Now, I love my trusty M4 Pro 14-inch MacBook Pro. It helps me run all of what I do for my business, all my clients, and beyond. But, when I got word of a laptop with a rolling display from Lenovo, I knew it was going to be something uniquely incredible.
I've tested some of the best business laptops around. Some that have incredible performance, some with incredible screens, some with more power than some entire companies can produce, and some with features that are sweet and enhance productivity in cool ways. But a rolling laptop with an extendable display at the touch of a button is something that I never expected. After all, as Lenovo is keen to remind us, this is the world's first rollable laptop for working on the go.
The ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable's extending display isn't even a gimmick; it works, and it works well. It's genuinely helpful, and it's something that I have learned to love and cannot wait to see what version 2 looks like.
Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable: Price and availability
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
The Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable is a first-generation device. No other laptop has done this before, so I don't expect this to be a budget laptop. On top of that, this computer packs an Intel Core Ultra 7, Windows 11 Pro with Copilot, 32 GB of soldered memory and a terabyte of storage. This would be a capable business machine even without the rollable screen, that's just the icing on the cake.
Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable: Unboxing and First Impressions
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The Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable Laptop is the first time that I haven't left the charger in the box in a long time. Usually, I jump to using an Anker or UGREEN charging brick and cables due to being more compact and powerful than most laptop bricks (except for the monster workstations I test), or I know I'm going to be hopping from docking station to docking station and only need to maybe top off on the go. But, with Lenovo's GaN charger in the box, I may actually keep this one in my bag for a while as my USB-C Charger on the go, or at least I don't feel the need to change it up right away.
Beyond that, the computer comes with docs, and the laptop itself. pretty straightforward. Right away, after I started the computer, of course the first thing I had to do was open the rollup screen. That first time even to now, after using this computer in my personal rotation for 99 days at the time of writing this, I am still blown away at the display. It feels magical every time.
It's taken a little bit to get the settings dialed in the way I want, mostly with choosing to finally disable the smart widgets when I extend the display. For some, I could see this being super helpful, but for me, when I extend the screen it's because I want to control what is down there, not have Lenovo throw a calendar and some other widgets at me, but then again, maybe that's showing my control issues a bit too much.
Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable: Design & Build Quality
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
The rolling mechanism still shocks me. I've opened and closed this display countless times, and still, I'm blown away. The motor-driven display is smooth, easy, and surprisingly fast.
Beyond the display, the keyboard is comfortable, even for all-day typing, and I appreciate the full-function row on the top. The touchpad is good, nothing amazing, but nothing negative so far, and the built-in fingerprint reader is a nice touch.
Lenovo made the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable MIL-STD 810H-certified, with a still 50% recycled aluminum bottom cover.
Like I mentioned above, I've had this computer in my rotation for almost 100 days at the time of writing this. It's been one of the most fun laptops to carry around because everyone around stops and stares and asks questions, regardless of if I am working from an office I frequent, a coffee shop, a co working space, on a train or even in my own home, my three kids are shocked every time they see it, even my one-year-old daughter gasps "whoaoww" every time I extend the display.
When you first use the extended screen, Lenovo suggests using their smart workspace feature that allows for pinning apps or widgets for quick access. Personally, I didn't find anything worth putting there, but that could be due to my particularity.
What I do like to do, though, is when I want more screen, I will simply wait for it to fully extend while working on whatever I am working on, then I will use a quick command or the trackpad to pull the window down to the bottom third or half. That section is also great for messaging apps such as Slack or Project management tools like Notion. However, Lenovo has made this display so seamless and excellent that you don't even need to think of that extended display as an extension, but rather a continuation of the main display.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable: Final verdict
The ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable laptop changes what I think of when I think of a laptop. It also changes what is possible when it comes to working remotely or on the go.
Granted, adding two inches of screen real estate is not the same as bringing along the Sotsu Portable monitor or whipping out a tablet for extra productivity, but it also isn't trying to be. This is a whole new way of thinking about laptop size and functionality.
Much like how when the Cybertruck hit the market and shook up the truck world by being a truck but not a truck, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable laptop is a laptop, but its more.
Should you buy a Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable?
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Value
First-Gen rollable laptop, yet reasonably priced for what it is
4 / 5
Design
Sleek design with smooth OLED rollable display
4.5 / 5
Hardware
Fast chip, fast ram, fast wireless, and a fancy display
4.5 / 5
Performance
Great for productivity, which is what it's designed for
4.5 / 5
Overall
This laptop is clearly for the individual that is productivity-focused, this is a really unique and powerful option
4.5 / 5
Buy it if...
You like new technology Rolling displays are still on the forefront, so if you want to hop on the bandwagon of new technology, check this out.
You always want more screen If you're the kind of person always wishing they had a bit more screen real estate, look no furtherView Deal
Don't buy it if...
You're needing the most powerful laptop experience This laptop is a productivity machine, but not the most powerful of workstations. It's a business laptop first and foremost.
You need a lot of ports Sadly, this laptop only has two USB-C/Thunderbolt ports. If you need more, this just does not have it, sadly
I'm a big fan of compact desktops. The more I do and grow in my professional career, the more I appreciate their value. Not only are compact desktops great for administrative roles, but also front desks, stationary desktops for employees to be able to utilize, perhaps you have offices where part-timers, or hourly employees need to be able to work and access company data or systems, or maybe the setup that you have you need to have a compact workstation and a laptop doesn't make sense for whatever reason.
Mini PC's are phenomenal in these areas. Now, for this review, I am not going to act like this is the most powerful machine I have worked with and that it is capable of running large LLM Models, a massive codebase, edit 12K videos and teach you how to perform open heart surgery all at the same time, I understand that while there are machines that are built to be powerhouses, this is meant to be a compact machine, it's meant to give you the power that is needed at a reasonable price and a better footprint.
MSI isn't trying to break records with this machine; they are trying to create a machine for everyday users. It wanted to make a machine that can be plugged into any display and perform basic tasks, or run headless and connect to servers, run processes in the background, or something along these lines.
MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG: Price and availability
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
The MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG is widely available from online retailers like Amazon. I'm seeing prices starting at around the $1000 / £1000 mark depending on where you buy.
MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG: Unboxing and First Impressions
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
The Cubi NUC is a simple setup. It's included in a basic package, which consists of power, a VESA mount, and an extended power button, if needed. The VESA mount design is excellent, allowing you to easily use it or forget it exists without altering the layout, restricting access to key ports, or requiring the purchase of an accessory. The VESA mount is ideal for mounting behind a monitor, TV, or display, or for attaching to the underside of a desk, wall, or other surfaces.
Like so many of the best mini PC machines I've used, the size of the Cubi NUC lends itself to plenty of different use cases as well. It's ideal for tucking away in a cabinet at a medical office, on a cart in a hospital, in a digital screen display kiosk, in a classroom, at a welcome desk, and more. That's where a machine like this thrives.
I was pleased to see the port layout, which makes quick-access ports extremely easy to reach, along with a fingerprint scanner for added security. Additionally, for setups and use cases where the computer may be tucked away, mounted, or hidden out of reach, MSI includes an external power button with a long cable, allowing you to place it in a readily accessible area and keep the machine where you ideally want it.
MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG: Design & Build Quality
Specs
CPU: Up to Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor 288V Graphics: Up to Intel Arc Graphics 140V Memory: Up to 32GB Storage: 1x M.2 2280 SSD IO: 4x USB-A, 1x MicroSD, 1x Headphone, 2x USB-C Thunderbolt 4, 2x RJ45, 1x HDMI Wireless: Up to Wi-Fi 7
The design is both minimal and functional. Unlike some machines that place all ports on the back to maintain an ultra-minimal look, MSI understands that this approach is not always the most functional.
Therefore, they opted to divide the ports on the front and back to maximize productivity. The quick access ports are on the front, accessible if the machine is mounted or on top of a desk, and the (typically) one-time-plug-in-and-forget-about-it kind of ports are in the back. This layout facilitates cable management, as it positions the majority of the cables to the back of the desk, or at least away from the user.
For a business machine that isn't competing in any beauty pageants, this design is excellent, focusing on productivity and functionality.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG: In use
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
MSI's Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG has been in my fleet (yes, it's a fleet at this point, as I currently have 18 computers in my review queue) for 92 days. In that time, I've had it set up at my secondary desk in my home office, plugged into my BenQ EW2790U on my Flexispot E7 Plus Desk Setup. It's been great for background tasks, writing, emails, and some productivity work as well.
The ease of having a machine always ready to go is fantastic. I like having a server computer that I can remotely access using a VPN, Remote Desktop, or my recent favorite, Chrome Remote Desktop, to modify my network drives. Locally access my Synology, rip content without slowing down my primary machine, transfer data, or perform other tasks that don't require my primary machine.
Having a computer ready to go, plugged in at all times, is also great if you want the least amount of friction possible to get from not working to working and then back to not working again. You just have to sit down, press a key on a keyboard and you are good to go.
The dual network lines came in handy when I tested connecting to my Synology BeeStations and Disk Stations for some updates to the newest DSM software, while I also wanted to connect to my LAN. Granted, Synology allows for LAN access, but I wanted to transfer some content quickly to my NAS as well, making this a perfect solution.
Another great use case for the dual Ethernet would be if you need to connect to a redundant network, a secure network, and a more open network, a server, a network audio controller, or really any other network-controlled device. It’s a little machine like this that can take your workstation, studio, office, or role to the next level, harnessing the simplicity and power of its ease, connectivity, and possibilities as a headless unit to run tasks for you in a more efficient way.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
There are some scenarios where these armrests may not be ideal, but for most, they’ll be fine, or worth the lack of adjustment if you like the style and overall aesthetic and feel of this chair.
Some chairs you give up look and design for overall comfort and features. The Serene Nox by Eureka is the exact opposite, you give up highly adjustable armrests and lumbar for the overall aesthetic.
That’s another element of this chair that you should probably know. You’re not going to want to use this chair with a cheap folding desk, nor at the kitchen table, where your temporary workspace is, you won’t even want to use this chair in a bullpen, you want to use this chair in offices, in executive corner suites, you want this chair at the reception desk of a high end corporation so that it can look the part and still provide comfort.
MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG: Final verdict
The MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG is not for everyone. In fact, it may not even be for most people. But it's well-specced for those who need an easy office machine. It'll capably handle tasks like a Windows headless unit to run a server, running multiple digital displays, or an always-on machine that can be on dual networks at once.
It’s a discreet and smart machine that may just be the building block to a more efficient chain of automations, or simplified workflows, or introducing AI into your sphere, all without taking up precious real estate on your desk, or locking you into a non-upgradable display that may or may not meet your desired specifications.
Should you buy a MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG?
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Value
Upper mid range, strong ports and usability for the right business applications
4 / 5
Design
Sleek, compact, and thoughtful layout and port offering
4 / 5
Hardware
Modern chips, great ports, Thunderbolt, fingerprint sensor
4 / 5
Performance
Quiet, responsive, reliable, great for headless access and server access
3.5 / 5
Overall
A great mini PC for the right user, always-on needs, digital signage, server companions, and perhaps remote access
4 / 5
Buy it if...
You need a compact, always-on, Windows machine While this may not be the powerhouse your creative department needs, this could be what your development team could use for accessing servers, running background processes, or running digital signage
You want a solid, redunant-backed, connection Dual LAN ports are vital for those who want a redundant backup for a vital piece of machineryView Deal
Don't buy it if...
You need a machine for your creative department This is not the machine you want for graphic intensive proceses or workstation-level performance.
You need something portable While this mini PC is ultra-portable, it's still nowhere close to the power and performance you can get in a quality laptop, so unless there is a unique usecase, check out some of our best laptops.
Powered by an RTX 5080 and featuring a large 16-inch, 165 Hz display, the A16 Pro delivers excellent gaming performance while doubling as a capable workstation. At the time of writing, there are two A16 Pro variants for sale – both equipped with the Intel Core 7 240H CPU, 32GB of (soldered) 5600MHz LPDDR5x RAM, a 1TB SSD and either an RTX 5070 Ti or, as tested, the RTX 5080.
The large screen folds back through 180 degrees to lie flat, has a 2560 x 1600 resolution, a 3 ms response time, a decent 400 nits of brightness and displays an excellent 100% of the sRGB color gamut. Ports include HDMI 2.1, a 5 Gbps USB-C port with power delivery and DisplayPort 1.4, 2x USB-A 5 Gbps (plus a USB-A 2.0 port), Gigabit Ethernet and a 3.5mm headset jack.
For the Gaming A16 Pro, Gigabyte includes a MUX switch but caps the GPU TGP for the 5080 at 115W. The laptop RTX 5080 can run at up to 150W, so a 115W limit means raw performance sits about halfway between that of an unfettered 5080 and a 5070, and is similar to a 5070 Ti.
While this seems like a major downside, what matters is performance for your dollar, and the Gaming A16 Pro is cheaper than a lot of higher TGP 5080 machines. At 36 x 26 x 2.3 cm, and weighing 2.3 kg, it’s also slimmer and lighter, making it a better choice for those who want to carry it every day. In fact, most thin and light laptops that feature powerful GPUs limit the TGP to keep heat under control.
For demanding games at the screen's native resolution, you will need to scale back the quality settings to maintain over 60 fps, while older ones will happily run at over 100 fps. To push towards the 165 Hz the screen is capable of, you will need to drop back to 1080p or use frame generation.
It depends on your game (or app) of choice, but in less demanding titles the 115W TGP 5080 is about 25% slower than one at 150W, and up to 22% faster than a 5070. In more intensive games, I saw the CPU create a bottleneck, bringing frame rates closer to that of the 5070. At full tilt, the Gaming A16 Pro emits a fairly loud roar from the cooling fans, but despite this, for sustained loads, performance is limited by the cooling capacity.
The A16 Pro is also a very capable workstation and we measured up to 90W charging via USB-C, so it can provide decent productivity performance without having to lug the larger power brick around. We wish it had a larger battery than the 76Wh models used, as while the 10 hours, 37 minutes of video playback is a decent result, we were disappointed by under five hours of light-duty work.
The keyboard and trackpad are both excellent, and the customizable RGB lighting modes are fun but also easily toned down to white if you want to blend in at the office. The 1080p webcam is nothing special in terms of image quality, but it does facial recognition for fast logins.
While the A16 Pro is an excellent machine overall despite a few foibles, the purchase decision comes back to price. If you can buy it for 30% less than a comparable full TGP 5080 machine (or on par or less than a full TGP 5070 Ti laptop) then it’s a solid buy, but otherwise wait for a sale.
