The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 has earned its legendary status among gaming laptops, consistently delivering a winning combination of sleek design, powerful hardware, and an accessible price. The 2024 model, however, takes a radical departure. With fewer hardware options, a new aluminum chassis, and a standard OLED screen, it feels like an entirely new machine. While it might not feel like the G14 we know, this new iteration offers a compelling balance of portability and power at a price point that rivals struggle to match.
The back of the Zephyrus G14 laptop.
A Streamlined Approach to Hardware
Asus has simplified the configuration options for the 2024 Zephyrus G14. Every model features an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor, 1TB of PCIe 4.0 storage, and a stunning 3K OLED Nebula HDR display. Most configurations also include 32GB of LPDDR5X-6400 memory, but here’s the catch: the RAM is soldered. This limits upgradability, a significant departure from previous models and competitors like the Razer Blade 14.
| Feature | Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 12.24 x 8.88 x 0.64 inches |
| Weight | 3.31 pounds |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS |
| Graphics | Nvidia RTX 4070 (90W TGP) |
| RAM | 32GB LPDDR5X-6400 (soldered) |
| Display | 3K (2,880 x 1,800) OLED, 120Hz, G-Sync |
| Storage | 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD |
| Touch | N/A |
| Ports | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x 3.5mm, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 1x USB 4 Type-C w/ 100W power delivery, 1x microSD card reader |
| Wireless | Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6E |
| Webcam | 1080p w/ Windows Hello |
| Operating system | Windows 11 Pro |
| Battery | 73WHrs |
| Price | $2,000 |
While the soldered memory may contribute to the laptop’s portability, it presents a significant drawback in terms of future upgrades and repairs. GPU options are also limited to the RTX 4050 to RTX 4070, all capped at 90W TGP (65W base + 25W Dynamic Boost). This lower power consumption, however, surprisingly doesn’t translate to a significant performance drop thanks to the efficiency of Nvidia’s latest GPUs.
Reimagined Design and Build
The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 with the lid cracked.
The most striking change is the new aluminum chassis. This premium construction elevates the G14’s look and feel, placing it alongside premium laptops like the Razer Blade 14 and Alienware x14 R2. At just 0.63 inches thick and weighing a mere 3.3 pounds, the Zephyrus G14 achieves remarkable portability. This is lighter than even the 14-inch MacBook Pro, a remarkable feat for a gaming laptop with an RTX 4070.
The ROG badge on the Asus Zephyrus G14.
This lightweight design comes with trade-offs. The soldered memory and a smaller 73Wh battery are notable compromises. The signature raised hinge design is also gone, replaced by a traditional clamshell form. The AniMe Matrix LED display has been replaced by Slash Lighting, a diagonal light bar with limited customization options.
Robust Connectivity Options
Ports on the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 laptop.
Despite the slim profile, the Zephyrus G14 boasts impressive connectivity. It features a full array of ports, including HDMI 2.1, dual USB-A, USB-C, USB 4 with 100W power delivery, a microSD card reader, and a headphone jack. The port placement is well-considered, with larger connectors positioned on the left side to minimize interference with mouse usage. The power adapter has also been redesigned, now featuring a straight, square connector at the back of the laptop for improved convenience.
Familiar Keyboard and Expanded Trackpad
Keyboard on the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14.
The excellent keyboard from previous G14 models remains, offering a snappy typing experience with comfortable key travel. The trackpad has also been enlarged, extending from the bottom edge to the keyboard.
A Display That Shines
An HDR demo running on the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14.
The standout feature is the standard 3K OLED display. This 16:10 panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, G-Sync, Adaptive Sync, and Dolby Vision HDR delivers exceptional visuals with vibrant colors and deep blacks. The color accuracy is remarkable, and brightness levels are impressive, though not quite as high as dedicated OLED gaming monitors or mini-LED displays.
An OLED HDR demo running on the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14.
Performance and Gaming: A Balancing Act
The Ryzen 9 8945HS delivers solid performance, though slightly below larger laptops. The RTX 4070, despite its lower TGP, performs admirably, even surpassing some 16-inch laptops with the same GPU. However, the Razer Blade 14, with similar hardware, edges out the G14 in some benchmarks.
Multi-core performance of the 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14.
Single core performance of the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 2024.
GPU performance for the 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 laptop.
Gaming performance is good, but the lower TGP and higher native resolution (1800p) impact frame rates. While it can handle most games, some titles require lowered settings or DLSS to achieve smooth gameplay at native resolution. Running games at 1600p offers a noticeable performance boost.
Performance of the 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 in PCMark 10.
Performance for the 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 in Premiere Pro.
Performance of the 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 in 3DMark.
Battery Life: A Reality Check
Forza Horizon 5 running on the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14.
Battery life, while not terrible, falls short of expectations, especially given the laptop’s sleek design and creator-focused features. Expect around six hours in general use and less than five hours with continuous web browsing. While USB-C charging offers flexibility, this is still a gaming laptop, and battery life reflects that.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for the G14
Cyberpunk 2077 running on the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14.
The 2024 Zephyrus G14 is a bold reimagining of a classic. Its MacBook-like portability and stunning OLED display are major selling points. While it compromises on upgradability and peak performance, the overall package is compelling, especially given its competitive price. If you prioritize portability and a premium experience, the 2024 Zephyrus G14 is a strong contender. However, those seeking maximum performance and upgradability may find the previous generation models, now available at a lower price, more appealing.
