaming Alliance partners. Complete systems like the TUF Gaming FX10CP desktop and FX504 laptop are also beginning to spread TUF Gaming values to machines that get users in the game right out of the box.
Any rig is incomplete without parts from the TUF Gaming Alliance
The TUF Gaming Alliance is assembling an army of components made by like-minded partners. Our initial focus has been on maintaining an aesthetic theme across a broader array of the parts that make up a PC. Matching memory modules, coolers, cases, and one PSU are available now, with more on the way in each category. Products are already selling or in the works from a who’s-who of industry heavyweights that includes Antec, Apacer, Ballistix, Cooler Master, Corsair, Deepcool, Enermax, G.Skill, GeIL, In Win, Scythe, Silver Stone, Team Group, and XPG.
Beyond mandating consistent cosmetics, the TUF Gaming Alliance establishes new standards for stability that go beyond our usual vendor validation procedures. DRAM compatibility has long been a problem area, because some modules are pushed so close to the edge that they’re sensitive to minor frequency and voltage fluctuations that occur in the real world. We account for these normal variances with stricter DRAM testing that stresses modules with their clock speed raised and voltage lowered, plus the memory must survive 24 hours of Memtest in a thermal chamber cranked up to a sweltering 50°C.
Environmental conditions affect power delivery, so PSUs must endure their own torture test in the heat locker. They’re qualified at an even higher temperature and also face a steamy 90% humidity level throughout testing. We’re currently exploring other ways to not only guarantee stability, but also more deeply integrate products in the TUF Gaming Alliance.
VivoBook S14 & S15
ASUS announced VivoBook S15 (S530) and S14 (S430), a pair of stylish and lightweight Windows 10 laptops designed for the young, and the young at heart.
Both laptops feature bold colour-blocking designs, with five vibrant colour options and several textured finishes that let users fully express their personalities. The ErgoLift hinge replicates the feel of typing on a desktop keyboard for more comfortable typing, while the new three-sided NanoEdge display design provides an immersive viewing experience. S15 and S14 are powered by up to an 8th Generation Intel®Core™i7 processor, with NVIDIA®GeForce®MX150 discrete graphics. Both laptops feature dual-storage designs, with VivoBook S15 featuring up to a 512GB SSD and 2TB HDD.
Bold is beautiful
VivoBook S15 and S14 have done away with boring laptop colours, opting instead for striking hues that catch the eye. ASUS designers have added a dash of style and personality to personal computing, adopting a colour-blocking approach by pairing bright and bold colours for laptops that visually pop. These laptops are available in Firmament Green, Star Grey, Silver Blue, Gun Metal, and Icicle Gold. Firmament Green features a textured woven finish surrounding the keyboard, while Icicle Gold sports a brushed finish with diamond-inspired motifs. In addition to their colour-blocking designs, S15 and S14 feature the innovative ErgoLift hinge to make long typing stints more comfortable. This unique design automatically tilts the keyboard by 3.5° when the laptop is opened to create the familiar feel of a desktop keyboard. The hinge also opens up extra ventilation space for more airflow around the underside of the chassisfor improved cooling.
NanoEdge display for unrivaled immersion
VivoBook S15 and S14 are the first in the VivoBook Series to feature the new three-sided NanoEdge design that has even narrower bezels along the top and sides of the display. This gives S15 an 86% screen-to-body ratio, and S14 an 84% screen-to-body ratio for unrivaled immersion in a much more compact package. The panels also feature wide-view technology and exceptional colour reproduction for lifelike visuals even when viewed from extreme positions.
The extremely portable S15 and S14 are smaller than other laptops in their class, with profiles that taper to just 18mm at their thinnest point. The 15.6-inch S15 weighs only 1.8kg, while the 14-inch S14 has an overall weight of 1.4kg. Both laptops can easily slip into a messenger bag or backpack.
All-round performance
VivoBook S15 and S14 are powered by up to 8th Generation Intel Core i7 processors with 16GB RAM and NVIDIA GeForce MX150 discrete graphics to make light work of multitasking, multimedia editing, or casual gaming. S15 has a dual-storage design that provides users with the blistering data speeds of its up to 512GB SSD, and a large capacity 2TB HDD.
For uncompromising wireless connectivity, the new and exclusive ASUS Wi-Fi Master technology reduces interference to ensure faster and more reliable dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi connections at extreme distances. Its top speed of up to 867Mbps is 6X faster than 02.11n for seamless video-streaming, smooth web-surfing and lag-free gaming.
Convenient computing
Accessing VivoBook has never been easier or more secure. An optional fingerprint sensor built into the touchpad provides one-touch access with Windows Hello. VivoBook S15 has a full-size keyboard that perfect for working in dim environments. It’s ergonomically designed with a sturdy one-piece construction and 1.4mm key travel for a comfortable typing experience.
S15 and S14 offer comprehensive connectivity, including the reversible USB Type-C™(USB-C™) port with the any-way-up design to make connecting devices as easy as possible. USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 delivers data transfer speeds that are up to 10X faster[ii]than older USB 2.0 connections. In addition, these laptops also feature USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A and USB 2.0 ports, HDMI output, and a microSD card reader for hassle-free compatibility with current peripherals, displays, and projectors.
All VivoBooks now feature a high-quality battery with all-day battery life and a lifespan that’s up to 3X-longer than standard lithium-ion batteries. Fast-charge technology enables users to charge a low battery to 60% in as little as 49 minutes. Integrated ASUS Battery Health Charging technology also makes for a safer charging experience, with measures designed to decrease the battery expansion rate during charging to help ensure the battery stays in good condition.
VivoBook Flip 14
ASUS today announced VivoBook Flip 14 (TP412), a stylish new addition to the VivoBook Flip Series of convertible Windows 10 laptops featuring a 360°-flippable display that allows this versatile device to be used in laptop, stand, tent and tablet modes — or anything in between.
