The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024)
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 certainly looks cool and if you are a PC fan rather than an Apple fan, then it's definitely worth a look. ASUS are known for producing reliable, capable and attractive gaming laptops. Their ROG (Republic of Gamers) range is very popular with serious gamers.
The G14 model is just one of several new laptops announced at CES 2024. They also announced the larger model, the G16 in it's latest incarnation. Both models include a CNC-milled aluminum chassis that’s thinner and lighter than ever, while also allowing for a larger trackpad, keycaps, and speakers. A new Slash Lighting array adorns the lid for a bit of customizable flair, and the latest hardware from Intel, AMD, and NVIDIA keeps these machines performing great, whether you’re gaming, creating content, or working with the latest AI platforms.
Key Takeaway
The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024) stands out as an impressively slim and powerful gaming ultraportable, boasting an OLED display and a sleek design. It's positioned as a potential alternative to the MacBook Pro 14in.
Summary
Design & Build:
- Significantly thinner than its predecessor, with a sleek CNC aluminium chassis.
- Available in Platinum White and Eclipse Grey, offering a professional look.
- Diverse port selection, including twin USB-Cs, two USB-As, HDMI 2.1, and a 3.5mm headphone port.
- Introduces a reversible slim power jack, eliminating the need to sacrifice a USB port for charging.
Screen & Sound:
- Features a stunning 3K OLED display with a 240Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks.
- The display covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color space, suitable for professional graphics work.
- The 240Hz refresh rate, coupled with G-sync support, ensures smooth onscreen action.
- Speakers are described as louder and more powerful, though headphones are recommended for gaming.
Keyboard & Touchpad:
- Key caps have grown by 12%, providing a comfortable typing experience.
- Backlit keyboard with customizable color-changing LEDs.
- The touchpad has grown by 27%, offering smooth cursor movement and supporting Windows multi-touch gestures.
Performance & Battery Life:
- Powered by an AMD Ryzen 8000-series CPU for enhanced performance and power efficiency.
- GPU options include Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 4060, or 4070 with a three-fan cooling system.
- The laptop maintains a slim profile with a 65W TDP for the GPU.
- Larger variant, Zephyrus G16, accommodates RTX 4080 or RTX 4090 for users seeking more power.
- Battery life details are pending, but expectations align with the previous model's nine hours on the Windows desktop.
Pricing:
- ASUS acknowledges the expected high price but emphasizes the value, comparing it favorably with the MacBook Pro 14in.
- Positions the laptop as a thin and light option suitable for both gaming and professional tasks.
- The OLED display is highlighted as a significant feature, making it a potential standout in the gaming laptop market.
- Last year's model (ROG Zephyrus G16 (2023) GU603ZV-N3009W) is available still for £1,799. Expect this year's versions of the G14 to start around there.
