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Using the Dell G16 7620 16’ Gaming Laptop (i7-12700H and RTX 3060) (2024)

My thoughts on the Dell G16 7620: performance, design, gaming performance, connectivity, day-to-day experience.
Author
Affiliation
Jim Grendler

Cartesian Mathematics Foundation

Published

January 1, 2024

Introduction

For gaming and general work I have been testing the Dell G16 7620 Gaming Laptop for a while now. I am impressed with its high-performance specs, design, and cooling system properly implemented by Alienware’s. It’s designed for gamers - as are most Alienware’s products - but I’ve found that its features make it a solid choice for everyday use too.

Specifications

Property Value Property Value
Brand Dell Model Name Dell G16 7000 7620 16 Gaming Laptop
Screen Size 16 Inches Hard Disk Size 1 TB
CPU Model Core i7 Ram Memory Installed Size 16 GB
Operating System Windows 11 Graphics Card Description Dedicated
Graphics Coprocessor NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 CPU Speed 3.5 GHz

Photos

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Prices

Design and Build of the Dell G16 7620 Gaming Laptop

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The Dell G16 7620 Gaming Laptop caught my eye with its bold and robust build that promises to handle my gaming needs. Right off the bat, the design feels tailored for gamers like me who are looking for performance with a touch of style. The laptop’s Alienware-inspired thermal design is not just for show; it’s a functional choice that ensures efficient cooling. The integration of dual air-intake system from the top and bottom, combined with the four vents on the sides and rear, is brilliant. This overcomes one of the biggest concerns I have with gaming laptops which is overheating during intense gaming sessions.

Here’s a quick rundown of the build and design features that stand out:

  • Dual air-intake from keyboard top and bottom for improved airflow

  • Four vents located around the sides and rear for efficient heat dissipation

  • An 86Wh battery which is substantial, though I’ve noticed it drains fairly quickly during gaming

  • Robust build, but with a weight of 5.95 lbs, it’s not the lightest to carry around.

The 16-inch QHD display with a 165Hz refresh rate is housed within a chassis that visually strikes a balance between gaming aesthetics and professional subtlety. The RGB Backlit Keyboard not only looks cool but is also practical for late-night gaming sessions. While I appreciate the inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 and multiple USB 3.2 ports, I do miss having an SD card reader, which would have made transferring game captures a breeze.

I’ve found that the 10.71” x 14.06” x 1.06” dimensions make it a bit bulky compared to other laptops in the market, but the extra space accommodates better thermal management, and let’s be honest, that’s more important for a gaming rig.

The laptop runs on Windows 11 Home, and while some may prefer the Pro version, Home meets my gaming and everyday needs without an issue. Plus, with 16GB RAM and a 1TB SSD, I haven’t faced any serious performance setbacks so far.

Although this laptop is not flimsy by any means, it’s worth noting that constant transport could lead to wear, and it’s probably best used as a desktop replacement rather than a machine you toss into your backpack daily.

As for drawbacks, the 5.95-pound heft makes it less portable, and the battery could drain quickly when you’re deep in gaming - but these are trade-offs I’m willing to live with for the performance it delivers. If you’re a gamer who primarily plays at home and needs a reliable machine that keeps cool under pressure, the Dell G16 7620 should be on your list.

Gaming Performance: Exploring the RTX 3060 and 165Hz Display

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When you’re deep into a gaming session, the real-time action’s smoothness is crucial, and I found the Dell G16 7620 Gaming Laptop delivers big time on that front. The 165Hz refresh rate on a 16” QHD display is a sweet spot for both competitive and immersive gaming. Fast-paced titles like “Overwatch” or “CS:GO” benefit immensely from the higher refresh rate. It makes a noticeable difference – movements are silkier, and input lag is significantly reduced. I’d say it’s an edge that any gamer would appreciate.

The RTX 3060 graphics card is a powerhouse for this laptop’s price point. It can handle most modern games at high settings without breaking a sweat. Paired with the vivid and sharp 2560x1600 resolution, you get a graphical feast for the eyes. Sure, it’s not the top-of-the-line card, but for the majority of gamers, it’s a solid performer that doesn’t leave you wanting much more.

Here comes a quick run-down of the gaming experience:

Pros:

  • The 165Hz display is a delight; it adds an extra layer of fluidity to games.

  • RTX 3060 handles modern games with ease, great for high settings gaming.

  • 16GB RAM, this seems ample for current gaming needs.

  • 1TB SSD means fast load times, and lots of space for games.

Cons:

  • The RTX 3060, while powerful, isn’t top-tier, so ultra settings in the most demanding titles may be a stretch.

  • Might have expected a bit more than 16GB of RAM for future-proofing, but it’s still adequate for today’s games.

  • At 5.95 lbs, it’s not the lightest, impacting portability.

The thermal design is something I’d usually gloss over, but it surprised me here. The Alienware-inspired cooling system keeps performance stable even during marathon sessions – a common issue with many high-performance laptops. However, noise levels can spike when the system is being pushed to its limits.

