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Using the Asus TUF 17.3’144Hz Gaming Laptop (with an i5-11260H and RTX 3050 Ti) (2024): my thoughts
Introduction
I recently got my hands on the Asus TUF 17.3” Gaming Laptop: a machine built to handle everything from everyday tasks to playing the latest games. I had a few quirks with it but almost everything about this laptop stands out to me - more on this below.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Asus | Screen Size | 17.3 Inches |
| Hard Disk Size | 512 GB | CPU Model | Core i5 |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 16 GB | Operating System | Windows 7, Windows 10 |
| Special Feature | Backlit Keyboard | Graphics Card Description | Dedicated |
| Graphics Coprocessor | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti | CPU Speed | 2.6 GHz |
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Prices
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Overall Design and Build
In assessing the overall design and build of the Asus TUF 17.3” Gaming Laptop, there are immediate standout features that I must note:
Sturdy Construction: Right off the bat, the robustness of the Asus TUF is noticeable. It’s true to its name, giving off a sense of durability that’s reassuring for someone like me who tends to be a bit clumsy.
Aesthetic Appeal: Despite its resilience, the laptop doesn’t sacrifice looks. It has a sleek and attractive design that can turn heads.
Size and Weight: For a 17.3” gaming laptop, it’s relatively lightweight. This is a significant plus for portability, though it’s worth mentioning that it’s not the lightest on the market.
When it comes to the build itself, the Asus TUF feels well-constructed and solid to the touch. The backlit keyboard is not just a visually pleasing addition; it adds practicality for low-light situations, enhancing the overall user experience.
However, the laptop tends to run hot after extended use, which isn’t uncommon for gaming laptops, but still something to keep in mind if you’re planning on long gaming sessions or heavy usage. This also ties into the battery life, which, frankly, could be better. I often find myself tethered to a power source, which does limit mobility — something a prospective buyer should consider, especially if they’re often on the go.
One particular detail that won me over was the dedicated numeric keypad. As someone who inputs data regularly, this feature significantly boosts efficiency. But it’s not all about the numbers; the keyboard’s tactile feedback is comfortable and responsive, important for both gaming and productivity tasks.
On the downside, the absence of a CD/DVD drive can be a stumbling block if you’re holding onto physical media. It’s a trade-off many modern laptops make for sleeker designs and lighter weight, but it’s one of those things that you don’t miss until it’s gone.
Despite the couple of drawbacks, it’s clear the Asus TUF was built with attention to detail and multiple use cases in mind. It’s a machine that boasts a good balance between a rugged build and an attractive design, which to me, makes it an excellent choice for gamers and professionals alike who can work around its minor limitations.
Performance and Gaming
Having spent a considerable amount of time with the Asus TUF 17.3” gaming laptop, my assessments on its performance and gaming capabilities stem from hands-on, practical use. When it boils down to these specific areas, a gamer’s focus typically zeroes in on the machine’s core components, such as:
Processor: The 11th Gen Intel Tiger Lake Core i5-11260H
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti
RAM: Up to 32GB possible, with a default of 16GB
Storage: 512GB PCIe SSD
Display: 17.3” FHD with a 144Hz refresh rate
The Intel Core i5 processor combined with the NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti graphics card provides a robust foundation for both modern gaming and creative tasks. Games like God of War and Red Dead Redemption 2 run smoothly, with only occasional compromises in graphics settings to maintain that seamless experience. It’s a similar story with demanding software like Adobe Premiere Pro; the laptop doesn’t miss a beat.
However, as with any gaming laptop, one must consider trade-offs. While the system sports ample speed and brisk boot times, I’ve noticed that the battery life doesn’t quite match up to my gaming sessions. It’s not the kind of laptop I would take on extensive travels without the charger in tow, as after an hour of intense use the battery demands a socket.
Speaking about upgrades, while the laptop comes with considerable power out of the box, I’m thinking about expanding the RAM to 32GB—the headroom should provide a more future-proof experience. Plus, there’s the potential to manage heat better with a bit of undervolting, which could make extended gaming sessions more comfortable.
One recurring hiccup in my use has been a pesky issue with the WiFi driver that seems to enjoy playing hide and seek post-Windows updates. On the bright side, when it’s performing as expected, Wi-Fi connectivity is solid, enabling uninterrupted gaming and smooth streaming.
I must also admit I’m split on the absence of a touch screen. While not crucial for gaming, it could’ve added to the versatility of the device. And as someone who often churns through a lot of media, the lack of an internal CD/DVD drive is a downside—external solutions work, but it’s one more thing to carry.
In summary, the Asus TUF excels where it really matters for gamers: raw performance and visual clarity. Sure, there are areas for improvement, but for anyone looking for a dedicated gaming PC with ample screen real estate and upgrade potential, this laptop hits many right notes, despite some shortcomings that can be navigated with a bit of tech-savvy and accessory investments.