VivoBook Flip 14 features an ASUS NanoEdge touchscreen with a 6.15mm-thin bezel for more immersive viewing. Powered by up to an 8th Generation Intel®Core™i7 processor with 16GB memory for powerful and energy-efficient performance, VivoBook Flip 14 is also equipped with up to a 1TB SSD and a touchpad-mounted fingerprint sensor for one-touch login via Windows Hello. VivoBook Flip 14 also supports the ASUS Pen active stylus for accurate input and writing with a natural, responsive feel.
Stylish aluminum chassis with a high-quality stepless hinge
VivoBook Flip 14 is one of the most portable 14-inch convertible laptops available thanks to its slim 17.6mm profile and overall weight of just 1.5kg. Its aluminum chassis is finished in a choice of two stylish colours: Star Grey and Galaxy Blue.
To ensure ultimate durability, the precision-engineered stepless 360° metal hinge on VivoBook Flip 14 has been subjected to 20,000-cycle open-and-close tests. This gives users the flexibility of working in laptop mode, and then flipping into tent mode to share ideas with colleagues. They can watch movies hands-free by switching to stand mode. VivoBook Flip 14 can be instantly flipped into the handy tablet mode, too.
NanoEdge display
The NanoEdge touchscreen on VivoBook Flip 14 has an ultraslim 6.15mm bezel, resulting in an 82% screen-to-body ratio and a larger screen area for more immersive viewing. The NanoEdge design enables ASUS engineers to fit a 14-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) display into a chassis the same size as a typical 13-inch laptop. It features 178˚ wide-view technology to ensure that colours and contrast remain vivid and bold, even when viewed at sharp angles. This makes it the perfect solution for sharing content with friends and colleagues.
Geared for productivity and entertainment
VivoBook Flip 14 is powered by up to an 8th Generation Intel Core i7 processor with 16GB memory for powerful, energy-efficient performance. A 1TB SSD gives users the capacity for storing files, photo albums and media libraries, plus faster data speeds. In addition, exclusive ASUS SonicMaster audio technology combines precision-crafted hardware with software tuning for truly immersive sound.
Integrated fingerprint sensor and ASUS Pen support
VivoBook Flip 14 features a touchpad with an optional integrated fingerprint sensor, featuring Windows Hello support for one-touch Windows login. The touchscreen is compatible with the ASUS Pen active stylus, enabling users to write effortlessly and draw just like they would on paper, notebook or canvas, and VivoBook Flip 14 also features a keyboard with full-size backlit keys and ambient-light control, so users can stay productive even in dark environments. In addition, VivoBook Flip 14 features Cortana with far-field technology, allowing users to access Cortana even when they’re up to four meters away from the laptop.
ZenBook S
ASUS announced ZenBook S (UX391), a premium 13.3-inch ultraportable Windows 10 laptop that not only delivers effortless portability, powerful performance and no-compromise connectivity for discerning on-the-go users, but is also tested to meet military-grade MIL-STD-810G durability standards. This remarkable laptop has been honored at Computex 2018 with the Best Choice of the Year Award, a Best Choice Golden Award and a Computex d&i award.
With an ultrathin 12.9mm profile and ultralight 1kg all-metal unibody, the sophisticated ZenBook S is finished in prestigious Deep Dive Blue or elegant Burgundy Red with Rose Gold diamond-cut edges, complete with the iconic Zen-inspired spun-metal finish for a luxurious look and feel.
ZenBook S incorporates the innovative new ErgoLift hinge that automatically tilts the keyboard by 5.5° for the ultimate typing comfort: the raised chassis also improves airflow and enhances audio performance.
Powered by 8th Generation Intel®Core™processors and a superfast PCIe®x4 SSD, ZenBook S also features up to a 4K UHD NanoEdge touchscreen, and delivers up to 13.5 hours battery life for all-day performance. For ultrafast connectivity, two of the three USB Type-C™(USB-C™) ports support Thunderbolt™3. ZenBook S features Amazon Alexa support for easy voice-controlled assistance.
The ultimate ultraportable
Seasoned travelers will appreciate the way ZenBook S, with its 12.9mm-thin, 1kg-light all-metal unibody, slips effortlessly into any bag. The NanoEdge slim-bezel display and premium materials allow the reduction of every dimension and weight to the minimum, creating a masterpiece of ultraportable design.
ZenBook S introduces two prestigious new colour options, each complemented by contrasting diamond-cut Rose Gold edge highlights created using a two-phase anodizing process that’s normally reserved for jewelry or luxury timepieces. Inspired by the magical moment at dawn when the golden rays of the sun first illuminate the ink-blue sky, the luscious Deep Dive Blue finish gives ZenBook S a sublime, understated beauty. The distinctive and supremely elegant Burgundy Red colour reflects the breathtaking beauty of a sky turned deep red at sunset: it’s an awe-inspiring modern shade that reflects passion, sophistication, and individuality. Both colour options feature the iconic Zen-inspired spun-metal finish on the lid, a design feature that’s created using a complex 40-step manufacturing process, and which is exclusive to the ZenBook Series.
ZenBook S is not only sophisticated and elegant, but it’s incredibly tough too: it meets the ultra-demanding MIL-STD 810G military standard for reliability and durability, undergoing a punishing test regime that includes extended tests for operation in harsh environments including extreme altitudes, temperatures and humidity. It has also passed ASUS internal laptop tests that far exceed the standards set by the industry.
Designed for ultimate comfort
For outstanding ergonomics, ZenBook S incorporates the new ErgoLift hinge mechanism, an innovative design that raises and tilts the keyboard by 5.5° — the optimum angle for comfortable typing. With a maximum opening angle of 145°, ZenBook S opens wider than most laptops too, so users have more freedom to choose the best screen angle. And when ZenBook S is closed, the ErgoLift mechanism is completely hidden, so it doesn’t affect the sleek profile.