One more thing I like is how the laptop feels tailored for gamers, from its RGB backlit keyboard to the overall build quality. It’s not just a throw-in; you can tell that there’s been some serious thought put into its design.

Lastly, considering the pre-installed Windows 11 Home, you’re getting an up-to-date system straight out of the box. It’s familiar, it’s functional, and it complements the laptop’s gaming prowess well.

Overall, my personal experience with the Dell G16 7620 Gaming Laptop has been positive. It hits that sweet spot of performance and value. Sure, there are areas for improvement, but they’re far from deal-breakers. If you’re on the hunt for a gaming laptop that won’t let you down in the heat of battle, this one’s certainly worth considering.

Connectivity and Ports: Keeping Everything Together

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When you’re consistently toggling between the latest games and your daily tasks, connectivity becomes as crucial as the machine’s core specs. For me, the Dell G16 7620 doesn’t disappoint on this front. Here’s a quick rundown of the ports and connectivity options:

  • 1 x Thunderbolt 4 (DisplayPort): Future-proofing with high-speed data transfer and the ability to connect to cutting-edge displays.

  • 3 x USB-A 3.2: Plenty of room for peripherals like mice, keyboards, and external storage without needing a hub.

  • 1 x HDMI 2.1: This is ideal for hooking up to an external monitor or TV for 4K content.

  • 1 x RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet Port: An essential for stable wired internet connections, a must for competitive gaming.

  • 1 x Headphone/Mic Jack: Always handy for plugging in a gaming headset.

The Thunderbolt 4 port is a game-changer, offering a bandwidth speed of up to 40Gbps, which is double what you’d get from USB 3.2 Gen 2. That means transferring files or utilizing an external GPU is incredibly fast and efficient. Combining that with HDMI 2.1 support grants you the ability to run a high-refresh-rate 4K monitor for ultimate gaming or productive multitasking. I’m honestly impressed by this variety, which covers nearly every base one would expect in a modern gaming laptop.

Now, is it flawless? Not quite. The exclusion of an SD card reader might be a minor inconvenience for some, especially content creators who frequently transfer files from cameras. While it’s not a deal-breaker, it’s worth noting that you might need to invest in an external reader. Furthermore, for an immersive gaming setup, one might argue that more than a single HDMI port could have been more beneficial, but that’s where the Thunderbolt port’s versatility comes into play.

Living the life of a laptop enthusiast and a gamer, I appreciate that Dell has considered both the aesthetic and functional aspect when it comes to connectivity. With the G16, I’m not left wanting for more ports, and the fact that Dell includes the high-speed Thunderbolt connection demonstrates forward-thinking, aligning with the latest peripherals and devices.

Overall, what stands out to me about the Dell G16 is not just its robust performance specs but how it successfully ensures that you’re well-equipped for any peripheral need. The ample selection of ports reinforces that this laptop is designed for gamers and professionals alike, securing its place as a versatile companion for both work and play.

Everyday Use: Operating System and Miscellaneous Features

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After spending a significant amount of time with the Dell G16 7620, I must say the day-to-day experience has been mostly positive, albeit with a few minor hiccups. Here’s a breakdown to give you a clearer picture:

Pros:

  • The Windows 11 Home operating system is sleek and user-friendly, offering a refined interface that complements the laptop’s powerful hardware.

  • An RGB backlit keyboard not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also enhances usability in low-light conditions.

  • The HD camera and Bluetooth functionalities are handy for video calls and connecting to various peripherals smoothly.

Cons:

  • The absence of a fingerprint reader means security relies solely on passwords or PIN, which is a minor inconvenience.

  • Lack of a multi-format SD media card reader could be a drawback for content creators who frequently transfer files from different devices.

Out of the box, the Microsoft Windows 11 Home experience on this laptop has been a breeze. I appreciate its ease of access and the new features that help with multitasking and productivity, which are vital given how much I flip between gaming sessions and work tasks. The integration of Intel Iris Xe Graphics alongside my dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 allows for seamless switching when not in heavy gaming mode, preserving battery and maintaining performance.

Now, let’s talk about the Alienware-inspired thermal system. It keeps the laptop cool under pressure, which is critical during my gaming marathons or when juggling intense applications. And I have to mention the RGB backlit keyboard; it’s not just about RGB bling—having a well-lit keyboard is practical for night-time use without blasting my room with lights.

I did notice the absence of certain features like a built-in SD card reader. As someone who often works with photography on the side, it’s an extra step to use an external card reader. Not a deal-breaker, but certainly a point to consider if you’re a creator.

The Dell G16 does weigh a bit at 5.95 lbs, which is expected given its gaming focus, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re planning to carry it around frequently.

In conclusion, as an all-around laptop, it has impressed me with how it handles everything I throw at it. The Dell G16 7620 is a solid choice; whether I’m gaming, working, or just browsing, it has not only met but often exceeded my expectations. Sure, it’s not perfect, but the pros far outweigh the cons, making it a recommended choice in my book for anyone looking for a robust and reliable gaming laptop that can double as a daily driver.