The Razer Blade 14 has consistently delivered impressive performance for its size, and the 2024 model continues this tradition. While the stunning QHD+ 240Hz display remains largely unchanged, significant CPU and GPU upgrades provide a noticeable performance boost and unlock new AI capabilities. This review dives into the details of the Razer Blade 14 (2024) to see if it lives up to the hype.
Powerful Components in a Compact Design
The 2024 Razer Blade 14 features an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor and a vibrant QHD+ (2560×1600) display paired with a 1TB SSD. Buyers can choose between Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 4070 and RTX 4060 GPUs, along with 16GB or 32GB of RAM (upgradable to 96GB). The review unit boasts the following specifications:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS
- RAM: 32GB DDR5 / 5600MHz
- GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070
- Display: 14-inch, QHD+ (2560×1600), 240Hz, 100% DCI-P3, Anti-glare, AMD FreeSync Premium, Calman Verified
- Storage: 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD
- Ports: 2 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 2 x USB4 Type-C (Power Delivery, DisplayPort 1.4), HDMI 2.1
- Networking: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
- Webcam: 1080p Windows Hello IR camera
- Weight: 4.05 pounds (1.84kg)
- Dimensions: 0.70 x 8.97 x 12.23 inches
- Battery: 68.1 Wh
- Price (as reviewed): $2,699.99
The base model with an RTX 4060 and 16GB of RAM starts at $2,199.99. While the top-tier configuration is pricier than some competitors, it’s also $100 less than the equivalent 2023 model.
Premium Build and Portability
alt text: Close-up view of the Razer Blade 14, highlighting its sleek black chassis, keyboard, and trackpad.
The Razer Blade 14’s CNC-milled aluminum chassis exudes quality and durability. Despite its robust construction, the laptop remains surprisingly portable at just 4.05 pounds and 0.70 inches thick. While not the absolute lightest 14-inch gaming laptop, it’s easily manageable for on-the-go gaming. The port selection is also commendable, offering a good mix of USB-C, USB-A, and HDMI connectivity.
Keyboard, Trackpad, Display, and Audio
alt text: The Razer Blade 14 keyboard illuminated with a blue backlight, showcasing its per-key RGB customization.
The keyboard features per-key RGB lighting but retains the same low-profile, somewhat mushy key feel as its predecessor. The trackpad is smooth and responsive, offering precise control. The standout feature is the returning QHD+ 240Hz display. Its vibrant colors, crisp details, and high refresh rate make for an exceptional gaming experience, minimizing screen tearing and stuttering. The speakers, while clear in the mid-range and treble, lack impactful bass. The 1080p webcam delivers clear video quality for meetings and streaming.
Performance and Benchmarks
alt text: Performance graphs showcasing the Razer Blade 14's benchmark scores in various tests.
The Ryzen 9 8945HS CPU with integrated AI capabilities provides a significant performance uplift over the previous generation. Benchmarks show solid performance in CPU-intensive tasks, and the RTX 4070 delivers impressive frame rates in demanding games, easily exceeding 120fps in many titles. The integrated NPU also enables Windows Studio Effects for enhanced video conferencing.
Battery Life
alt text: Performance graph comparing the Razer Blade 14's battery life against other gaming laptops.
In our video playback test, the Razer Blade 14 lasted almost 10 hours. While real-world gaming will drain the battery faster, around 4.5 hours, this is still respectable for a gaming laptop.
Conclusion
The Razer Blade 14 (2024) offers a compelling blend of performance, portability, and premium features. While the price tag is premium, the upgraded components, stunning display, and robust build make it a worthwhile investment for gamers seeking a high-end, compact gaming machine.