When the ErgoLift hinge mechanism tilts the keyboard, it also creates an important extra ventilation space that allows more airflow around the underside of the chassis. With this improved ventilation, ZenBook S keeps its cool even when under heavy load.
The extra space underneath ZenBook S created by the ErgoLift hinge has yet another benefit: it allows the powerful Harmon Kardon audio system to work at its best, delivering clearer sound with improved bass response.
All-day performance
ZenBook S is built to get things done as quickly and efficiently as possible, with no fuss or drama. The latest up to 8th Gen Intel®Core™i7 processor, up to 16GB of fast 2133MHz LPDDR3 RAM and up to a 1TB PCIe®3.0 x4 SSD allow users to enjoy smooth and responsive performance whatever they’re doing. For maximum sustained performance, ZenBook S uses an uprated cooling system incorporating state-of-the-art components, including an innovative liquid-crystal-polymer fan impeller with 71 blades — an increase of 40% over previous designs — housed in an advanced 3D-curved aerodynamic shroud that can move 13.4% more air than before. With this cooling system, ZenBook S runs up to 5°C cooler than previous ZenBook models.
A laptop as beautiful as ZenBook S deserves equally beautiful visuals, so it’s fitted with an up to 4K UHD NanoEdge touchscreen with a wide 72% NTSC colour gamut for breathtakingly-lifelike colours and detail. The bezel width has been slimmed even further — to just 5.9mm — to give an amazing 85% screen-to-body ratio for even more immersive visuals.
For all-working-day autonomy, ZenBook S uses a high-capacity battery that lasts up to 13.5 hours2, with fast-charge technology that recharges a flat battery to 60% capacity in as little as 49 minutes.
No-compromise connectivity is essential in an ultraportable laptop. ZenBook S delivers the ultimate speed of Thunderbolt 3 in two of its three USB-C ports, and all three ports support fast charging, data transfers and display connectivity. And for desktop-grade connectivity, users can simply connect the handy ASUS Mini Dock[v].
Amazon Alexa is a cloud-based voice service that helps users with tasks, entertainment, general information, and more. Using Alexa is as simple as asking a question. Just ask to play music, read the news, control a smart home, tell a joke, and more —Alexa will respond instantly.
ROG Laptops
ASUSRepublic of Gamers (ROG) today announced Strix SCAR II and Hero II, follow-ups to the successful esports gaming laptops built exclusively for FPS and MOBA titles.
These powerful gaming laptops have an all-new compact design and front light bar with customizable Aura Sync lighting. Both laptops feature the world’s first 144Hz super-narrow-bezel display with an ultrafast 3ms grey-to-grey (GTG) response time, a HyperStrike Pro gaming keyboard for improved control, and HyperCool Pro technology to cool their high-performance CPU and GPU. They are also the world’s first laptops to feature multi-antenna Wi-Fi for improved connectivity.
Super-narrow-bezel display with 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms GTG time
For maximum advantage in fast-paced games, Strix SCAR II and Hero II boast the world’s first 144Hz super-narrow-bezel display with an ultrafast 3ms GTG response time. This new design results in less distracting frame, so chassis dimensions can be reduced to a minimum — both these laptops are 2.33cm narrower than their predecessors, but don’t sacrifice precious screen space. They are lighter, too, with an overall weight of just 2.4kg for gaming on the go. A unique rubber frame surrounds the display to protect it from damage when the lid is closed, it also visually enhances the slimness of the bezel for a more immersive feel. The 144Hz panel and 3ms response time ensures supersmooth and clear visuals, allowing gamers to react instantly and precisely to what’s happening in-game.
Gaming keyboard with HyperStrike Pro technology
Both Strix SCAR II and Hero II feature a gaming keyboard with HyperStrike Pro technology for decisive command and control. The keyboard has a desktop-inspired layout, including four hotkeys, customizable Aura Sync-compatible RGB backlighting across four zones, and ergonomically-designed keys with 0.25mm-deep keycap curves.
Exclusive ROG Overstroke technology enables earlier key actuation, and has a longer overstroke distance for fast, accurate and effortless keystrokes. The keyboard has specially-highlighted WASD (for SCAR II) or QWER (for Hero II) key groups with transparent key caps, and N-key rollover technology. The keyboard is durable, too, with a 20-million-key-press lifespan.
ROG RangeBoost technology for zero dead spots
SCAR II and Hero II are the world’s first gaming laptops to feature multi-antenna Wi-Fi for more stable online gaming. Patented ROG RangeBoost technology uses a combination of four antennas — located at the front and back of the laptop — with a unique algorithm that constantly scans and selects the best pair of antennas to cover dead spots, resulting in 30%-wider coverage than dual-antenna configurations. The latest 802.11ac Wave 2 Wi-Fi standard delivers speeds of up to 1.7Gbps – twice that of 802.11ac 2×2 and 12x that of 802.11b/g/n.
Geared for gaming
The new Strix gaming laptops are powered by up to the latest 8th Generation Intel®Core™processor with up to 32GB of DDR4 2666MHz memory, and a choice of either NVIDIA®GeForce®GTX 1060 or GTX 1070 graphics. For storage, it can be specified with up to a 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe®3.0 x4 and a 1TB Seagate®FireCuda™solid-state hybrid drive (SSHD).
The 8th Generation Intel Core i7-8750H six-core CPU is 23% more powerful than previous-generation processors. Intel Speed Shift and Turbo Boost technologies also push the processor to speeds of up to 4GHz (four-core) and 3.9GHz (six-core) respectively. Intel Hyper-Threading enables up to 12 threads to handle every task quickly and efficiently, including simultaneous gaming, recording, and live-streaming. In addition, there’s also up to 32GB of DDR4 2666MHz dual-channel memory for faster processing speeds and lower power consumption.