The A16 Pro display can fold through 180° to lie flat (Image credit: Future)
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Price & availability
How much does it cost? Starting from $1,899 / £1,699 / AU$3,299
When is it available? It's available now
Where can you get it? You can get it in the US, UK and Australia
At the full list price, the Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro doesn’t offer standout value, but third-party retailer prices can be considerably lower, making it a good buy.
Gigabyte does not list a recommended retail price for the A16 Pro in every market, but below is a table of typical non-discounted pricing for the RTX 5080 and 5070 Ti variants at the time of writing.
When on sale, we have seen it at up to 25% less than these prices.
RTX 5080
RTX 5070 Ti
US List Price
$2,199
$1,899
UK List Price
£2,099
£1,799
AU List Price
AU$4,299
AU$3,299
Value score: 4 / 5
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Specs
Availability is the same in the US, UK and Australia, with the main difference being the inclusion of an RTX 5070 Ti GPU or the RTX 5080 card. If comparing models, be aware there is a non-Pro Gigabyte Gaming A16 available as well that has lower spec and TGP.
Below is the specs list for the A16 Pro models available.
358.3 x 262.5 x 19.45 - 22.99 mm (14.11 x 10.33 x 0.77 - 0.91 inches)
358.3 x 262.5 x 19.45 - 22.99 mm (14.11 x 10.33 x 0.77 - 0.91 inches)
Weight
2.3 kg (5.1 lbs)
2.3 kg (5.1 lbs)
Specs score: 4 / 5
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Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro open on desk showing left hand side ports (Image credit: Future)
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Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Design
Conservative power ratings
Customizable lighting
Facial recognition webcam
The A16 Pro is a large 16-inch laptop, but the display has fairly slim bezels and overall it fits into a footprint small enough that I think it’s reasonable to carry it on the go every day. This is helped by Gigabyte’s inclusion of 100W USB-C PD charging, so you can leave the big power brick at home if you’re not going to be gaming.
The laptop measures in at 358.3 x 262.5 x 19.45 - 22.99 mm, but this is at the most optimistic points. At the front, I get about 20 mm, and 25 mm at the rear, and 28 mm if you include the feet. On the scale, it weighs 2.36 kg (not far off the 2.3 kg from Gigabyte) and the power brick is another 0.54 kg.
The A16 Pro stands out with a display that can fold through 180 degrees to lie flat. I love this design for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it means you can toggle the display upside down and share it with someone sitting across from you. Secondly, it makes it easy to use the laptop in your own unique way.
For example, with the A16 Pro plugged into a second screen or dock, and using a keyboard and mouse, I liked to open the screen fully, and place the laptop in a vertical stand. That way the laptop screen is raised to the right level to be placed next to a second screen, plus it leaves the vents unobstructed and takes up very little desk space.
The A16 Pro includes a MUX switch for Advanced Optimus graphics switching. This means the laptop can optimize graphics performance and power use automatically based on need, such as shutting down the discrete GPU, without needing to restart when switching modes.
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro rear vents (Image credit: Future)
The A16 Pro opts for plastic on the main chassis and display to save weight. While I like the strength of metal, the stiff plastic used is still pretty good and the laptop feels capable of handling any bumps or drops. The laptop is equipped with a large keyboard with 1.7 mm key travel, but there’s no numpad. Still, it’s pleasant enough to type on despite a little bounce. The keyboard has customizable RGB 1-zone backlighting that can be used to add some bling, or toned down to muted colors (or white) if trying to blend in at the office or university.
Port selection is reasonable but not outstanding, with a single USB-C that includes DisplayPort output and USB-C charging. At 5 Gbps, the data rate is lower than I would like and I’d ideally want to see at least one 40 Gbps USB4 port for a laptop in this class, and at the very minimum 20 Gbps USB-C. You also get two 5Gbps USB-A ports, plus a standard USB 2.0 port.
It also has HDMI 2.1, plus Ethernet and a 3.5mm headset jack – though no card reader. The ports are well located on the sides of the laptop, with plenty of spacing between them ensuring easy access.
The choice to include Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax 2x2) means the A16 Pro doesn’t have the absolute fastest networking, but is still relatively future-proof in terms of high-speed connectivity. The A16 Pro doesn’t include a privacy e-shutter on the webcam, but on the plus side it’s capable of facial recognition for fast Windows login.
The 76Wh battery is decently sized but I’d have much preferred to have seen a larger 99Wh battery – as is featured in some competitors – to help eke out a little extra time unplugged.
Design score: 4 / 5
The A16 Pro keyboard has 1-zone RGB (plus white) LED lighting (Image credit: Future)
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Performance
Solid gaming results
Somewhat noisy under load
Decent CPU performance for workstation use
I’ve tested a range of similarly priced laptops that use the RTX 5080 GPU and, generally speaking, for the same GPU thermal design power (TGP) and similar CPU / RAM spec, gaming results don’t vary a huge amount if the cooling is up to the task. But subtle differences in how manufacturers configure their CPU and GPU power profiles, as well as other design choices, can lead to consistent differences overall.
For the A16 Pro, Gigabyte caps the GPU TGP for the 5080 at 115W. The 5080 can run at up to 150W (plus dynamic boost), so the 115W limit in the A16 Pro means performance sits about halfway between that of an unfettered 5080 and a 5070, and is similar to a 5070 Ti. While this seems like a major downside, what matters is performance for your dollar, and the Gaming A16 Pro is cheaper than a lot of higher TGP 5080 machines. Gigabyte does not confirm the TGP of the RTX 5070 Ti, though it can likely run at the full 115W the GPU is rated for, but without higher dynamic boost power levels.
Now, it’s important to mention that a capped 115W RTX 5080 still has major benefits over a full power 5070 Ti or 5070. You get 16GB of VRAM instead of 12GB or 8GB, which means you can run higher quality textures at 2560 x 1600 and keep ray tracing on in games like Cyberpunk 2077. The 5080 also has a wider 256-bit memory bus, so busy scenes with path-traced lighting or dense city areas will drop the frame rate less than with the 128-bit 5070 or 192-bit 5070 Ti.
The 5080 has more ray-tracing and Tensor hardware too, so DLSS 4 can run at a higher preset without impacting playability. Plus, it’s more powerful for creator work. The GPU will stay relevant longer too, as more new titles call for loads of VRAM, so the 16GB 5080 will handle them better than a 12GB 5070 Ti or an 8GB 5070.
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro underside cooling vents (Image credit: Future)
Overall, the A16 Pro manages decent gaming performance but does run at the limits of its cooling. In most scenarios, we found that the CPU hit its thermal throttling point before the GPU, limiting performance. Older or less intense games still tended to have the CPU thermally throttled, but the GPU could still run flat out. On more demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077, the performance was bottlenecked by the CPU and the 5080 was often running up to 20% or so behind its full potential.
The Core 7 240H isn’t a bad CPU, but as a refreshed Raptor Lake-H part launched in late 2024, it’s not the most efficient option. This isn’t a problem normally, but with the limited thermal ability of the laptop, heavy load on the CPU and GPU push heat levels to the point the CPU has to throttle itself.
This can be helped somewhat by scaling back settings that put more load on the CPU, like reducing crowd depth, but ultimately the 5080 is still often limited by the CPU. This meant that for games like Cyberpunk 2077, we struggled to push frame rates to the 165 Hz the display is capable of (with frame generation), even when dropping detail or resolution back.
(Image credit: Future)
To give some context, I have compared the A16 Pro benchmark results to the Alienware 16X Aurora with a 5070 and the Alienware 16 Area-51 with a 150W TGP 5080. In synthetic benchmarks (which don’t get CPU bottlenecked), the A16 Pro sits right between the two, as expected. But for gaming benchmarks, the A16 Pro has a smaller lead over the 5070.
Now, this is not necessarily a problem, as, for example, the A16 Pro is significantly cheaper than the RTX 5070 equipped Alienware 16X Aurora, making it a much better bang for buck machine. While we wish Gigabyte had used a more efficient CPU, ultimately the design trade-offs here are fine overall.
Still, it does mean you need to be slightly more careful when comparing pricing, and make sure the A16 Pro is on par with or slightly less than a 5070 Ti-based machine with a more powerful cooling system, and significantly less than a full TGP 5080 laptop.
One potential wildcard is the performance of the A16 Pro with 5070 Ti. While the 5070 Ti will likely experience the same CPU bottleneck as the 5080, the overall performance difference may be small. We will update this review once we can test the 5070 Ti variant or confirm third-party benchmark results.
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro benchmark results
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro
Alienware 16X Aurora
Alienware 16 Area-51
CPU
Intel Core 7 240H
Intel Ultra 9 275HX
Intel Ultra 9 275HX
GPU
RTX 5080 (115W TGP)
RTX 5070 (115W TGP)
RTX 5080 (150W TGP)
RAM
32GB
32GB
32GB
Battery
76 Wh
96 Wh
96 Wh
General performance
PCMark 10 - Overall (score)
7,523
8,437
8,639
Geekbench 6 - Multi-core
13,503
19,615
20,244
Geekbench 6 - Single-core
2,744
3,068
3,149
Geekbench 6 - GPU
177,521
136,686
213,178
Cinebench R24 - CPU Single Core
117
133
133
Cinebench R24 - CPU Multi Core
832
1,964
2,106
Battery
PCMark 10 - Battery Work (HH:MM)
3:19
6:01
3:09
TechRadar video test (HH:MM)
10:37
6:16
4:27
Graphics performance
3DMark SpeedWay
4,247
3,664
5,610
3DMark Port Royal
10,744
9,031
11,999
Steel Nomad
3,967
2,846
5,109
Cyberpunk 2077 - 1600p RT Low (DLSS)
84
76
114
Cyberpunk 2077 - 1600p RT Low (DLSS off)
52
50
79
Cyberpunk 2077 - 1600p RT Ultra (DLSS)
55
54
72
Cyberpunk 2077 - 1600p RT Ultra (DLSS off)
25
16
37
Black Myth: Wukong - 1600p Cinematic (DLSS)
77
76
104
Shadow of the Tomb Raider - 1600p (DLSS off)
137
131
175
Storage
CrystalDiskMark Read/Write (MB/s)
6,982 / 6,481
6,939 / 6,740
6,575 / 5,890
Overall, even at 115W the RTX 5080 is a solid choice for 2560 x 1600 gaming, and can run most games at very playable frame rates without dropping back the details. For especially demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 set to ultra ray tracing and high texture detail, the A16 Pro manages 55 fps, or 84 fps if the ray tracing is on low. Turn on frame generation, and you can be gaming at the display's 165 Hz limit with no problems at all.
While the fan profiles keep the A16 Pro quiet in non-gaming use, at full tilt they are quite loud and if gaming, we highly recommend using a headset. Heat is directed out of both the sides and rear of the laptop, and after an intense gaming session, the trackpad reached a low 24.6°C / 76.3°F, the keyboard hit a toasty 41.3°C / 106.3°F and the underside was the hottest part at 42.4°C / 108.3°F. The keyboard temp here is significantly hotter than many competing gaming laptops, though not at the point it is uncomfortable to use.
The A16 Pro uses the GiMate control software and includes five modes – Balanced, Game, Creator, Power Saving and Online meeting – which vary the performance levels, as well as the amount of noise and heat created. For each mode, you can also adjust the individual settings, like fan control profile, display brightness and more. Stability is also good and I had no glitches or strange behavior from the Gigabyte software, or problems running any games, benchmarks or applications.
The trackpad stays cool, but the keyboard gets a little toasty under load (Image credit: Future)
The A16 Pro cooling system may struggle with the GPU, but is good enough to let the grunty Intel Core 7 240H CPU use up to 85W in our testing. It’s not as powerful as the Core Ultra series CPUs, or the new AMD Ryzen AI processors, but still makes for a competent workstation when not gaming, and it will happily handle heavy workloads such as video editing.
If you leave the software in charge of profile selection, performance on battery takes a hit compared to being plugged in, and is about 60% slower in CPU workloads.
The A16 Pro can also be run on or charged from USB-C using PD spec 100W (20V/5A) and we saw a max of 90W in use. Unlike the questionable USB-C power profiles on the otherwise excellent Gigabyte 16X, the A16 Pro gives solid performance on USB-C, and is about 50% faster than on battery for CPU workloads and about 35% behind full performance. Gaming on USB-C is about half the performance compared to using the main PSU.
In other words, workstation use feels snappy when running on USB-C (such as when plugged into a dock) or if charging from a power bank, but don’t expect to do much more than casual gaming without the larger PSU.
Performance score: 4 / 5
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Battery life and Charging
4 hours and 49 minutes of regular use when unplugged
10 hours and 37 minutes of video playback
58 minutes of gaming
(Image credit: Future)
The Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro uses a 76Wh battery, which is decent size but not quite as good as the 99Wh featured in some competing models.
Still, five hours or so of work unplugged (and around an hour longer if just browsing the internet or watching YouTube videos) is enough to be useful, but still not a great result overall. In contrast, other gaming laptops I've tested with similar spec hardware (including more powerful CPUs) use a 96Wh battery and can last up to 7 hours unplugged. The A16 Pro doesn’t handle medium level loads too well on battery (like video editing), and I saw run times at under three hours. On the plus side, the A16 Pro offers relatively quick charging and it gets back to full charge in under an hour.
The PSU is medium sized (and not as chunky as many gaming laptops) and weighs 537 grams (including the cable), so it has a measurable impact if carried around all day. Fortunately USB-C charging is decent and it could top up in just over an hour. The A16 Pro also charges well from a power bank and a large, but flight safe, 27,000mAh (99Wh) model will just give the laptop a full charge.
Battery life and charging score: 3.5 / 5
Should you buy the Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro?
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro scorecard
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Value
Expensive at list price, but great value when discounted
4 / 5
Specs
Reasonable but not standout
3.5 / 5
Design
Decent features but some compromises like noisy fans
4 / 5
Performance
Solid gaming and workstation performance
4 / 5
Battery
Short battery life for work but decent video playback
3.5 / 5
Overall
A gaming laptop that is also very well equipped for workstation or creator use – but don’t pay full list price
4 / 5
Buy it if…
You want decent gaming performance in a relatively portable package The A16 Pro isn’t exactly tiny, but considering the large 16-inch screen and full performance GPU, it’s still pretty good for carrying every day.
You want CPU performance The Intel Core 7 240H CPU is grunty enough for demanding Uni students, or workstation and creator use.
