The 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 defies expectations. With dimensions and weight remarkably close to an ultrabook, one might anticipate a compromise in performance. Quite the contrary. Equipped with an AI-powered Ryzen 9 CPU and a potent RTX 40 series GPU, this compact gaming laptop delivers a surprising punch.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 The Zephyrus G14 features a customizable LED light strip.
Dominic Bayley / IDG
Specifications and Pricing
The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 boasts premium specifications:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS
- RAM: 16GB DDR5 / 6400MHz
- Graphics: Nvidia RTX 4060 (RTX 4070 available in higher-tier models)
- Display: 14-inch 3K (2880 x 1800) OLED, 16:10, 120Hz, 100% DCI-P3, 0.2ms response time, G-Sync
- Storage: 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD
- Webcam: 1080P IR with Windows Hello support
- Connectivity: 2 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB-C 4, HDMI 2.1 FRL, 3.5mm combo audio jack, microSD card reader
- Networking: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Battery: 73WHr
- Dimensions: 12.24 x 8.66 x 0.63 inches
- Weight: 3.31 lbs (1.5kg)
- Price: $1,599.99 (base model with RTX 4060), $2,199.99 (with RTX 4070)
Design and Build
At just 12.24 x 8.66 x 0.63 inches and 3.31 pounds, the Zephyrus G14 achieves ultrabook-like portability rarely seen in gaming laptops. The CNC-milled aluminum alloy construction provides exceptional rigidity and durability. Asus’s attention to detail is evident in the precision machining, especially around the new 2nd Gen Arc Flow fans, which deliver an 11% increase in airflow.
Aesthetically, the G14 offers a blend of subtle and striking elements. Available in Eclipse Grey or Moonlight White, the laptop features understated ROG logos and a programmable Slash Lighting Array that adds a touch of flair.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The G14 maximizes its compact footprint with a spacious keyboard featuring large keycaps (12.24% larger than the previous generation) and 1.7mm of key travel. While comfortable for typing, the keys have a slightly soft and mushy feel. The single-zone RGB backlighting illuminates the keys evenly without excessive bleed. While individual key customization is absent, Aura Sync compatibility allows synchronization with other supported devices.
The generously sized trackpad boasts a smooth, glass-like surface and responsive click buttons.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 The G14’s keyboard features large keycaps and RGB backlighting.
Dominic Bayley / IDG
Display and Audio
The G14 debuts the first OLED display in an ROG laptop, a significant upgrade over its predecessor. The VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certified panel boasts a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, delivering vibrant colors and deep blacks. With 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage and Pantone validation, the display ensures accurate color representation for both gaming and creative work. A 120Hz refresh rate, 0.2ms response time, and G-Sync support eliminate screen tearing, providing a smooth gaming experience. The 3K resolution offers exceptional clarity on the 14-inch screen. Peak brightness reaches 500 nits in HDR mode, ensuring visibility even in bright environments.
The six-speaker audio system, with speakers positioned above and below the laptop, delivers a rich soundscape. However, the downward-firing woofers can produce muddy bass at times.
Connectivity and Webcam
Despite its compact size, the G14 offers a reasonable selection of ports, including 2 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB-C 4, HDMI 2.1 FRL, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a microSD card reader. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. While not as future-proof as Wi-Fi 7, Wi-Fi 6E still provides ample bandwidth for gaming.
The 1080p webcam supports Windows Hello, but image quality is underwhelming, with noticeable haziness and poor light handling.
Gaming and Performance
The Ryzen 9 8945HS, featuring 8 cores, 16 threads, and a 5.2GHz boost clock, delivers impressive performance. AMD’s Ryzen AI technology, with dedicated AI accelerators, enhances performance in creative applications and video calls.
Benchmarking reveals the G14’s impressive capabilities. It excelled in Cinebench, HandBrake video encoding, and 3DMark TimeSpy. In gaming benchmarks, it achieved an average of 133 fps in Shadow of the Tomb Raider and 101 fps in Rise of the Tomb Raider. This performance makes the G14 suitable for demanding games and creative tasks.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 Cinebench Multi-Threaded benchmark results.
Dominic Bayley / IDG
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 HandBrake video encoding benchmark results.
Dominic Bayley / IDG
Battery Life
Despite its 73WHr battery and efficient components, the G14 achieved a middling battery life of 322 minutes (5 hours and 22 minutes) in our testing. While average for a gaming laptop, this translates to 3-4 hours of gaming on a single charge, which may necessitate carrying the charger for extended sessions.
Conclusion
The 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 offers an enticing blend of portability and performance. Its ultrabook-like design and powerful hardware make it ideal for gamers and creators on the go. While battery life could be better, its compact size and impressive performance make it a compelling choice.