The 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 x4 SSD offers a potential bandwidth of up to 32Gbps so everything feels fast and smooth. When used as primary storage or as a secondary drive to support the SSD, the 5400rpm FireCuda SSHD loads games in less than half the time taken by the 1TB 7200rpm HDDs — and it’s quieter, too. The SSHD takes note of the most frequently used files, and caches them onto its onboard flash memory for faster file access speeds.
Extreme cooling with HyperCool Pro
The HyperCool Pro thermal system provides the cooling performance to get the most out of the laptop’s high-performance CPU and GPU. An extended cooling plate soaks up heat and spreads it evenly to avoid thermal throttling and keep chipset power components below 90°C, while two high-performance 12V fans deliver stronger airflow and increased air pressure to cool the CPU and GPU and drive hot air out of the chassis.
HyperCool Pro also incorporates the patented Anti-Dust Cooling (ADC) system, which uses centrifugal force to expel dust particles and dirt out of the chassis. This prevents build-up on the heatsink fins and ensures a stable gaming experience. There’s less noise too, since the fans aren’t overworked. The special copper cooling fins are just 0.1mm thin — half the thickness of regular fins. This increases the surface area for heat dissipation by up to 10%, and reduces air resistance by 7%.
Normal laptop lid designs could block airflow out of the chassis which could, in some instances, cause overheating. The patented trapezoid-cut lid improves thermal efficiency by up to 27% over traditional designs.
The Overboost app, accessible by pressing FN + F5 or via the Gaming Center hotkey, can be used to select three different fan settings. Fan Overboost provides the fastest fan speed to fully exploit the power of Strix SCAR II and Hero II during intense gaming. Silent mode curbs fan speed and power consumption for less demanding tasks. A balanced mode delivers stable fan performance at a moderate noise level.
Clearer, louder audio
Both laptops deliver clearer, louder, and more accurate audio via powerful side-firing speakers that provide immersive sound. Smart-amplifier technology monitors audio output and makes real-time adjustments, with audio output up to 200% louder than before, with increased dynamic range and bass. Sonic Studio III provides high quality in-game audio, surround sound for headphones, as well as improved streaming and audio recording for perfect voice pickup and noise reduction.
Watch for these items to appear at your local retailer soon.
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ASUS Announced Even More Stuff At Computex
ASUS has clearly been busy at Computex with even more product announcements. So let’s get started.
ZenBook Pro Series
ASUS announced the groundbreaking new ZenBook Pro Series, a family of high-performance Windows 10 laptops for professionals that introduces the futuristic new ScreenPad™— an ASUS innovation that revolutionizes the way users work and interact with their laptop.
ScreenPad cleverly combines a touchpad with a high-resolution, full-colour touchscreen to offer novel ways of interacting intelligently with both Windows apps and dedicated programs called ScreenPad Apps. Adaptive functions with context-sensitive tools enhance workflow and productivity, and ScreenPad is fully customizable to allow users to personalize their experience.
The new ZenBook Pro Series continues the all-conquering legacy of the ZenBook Pro family, offering class-leading performance in slim, lightweight and supremely elegant packages. Powered by up to the latest 8th Generation Intel Core processors with up to 16GB RAM, gaming-grade NVIDIA®discrete graphics, and the fastest PCIe®3.0 x4 SSDs, ZenBook Pro is designed to handle the most demanding tasks with ease. Comprehensive connectivity includes up to gigabit-class 802.11ac Wi-Fi, USB-C with Thunderbolt™3, USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A, and standard HDMI output.
ZenBook Pro Series laptops also feature face recognition and built-in support for Amazon Alexa Voice services,giving users new, smart ways to interact with their laptop. They can sign in effortlessly using just their face with Windows Hello, or enjoy hands-free control using Alexa’s voice recognition to get more done: hear the weather, listen to music, schedule appointments and more.
ZenBook Pro 15 with ScreenPad (UX580) is the first ScreenPad-enabled model in the series, featuring a 15-inch 4K UHD PANTONE®Validated display, up to an Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti graphics. The 14-inch ZenBook Pro 14 (UX480) will launch later in 2018, with up to the latest Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q graphics.
ZenBook Pro is designed for professional artists, designers, programmers, or any kind of creator who’s excited by new technology. ScreenPad also offers an exciting opportunity for developers to create new ScreenPad Apps or ways of integrating with desktop apps, delivering endless possibilities to users.
ScreenPad: Touch the future
ScreenPad is a Windows Precision Touchpad (PTP) combined with an interactive 5.5-inch FHD touchscreen that offers a revolutionary new way to work with a laptop. ScreenPad has helpful functions that can intelligently adapt to match whatever the user is doing, making it easier and quicker to multitask and get things done. A simple press of the F6 function key toggles ScreenPad between touchscreen mode and touchpad mode.
ScreenPad can be used in several different ways. Special dedicated ScreenPad Apps run within ScreenPad itself, with a variety of useful tools including Calculator, Music Player, NumKey and Launcher. Launcher allows users to open or switch between desktop apps via user-customizable shortcuts. NumKey turns ScreenPad into a handy numeric keypad for data entry. Screen Extender mode allows ScreenPad to be used as an extension to the main display, further aiding multitasking and productivity.
Selected desktop apps — at present limited to Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, but with other popular apps in the pipeline — offer even closer integration with ScreenPad, with adaptive menus and editing controls on ScreenPad that change automatically according to the app and what task is being performed. With ScreenPad, workflow efficiency is enhanced for better productivity.
Another innovative form of adaptive ScreenPad integration is via browser extensions, such as the ScreenPad YouTube Player for Chrome: this puts video playback controls for YouTube videos at the user’s fingertips.
Live updates ensure ScreenPad is always running the latest version, and new apps can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store. A ScreenPad SDK is available for developers wishing to create new apps and explore the endless possibilities of ScreenPad.