You want to use it for more than just gaming Options like the fold-flat screen mean the Gigabyte is also a great option for plugging in alongside a second monitor.
Don’t buy it if...
You want a very portable gaming option The A16 Pro isn’t too heavy or thick, but if portability is a prime concern, then consider a slimmer model, or a 14-inch gaming machine.
You want a more powerful GPU The A16 Pro caps the 5080 to 115W, and you will need to look at models like the Aorus Master 16 or 18 for better gaming frame rates.
You want a very affordable laptop The A16 Pro is a great-value machine (when discounted), but it’s still a pricey laptop. If you crave affordable RTX 5050 and 5060 focused gaming, check out the non-Pro Gigabyte Gaming A16.
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Also consider
If my Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro review has you considering other options, here are some more gaming laptops to consider:
Razer Blade 14 (2025) Smaller and lighter than the 16-inch Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro, the Razer Blade 14 offers pretty good performance in a small package.
Alienware 16 Area-51 A powerful 16-inch gaming laptop that’s sold with an RTX 5060, 5080 or 5090, this is a chunky machine that’s all about performance.
I tested the Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro for two weeks
I used it both on a desk and carried it in a backpack for travel
I used it for gaming, as well as office productivity work and video editing
I ran the Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro through the usual comprehensive array of TechRadar benchmarks, as well as using it for actual day-to-day work at a desk and on the go. I used the TechRadar movie test for assessing battery life during video playback, and a range of productivity battery benchmarks to further gauge battery life. I also logged power use in a variety of scenarios, including when charging from USB-C, and tested the laptop with a variety of USB-C chargers and power banks.
Powered by an RTX 5080 and featuring a large 16-inch, 165 Hz display, the A16 Pro delivers excellent gaming performance while doubling as a capable workstation. At the time of writing, there are two A16 Pro variants for sale – both equipped with the Intel Core 7 240H CPU, 32GB of (soldered) 5600MHz LPDDR5x RAM, a 1TB SSD and either an RTX 5070 Ti or, as tested, the RTX 5080.
The large screen folds back through 180 degrees to lie flat, has a 2560 x 1600 resolution, a 3 ms response time, a decent 400 nits of brightness and displays an excellent 100% of the sRGB color gamut. Ports include HDMI 2.1, a 5 Gbps USB-C port with power delivery and DisplayPort 1.4, 2x USB-A 5 Gbps (plus a USB-A 2.0 port), Gigabit Ethernet and a 3.5mm headset jack.
For the Gaming A16 Pro, Gigabyte includes a MUX switch but caps the GPU TGP for the 5080 at 115W. The laptop RTX 5080 can run at up to 150W, so a 115W limit means raw performance sits about halfway between that of an unfettered 5080 and a 5070, and is similar to a 5070 Ti.
While this seems like a major downside, what matters is performance for your dollar, and the Gaming A16 Pro is cheaper than a lot of higher TGP 5080 machines. At 36 x 26 x 2.3 cm, and weighing 2.3 kg, it’s also slimmer and lighter, making it a better choice for those who want to carry it every day. In fact, most thin and light laptops that feature powerful GPUs limit the TGP to keep heat under control.
For demanding games at the screen's native resolution, you will need to scale back the quality settings to maintain over 60 fps, while older ones will happily run at over 100 fps. To push towards the 165 Hz the screen is capable of, you will need to drop back to 1080p or use frame generation.
It depends on your game (or app) of choice, but in less demanding titles the 115W TGP 5080 is about 25% slower than one at 150W, and up to 22% faster than a 5070. In more intensive games, I saw the CPU create a bottleneck, bringing frame rates closer to that of the 5070. At full tilt, the Gaming A16 Pro emits a fairly loud roar from the cooling fans, but despite this, for sustained loads, performance is limited by the cooling capacity.
The A16 Pro is also a very capable workstation and we measured up to 90W charging via USB-C, so it can provide decent productivity performance without having to lug the larger power brick around. We wish it had a larger battery than the 76Wh models used, as while the 10 hours, 37 minutes of video playback is a decent result, we were disappointed by under five hours of light-duty work.
The keyboard and trackpad are both excellent, and the customizable RGB lighting modes are fun but also easily toned down to white if you want to blend in at the office. The 1080p webcam is nothing special in terms of image quality, but it does facial recognition for fast logins.
While the A16 Pro is an excellent machine overall despite a few foibles, the purchase decision comes back to price. If you can buy it for 30% less than a comparable full TGP 5080 machine (or on par or less than a full TGP 5070 Ti laptop) then it’s a solid buy, but otherwise wait for a sale.
The A16 Pro display can fold through 180° to lie flat (Image credit: Future)
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Price & availability
How much does it cost? Starting from $1,899 / £1,699 / AU$3,299
When is it available? It's available now
Where can you get it? You can get it in the US, UK and Australia
At the full list price, the Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro doesn’t offer standout value, but third-party retailer prices can be considerably lower, making it a good buy.
Gigabyte does not list a recommended retail price for the A16 Pro in every market, but below is a table of typical non-discounted pricing for the RTX 5080 and 5070 Ti variants at the time of writing.
When on sale, we have seen it at up to 25% less than these prices.
RTX 5080
RTX 5070 Ti
US List Price
$2,199
$1,899
UK List Price
£2,099
£1,799
AU List Price
AU$4,299
AU$3,299
Value score: 4 / 5
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Specs
Availability is the same in the US, UK and Australia, with the main difference being the inclusion of an RTX 5070 Ti GPU or the RTX 5080 card. If comparing models, be aware there is a non-Pro Gigabyte Gaming A16 available as well that has lower spec and TGP.
Below is the specs list for the A16 Pro models available.
358.3 x 262.5 x 19.45 - 22.99 mm (14.11 x 10.33 x 0.77 - 0.91 inches)
358.3 x 262.5 x 19.45 - 22.99 mm (14.11 x 10.33 x 0.77 - 0.91 inches)
Weight
2.3 kg (5.1 lbs)
2.3 kg (5.1 lbs)
Specs score: 4 / 5
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Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro open on desk showing left hand side ports (Image credit: Future)
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(Image credit: Future)
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(Image credit: Future)
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Design
Conservative power ratings
Customizable lighting
Facial recognition webcam
The A16 Pro is a large 16-inch laptop, but the display has fairly slim bezels and overall it fits into a footprint small enough that I think it’s reasonable to carry it on the go every day. This is helped by Gigabyte’s inclusion of 100W USB-C PD charging, so you can leave the big power brick at home if you’re not going to be gaming.
The laptop measures in at 358.3 x 262.5 x 19.45 - 22.99 mm, but this is at the most optimistic points. At the front, I get about 20 mm, and 25 mm at the rear, and 28 mm if you include the feet. On the scale, it weighs 2.36 kg (not far off the 2.3 kg from Gigabyte) and the power brick is another 0.54 kg.
The A16 Pro stands out with a display that can fold through 180 degrees to lie flat. I love this design for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it means you can toggle the display upside down and share it with someone sitting across from you. Secondly, it makes it easy to use the laptop in your own unique way.
For example, with the A16 Pro plugged into a second screen or dock, and using a keyboard and mouse, I liked to open the screen fully, and place the laptop in a vertical stand. That way the laptop screen is raised to the right level to be placed next to a second screen, plus it leaves the vents unobstructed and takes up very little desk space.
The A16 Pro includes a MUX switch for Advanced Optimus graphics switching. This means the laptop can optimize graphics performance and power use automatically based on need, such as shutting down the discrete GPU, without needing to restart when switching modes.
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro rear vents (Image credit: Future)
The A16 Pro opts for plastic on the main chassis and display to save weight. While I like the strength of metal, the stiff plastic used is still pretty good and the laptop feels capable of handling any bumps or drops. The laptop is equipped with a large keyboard with 1.7 mm key travel, but there’s no numpad. Still, it’s pleasant enough to type on despite a little bounce. The keyboard has customizable RGB 1-zone backlighting that can be used to add some bling, or toned down to muted colors (or white) if trying to blend in at the office or university.
Port selection is reasonable but not outstanding, with a single USB-C that includes DisplayPort output and USB-C charging. At 5 Gbps, the data rate is lower than I would like and I’d ideally want to see at least one 40 Gbps USB4 port for a laptop in this class, and at the very minimum 20 Gbps USB-C. You also get two 5Gbps USB-A ports, plus a standard USB 2.0 port.
It also has HDMI 2.1, plus Ethernet and a 3.5mm headset jack – though no card reader. The ports are well located on the sides of the laptop, with plenty of spacing between them ensuring easy access.
The choice to include Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax 2x2) means the A16 Pro doesn’t have the absolute fastest networking, but is still relatively future-proof in terms of high-speed connectivity. The A16 Pro doesn’t include a privacy e-shutter on the webcam, but on the plus side it’s capable of facial recognition for fast Windows login.
The 76Wh battery is decently sized but I’d have much preferred to have seen a larger 99Wh battery – as is featured in some competitors – to help eke out a little extra time unplugged.
Design score: 4 / 5
The A16 Pro keyboard has 1-zone RGB (plus white) LED lighting (Image credit: Future)
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Performance
Solid gaming results
Somewhat noisy under load
Decent CPU performance for workstation use
I’ve tested a range of similarly priced laptops that use the RTX 5080 GPU and, generally speaking, for the same GPU thermal design power (TGP) and similar CPU / RAM spec, gaming results don’t vary a huge amount if the cooling is up to the task. But subtle differences in how manufacturers configure their CPU and GPU power profiles, as well as other design choices, can lead to consistent differences overall.
For the A16 Pro, Gigabyte caps the GPU TGP for the 5080 at 115W. The 5080 can run at up to 150W (plus dynamic boost), so the 115W limit in the A16 Pro means performance sits about halfway between that of an unfettered 5080 and a 5070, and is similar to a 5070 Ti. While this seems like a major downside, what matters is performance for your dollar, and the Gaming A16 Pro is cheaper than a lot of higher TGP 5080 machines. Gigabyte does not confirm the TGP of the RTX 5070 Ti, though it can likely run at the full 115W the GPU is rated for, but without higher dynamic boost power levels.
Now, it’s important to mention that a capped 115W RTX 5080 still has major benefits over a full power 5070 Ti or 5070. You get 16GB of VRAM instead of 12GB or 8GB, which means you can run higher quality textures at 2560 x 1600 and keep ray tracing on in games like Cyberpunk 2077. The 5080 also has a wider 256-bit memory bus, so busy scenes with path-traced lighting or dense city areas will drop the frame rate less than with the 128-bit 5070 or 192-bit 5070 Ti.
The 5080 has more ray-tracing and Tensor hardware too, so DLSS 4 can run at a higher preset without impacting playability. Plus, it’s more powerful for creator work. The GPU will stay relevant longer too, as more new titles call for loads of VRAM, so the 16GB 5080 will handle them better than a 12GB 5070 Ti or an 8GB 5070.
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro underside cooling vents (Image credit: Future)
Overall, the A16 Pro manages decent gaming performance but does run at the limits of its cooling. In most scenarios, we found that the CPU hit its thermal throttling point before the GPU, limiting performance. Older or less intense games still tended to have the CPU thermally throttled, but the GPU could still run flat out. On more demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077, the performance was bottlenecked by the CPU and the 5080 was often running up to 20% or so behind its full potential.
The Core 7 240H isn’t a bad CPU, but as a refreshed Raptor Lake-H part launched in late 2024, it’s not the most efficient option. This isn’t a problem normally, but with the limited thermal ability of the laptop, heavy load on the CPU and GPU push heat levels to the point the CPU has to throttle itself.
This can be helped somewhat by scaling back settings that put more load on the CPU, like reducing crowd depth, but ultimately the 5080 is still often limited by the CPU. This meant that for games like Cyberpunk 2077, we struggled to push frame rates to the 165 Hz the display is capable of (with frame generation), even when dropping detail or resolution back.
(Image credit: Future)
To give some context, I have compared the A16 Pro benchmark results to the Alienware 16X Aurora with a 5070 and the Alienware 16 Area-51 with a 150W TGP 5080. In synthetic benchmarks (which don’t get CPU bottlenecked), the A16 Pro sits right between the two, as expected. But for gaming benchmarks, the A16 Pro has a smaller lead over the 5070.
Now, this is not necessarily a problem, as, for example, the A16 Pro is significantly cheaper than the RTX 5070 equipped Alienware 16X Aurora, making it a much better bang for buck machine. While we wish Gigabyte had used a more efficient CPU, ultimately the design trade-offs here are fine overall.
Still, it does mean you need to be slightly more careful when comparing pricing, and make sure the A16 Pro is on par with or slightly less than a 5070 Ti-based machine with a more powerful cooling system, and significantly less than a full TGP 5080 laptop.
One potential wildcard is the performance of the A16 Pro with 5070 Ti. While the 5070 Ti will likely experience the same CPU bottleneck as the 5080, the overall performance difference may be small. We will update this review once we can test the 5070 Ti variant or confirm third-party benchmark results.
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro benchmark results
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro
Alienware 16X Aurora
Alienware 16 Area-51
CPU
Intel Core 7 240H
Intel Ultra 9 275HX
Intel Ultra 9 275HX
GPU
RTX 5080 (115W TGP)
RTX 5070 (115W TGP)
RTX 5080 (150W TGP)
RAM
32GB
32GB
32GB
Battery
76 Wh
96 Wh
96 Wh
General performance
PCMark 10 - Overall (score)
7,523
8,437
8,639
Geekbench 6 - Multi-core
13,503
19,615
20,244
Geekbench 6 - Single-core
2,744
3,068
3,149
Geekbench 6 - GPU
177,521
136,686
213,178
Cinebench R24 - CPU Single Core
117
133
133
Cinebench R24 - CPU Multi Core
832
1,964
2,106
Battery
PCMark 10 - Battery Work (HH:MM)
3:19
6:01
3:09
TechRadar video test (HH:MM)
10:37
6:16
4:27
Graphics performance
3DMark SpeedWay
4,247
3,664
5,610
3DMark Port Royal
10,744
9,031
11,999
Steel Nomad
3,967
2,846
5,109
Cyberpunk 2077 - 1600p RT Low (DLSS)
84
76
114
Cyberpunk 2077 - 1600p RT Low (DLSS off)
52
50
79
Cyberpunk 2077 - 1600p RT Ultra (DLSS)
55
54
72
Cyberpunk 2077 - 1600p RT Ultra (DLSS off)
25
16
37
Black Myth: Wukong - 1600p Cinematic (DLSS)
77
76
104
Shadow of the Tomb Raider - 1600p (DLSS off)
137
131
175
Storage
CrystalDiskMark Read/Write (MB/s)
6,982 / 6,481
6,939 / 6,740
6,575 / 5,890
Overall, even at 115W the RTX 5080 is a solid choice for 2560 x 1600 gaming, and can run most games at very playable frame rates without dropping back the details. For especially demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 set to ultra ray tracing and high texture detail, the A16 Pro manages 55 fps, or 84 fps if the ray tracing is on low. Turn on frame generation, and you can be gaming at the display's 165 Hz limit with no problems at all.