Connectivity and Features
In the realm of gaming and productivity, having a range of connectivity options at your disposal is crucial. The Asus TUF 17.3” Gaming Laptop shines in this area, offering a comprehensive suite of ports and features that cater to various needs:
1x HDMI: Essential for connecting to external monitors or projectors, expanding your display real estate.
1x USB-C with DisplayPort: A versatile port that supports high-speed data transfer, high-definition video, and even power delivery.
3x USB-A 3.2: Ample USB-A ports mean more room for peripherals such as a mouse, keyboard, and external storage.
1x Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack: For audio input/output without the need for additional adapters.
1x RJ-45 Ethernet: For a stable wired internet connection, which I find invaluable during online gaming sessions to avoid any latency.
Wireless/Wired connectivity (WiFi 6 - 802.11 ax): Robust and fast Wi-Fi support is crucial, and WiFi 6 offers speeds nearly 3X faster compared to older standards, which I definitely notice while streaming or downloading large files.
One particular feature that stands out is the Two-Way AI Noise Cancelation for audio. Whether it’s for gaming, video calls, or streaming, having clear sound without the interference of background noise is a massive benefit, though it’s not without its quirks in practical use.
While these features are reliable and mostly efficient, some drawbacks color the overall user experience. One challenge has been with the WiFi driver, which has had a tendency to disable randomly, at least in my experience, requiring frequent reinstallation—a notable inconvenience. Another point is that, although the USB-C includes DisplayPort capabilities and the promise of Power over Cable, it doesn’t follow through with Thunderbolt 3 support, which would have been a welcome inclusion for faster data transfer speeds and connecting to high-end devices.
Also, the battery life isn’t outstanding, usually lasting me around four hours on a good day. It’s workable for short stints unplugged, but you’ll want to stay close to a power source for longer sessions, which limits its mobility.
In summary:
Pros:
Vast array of ports for connectivity.
WiFi 6 support ensures fast internet speeds.
AI noise canceling enhances audio communication.
Cons:
Random WiFi driver issues can interrupt internet access.
No Thunderbolt 3 support limits high-speed connectivity options.
Battery life could be better for enhanced portability.
Overall, while the Asus TUF 17.3” does have instances that call for troubleshooting, these small hitches don’t overshadow the value of its extensive connectivity and useful features. It caters well to my gaming and multitasking needs, making it a competent companion in both work and play scenarios. The thoughtfully equipped range of ports and features, coupled with its consistent performance, make it a strong contender in its class.
Longevity and Quirks
Through my time with the Asus TUF 17.3’ gaming laptop, I’ve come to appreciate its blend of performance and persistence, despite it harboring some quirks. My journey hasn’t been without hiccups, but I’ve found workarounds and silver linings that have largely tipped the scales in favor of a positive experience.
Here’s a rundown of the ups and downs:
Pros:
The system strikes a fine balance between power and price.
16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD give it ample horsepower for multitasking and storage.
A backlit keyboard adds convenience in low-light conditions.
Cons:
It exhibits an odd quirk where Wi-Fi drivers may need to be reinstalled post-Windows updates.
The battery life leaves much to be desired, often tethering me to a power outlet after only an hour of use.
Despite the beefy specs, the battery performance is a sticking point. I quickly learned that this machine isn’t one for the road warriors; it’s most at home perched on a desk where it can stay juiced up. Oddly, nearly every Windows update has left me reinstalling Wi-Fi drivers — an annoying, yet manageable task.
I must mention the sound quality from the built-in speakers; it didn’t meet my expectations considering the robustness of the rest. Let’s just say, headphones or external speakers are a must for a truly immersive gaming or movie session.
All this said, the durability is commendable. Life’s little accidents haven’t phased it; it’s taken a beating and shrugged it off with nary more than cosmetic scars. Accessibility is another plus; the additional features like the screen dim/sleep lock keys and fan controls have made daily operations smoother.
The upgradable nature is a boon; it suggests that the laptop and I have a long road ahead. However, finding out what I can upgrade has been akin to navigating a labyrinth filled with conflicting advice.
I’ve also tackled thermal management by maximizing the RAM and employing an undervolt technique for a cooler running system. Gamers looking for a starter rig would appreciate its RTX 3050 Ti card. Not top-of-the-line by any stretch, but it capably runs modern titles at commendable settings.
To conclude, while the Asus TUF 17.3’ has been a mixed bag with battery woes and the occasional technical quirk, its sturdy build, upgradable components, and reliable gaming performance have solidified its place in my digital life. It has been heartening to see it keep pace with my varying demands, from daily productivity tasks to the after-hours gaming grind. It’s a machine that, with a little TLC and the occasional workaround, shows promise for the long haul.