ZenBook Pro 15: Effortless performance
ZenBook Pro 15 is built to deliver the ultimate on-the-go performance for discerning professional users. It’s powered by up to the latest 8th Generation Intel Core i9 hexa-core processor, with up to 16GB of high-performance 2400Hz DDR4 RAM and up to a 1TB PCIe 3.0 x4 SSD that easily outperforms the PCIe x2 and SATA 3 SSDs used in rival laptops: its ultrafast performance lets ZenBook Pro 15 boot instantly and open apps in a heartbeat.
ZenBook Pro 15 uses up to the latest gaming-grade NVIDIA®GeForce®GTX 1050 Ti GPU for graphics performance that’s nearly twice as fast as a GeForce GTX 960M. This DirectX®12-compatible GPU delivers all the horsepower needed for even the most graphics-intensive tasks, such as 3D rendering or 4K UHD video playback, and flawless gaming visuals.
ZenBook Pro 15: Beauty that inspires
Elegance, sophistication and precision craftsmanship are the hallmarks of every ZenBook. The prestigious Deep Dive Blue and Rose Gold colour scheme chosen for ZenBook Pro 15 is luxuriously stylish without being brash, and for a discreetly indulgent finishing touch, there’s a gold keyboard backlight and lid logo.
The 15-inch NanoEdge 4K UHD ultraslim-bezel touchscreen on ZenBook Pro 15 is truly awe-inspiring, with pin-sharp detail and bright, vivid colours for more lifelike images. It’s gorgeous for everyday use, and the PANTONE® Validated colour rendering, built-in ASUS Calibration Technology for easy colour calibration and impressively low Delta-E value for super-accurate colours make it a dream for graphics professionals. Combined with the optional ASUS Pen, ZenBook Pro 15 really lets creativity flow.
As well as displaying beautiful true-to-life colours from almost any angle, the stunning NanoEdge display is the key to ZenBook Pro 15’s incredibly compact footprint. Its ultraslim bezel gives allows the maximum amount of screen real estate in the minimum space, making ZenBook Pro 15 comparable in size to many 14-inch laptops.
ZenBook Pro 15: Comprehensive connectivity
A comprehensive set of high-performance I/O ports — including two USB-C ports with the latest Thunderbolt™3, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports and an HDMI port — gives ZenBook Pro 15 the ultimate, hassle-free connectivity for versatile flexibility both in the office and on the road. The integrated gigabit-class dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi is capable of faster-than-wired speeds of up to 1734Mbps — 12 times faster than 802.11n — for smooth streaming of 4K UHD online videos, with greater range and more stable network connections.
ZenBook Pro 14 (UX480): Coming soon!
Later in 2018, ZenBook Pro 14 will join the ZenBook Pro family, offering breathtaking performance in an even more compact form factor with a stunning new design. It incorporates the unique ASUS ErgoLift hinge mechanism that automatically tilts the keyboard for more comfortable typing. Powered by up to the latest Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 MAX-Q graphics, ZenBook Pro 14 will also include support for Intel Optane™memory, a FHD NanoEdge display, an infrared camera for facial recognition and built-in support for Amazon Alexa voice-powered services.Detailed product specifications will be announced at launch.
TUF Gaming
The PC gaming renaissance is bringing a new generation of recruits into the ranks. They’re joining a community that’s increasingly diverse and frequently unfamiliar with the intricacies of building a complete rig. TUF Gaming aims to make the process more approachable by smoothing out the wrinkles in the DIY experience. Designed for gamers seeking stability and performance at an affordable price, it focuses on delivering durable gear that can survive the rigors of punishing play now and still deliver reliability in the future.
TUF Gaming takes battle-hardened aesthetics in a forward direction. Although it started with motherboards, the family is expanding to peripherals and other components that embrace the same style, making it easier than ever to assemble a cohesive gaming setup. All-new additions include the TUF Gaming M5 mouse, K5 keyboard, H5 headset, and GT501 chassis developed by our own internal teams, plus an array of components produced by TUF Gaming Alliance partners. Complete systems like the TUF Gaming FX10CP desktop and FX504 laptop are also beginning to spread TUF Gaming values to machines that get users in the game right out of the box.
Any rig is incomplete without parts from the TUF Gaming Alliance
The TUF Gaming Alliance is assembling an army of components made by like-minded partners. Our initial focus has been on maintaining an aesthetic theme across a broader array of the parts that make up a PC. Matching memory modules, coolers, cases, and one PSU are available now, with more on the way in each category. Products are already selling or in the works from a who’s-who of industry heavyweights that includes Antec, Apacer, Ballistix, Cooler Master, Corsair, Deepcool, Enermax, G.Skill, GeIL, In Win, Scythe, Silver Stone, Team Group, and XPG.
Beyond mandating consistent cosmetics, the TUF Gaming Alliance establishes new standards for stability that go beyond our usual vendor validation procedures. DRAM compatibility has long been a problem area, because some modules are pushed so close to the edge that they’re sensitive to minor frequency and voltage fluctuations that occur in the real world. We account for these normal variances with stricter DRAM testing that stresses modules with their clock speed raised and voltage lowered, plus the memory must survive 24 hours of Memtest in a thermal chamber cranked up to a sweltering 50°C.
Environmental conditions affect power delivery, so PSUs must endure their own torture test in the heat locker. They’re qualified at an even higher temperature and also face a steamy 90% humidity level throughout testing. We’re currently exploring other ways to not only guarantee stability, but also more deeply integrate products in the TUF Gaming Alliance.
VivoBook S14 & S15
ASUS announced VivoBook S15 (S530) and S14 (S430), a pair of stylish and lightweight Windows 10 laptops designed for the young, and the young at heart.
Both laptops feature bold colour-blocking designs, with five vibrant colour options and several textured finishes that let users fully express their personalities. The ErgoLift hinge replicates the feel of typing on a desktop keyboard for more comfortable typing, while the new three-sided NanoEdge display design provides an immersive viewing experience. S15 and S14 are powered by up to an 8th Generation Intel®Core™i7 processor, with NVIDIA®GeForce®MX150 discrete graphics. Both laptops feature dual-storage designs, with VivoBook S15 featuring up to a 512GB SSD and 2TB HDD.