While the fan profiles keep the A16 Pro quiet in non-gaming use, at full tilt they are quite loud and if gaming, we highly recommend using a headset. Heat is directed out of both the sides and rear of the laptop, and after an intense gaming session, the trackpad reached a low 24.6°C / 76.3°F, the keyboard hit a toasty 41.3°C / 106.3°F and the underside was the hottest part at 42.4°C / 108.3°F. The keyboard temp here is significantly hotter than many competing gaming laptops, though not at the point it is uncomfortable to use.
The A16 Pro uses the GiMate control software and includes five modes – Balanced, Game, Creator, Power Saving and Online meeting – which vary the performance levels, as well as the amount of noise and heat created. For each mode, you can also adjust the individual settings, like fan control profile, display brightness and more. Stability is also good and I had no glitches or strange behavior from the Gigabyte software, or problems running any games, benchmarks or applications.
The trackpad stays cool, but the keyboard gets a little toasty under load (Image credit: Future)
The A16 Pro cooling system may struggle with the GPU, but is good enough to let the grunty Intel Core 7 240H CPU use up to 85W in our testing. It’s not as powerful as the Core Ultra series CPUs, or the new AMD Ryzen AI processors, but still makes for a competent workstation when not gaming, and it will happily handle heavy workloads such as video editing.
If you leave the software in charge of profile selection, performance on battery takes a hit compared to being plugged in, and is about 60% slower in CPU workloads.
The A16 Pro can also be run on or charged from USB-C using PD spec 100W (20V/5A) and we saw a max of 90W in use. Unlike the questionable USB-C power profiles on the otherwise excellent Gigabyte 16X, the A16 Pro gives solid performance on USB-C, and is about 50% faster than on battery for CPU workloads and about 35% behind full performance. Gaming on USB-C is about half the performance compared to using the main PSU.
In other words, workstation use feels snappy when running on USB-C (such as when plugged into a dock) or if charging from a power bank, but don’t expect to do much more than casual gaming without the larger PSU.
Performance score: 4 / 5
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Battery life and Charging
4 hours and 49 minutes of regular use when unplugged
10 hours and 37 minutes of video playback
58 minutes of gaming
(Image credit: Future)
The Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro uses a 76Wh battery, which is decent size but not quite as good as the 99Wh featured in some competing models.
Still, five hours or so of work unplugged (and around an hour longer if just browsing the internet or watching YouTube videos) is enough to be useful, but still not a great result overall. In contrast, other gaming laptops I've tested with similar spec hardware (including more powerful CPUs) use a 96Wh battery and can last up to 7 hours unplugged. The A16 Pro doesn’t handle medium level loads too well on battery (like video editing), and I saw run times at under three hours. On the plus side, the A16 Pro offers relatively quick charging and it gets back to full charge in under an hour.
The PSU is medium sized (and not as chunky as many gaming laptops) and weighs 537 grams (including the cable), so it has a measurable impact if carried around all day. Fortunately USB-C charging is decent and it could top up in just over an hour. The A16 Pro also charges well from a power bank and a large, but flight safe, 27,000mAh (99Wh) model will just give the laptop a full charge.
Battery life and charging score: 3.5 / 5
Should you buy the Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro?
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro scorecard
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Value
Expensive at list price, but great value when discounted
4 / 5
Specs
Reasonable but not standout
3.5 / 5
Design
Decent features but some compromises like noisy fans
4 / 5
Performance
Solid gaming and workstation performance
4 / 5
Battery
Short battery life for work but decent video playback
3.5 / 5
Overall
A gaming laptop that is also very well equipped for workstation or creator use – but don’t pay full list price
4 / 5
Buy it if…
You want decent gaming performance in a relatively portable package The A16 Pro isn’t exactly tiny, but considering the large 16-inch screen and full performance GPU, it’s still pretty good for carrying every day.
You want CPU performance The Intel Core 7 240H CPU is grunty enough for demanding Uni students, or workstation and creator use.
You want to use it for more than just gaming Options like the fold-flat screen mean the Gigabyte is also a great option for plugging in alongside a second monitor.
Don’t buy it if...
You want a very portable gaming option The A16 Pro isn’t too heavy or thick, but if portability is a prime concern, then consider a slimmer model, or a 14-inch gaming machine.
You want a more powerful GPU The A16 Pro caps the 5080 to 115W, and you will need to look at models like the Aorus Master 16 or 18 for better gaming frame rates.
You want a very affordable laptop The A16 Pro is a great-value machine (when discounted), but it’s still a pricey laptop. If you crave affordable RTX 5050 and 5060 focused gaming, check out the non-Pro Gigabyte Gaming A16.
Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro: Also consider
If my Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro review has you considering other options, here are some more gaming laptops to consider:
Razer Blade 14 (2025) Smaller and lighter than the 16-inch Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro, the Razer Blade 14 offers pretty good performance in a small package.
Alienware 16 Area-51 A powerful 16-inch gaming laptop that’s sold with an RTX 5060, 5080 or 5090, this is a chunky machine that’s all about performance.
I tested the Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro for two weeks
I used it both on a desk and carried it in a backpack for travel
I used it for gaming, as well as office productivity work and video editing
I ran the Gigabyte Gaming A16 Pro through the usual comprehensive array of TechRadar benchmarks, as well as using it for actual day-to-day work at a desk and on the go. I used the TechRadar movie test for assessing battery life during video playback, and a range of productivity battery benchmarks to further gauge battery life. I also logged power use in a variety of scenarios, including when charging from USB-C, and tested the laptop with a variety of USB-C chargers and power banks.
The Dell Chromebook 3120 is a small but tough laptop designed to withstand the rigors of student life.
Its compact and rounded design is certainly different. The softer material around its edges help protect it from impacts, making the Chromebook 3120 tougher than many others in this field.
Not only is it more rugged than the best Chromebookconstructions, it’s also easier to repair, thanks to its top-mounted keyboard and captive screws that keep the various materials together.
The price paid for this toughness, however, is the huge bezel around the screen, which reduces the display size by a disappointing amount. At least it features screws in each corner, which again should help with servicing.
There are only four ports on the Chromebook 3120: two USB-C, one USB-A, and a headset jack. The type-C ports are located on either side, which improves versatility, and both support charging and external display connections.
The performance of the Chromebook 3120 is respectable, handling the sorts of tasks students demand of their laptops quite well. It can also handle HD video streaming and even light gaming, though nowhere near as well as many of the best laptops, so temper expectations.
(Image credit: Future)
The display is sharp and vibrant enough to enjoy such content, although its lack of brightness can cause some visibility issues, especially when viewing darker scenes. It’s also a little too reflective at times.
I was pleased to see that even the non-convertible model of the Chromebook 3120 features a touchscreen, which can be useful for navigation, although it’s not smooth enough for dedicated illustrators and handwriters.
The keyboard layout is good, with plenty of space between keys to make typing comfortable. However, presses frequently failed to register when I used it, which was frustrating. Worse, though, was the touchpad, which is too small and imprecise for accurate and smooth navigation.
Battery life, on the other hand, is up to expected standards. It lasted close to 11 hours when I played a movie on a continuous loop, which eclipses many of its rivals, although there are others that can endure for longer.
Considering its budget pricing, the Dell Chromebook 3120 is a worthwhile proposition. Thanks to its durability, portability, and performance, it really shines as a study companion—but I would recommend pairing it with an external mouse to eschew the wayward touchpad.
Dell Chromebook 3120 review: Price & availability
(Image credit: Future)
Starts from $179.99 / £369.68 (about AU$350)
Available now
Reasonable price
The Dell Chromebook 3120 starts from $179.99 / £369.68 (about AU$350) and is available now. It can be configured with 4GB or 8GB of RAM, and a 2-in-1 version is also available, with a display made with Gorilla Glass.
This is a fantastic price for a Chromebook of this spec, making it one of the best student laptops around thanks to its performance and touchscreen functionality.
If you’re looking for something even cheaper, the Asus Chromebook CX1505 is a great alternative. It doesn’t have a tough exterior or a compact form like the Chromebook 3120, but it has respectable performance and a great display.
11.6-inch Non-touch HD LCD (1366 x 768p), Anti-Glare
11.6-inch Touch HD LCD (1366 x 768p), Anti-Glare
11.6-inch Touch HD LCD, (1366 x 768p), Anti-Glare
Storage
64GB eMMC
64GB eMMC
64GB eMMC
Ports
2x USB-C, 1x USB-A, 1x 3.5mm combo audio
2x USB-C, 1x USB-A, 1x 3.5mm combo audio
2x USB-C, 1x USB-A, 1x 3.5mm combo audio
Wireless
Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1
Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1
Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1
Camera
720p
720p
720p
Battery
42WHr
42WHr
42WHr
Weight
2.82 lbs | 1.28 kg
Clamshell: 2.82 lbs | 1.28 kg 2-in-1: 3.17 lbs | 1.44 kg
Clamshell: 2.82 lbs | 1.28 kg 2-in-1: 3.17 lbs | 1.44 kg
Dimensions
11.96 x 8.19 x 0.82 ins | 303.9 x 207.9 x 20.8 mm
Clamshell: 11.96 x 8.19 x 0.82 ins | 303.9 x 207.9 x 20.8 mm 2-in-1: 11.96 x 8.19 x 0.85 ins | 303.9 x 207.9 x 21.5 mm
Clamshell: 11.96 x 8.19 x 0.82 ins | 303.9 x 207.9 x 20.8 mm 2-in-1: 11.96 x 8.19 x 0.85 ins | 303.9 x 207.9 x 21.5 mm
Dell Chromebook 3120 review: Design
(Image credit: Future)
Rugged construction
Compact form
Large screen bezel
The Dell Chromebook 3120 has an unusual outer shell for a laptop nowadays. It has rounded edges covered in a soft-touch material, almost as if it has been fitted with a bumper case. This makes it look more like one of the best rugged laptops than a budget Chromebook, and Dell claims it’s as durable as those more durable devices. According to Dell, the Chromebook 3120 can withstand 30-inch drops onto steel and 48-inch drops onto plywood, something that'll probably matter if this is going to be used by a child.
In keeping with the durable chassis, the lid is also reassuringly solid, with no wobble to it at all. What’s more, it’s also very flexible – even the non-hybrid variant can still recline all the way back to 180 degrees, making it very amenable to various setups.
Despite all this ruggedness, the Chromebook 3120 is very compact, making it very easy to carry around. It’s heavier than you might expect, but not to an onerous extent.
Another advantage of the design of the Chromebook 3120 is the fact that it’s easy to maintain. It features a top-mounted keyboard and a captive screw in the chassis that keep its various materials together, both of which make the Chromebook 3120 readily repairable.
One of the worst aspects of its design, however, is the huge bezel around the display. No doubt this helps with durability as well as repairability (there are easily accessible screws in each corner), but it severely compromises the already small real estate.
There aren’t many ports on the Chromebook 3120, but they’re wisely chosen. There are two USB-C ports, which should help the device to stay relevant for longer, and both accept charging and external monitor connections.
What’s more, they’re located on either side to improve versatility. The only other ports on the Chromebook 3120 are a USB-A and a headset jack, both located on the left, but these are the next two interfaces I would’ve chosen to include on a Chromebook.
The keys have a slight but noticeable texture to them that feels smooth yet tactile. There are some useful shortcuts on the top row, but there aren’t as many as you’ll find on other Chromebooks – even those the same size as the Chromebook 3120.
Design score: 4 / 5
Dell Chromebook 3120 review: Performance
(Image credit: Future)
Good all-round performance
Reflective display
Poor touchpad
Benchmarks
These are the benchmark scores for the Dell Chromebook 3120:
TechRadar Battery Life Video Test: 10 hours and 44 minutes Jetstream2 Benchmark: 181.945 Kraken Benchmark (lower is better): 743.3ms Speedometer 3.0: 11.2 (±0.71)
The general performance of the Dell Chromebook 3120 is pretty good. It’s fast and snappy enough for basic tasking, from notetaking and essay writing to spreadsheet creation and browsing.
It can handle video streaming very well, too, even at 1440p. However, higher resolutions are beyond it, since you’ll have to contend with frequent and lengthy buffering times.
It’s even capable enough for some light gaming. I managed to play Asphalt Legendson medium settings smoothly, with no disruptive stutters or lag. Be warned, however, that not all Android games are compatible with the Chromebook 3120, including Alien: Isolation and Hitman: Blood Money—Reprisal.
The 1366 x 768p resolution is sharp enough for a display this small, and colors are pleasingly vibrant. Brightness is sufficient for the most part, although I wish it had more when viewing content featuring dark tones, as these can be hard to see at times.
The display also has a tendency to plunge into total blackness if the angle isn’t set just right for your particular environment. What’s more, it can be quite reflective, which further sullies the viewing experience.
(Image credit: Future)
The keys felt good to use, and their generous spacing makes them easy to navigate, even with the limited real estate. However, they lack feedback, and frequently my presses would fail to register while typing, requiring a firmer touch than with many other keyboards.
The touchpad, however, is more frustrating. It’s very small, which can make navigation and certain productivity tasks awkward, such as dragging items from one side of the screen to the other.
It also lacks refinement, with its jerky tracking spoiling my attempts at smooth, precise movements: the cursor either moved slower than expected or jumped too far ahead of where I wanted it to go. I also found that taps were very inconsistent, failing to register at least half of the time.
The touchscreen proved more responsive, but it can be quite grabby, resulting in unsmooth swipes and gestures. This isn’t the device for you if you plan on making copious amounts of drawings or handwritten notes, but the functionality is still useful for navigation purposes. It’s a shame that finger marks are quite visible, though.
Performance score: 4.5 / 5
Dell Chromebook 3120 review: Battery life
(Image credit: Future)
The battery life of the Chromebook 3120 is very good. In our movie playback test, it lasted close to 11 hours, which is an impressive performance considering the smaller 43Whr battery, and puts it ahead of much of the competition.