Bold is beautiful
VivoBook S15 and S14 have done away with boring laptop colours, opting instead for striking hues that catch the eye. ASUS designers have added a dash of style and personality to personal computing, adopting a colour-blocking approach by pairing bright and bold colours for laptops that visually pop. These laptops are available in Firmament Green, Star Grey, Silver Blue, Gun Metal, and Icicle Gold. Firmament Green features a textured woven finish surrounding the keyboard, while Icicle Gold sports a brushed finish with diamond-inspired motifs. In addition to their colour-blocking designs, S15 and S14 feature the innovative ErgoLift hinge to make long typing stints more comfortable. This unique design automatically tilts the keyboard by 3.5° when the laptop is opened to create the familiar feel of a desktop keyboard. The hinge also opens up extra ventilation space for more airflow around the underside of the chassisfor improved cooling.
NanoEdge display for unrivaled immersion
VivoBook S15 and S14 are the first in the VivoBook Series to feature the new three-sided NanoEdge design that has even narrower bezels along the top and sides of the display. This gives S15 an 86% screen-to-body ratio, and S14 an 84% screen-to-body ratio for unrivaled immersion in a much more compact package. The panels also feature wide-view technology and exceptional colour reproduction for lifelike visuals even when viewed from extreme positions.
The extremely portable S15 and S14 are smaller than other laptops in their class, with profiles that taper to just 18mm at their thinnest point. The 15.6-inch S15 weighs only 1.8kg, while the 14-inch S14 has an overall weight of 1.4kg. Both laptops can easily slip into a messenger bag or backpack.
All-round performance
VivoBook S15 and S14 are powered by up to 8th Generation Intel Core i7 processors with 16GB RAM and NVIDIA GeForce MX150 discrete graphics to make light work of multitasking, multimedia editing, or casual gaming. S15 has a dual-storage design that provides users with the blistering data speeds of its up to 512GB SSD, and a large capacity 2TB HDD.
For uncompromising wireless connectivity, the new and exclusive ASUS Wi-Fi Master technology reduces interference to ensure faster and more reliable dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi connections at extreme distances. Its top speed of up to 867Mbps is 6X faster than 02.11n for seamless video-streaming, smooth web-surfing and lag-free gaming.
Convenient computing
Accessing VivoBook has never been easier or more secure. An optional fingerprint sensor built into the touchpad provides one-touch access with Windows Hello. VivoBook S15 has a full-size keyboard that perfect for working in dim environments. It’s ergonomically designed with a sturdy one-piece construction and 1.4mm key travel for a comfortable typing experience.
S15 and S14 offer comprehensive connectivity, including the reversible USB Type-C™(USB-C™) port with the any-way-up design to make connecting devices as easy as possible. USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 delivers data transfer speeds that are up to 10X faster[ii]than older USB 2.0 connections. In addition, these laptops also feature USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A and USB 2.0 ports, HDMI output, and a microSD card reader for hassle-free compatibility with current peripherals, displays, and projectors.
All VivoBooks now feature a high-quality battery with all-day battery life and a lifespan that’s up to 3X-longer than standard lithium-ion batteries. Fast-charge technology enables users to charge a low battery to 60% in as little as 49 minutes. Integrated ASUS Battery Health Charging technology also makes for a safer charging experience, with measures designed to decrease the battery expansion rate during charging to help ensure the battery stays in good condition.
VivoBook Flip 14
ASUS today announced VivoBook Flip 14 (TP412), a stylish new addition to the VivoBook Flip Series of convertible Windows 10 laptops featuring a 360°-flippable display that allows this versatile device to be used in laptop, stand, tent and tablet modes — or anything in between.
VivoBook Flip 14 features an ASUS NanoEdge touchscreen with a 6.15mm-thin bezel for more immersive viewing. Powered by up to an 8th Generation Intel®Core™i7 processor with 16GB memory for powerful and energy-efficient performance, VivoBook Flip 14 is also equipped with up to a 1TB SSD and a touchpad-mounted fingerprint sensor for one-touch login via Windows Hello. VivoBook Flip 14 also supports the ASUS Pen active stylus for accurate input and writing with a natural, responsive feel.
Stylish aluminum chassis with a high-quality stepless hinge
VivoBook Flip 14 is one of the most portable 14-inch convertible laptops available thanks to its slim 17.6mm profile and overall weight of just 1.5kg. Its aluminum chassis is finished in a choice of two stylish colours: Star Grey and Galaxy Blue.
To ensure ultimate durability, the precision-engineered stepless 360° metal hinge on VivoBook Flip 14 has been subjected to 20,000-cycle open-and-close tests. This gives users the flexibility of working in laptop mode, and then flipping into tent mode to share ideas with colleagues. They can watch movies hands-free by switching to stand mode. VivoBook Flip 14 can be instantly flipped into the handy tablet mode, too.
NanoEdge display
The NanoEdge touchscreen on VivoBook Flip 14 has an ultraslim 6.15mm bezel, resulting in an 82% screen-to-body ratio and a larger screen area for more immersive viewing. The NanoEdge design enables ASUS engineers to fit a 14-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) display into a chassis the same size as a typical 13-inch laptop. It features 178˚ wide-view technology to ensure that colours and contrast remain vivid and bold, even when viewed at sharp angles. This makes it the perfect solution for sharing content with friends and colleagues.
Geared for productivity and entertainment
VivoBook Flip 14 is powered by up to an 8th Generation Intel Core i7 processor with 16GB memory for powerful, energy-efficient performance. A 1TB SSD gives users the capacity for storing files, photo albums and media libraries, plus faster data speeds. In addition, exclusive ASUS SonicMaster audio technology combines precision-crafted hardware with software tuning for truly immersive sound.
Integrated fingerprint sensor and ASUS Pen support
VivoBook Flip 14 features a touchpad with an optional integrated fingerprint sensor, featuring Windows Hello support for one-touch Windows login. The touchscreen is compatible with the ASUS Pen active stylus, enabling users to write effortlessly and draw just like they would on paper, notebook or canvas, and VivoBook Flip 14 also features a keyboard with full-size backlit keys and ambient-light control, so users can stay productive even in dark environments. In addition, VivoBook Flip 14 features Cortana with far-field technology, allowing users to access Cortana even when they’re up to four meters away from the laptop.
ZenBook S
ASUS announced ZenBook S (UX391), a premium 13.3-inch ultraportable Windows 10 laptop that not only delivers effortless portability, powerful performance and no-compromise connectivity for discerning on-the-go users, but is also tested to meet military-grade MIL-STD-810G durability standards. This remarkable laptop has been honored at Computex 2018 with the Best Choice of the Year Award, a Best Choice Golden Award and a Computex d&i award.
With an ultrathin 12.9mm profile and ultralight 1kg all-metal unibody, the sophisticated ZenBook S is finished in prestigious Deep Dive Blue or elegant Burgundy Red with Rose Gold diamond-cut edges, complete with the iconic Zen-inspired spun-metal finish for a luxurious look and feel.
ZenBook S incorporates the innovative new ErgoLift hinge that automatically tilts the keyboard by 5.5° for the ultimate typing comfort: the raised chassis also improves airflow and enhances audio performance.
Powered by 8th Generation Intel®Core™processors and a superfast PCIe®x4 SSD, ZenBook S also features up to a 4K UHD NanoEdge touchscreen, and delivers up to 13.5 hours battery life for all-day performance. For ultrafast connectivity, two of the three USB Type-C™(USB-C™) ports support Thunderbolt™3. ZenBook S features Amazon Alexa support for easy voice-controlled assistance.
The ultimate ultraportable
Seasoned travelers will appreciate the way ZenBook S, with its 12.9mm-thin, 1kg-light all-metal unibody, slips effortlessly into any bag. The NanoEdge slim-bezel display and premium materials allow the reduction of every dimension and weight to the minimum, creating a masterpiece of ultraportable design.
ZenBook S introduces two prestigious new colour options, each complemented by contrasting diamond-cut Rose Gold edge highlights created using a two-phase anodizing process that’s normally reserved for jewelry or luxury timepieces. Inspired by the magical moment at dawn when the golden rays of the sun first illuminate the ink-blue sky, the luscious Deep Dive Blue finish gives ZenBook S a sublime, understated beauty. The distinctive and supremely elegant Burgundy Red colour reflects the breathtaking beauty of a sky turned deep red at sunset: it’s an awe-inspiring modern shade that reflects passion, sophistication, and individuality. Both colour options feature the iconic Zen-inspired spun-metal finish on the lid, a design feature that’s created using a complex 40-step manufacturing process, and which is exclusive to the ZenBook Series.
ZenBook S is not only sophisticated and elegant, but it’s incredibly tough too: it meets the ultra-demanding MIL-STD 810G military standard for reliability and durability, undergoing a punishing test regime that includes extended tests for operation in harsh environments including extreme altitudes, temperatures and humidity. It has also passed ASUS internal laptop tests that far exceed the standards set by the industry.
Designed for ultimate comfort
For outstanding ergonomics, ZenBook S incorporates the new ErgoLift hinge mechanism, an innovative design that raises and tilts the keyboard by 5.5° — the optimum angle for comfortable typing. With a maximum opening angle of 145°, ZenBook S opens wider than most laptops too, so users have more freedom to choose the best screen angle. And when ZenBook S is closed, the ErgoLift mechanism is completely hidden, so it doesn’t affect the sleek profile.
When the ErgoLift hinge mechanism tilts the keyboard, it also creates an important extra ventilation space that allows more airflow around the underside of the chassis. With this improved ventilation, ZenBook S keeps its cool even when under heavy load.
The extra space underneath ZenBook S created by the ErgoLift hinge has yet another benefit: it allows the powerful Harmon Kardon audio system to work at its best, delivering clearer sound with improved bass response.
All-day performance
ZenBook S is built to get things done as quickly and efficiently as possible, with no fuss or drama. The latest up to 8th Gen Intel®Core™i7 processor, up to 16GB of fast 2133MHz LPDDR3 RAM and up to a 1TB PCIe®3.0 x4 SSD allow users to enjoy smooth and responsive performance whatever they’re doing. For maximum sustained performance, ZenBook S uses an uprated cooling system incorporating state-of-the-art components, including an innovative liquid-crystal-polymer fan impeller with 71 blades — an increase of 40% over previous designs — housed in an advanced 3D-curved aerodynamic shroud that can move 13.4% more air than before. With this cooling system, ZenBook S runs up to 5°C cooler than previous ZenBook models.
A laptop as beautiful as ZenBook S deserves equally beautiful visuals, so it’s fitted with an up to 4K UHD NanoEdge touchscreen with a wide 72% NTSC colour gamut for breathtakingly-lifelike colours and detail. The bezel width has been slimmed even further — to just 5.9mm — to give an amazing 85% screen-to-body ratio for even more immersive visuals.
For all-working-day autonomy, ZenBook S uses a high-capacity battery that lasts up to 13.5 hours2, with fast-charge technology that recharges a flat battery to 60% capacity in as little as 49 minutes.
No-compromise connectivity is essential in an ultraportable laptop. ZenBook S delivers the ultimate speed of Thunderbolt 3 in two of its three USB-C ports, and all three ports support fast charging, data transfers and display connectivity. And for desktop-grade connectivity, users can simply connect the handy ASUS Mini Dock[v].
Amazon Alexa is a cloud-based voice service that helps users with tasks, entertainment, general information, and more. Using Alexa is as simple as asking a question. Just ask to play music, read the news, control a smart home, tell a joke, and more —Alexa will respond instantly.