It’s also reasonably quick to charge, taking about two hours to completely replenish.
Battery life: 4.5 / 5
Should I buy the Dell Chromebook 3120?
Notes
Rating
Value
The can outlast it is well-priced given the spec and functionality.
5 / 5
Design
The tough chassis is welcome, as is the small size. Shame about the large bezel, though.
4 / 5
Performance
The Chromebook 3120 can be used for all sorts of tasks, and it deals with them all pretty well. The touchpad is poor, though.
4.5 / 5
Battery life
Battery life is above average, although there are others that slightly edge past it.
4.5 / 5
Total Score
The Chromebook 3120 does a sterling job as a student device, providing all the functionality and performance you could need for the classroom. But you’re best off using it with an external mouse.
4.5 / 5
Buy the Dell Chromebook 3120 if...
You want a durable machine Thanks to its drop resistance and repairability credentials, the 3120 should last from term to term.
You want something easy to carry around It might be surprisingly heavy, but it’s still very portable, largely thanks to its compact form factor.
Don't buy it if...
You want a great touchpad The touchpad is too small and inaccurate for heavy use – get yourself one of the best mouse picks to go with it.
You want a large display The lid housing the display is small enough, but the large bezel compromises it even further. It can also succumb to darkness and reflections under certain conditions.
Dell Chromebook 3120 review: Also consider
Here are some alternatives to the Dell Chromebook 3120 that are also fantastic for students:
Asus Chromebook CX15 It’s not as portable as the 3120, but it’s still quite thin. And its large width means you get a widescreen display, which is one of the highlights of the CX1505. It also performs rather well—and it’s cheaper than the Chromebook 3120.
Acer Chromebook Spin 312 If you’re looking for one of the best 2-in-1 Chromebooks, the Spin 312 is a great choice. Its capable performance and sleek, portable design make it yet another student favorite. Plus, its display, though small, is a treat for the eyes, thanks to its sharp resolution. It’s a little reflective like the 3120, though.
I tested the Dell Chromebook 3120 for two days, during which time I used it for a multitude of tasks.
I used it for productivity, general browsing, streaming video content, and gaming. I also ran our series of benchmarks for Chromebooks and tested its battery life by running a movie on a continuous loop.
I’ve been using Chromebooks and other laptops for years, and have reviewed plenty of them as well, ranging in their price points, form factors, and purposes.
The Asus Chromebook CX1505 certainly has a budget price tag, but its features and spec hope to counter the charge that it’s a compromised device unfit for modern purposes.
While it might appear sleek, on closer inspection it’s not as thin or as light as its looks might lead you to believe. That ultra wide display and the long underside support bar sully its portability credentials somewhat.
Build quality isn’t the greatest, either, and isn’t up there with the best Chromebook constructions. It’s still within reasonable bounds, but there’s some flexing to the plastic chassis.
The thin bezel for the display is a welcome touch, though, helping to maximize its already generous width. The keyboard also feels built to a higher standard, which is fortunate since you’ll be making plenty of contact with it.
All the ports on the CX1505 are located on its left-hand side, which may be a little inconvenient for those wishing to connect multiple peripherals. More of a problem, however, is their paucity: there are only four, and only two of them are USB (one type-A and one type-C port).
What’s more, the Type-C must be used for charging, so it won’t be available to you all of the time. An HDMI 1.4 port and a 3.5mm combo audio jack round out the rest of the physical connectivity options, and they’re at least sensibly ordered.
The CX1505 acquits itself well in terms of performance. It can handle the productivity and entertainment tasks well enough, although 4K content streaming is just beyond its reach. It can handle some light gaming, though, albeit with relatively undemanding titles at low graphical settings.
More impressive is that large display. The width is useful for both entertainment and productivity purposes, while the Full HD resolution is still sharp enough for its size. It’s also bright and reasonably vibrant, making for pleasant viewing in all scenarios.
While the CX1505 is great for typing on, the trackpad is a let down. It’s jerky and imprecise when making small, slow movements, and its clicks feel unsatisfying.
The battery life of the CX1505 is reasonable, lasting seven hours in our movie playback test. However, many of its rivals can beat this figure – some by a considerable margin.
There was a time when a Chromebook costing this little wouldn’t have been worth your time, lacking the power and features to suit even basic usage. But the commendable – if not outstanding – performance of the CX1505, coupled with its generous and high-quality display, are certainly impressive aspects at this price, making it a contender for one of the best budget Chromebooks around right now.
Asus Chromebook CX1505 review: Price and availability
(Image credit: Future)
Starts from $159.99 / £249.99 / AU$499
Available now in multiple colorways
Budget end of the market
The CX1505 starts from $159.99 / £249.99 / AU$499 and is available now in various colorways, including green and pink. It can be configured with 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of storage. An Intel Core version is also available.
This is a great price, even in the Chromebook market. It’s considerably cheaper than the Asus Chromebook CM14, which we think is one of the best budget Chromebooks. However, the CX1505 performs better, and that wider display makes it better for productivity and entertainment – if not portability.
If you want a high-performing Chromebook, then the HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch is a better choice. This dispatches all kinds of tasks with ease, including harsher workloads such as gaming and multitasking; no wonder we think it’s the best student Chromebook. Its keyboard isn’t as good as that on the CX1505, though.
If you want to stay closer to the budget-end of the market and want something more compact but also powerful, the Dell Chromebook 3120 fits the bill very well, with more processing power and faster memory for a little bit more of an investment.
Value: 5 / 5
Asus Chromebook CX1505 review: Specs
My Asus Chromebook CX1505 review unit had an Intel Celeron N4500, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage.
ASUS Chromebook CX1505
Price
Starting from $159.99 / £249.99 / AU$499
CPU
Intel Celeron N4500 Processor 1.1 GHz (2 cores)
Graphics
Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics
RAM
4GB LPDDR4X
Screen
15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080, 16:9, Anti-glare display, 300nits
The CX1505 has a neat, minimalist appearance buoyed by the vibrant colorways; I found the light green finish of my review unit particularly fetching, suiting its overall design well. The rounded corners and smooth, flat planes add to its appeal.
It’s quite a thin unit, although the prominent support bar running underneath rather spoils its sleekness. It’s also heavier than you might expect; coupled with the atypical width, the portability of the CX1505 is somewhat compromised.
What’s more, build quality isn’t particularly impressive, either. The slightly textured plastics may look and feel interesting, but they’re not the sturdiest and can succumb to considerable flexing.
The hinge for the lid feels sturdy in operation, but its looseness becomes evident once set in position. This isn’t disruptive, but it is noticeable, and isn’t exactly an auspicious sign for its longevity.
On a positive note, the bezel around the display is pleasingly thin, which allows the already generous real estate to be realized to its full potential, while the keys have a subtle graining which makes them feel tactile to use. They also actuate smoothly and solidly, with very little play or uncertain feedback.
If you’re looking for a Chromebook with plenty of connectivity options, you’ll be disappointed with the CX15. Despite its large size, there are only four ports (five on the Intel Core model, thanks to its extra USB-C port), all located on the left-hand side.
There’s one USB-C port (which is used for charging as well), one USB-A port, one HDMI 1.4 port, and a combo audio jack. At least they’re sensibly ordered; I’m always happy to see the power port at the end and the audio jack at the very front.
Design score: 3.5 / 5
ASUS Chromebook CX1505 review: Performance
(Image credit: Future)
Reasonable multitasking capabilities
More demanding tasks
Good wide display
Benchmarks
These are the results of our benchmarking tests for the ASUS Chromebook CX1505:
The CX1505 is capable enough for everyday tasking. It can handle word processing and spreadsheet creation with ease, while streaming hi-definition content is also well within its grasp. However, expect some significant buffering if you’re watching anything above 1440p.
Even with the modest 4GB of RAM installed in my review unit, the CX1505 managed to juggle multiple browser tabs admirably. I still encountered some lag in such instances, but not to a frustrating extent. However, more demanding multitasking scenarios, such as running numerous apps simultaneously, lead to more severe slowdowns, as you might expect.
Light gaming is just about within its reach as well. Asphalt Legends ran smoothly enough when I reduced the maximum frame rate to 30fps, but I encountered frequent stuttering when ratcheting it up to 60fps, even on the default medium graphics settings. Those after some casual enjoyment are catered for, then – but those who take their gaming a little more seriously will be disappointed.
The display is pleasingly bright and vibrant. Colors are vividly reproduced rather than washed-out, as they can be on other Chromebook displays in my experience.
(Image credit: Future)
And despite its large size, the 1920 x 1080p resolution still looks sharp and clear. That wide ratio also makes various productivity tasks easier, as well as serving entertainment content well.
The keys of the CX1505 are well damped, resulting in softer presses than you might expect, but they’re still as snappy and as light as you would expect from a laptop keyboard. They’re well spaced, too, and thanks to that wide chassis, the numberpad doesn’t cramp the layout, as is the case with some other laptops and Chromebooks.
The trackpad has a solid and noticeable click, but it feels nasty and cheap, owing to the lack of dampening. Gliding isn’t the smoothest, either, with attempts to make small and precise movements resulting in lag and cursor jumps.
Taps are better, but inconsistent: being unresponsive at times, and too eager at others. The surface area of the pad is quite small, too, despite there being plenty of space for a larger module. At least it’s solidly installed, with no wobble to it.
The overall connectivity of the CX1505 is good for the most part. However, the Bluetooth radio stopped working on one occasion, severing connection with all my devices. Thankfully, fixing the issue merely required disabling and then re-enabling Bluetooth from the status area in the bottom-right corner.
Performance score: 4 / 5
ASUS Chromebook CX1505 review: Battery life
(Image credit: Future)
The CX1505 has a respectable, if not impressive, battery life. It should see you throughout the day, but it only managed seven hours in our playback test, where we ran a movie on a continuous loop.
This beats the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360, which only managed six and a half hours, but it’s bested by rivals such as the Acer Chromebook Spin 312 and the HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch, which both achieved times around the 11-hour mark. And the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook can last a hugely impressive 16-plus hours.
Battery life: 3 / 5
Should I buy the ASUS Chromebook CX1505?
Notes
Rating
Value
There aren’t many new Chromebooks priced this low, still less those with competing specs.
5 / 5
Design
It may look sleek and minimal, but it’s surprisingly heavy, and it’s not the sturdiest, either.
3.5 / 5
Performance
Considering its middling spec, the CX1505 is impressive in action, if not spectacular.
4 / 5
Battery life
Battery life is good but not outstanding; there are plenty of Chromebooks that can outlast it.
3 / 5
Total Score
It might not be a powerhouse, but the CX1505 is capable and cheap enough to make it excellent value.
4 / 5
Buy it if...
You want a wide display The 87% screen-to-body ratio certainly looks striking and helps with both productivity and entertainment.
You’ll be doing a lot of typing The keyboard on the CX1505 is great, offering a satisfying feel and generous spacing, despite the inclusion of a number pad.
Don't buy it if...
You want serious performance Some light multitasking and entertainment are possible, but demand anything more and the CX1505 will struggle.
You want something very portable The wide and relatively hefty body of the CX1505 makes it less portable than you might imagine.
ASUS Chromebook CX15: Also consider
If the ASUS Chromebook CX1505 doesn't sound right for you, here are some alternatives:
Acer Chromebook Spin 312 The Chromebook Spin 312 is a more compact and versatile device, thanks to its small 12.2-inch screen and convertibility, allowing you to use it like a tablet. In truth, its touchscreen is best used when the unit is propped on a desk, rather than held in the hand, but it’s still one of the best 2-in-1 Chromebooks, and its amenable keyboard and keen display only add to its appeal. Battery life is pretty good, too.
HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch For a more capable Chromebook, look no further than the HP Chromebook Plus. It’s great for all kinds of tasks, while the display renders all sorts of content well. Its most disappointing aspect is probably its keyboard, as the number pad squeezes the other keys, which may take some getting used to. Its official pricing might look high, but we’ve seen it around for a lot less.
I tested the CX1505 for several days, during which time I used it for productivity, entertainment, and general browsing.
I used it for word processing and spreadsheet editing, as well as streaming HD and 4K content. I also played mobile games downloaded from the Play Store, and ran our series of benchmark tests for Chromebooks.
I’ve been using Chromebooks for years and have extensive experience reviewing them. I’ve also reviewed other kinds of mobile devices, including tablets and laptops designed for productivity and gaming.
The Acer Aspire Go 15 is an affordable Windows laptop with a spec that should prove capable enough for everyday use.
Considering its 15.6-inch form, it has a sleek and slender body. It’s also quite thin and light, which makes it easier to carry around than expected. The light silver finish and minimal aesthetic also imbue the Aspire Go 15 with some style, although there are a few unsightly angles that mar its appearance somewhat.
It isn’t built to the same high standards as the best laptops, much less many of the best Ultrabooks, either. The materials aren’t premium, and its construction isn’t as reassuringly solid as I would’ve liked. The lid isn’t the most stable, either, and its downward protrusion means it lifts up the rear of the unit when opened beyond 90 degrees, which is a design choice I’m not particularly fond of due to its impractical nature.
On a more positive note, there’s a decent selection of ports, including three for USB-A, one for HDMI cables, and one for Ethernet connections. There’s only one USB-C port, though, and no SD card reader.
(Image credit: Future)
The everyday performance of the Aspire Go 15 is very good, handling light productivity and entertainment workloads with speed. However, more intensive tasks such as gaming fare worse, given that it lacks a dedicated GPU. Light gaming is still possible, though, and both fan noise and temperatures are kept to a minimum.
One of the most disappointing aspects of the Aspire Go 15 is its display. Its grainy finish can be distracting, while colors can look a little washed out in some cases. Worse still is the restrictive viewing angle, with images and scenes becoming totally obscured when the display is set even slightly beyond optimal bounds.
The battery life of the Aspire Go 15 is quite good, though, lasting close to 12 hours during our movie playback test. However, there are quite a few rivals that can outlast it, such as the Dell 14 Plus.
Considering its price, the Aspire Go 15 represents a very good value, offering a more affordable alternative to the best Windows laptops that cost a good bit more. There are also better-performing Chromebooks for less money, such as the HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch, which also has a better display, but if you can live with its display, the Aspire Go 15 is one of the best budget laptops going and well worth adding to your shortlist.