ROG Laptops
ASUSRepublic of Gamers (ROG) today announced Strix SCAR II and Hero II, follow-ups to the successful esports gaming laptops built exclusively for FPS and MOBA titles.
These powerful gaming laptops have an all-new compact design and front light bar with customizable Aura Sync lighting. Both laptops feature the world’s first 144Hz super-narrow-bezel display with an ultrafast 3ms grey-to-grey (GTG) response time, a HyperStrike Pro gaming keyboard for improved control, and HyperCool Pro technology to cool their high-performance CPU and GPU. They are also the world’s first laptops to feature multi-antenna Wi-Fi for improved connectivity.
Super-narrow-bezel display with 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms GTG time
For maximum advantage in fast-paced games, Strix SCAR II and Hero II boast the world’s first 144Hz super-narrow-bezel display with an ultrafast 3ms GTG response time. This new design results in less distracting frame, so chassis dimensions can be reduced to a minimum — both these laptops are 2.33cm narrower than their predecessors, but don’t sacrifice precious screen space. They are lighter, too, with an overall weight of just 2.4kg for gaming on the go. A unique rubber frame surrounds the display to protect it from damage when the lid is closed, it also visually enhances the slimness of the bezel for a more immersive feel. The 144Hz panel and 3ms response time ensures supersmooth and clear visuals, allowing gamers to react instantly and precisely to what’s happening in-game.
Gaming keyboard with HyperStrike Pro technology
Both Strix SCAR II and Hero II feature a gaming keyboard with HyperStrike Pro technology for decisive command and control. The keyboard has a desktop-inspired layout, including four hotkeys, customizable Aura Sync-compatible RGB backlighting across four zones, and ergonomically-designed keys with 0.25mm-deep keycap curves.
Exclusive ROG Overstroke technology enables earlier key actuation, and has a longer overstroke distance for fast, accurate and effortless keystrokes. The keyboard has specially-highlighted WASD (for SCAR II) or QWER (for Hero II) key groups with transparent key caps, and N-key rollover technology. The keyboard is durable, too, with a 20-million-key-press lifespan.
ROG RangeBoost technology for zero dead spots
SCAR II and Hero II are the world’s first gaming laptops to feature multi-antenna Wi-Fi for more stable online gaming. Patented ROG RangeBoost technology uses a combination of four antennas — located at the front and back of the laptop — with a unique algorithm that constantly scans and selects the best pair of antennas to cover dead spots, resulting in 30%-wider coverage than dual-antenna configurations. The latest 802.11ac Wave 2 Wi-Fi standard delivers speeds of up to 1.7Gbps – twice that of 802.11ac 2×2 and 12x that of 802.11b/g/n.
Geared for gaming
The new Strix gaming laptops are powered by up to the latest 8th Generation Intel®Core™processor with up to 32GB of DDR4 2666MHz memory, and a choice of either NVIDIA®GeForce®GTX 1060 or GTX 1070 graphics. For storage, it can be specified with up to a 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe®3.0 x4 and a 1TB Seagate®FireCuda™solid-state hybrid drive (SSHD).
The 8th Generation Intel Core i7-8750H six-core CPU is 23% more powerful than previous-generation processors. Intel Speed Shift and Turbo Boost technologies also push the processor to speeds of up to 4GHz (four-core) and 3.9GHz (six-core) respectively. Intel Hyper-Threading enables up to 12 threads to handle every task quickly and efficiently, including simultaneous gaming, recording, and live-streaming. In addition, there’s also up to 32GB of DDR4 2666MHz dual-channel memory for faster processing speeds and lower power consumption.
The 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 x4 SSD offers a potential bandwidth of up to 32Gbps so everything feels fast and smooth. When used as primary storage or as a secondary drive to support the SSD, the 5400rpm FireCuda SSHD loads games in less than half the time taken by the 1TB 7200rpm HDDs — and it’s quieter, too. The SSHD takes note of the most frequently used files, and caches them onto its onboard flash memory for faster file access speeds.
Extreme cooling with HyperCool Pro
The HyperCool Pro thermal system provides the cooling performance to get the most out of the laptop’s high-performance CPU and GPU. An extended cooling plate soaks up heat and spreads it evenly to avoid thermal throttling and keep chipset power components below 90°C, while two high-performance 12V fans deliver stronger airflow and increased air pressure to cool the CPU and GPU and drive hot air out of the chassis.
HyperCool Pro also incorporates the patented Anti-Dust Cooling (ADC) system, which uses centrifugal force to expel dust particles and dirt out of the chassis. This prevents build-up on the heatsink fins and ensures a stable gaming experience. There’s less noise too, since the fans aren’t overworked. The special copper cooling fins are just 0.1mm thin — half the thickness of regular fins. This increases the surface area for heat dissipation by up to 10%, and reduces air resistance by 7%.
Normal laptop lid designs could block airflow out of the chassis which could, in some instances, cause overheating. The patented trapezoid-cut lid improves thermal efficiency by up to 27% over traditional designs.
The Overboost app, accessible by pressing FN + F5 or via the Gaming Center hotkey, can be used to select three different fan settings. Fan Overboost provides the fastest fan speed to fully exploit the power of Strix SCAR II and Hero II during intense gaming. Silent mode curbs fan speed and power consumption for less demanding tasks. A balanced mode delivers stable fan performance at a moderate noise level.
Clearer, louder audio
Both laptops deliver clearer, louder, and more accurate audio via powerful side-firing speakers that provide immersive sound. Smart-amplifier technology monitors audio output and makes real-time adjustments, with audio output up to 200% louder than before, with increased dynamic range and bass. Sonic Studio III provides high quality in-game audio, surround sound for headphones, as well as improved streaming and audio recording for perfect voice pickup and noise reduction.
Watch for these items to appear at your local retailer soon.
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