Acer Aspire Go 15 review: Price & Availability
Starts from $299.99 / £299.99 (about AU$450)
Base models have weak specs
Review model is still well-priced, though
The Aspire Go 15 starts from $299.99 / £299.99 (about AU$450) and is available now. A range of Intel and AMD CPUs are available to choose from, while RAM and storage capacities range from 8GB to 32GB and 128GB to 1TB, respectively.
This is a good starting price for a Windows laptop, but for this outlay, you’ll have to settle for a weak spec. My review model was considerably more powerful than the base model, and priced closer to some strong rivals.
However, it still undercuts other affordable Windows machines, such as the Dell 14 Plus. We found this laptop to be an excellent value, though, thanks to its fast performance and enduring battery life, while its light design even makes it a worthy alternative to some of the best MacBooks.
If you’re willing to look beyond Windows machines, the HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch is another enticing proposition. This is cheaper than the Aspire Go 15, but has a stronger performance and a superior display that doesn’t suffer from the same issues. No wonder we think it’s one of the best Chromebooks around right now.
2x USB-A (3.2 Gen 1), 1x USB-C (3.2 Gen 2), 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x 3.5mm combo audio; Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1
3x USB-A (3.2 Gen 1), 1x USB-C (3.2 Gen 2), 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x Ethernet, 1x 3.5mm combo audio; Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1
3x USB-A (3.2 Gen 1), 1x USB-C (3.2 Gen 2), 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x Ethernet, 1x 3.5mm combo audio; Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1
Battery
53Wh
53Whr
53Whr | 53Whr
Dimensions
14.3 x 9.5 x 0.8in (363 x 241 x 20mm)
14.3 x 9.5 x 0.8in (363 x 241 x 20mm)
14.3 x 9.5 x 0.8in (363 x 241 x 20mm)
Weight
3.92lbs / 1.78kg
3.92lbs / 1.78kg
3.92lbs / 1.78kg
A wide selection of spec configurations are available, with both Intel and AMD processors. There is a mix of PCIe 3.0 and 4.0 SSDs depending on the spec, so some drives will run slower than others, and that's not always immediately apparent when looking at retailer specs sheets.
It also doesn't include the latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standard, but Wi-Fi 6 is fast enough for most people's needs, while the inclusion of an Ethernet port is welcome.
Overall, for their various price points, these are about the specs one should expect.
Specs: 3.5 / 5
Acer Aspire Go 15 review: Design
(Image credit: Future)
Reasonably light and thin
Lacking solidity
Odd lid design
The Aspire Go 15 is a basic but smart looking laptop, with extraneous details kept to a minimum. The light silver finish of my review unit helped to impart some elegance, too, although a few unsightly juts and angles spoil its otherwise smooth contours. While the Aspire Go 15 is quite wide, it’s relatively light and pleasingly thin, which makes it easier to carry around than you might imagine for a 15.6-inch laptop.
Build quality isn’t exactly the greatest, though, with cheap looking – and feeling – plastics that flex to an inauspicious degree. Thankfully, the keys feel more premium: they’re solidly fitted and have a prominent texture that’s satisfying to touch.
(Image credit: Future)
The lid is also better made than the rest of the unit, featuring a solid yet smooth hinge mechanism. I welcomed how thin it was, too, although I was less keen on its bottom protrusion. This causes the rear of the Aspire Go 15 to lift off ground when opened to angles beyond 90 degrees – a deliberate design choice but one that feels unintuitive and can result in loose fabrics and other materials underneath the chassis getting caught, which isn’t ideal.
There was a reasonable selection of ports on my Aspire Go 15 review unit. I welcomed the three USB-A ports, spread across both sides for added convenience. There was also an HDMI port and an ethernet port: increasingly rare sights on modern laptops, and again ones I was glad to see. There’s only one USB-C port, though, and no SD card reader, both of which are mild shames.
Design: 3.5/ 5
Acer Aspire Go 15 review: Performance
(Image credit: Future)
Great general computing performance
Some light gaming is possible
Relatively cool and quiet
Acer Aspire Go 15 benchmarks:
3DMark Fire Strike: 3,646; Steel Nomad: 205; Wild Life Extreme: 2,229; Wild Life Extreme Unlimited: 2,200; GeekBench 6.5 Single-core: 2,000; Multi-core: 6,605 CrossMark Overall: 1,109; Productivity: 1,149; Creativity: 1,125; Responsiveness: 954; HandBrake - 4K to 1080p average FPS: 43.24
For everyday tasks, the Aspire Go 15 is very capable. It can handle light productivity, from word processing to spreadsheet creation, without much if any slowdowns. It also had no problem streaming 4K content. I didn’t experience any midway buffering pauses or stuttering, for example.
However, the viewing experience is marred by the quality of the display. It has a noticeably grainy finish, which can be distracting at times. Colors can also look washed out.
What’s more, the display darkens considerably if the angle isn’t set just right, to the point of near-total blackness sometimes. Thankfully, once you’ve found the optimum position, there are next to no reflections visible on screen.
Since there’s no dedicated GPU installed in the Aspire Go 15, it isn’t particularly great for creative and gaming workloads. Cyberpunk 2077 is playable on the lowest preset, but naturally, you’ll have to make do with some rough visuals and uninspiring frame rates.
(Image credit: Future)
The game is even passable on Medium settings and upscaling, but you’ll have to contend with even lower frame rates and more input lag, rendering the experience less than enjoyable.
Mercifully, though, I experienced little fan noise from the Aspire Go 15 during such intensive workloads, never elevating above a faint whir. It also stayed commendably cool, with certain portions of the body reaching lukewarm temperatures only.
Another highlight of the Aspire Go 15 is its keyboard. The aforementioned keycap texture helps them feel more tactile, as does the surprising amount of dampening of the switches, despite their short travel and very low profile.
What’s more, they’re snappy and responsive, which only improves their typing prowess. And despite featuring a number pad, the layout doesn’t feel cramped. Those number pad keys are relatively small, though, but they’re still eminently usable. So overall, if you’re looking for one of the best laptops for writing, the Aspire Go 15 could well be a contender for you.
The touchpad is less pleasant to use, though. While it’s smooth enough for easy gestures and swiping, it’s not as large as those in other 15-inch laptops, which compromises its navigation abilities. Also, clicks and taps lack feedback and even rattle at points, which further hampers their functionality.
Performance: 4 / 5
Acer Aspire Go 15 review: Battery Life
(Image credit: Future)
Reasonable longevity
Rivals can far outlast it, though
The battery life of the is quite impressive. It managed to last close to 12 hours when playing a movie on a continuous loop. It’s also quick to charge, taking about two hours to fully top up.
The HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch achieved a similar score. However, others in this sector can outlast it by quite some distance, including the Dell 14 Plus, which lasted over 13 hours when we ran a similar test.
Battery Life: 3.5 / 5
Should I buy the Acer Aspire Go 15?
Acer Aspire Go 15 Scorecard
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Value
The Aspire Go 15 ranges in price from incredibly cheap to reasonably-priced for a Windows machine exhibiting this kind of performance.
4.5 / 5
Specs
While the Aspire Go 15 isn't loaded with the very latest specs, for the price, they're pretty decent.
3.5 / 5
Design
It’s surprisingly thin and light for such a large laptop, but the construction isn’t exactly the most premium.
3.5 / 5
Performance
The Aspire Go 15 is great for everyday tasks and brilliant for typing on, but the poor display and lack of graphical power are drawbacks.
4 / 5
Battery Life
Battery life is quite good, but others can outlast it by a long way, too.
3.5 / 5
Total
The Aspire Go 15 is a very competent laptop for the price. But there are better all-rounders in the Chromebook market, if you really don’t need Windows.
3.8 / 5
Buy the Acer Aspire Go 15 if...
You want basic tasks done fast Light productivity and 4K streaming are both dispatched with surprising ease.
You’ll be doing a lot of typing The keyboard is a dream to use: it’s super responsive and provides plenty of feedback. The full-size layout doesn’t feel cramped, either.
Don't buy it if...
You want the best display The grainy finish, lack of brightness, washed-out tones, and exacting viewing angles all add up to a less-than-stellar visual experience.
You'll be conducting intensive workloads Since it lacks a dedicated GPU, the Aspire Go 15 isn’t the machine for creative pros or heavy gamers.
Acer Aspire Go 15 review: Also Consider
Dell Inspiron 14 Plus Although it’s more expensive, the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus still sits in the affordable Windows laptop bracket. It boasts a Snapdragon X Plus chip (so beware, this is an ARM machine), which can handle everyday tasks with aplomb. The display isn’t as big as the Go’s, but it’s significantly sharper and less fussy, not to mention it features touchscreen functionality.
HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch Stepping outside of the Windows ecosystem, the HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch is one of the best Chromebooks around, thanks to its excellent performance and display. What’s more, it’s cheaper than my Aspire Go 15 review unit. It’s also one of the best student Chromebooks.
I tested the Acer Aspire Go 15 for several days, using it for working, entertainment, gaming, and general browsing.
I also connected various peripherals to it, and ran our series of benchmark tests to assess its overall performance. I also tested its battery life by playing a movie on a continuous loop until it expired.
I have plenty of experience testing all kinds of laptops, from everyday workhorses to high-end specialist machines. I’ve also reviewed Chromebooks and other computing devices, such as tablets.
The Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 might make me a convert to the all-in-one PC, thanks to its sleek and ergonomic build, vibrant screen, and solid performance. The fact that it can be used as an external monitor is not only the cherry on top, but a point in favor of it being considered among the best all-in-one computers out there.
Of course, the lack of modularity, as with any all-in-one, can frustrate those who are used to digging into cases and upgrading parts, but as far as a hassle-free package, this is one of the best computers you're going to find on the market.
That said, even outside of its form factor, there are a few issues, such as the 'just okay' sound quality and a confusing array of configurations.
I will admit that if you go on the Lenovo website or Best Buy in the US (where my review unit can be purchased), you won’t be quite as confused as me. But UK and Australia shoppers will have some very different configurations available to you.
Whatever configuration you go with though, they're all more than enough to satisfy your general computing and productivity needs, so if you’re in the market for an all-in-one PC, the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 is a very easy recommendation.
Lenovo Yoga AiO 27: Price & availability
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
How much does it cost? Starting at $979.99 / £1,020.00 / AU$1,149.00
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia
Thanks in part to the continuing relevance of the Apple iMac and its current iteration, the Apple iMac 24-inch M4, every brand has some kind of sleek, attractive all-in-One computer on offer. And like the iMac, the hardware seems eerily similar to what you would get from a powerful Ultrabook or Macbook.
As such, AiO models like the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 are generally reasonably priced. The Yoga AiO 27 starts at $979.99 / £1,020.00 / AU$1,149.00, while the iMac M4 has a more expensive starting price of $1,299 / £1,299 / AU$1,999, plus it has a smaller 24-inch screen. On top of that, Apple’s upgrades, whether for RAM or hard drive space, come at a premium.
Another good benchmark as far as price goes is the HP OmniStudio X 31.5. Its lowest configuration is actually cheaper at $830.99 (about £620 / AU$1,270) for an Intel Core Ultra 5 CPU, 16GB RAM, and 256GB SSD, as well as a 1080p 27-inch screen.
It’s worth noting that there are some serious variations between what’s available in the US, UK, and Australia. The UK and Australia both have customizations (more on that below) unlike the US with Australia actually offering discrete graphics.
So, Australians, at least, can probably game with this AiO, though everyone else will need to temper their expectations.
Value: 4.5 / 5
Lenovo Yoga AiO 27: Specs
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
Soldered RAM
Configurations can vary widely by region
The offerings from Lenovo on the Yoga AiO 27 (specifically the 27IAH10 model) is pretty straightforward, however, there’s a lot of variance between territories.
In the US, you have two models available directly through Lenovo. The base configuration comes with a Intel Core Ultra 5 125H, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD.
The more expensive model is the same, but with a more powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 255H CPU and 1GB SSD. Best Buy offers a different model that’s similar to the more robust one, but without the touchscreen, which is what was reviewed here.
Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 specs
Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 base configuration
Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 review configuration
Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 max configuration
Price:
$979.99 / £1,020.00 / AU$1,149.00
$1,319.99 (about £990 / AU$2020)
AU$4,559.00 (about $2990 / £2230)
CPU:
Intel Core Ultra 5 125H
Intel Core Ultra 7 255H
Intel Core Ultra 9 285H
Graphics:
Integrated Intel Arc Graphics
Integrated Intel Arc 140T GPU
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 6GB GDDR6
RAM:
16 GB LPDDR5X-7467MT/s (Soldered)
16 GB LPDDR5X-7467MT/s (Soldered)
32 GB LPDDR5X-7467MT/s (Soldered)
Storage:
512 GB SSD M.2
1 TB SSD M.2
1 TB SSD M.2
Display:
27" QHD (2560 x 1440), IPS, Anti-Glare, Touch, 99%sRGB, 400 nits, 120Hz, 4 Side Narrow Bezel
27" QHD (2560 x 1440), IPS, Anti-Glare, Non-Touch, 99%sRGB, 400 nits, 120Hz, 4 Side Narrow Bezel
27" QHD (2560 x 1440), IPS, Anti-Glare, Touch, 99%sRGB, 400 nits, 120Hz, 4 Side Narrow Bezel
In the UK, you can choose CPUs including an even more powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 285H, between 512GB and a 1TB SSD, and you can choose between touch and non-touch screens. You are locked into 32GB of RAM.
Australia only allows you to choose the size of the hard drive, but is more powerful since it has that Intel Core Ultra 9 285H, 32GB of RAM, and actual discrete graphics in the form of the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU.
Regardless of what you choose (or have available to you), the RAM is soldered in, unfortunately.
As mentioned earlier, you are able to choose between a touch and non-touch screen, though the resolution (1440p), refresh rate (120Hz), and basically everything else about it is the same.
You can also choose whether you get an IR-enabled webcam or not for a nominal upgrade. Otherwise, everything on the exterior including the color called Luna Grey is the same regardless of model.
Specs: 3.5 / 5
Lenovo Yoga AiO 27: design
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
Sleek, attractive look with good ergonomics
Good ergonomics
Great looking screen that can be used with other computers
I remember when I first started seeing Windows all-in-one computers start to pop (long before I was a writer) and they were not pretty. The word I would probably use is egalitarian. So it was a bit of a surprise when I got the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 in all its Ultrabook glory.
Yes, in my opinion, this AiO is basically what you get when you take a Lenovo Yoga laptop and turn it into an all-in-one. It’s sleek, comes in a very attractive colorway called Luna Grey, and has a gorgeous screen (more on that later).
In fact, it’s so nice looking, I had to double check that it didn’t have an aluminum case. Instead, it’s made of 30% ocean-bound plastic – pretty cool for those worried about the environment. The box it comes in is also fairly sustainable as it’s all paper or cardboard.
Back to the computer, it has some good ergonomics. First, it has a round base that can pivot in either direction 90 degrees, while the screen itself can pivot and additional 45 degrees to each side. Its tilt is up 10 degrees and down 5, which I do wish was a little more. And it has a lift of 70mm. It’s pretty easy to adjust the screen to your liking.
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
Speaking of the 27-inch screen, its resolution is decent at 1440p, much higher than I'm used to seeing on AiOs. But what’s more impressive are its other aspects. It has a solid refresh rate of 120Hz, supports HDR (though Lenovo doesn’t specify to what degree), and has quite wide color coverage and accuracy.
In our benchmarks, it had a sRGB rating of 116.5% and DCI-P3 of 82.6%, meaning it’s great for colors but not as good for contrast. It does have an accuracy of Delta>0.21.
Other design details include two three watt tweeters and two five watt tweeters to support Dolby Atmos, dual microphones, and a five megapixel camera.
Some models have IR capabilities like the one reviewed and some do not, a feature useful for Windows Hello that unlocks the computer when you log in instead of having to type in a password or use a fingerprint reader.
If that’s worrisome, don’t worry. Among the buttons on the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 is an e-privacy shutter.
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
There’s also a power button, an OSD button for controlling screen settings, and a switch button as you can actually use the screen as a standalone screen for another computer or use just the computer part with an external screen.
That means that there are two HDMI ports, one out and one in. The port selection in general is pretty robust and also includes three USB-A and two USB-C ports along with an ethernet and aux jack. Some of them are on the back of the stand while some of them are on the side.
Lastly, the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 comes with its own matching keyboard and mouse. They’re both wireless and work fine, but if you’re particular about your accessories, you might want to upgrade to one of the best keyboards and best mice, especially the mouse as it doesn’t have any side buttons.
That said, I didn't have any issues with them during general use or even spending a bit of time working on them.
Design: 4.5 / 5
Lenovo Yoga AiO 27: Performance
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
Good performance for most work
Using it as a monitor for another PC is seamless
Sound quality is OK
Here's how the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 performed in our suite of benchmark tests:
I threw around the Ultrabook label earlier for the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27, and I mean it. The PC comes with the same CPU, integrated graphics, and RAM configurations that you would find on one of the best laptops that wasn't specifically for gaming.
In terms of day-to-day use, that means you can easily have a bunch of tabs open and do just about any productivity work you could think of. It can handle some creative work, such as photo editing, but is a bit underpowered for editing video or 3D design. That is unless you like long rendering times.
It can do light gaming, but won’t be able to handle the latest AAA titles unless you can get your hands on a model with a discrete Nvidia GPU, which is currently limited to Australia.
Really, I find this best for having a large, pretty screen to do regular productivity work and maybe some streaming.
I’m more impressed by the fact I can use the screen as a monitor for another computer. That 1440p resolution can be limiting if you have a souped up gaming laptop, but it does allow some device consolidation if you like to have one computer for productivity and one for gaming. Regardless, using it as an external monitor is pretty seamless.
While it’s nice that the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 can support Dolby Atmos, the sound quality is decent but not great. It’s a bit mid-heavy and doesn’t quite have the clarity that having the best computer speakers would.
Performance: 4.5 / 5
Should you buy the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27?
Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 scorecard
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Value
Though the various configurations in different territories is a bit confusing, what you get for the price is pretty good.
4.5 / 5
Specs
The specs on the Yoga AiO 27 are more akin to an ultrabook than a dedicated desktop PC, but its components are more than enough for general computing, streaming, and even light gaming in some cases.
3.5 / 5
Design
It’s sleek and attractive. More importantly, it has a great screen and very flexible ergonomics.
4.5 / 5
Performance
The performance is more than enough for most people. The only real let down is the sound quality, which is still fine.
4.5 / 5
Total score
As a package, the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 punches above its weight considering the price, flexibility, and vibrant screen.
4.25 / 5
Buy the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 if...
You want an attractive all-in-one computer This AiO is not like the models of yore. It’s sleek and attractive the way Ultrabooks are. Plus, it has a great, vibrant screen.
You need ergonomics This AiO can turn every which way, so it’s very easy to adjust it to your eye level or to swivel it around to show someone else your screen.
You want something that also works as a monitor The fact that you can plug another computer into the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 as if it’s a monitor is a very cool feature and adds to its versatility.
Don't buy it if...
You want upgradability This computer is the opposite of upgradability. Not only is the screen and computer in one package (as is always the case with these types of computers), the RAM is soldered in place. There’s no upgrading this down the line.
You want discrete graphics If you’re in Australia, you can get this with an Nvidia GPU. Otherwise, you’re just not going to be able to get it (at least for now), meaning demanding tasks like 3D design, video editing, or AAA gaming will struggle.
Also consider
If my Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 review has you considering other options, here are two other AiO PCs to consider...
Apple iMac 24-inch M4 The Apple iMac 24-inch M4 is the pinacle of this type of computer and still sets the bar, especially in the looks department. It’s also fairly powerful thanks to Apple’s M4 chip, but it hasn’t gotten a meaningful update outside of that Apple silicon and upgraded RAM in quite awhile.
HP OmniStudio X 31.5 The HP OmniStudio X 31.5 is a bit more powerful than the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 thanks to its discrete graphics, plus it comes with a 4K display. It is a bit more utilitarian, though, not to mention its base model is much weaker than the Yoga AiO 27 I've been using.
I used the Lenovo Yoga AiO 27 for a couple weeks, mainly for productivity, and I also used it for some streaming and tried to do some light gaming as well, not to mention tested its various features.
I’ve spent the last few years reviewing tech gear for gaming and otherwise, where I’ve gotten a feel for what to look for and how to put a piece of kit through its paces to see whether it’s worth the recommendation.
Lighter, cheaper, and more portable than the OG Lenovo Legion Go, the Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) has a lot going for it.
First is its starting $649.99 / £699 / $1,329 price tag, which makes it much cheaper than most of the best budget gaming laptops on the market. And weighing just under two pounds, the Legion Go S is substantially lighter, too.
The result is a compact beauty that can play most of the games in your Steam library, although you might have to adjust a few settings.
The not-so-secret sauce in the Go S is the AMD Ryzen Z2 Go, or AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme if you're willing to pay a bit more for better performance. In my case, the Z2 Go brings solid performance to a remarkably compact system.
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Can you play some of the more demanding games out there, like Cyberpunk 2077? Not really, unless you're willing to make some serious compromises on graphics quality and resolution, but there are plenty of AAA titles that will run beautifully on a device that fits nicely in the palms of your hands.
There are some caveats to consider. The Go S suffers from a short battery life, just like the best gaming laptops, and it has a slightly smaller display with a lower resolution than the original Lenovo Legion Go. And unlike its chunkier brethren, the joysticks on the Legion Go S aren't detachable.
But the biggest concession on the SteamOS version of the handheld is the platform. While there is a version of the Legion Go S with Windows 11 installed, almost everyone using the SteamOS version is going to use Valve's Steam storefront exclusively.
Sure, you could find a way to dual-boot another OS or jury rig a way to get GOG or the Epic Games Store installed on SteamOS, but it's going to be a bit of a hassle, especially for more casual users. For the hard-core Steam fans like me, though, it's not just a non-issue; it's part of the Lenovo Legion Go S's appeal.
Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS): Price and availability
(Image credit: Future)
How much does it cost? Starting at $649.99 / £699 / $1,329
When is it available? It is available now
Where can you get it? It is available in the US, UK, and Australia
The base model of the Legion Go S is available now in the US, UK, and Australia, starting at $649.99 / £699 / $1,329. It comes with the new AMD Ryzen Z2 Go SoC, 16GB RAM, a 512TB SSD, and an 8-inch, 120Hz IPS touchscreen.
There is also the more powerful Z1 Extreme configuration that sells for $829.99 / £699 / AU$1,599. It has more RAM and storage, and it sports the more powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme SoC that powered the original Legion Go.
This is a good bit more expensive than the base Steam Deck, but the slightly more powerful Z2 Go processor in the Legion Go S will get you 50% more RDNA 2 compute units to help with performance.
Excellent hand feel with ergonomic grips; sturdy build
Hall-effect sticks, responsive triggers, handy top/bottom port layout
Louder fans than I’d like during long, heavy sessions
Personally, I’m a big fan of the original Legion Go, bulky as it is. But the Legion Go S (SteamOS) has its own unique appeal, starting with the color.
The midnight blue chassis is a nice change from the black and white we’ve been getting lately from PC gaming handhelds.
The hard plastic casing fits comfortably in my hands with textured hand grips as a bonus. It’s not fingerprint proof, but it is resistant, holding off most smudging until I get my hands in a batch of freshly popped popcorn with truffle oil. Then all bets were off.
(Image credit: Future)
Similar to the Windows 11 version of the Legion Go S, the controllers don’t detach, and there's no kickstand like on the Legion Go. It’s a shame, but the Go S is noticeably lighter than the Legion Go, weighing in at only 1.63 pounds compared to the latter’s 1.88 pounds, with controllers, so it's not that much of an issue.
The asymmetrical analog anti-drift joysticks are sturdy and provide accurate input, and I especially appreciate that they don’t detach as easily as the Go’s joysticks.
The D-Pad is fine, but it’s a little too stiff to deliver the precision needed to input quarter or half-circle inputs for fighting games. However, the buttons, shoulder, and rear bumpers deliver firm feedback with a nice, gentle click. A tiny square under the right joystick acts as one of the tiniest touchpads I’ve ever seen.
Image 1 of 2
(Image credit: Future)
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(Image credit: Future)
Despite not being OLED, the 8-inch 2560 x 1600p WUXGA display on the Legion Go S is absolutely stunning.
The near technicolor vibrance of Hades II was a feast for the eyes as I threw out barrages of attacks against seemingly endless waves of enemies.
Cuphead and its 1930s-style animations also looked lovely when I wasn’t cursing the screen out after yet another defeat. In both cases, the display’s 120Hz refresh rate ensured smooth rendering without any noticeable latency, which in games like these can make all the difference.
(Image credit: Future)
In addition to the Steam button that summons a sidebar with your usual tabs (Home, Library, Store, etc), you also have a Quick Access button, which gives you a sidebar where you can toggle performance profiles and settings such as brightness, audio, and Wi-fi. It’s a seamless way to quickly interact with key features without having to completely exit your game.
Design: 4 / 5
Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS): Performance
(Image credit: Future)
The Z2 Go is more than enough for casual or less-demanding AAA games, but visually robust titles struggle
Surprisingly good audio quality
Controls are responsive and comfortable for long sessions
Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) benchmarks
Here is how the Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) performed in our suite of benchmark tests:
It’s one thing to play Cuphead or Hades II on a PC handheld, but it’s quite another to play the likes of Cyberpunk 2077, God of War, or Baldur’s Gate III.
And yet, there I was, dying for the umpteenth time as I worked my way through Black Myth: Wukong. Thanks to the handheld’sZ2 Go processor, the game played smoothly on lower settings, consistently reaching frame rates approaching 40 fps at 720p.
I also tried playing the game on Cinematic, and that didn't work nearly as well. At the highest performance setting at 720p, the game really chugged along at an unplayable 17 fps.
Games such as Baldur’s Gate 3, Hades II, and Hollow Knight, however,ran smoothly with maxed-out settings, letting me quickly immerse myself in the gameplay.
While not as captivating as the original Go’s QHD panel, the display's colors are vibrant, and details are crisp. This is especially true on Hades II, a technicolor beauty of mythic proportions.
(Image credit: Future)
One thing the Legion Go S has in common with its bigger brother is the audio. After weeks of playing this thing, I’m still surprised at how loud the Go S actually gets.
And while it can’t compete with the best gaming headsets, more often than not, I found myself vibing to the soundtrack of whatever game I was playing. In-game dialogue is crisp, while sound effects like explosions have some weight behind them. And on instrumentals, particularly string instruments like violins, there wasn’t any distortion.
I don’t know if it’s just because the Legion Go S is lighter, but the controls felt much better than on the original Legion Go, with my thumbs nestled comfortably into the concave seat of the analog sticks.
(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
The bumpers and triggers depressed with a firm click, as did the buttons, and using the D-Pad during Black Myth: Wukong to switch stances was a comfortable, fluid experience.
In order to keep the Go S from overheating, Lenovo outfitted the device with several preset Thermal Modes. These set an appropriate fan speed for a corresponding performance level, and while fan noise is negligible on the Quiet or Balanced settings, Performance is a whole other story. There’s also a separate option to optimize fan speeds to make things simpler.
As for thermals, when I wasn't pushing the Legion Go S too hard, the high-contact touch points like the D-Pad, X, Y, A, B buttons, underside, display, etc., never got especially hot, though things got noticeably warmer during more intense sessions. It never felt uncomfortable, though, even during extended play.
Performance: 3 / 5
Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS): Battery life
(Image credit: Future)
Since the Legion Go S is basically a handheld gaming laptop, don’t expect it to last as long as a Nintendo Switch 2.
During my gameplay testing, the Legion would typically last about 2 hours and 30 minutes on Balanced settings before it shut down, though if you do utilize the Legion Go S's SteamOS desktop for non-gaming tasks, I was able to stretch this out to about 8 hours and 30 minutes, but no one is going to use the Legion Go S for that kind of thing regularly enough to matter.
Overall, then, the Legion Go S is more than good enough for a work commute, but if you’ve got a long flight or train ride, you’ll definitely want to keep a charger nearby.
Battery life: 2 / 5
Should you buy the Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS)?
Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) scorecard
Category
Rating
Value
The Legion Go is one of the more affordable PC gaming handhelds on the market. And outside of a slightly smaller display and a less powerful processor, you're not losing too much on this SteamOS device.
4 / 5
Specs
With options for both the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme and Z2 Go, as well as up to 32GB RAM and 1TB storage, this is a well-specced handheld, especially for the price.
4 / 5
Design
While it's not the lightest PC handheld on the market, it's definitely lighter than the original Legion Go. It makes holding the Legion Go S much more comfortable over longer gaming sessions, so while some might miss the kickstand and detachable joysticks, most gamers will call it a fair trade.
4 / 5
Performance
Can you play every GPU-taxing opus on the Legion Go S’s AMD Z2 Go chip? No, but you can play most of what you have in your Steam library at solid frame rates with a few resolution adjustments. Honestly, you'd be surprised at just how many games are handheld compatible these days.
3 / 5
Battery Life
The Legion Go S shares one fatal flaw with its gaming laptop brethren: its blink-and-you-miss-it battery life. At about two and a hald hours while gaming, it's fine for a work commute, but any longer and you'll need to pack a charger.
2 / 5
Final score
The Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) is a good choice for SteamOS diehards. However, if you want something with more oomph, make sure you spend a bit more to get the Z1 Extreme configuration, or look at more powerful gaming PCs, handheld or otherwise.
3.4 / 5
Buy the Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) if...
You value portability The Legion Go S (SteamOS) is a lightweight, portable option to play AAA titles on the go or in your bed.
You have a huge Steam library Particularly for those Steam Sale binges, the Legion Go S (SteamOS) is an elegant way to finally play all those indie darlings you’ve been meaning to play.
You want a large screen with big audio Although not as big as the original Go’s screen, the Legion Go’s 1600p touchpanel is lovely and one of the larger screens available on a handheld. Plus, it’s packing stellar audio.
Don't buy it if...
You want longer battery life If you don’t want to carry a portable charger with you all the time, you might be better off investing in a more traditional gaming laptop.
You want a lighter system While the Legion Go S is lighter than the Legion Go, the Asus ROG Ally is the lighter handheld overall.
You want easy access to all your games While you can technically get non-Steam games on the Legion Go S, it's not an easy or straightforward process.
How I tested the Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS)
Tested the device for several weeks
Played several graphically taxing games at the highest settings
Used in-game benchmark tools where possible
I played several popular and GPU-taxing games on the Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) over the course of six weeks, including Black Myth Wukong, Baldur's Gate 3, Forza Horizon 5, Hades II, Hollow Knight, and Hitman 3.
In addition to anecdotal play time, I also ran several in-game benchmarks at different settings and resolutions with graphical upscaling enabled and disabled.
I've been a life-long gamer on both PCs and consoles, and have covered tech and PC gaming devices for several publications, so I know what to look for in a PC gaming device of any kind and how to accurately and quantitatively measure their performance against its competitors.
The Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) is a hard computer to pin down just because its configurations vary so wildly. It’s almost like the Tower Plus is more of a concept than an actual model with the only thing really remaining the same are its most barebones aspects, such as its chassis and ports. There’s such variation in availability of CPUs, RAM, GPUs, and storage that you can configure this tower to be an efficient budget option or a robust gaming or creative content machine.
Despite the fact that you can end up on opposite sides of the desktop spectrum depending on the configuration you choose or customize, it has an argument for consideration among the best desktops. The flexibility in customization it offers is a point in its favor if you’re okay spending a little time picking out what exactly you need. But even if you get a lower-end build, it’s made to be expanded upon at a later date; so if you want to save up and get a discrete graphics card at a later date, you can.
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
I also appreciate the amount of ports on offer, particularly accessible on the front. Really, there’s not much to dislike with the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250). Sure, the wired keyboard and mouse Dell included are not much more than functional. But they work well enough and I expect most people to probably want to upgrade to one of the best keyboards or mice anyway.
Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250): Price and availability
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
How much does it cost? Starting at $949.99 / £849.01 (about AU$1,460)
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia
Since Dell is one of the biggest brands in the world, the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) is available just about everywhere. The only real issue to keep in mind is that, while those in the US and UK have access to the full gamut of customizations, potential users in Australia only have a list of about eight more premium (in price and components) configurations. That means no budget machines for Oceania, at least for this model.
As far as the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250)’s price, it’s all over the place since the customizations vary so wildly. The only consistent factor is that whatever configuration you get will be well-priced, if not quite a steal, for what you end up with. The cheapest configuration with an Intel Core Ultra 5 and integrated graphics has an MSRP of $949.99 / £849.01 (about AU$1,460), though it is discounted by $200 on Dell’s direct site at the time of writing (all the configurations are on the US site).
The maxed out configuration goes for $3,679.99 / £3,399.00 (about AU$5,630), but that gives you an Intel Core Ultra 9, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080, 64GB of RAM, and 4TB of SSD storage. Backing off on the RAM from 64 to 32GB and the SSD from 4TB to 1TB, both still more than enough for the vast majority of people, gets you a lot closer to $2,500.
The review configuration with its slightly weaker CPU and GPU (both the Intel Core Ultra 7 and RTX 5070 are still quite robust) gets you a surprisingly decent price tag of $1,899.99 / £1,899.00 / AU$3,399.00 for what’s still a fairly powerful gaming machine.
For comparison’s sake, let’s take a look at the NZXT Player PC (5070 Intel Edition) I reviewed not too long ago. It comes with an Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF, RTX 5070, 32GB of RAM, and 2TB SSD. This lineup targets more dedicated gamers and is on offer for $1,999.99.
So, the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) is priced right, though it’s not quite a knockout in terms of value. That is, unless you get it at one of Dell’s regular discounts - in which case it becomes a very tempting deal.
Value: 4 / 5
Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250): Specs
There are a lot of options to choose from with the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250). The CPU ranges from the Intel Core Ultra 5 255 10-core CPU to an Intel Core Ultra 285K 24-core option. The GPU offering is even wider as you can either stick with Intel integrated graphics or get a wide variety of Nvidia GeForce Now GPUs, starting with the RTX 3050 and 4060 Ti to just about every offering of the 5000 series except for the 5090 (the 5080 is the most premium option).
RAM ranges from 16 to 64GB, while the SSD goes from 512GB to 4TB in various configurations, such as getting two 1TB drives instead of one 2TB drive.
Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) base configuration
Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) review configuration
Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) max configuration
Price:
$949.99 / £849.01 (about AU$1,460)
$1,899.99 / £1,899.00 / AU$3,399.00
$3,679.99 / £3,399.00 (about AU$5,630)
CPU:
Intel Core Ultra 5 255
Intel Core Ultra 7 265K
Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
Graphics:
Intel UHD Graphics
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 (12GB)
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 (16GB)
RAM:
16GB DDR5
32GB DDR5
64GB DDR5
Storage:
512GB SSD
1TB SSD
4TB SSD
Ports:
Front Ports:
3x USB 3.2 Type-A Gen 1, USB 3.2 Type-C Gen 2, Headset jack, SD card slot
Rear Ports:
4x USB 2.0 Type-A, 2x USB 3.2 Type-A Gen 1, Thunderbolt 4 (includes 4K video output), HDMI (includes 4K video output), RJ45 Ethernet Port, 2.5GbE, 2x Stereo Audio (Line In / Line Out), S/PDIF Optical, Kensington lock slot
Front Ports:
3x USB 3.2 Type-A Gen 1, USB 3.2 Type-C Gen 2, Headset jack, SD card slot
Rear Ports:
4x USB 2.0 Type-A, 2x USB 3.2 Type-A Gen 1, Thunderbolt 4 (includes 4K video output), HDMI (includes 4K video output), RJ45 Ethernet Port, 2.5GbE, 2x Stereo Audio (Line In / Line Out), S/PDIF Optical, Kensington lock slot
Front Ports:
3x USB 3.2 Type-A Gen 1, USB 3.2 Type-C Gen 2, Headset jack, SD card slot
Rear Ports:
4x USB 2.0 Type-A, 2x USB 3.2 Type-A Gen 1, Thunderbolt 4 (includes 4K video output), HDMI (includes 4K video output), RJ45 Ethernet Port, 2.5GbE, 2x Stereo Audio (Line In / Line Out), S/PDIF Optical, Kensington lock slot
Wireless:
Wi-Fi 7 2x2 BE, Bluetooth
Wi-Fi 7 2x2 BE, Bluetooth
Wi-Fi 7 2x2 BE, Bluetooth
Weight:
Starting at 19.00 lb (8.62 kg)
Starting at 19.00 lb (8.62 kg)
Starting at 19.00 lb (8.62 kg)
Dimensions:
14.68 x 6.81 x 16.80 inches (372.90 x 173.00 x 426.90 mm)
14.68 x 6.81 x 16.80 inches (372.90 x 173.00 x 426.90 mm)
14.68 x 6.81 x 16.80 inches (372.90 x 173.00 x 426.90 mm)
You can also upgrade the power supply (and you might be limited in choice depending on the other components selected), which is strangely paired with colorway, though the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) only comes in platinum or graphite. You can also upgrade, for a fairly nominal fee ($29), to the wireless Dell Pro Keyboard and Mouse combo.
Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250): Design
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
Discreet office-style look
Plenty of ports
Future upgradeability is a big boon
Despite the fact that you can soup the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) into a gaming machine, it fits the aesthetic of an upscale office the same way that a Dell 14 Premium laptop does. It’s clean and minimalist looking with fairly neutral colors, either platinum or graphite (aka gray or black), and some well-placed venting to not only help with cooling efficiency but also keep it from looking too boring. It’s also just a bit on the smaller size for a regular ATX-style desktop tower.
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(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
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(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
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(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
As far as ports go, the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) is fully stocked. There’s a plethora of USB ports as well as Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI (on top of the inputs on the graphics card), but more importantly, there are some easily accessible ones on the front including three USB, a USB-C, headphone hack, and a microSD card reader.
But none of that is unexpected. The one thing that the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) does that I only really see in gaming machines for enthusiasts is an eye toward expansion in its setup. Not only can you upgrade the RAM to hold up to two 32GB sticks of RAM, but there are two M.2 SSD slots along with two regular hard drive slots, as well as three PCIe slots for later additions or upgrades in the graphics card department.
Design: 4.5 / 5
Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250): Performance
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
It can be as powerful as you want it to be
Review configuration is a powerhouse
Can handle demanding gaming and editing tasks
It’s hard to really pin down the performance of the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) just because computers are rarely more than the sum of their parts. A computer with an Intel Core Ultra 7 265K CPU, 32GB or RAM, and a Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 GPU is going to perform similarly to any other computer with similar hardware.
Now, sometimes manufacturers do cut corners or have issues with cooling efficiency that can make a difference. The difference between the configuration I reviewed with those components I just mentioned and the most basic configuration is going to be night and day to the point of feeling like different computers (because they are).
Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250): Benchmarks
Here's how the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) performed in our suite of benchmark tests:
3DMark: Fire Strike: 38910; Time Spy: 21176; Port Royal: 13981
That basic build is great for anyone who wants a working desktop that they want to upgrade at a later time or just want something cost effective to get them online and doing regular productivity work. Keep in mind that the most affordable model runs on Ubuntu Linux, not Windows (but all other Dell Tower Plus configurations run Windows).
The model I reviewed ran like a gaming computer, however. In fact, it did very well even running beautifully with a 120Hz 4K monitor. I never had any performance issues; there was no stuttering or screen tearing when gaming, and no noticeable slowdown during any other kind of use.
The difference between my review model and a regular gaming computer is simply aesthetics. It was able to get over 80 FPS in 1080p and almost 40 FPS in 4K when running Monster Hunter Wilds, for instance.
And its results in Cyberpunk 2077, specifically its almost 70 FPS in 1080p and 20 FPS in 4K (not including DLSS upscaling) give a good idea of the RTX 5070’s limitations more than anything else. For powerful gaming performance, you’ll probably want the 5080.
If you’re looking for a desktop that can handle other demanding tasks, the Dell Tower Plus is capable of doing that as well. Its benchmark of 2:06 in Handbrake represents how quickly it can convert video, for instance. And any horsepower that can be used for gaming does well for 3D design and video editing as well.
Lastly, I want to mention that when I tried to push this computer, mostly by running demanding games, it still operated fairly quietly. That’s not always the case with powerful computers.
Performance: 4.5 / 5
Should you buy the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250)?
Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) Scorecard
Category
Rating
Value
While the price tag can vary by the thousands, any configuration you get will be a good price if not quite a steal.
4 / 5
Design
On the outside, it looks like a nice office computer. On the inside, it has enough expandability for just about any need. The keyboard and mouse are a little basic, though.
4.5 / 5
Performance
The review configuration is a powerhouse and candle just about anything, especially at 1080p. Plus, it runs quietly.
4.5 / 5
Final score
Between its solid price tag, good performance, and extra expandability, this desktop is an easy recommendation.
4.5 / 5
Buy the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) if...
You want expandability without building your own PC
If you don’t want to build your PC, but want the expandability and future-proofing that most mass-produced desktops don’t have, then the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) might be the ideal computer for you.
You want something that looks discreet
Between its platinum and graphite colorways and more minimalist case, this computer doesn’t call too much attention to itself, making it an attractive addition for your office.
You need power
With the right configuration, you can get enough power to run just about anything one could want out of a consumer computer.
Don't buy it if...
You want something exciting
The Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) can do whatever you need it to depending on the configuration. Regardless of that, there’s really nothing sexy or exciting about this. There’s no glass panel, water cooling, RGB lighting, or interesting colorways.
You need something small
It might be smaller than other mid-size desktops, but the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) is still, as the name suggests, a tower PC. If you want something small, you can either get a laptop and connect it to a monitor or go with a small form factor computer.
Also consider
If our Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) review has you considering other options, here are two desktops to consider...
NZXT Player PC (5070 Intel Edition)
The NZXT Player PC (5070 Intel Edition) is very comparable when it comes to spec’s, but it has fans with backlighting (and you can always upgrade or add RGB) as well as a glass side panel for peaking inside. It is a tiny bit more and doesn’t come with a keyboard and mouse, but is a good option for gamers.
If you want a desktop for the office and don’t need that gaming or video editing process, then there are some better and cheaper options, particularly if you don’t need to stick with Windows. The Apple Mac mini (M4, 2024) is powerful in its own right and starts at a price that’s lower than a mid-tier laptop, Mac or otherwise.
I used the Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) for a couple weeks to get a feel for it. I did some productivity work including researching and typing up most of this article. I also did a bit of streaming and played some demanding games, all while using the included keyboard and mouse for the majority of the testing.
The Dell Tower Plus (EBT2250) is interesting because it can be so many different things, like a budget productivity machine or a powerful gaming workhorse, that just happen to share the same basic building blocks and look. This computer seems to be ideal for someone who wants a discreet desktop, possibly for an office, that can be upgraded at a later date.
I’ve spent the last few years reviewing tech gear for gaming and otherwise, where I’ve gotten a feel for what to look for and how to put a piece of kit through its paces to see whether it’s worth the recommendation.
