The Gigabyte Aorus 16X is a sleek and powerful 16-inch gaming laptop packed with high-end hardware, a vibrant high-refresh-rate display, and a premium design. While it delivers solid performance for its price range, a few minor drawbacks prevent it from achieving true standout status. Let’s delve into the details.
The Aorus 16X aims to provide a premium gaming experience, and for the most part, it succeeds. However, the power connector presents a notable issue. It doesn’t fully insert into the laptop, which feels out of place on a high-end machine. While Gigabyte claims to be addressing this in manufacturing, it’s worth noting for potential buyers.
Gigabyte Aorus 16X: Specifications and Features
The Aorus 16X boasts impressive specifications, including a powerful Intel Core i7-14650HX processor (a refreshed Raptor Lake chip), Nvidia RTX 4070 graphics, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. Gigabyte also offers variants with RTX 4060 graphics and an Intel Core i9 CPU option. While marketed as an “AI gaming laptop,” the AI capabilities primarily stem from the powerful GPU, similar to other RTX-equipped laptops. However, the lack of a dedicated NPU raises questions about future compatibility with Windows AI features. One notable AI feature is a bundled tool that simplifies the setup of Stable Diffusion for local image generation.
Here’s a detailed look at the specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7-14650HX
- Memory: 32GB DDR5-5600 RAM
- Graphics/GPU: Nvidia RTX 4070
- Display: 2560×1600 16:10 IPS display with 165 Hz refresh rate and HDR
- Storage: 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Webcam: 1080p webcam
- Connectivity: 1x Thunderbolt 4 / USB Type-C (USB4, DisplayPort 1.4, and Power Delivery 3.0), 1x USB Type C (USB3.2 Gen2 and DisplayPort 1.4), 2x USB Type-A (USB 3.2 Gen2), 1x MicroSD card reader, 1x combo audio jack, 1x HDMi 2.1, 1x RJ-45, 1x DC power in
- Networking: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, gigabit Ethernet
- Biometrics: IR camera for Windows Hello
- Battery capacity: 99 Watt-hours
- Dimensions: 14.01 x 10 x 1.06 inches
- Weight: 5.07 pounds
- MSRP: $1,949 as tested
Design and Build Quality
Gigabyte Aorus 16X
The Aorus 16X features a sports car-inspired design with sleek curves and a polished finish. The aluminum lid and plastic chassis feel solid and well-built. A light bar across the back adds a gamer aesthetic, projecting the “Aorus” logo onto the surface behind the laptop. The “Team Up Fight On” graphic adds to the gaming vibe. The overall build quality is good, with minimal flex and a sturdy hinge.
Gigabyte Aorus 16X
However, the left-sided power connector and straight cable prove inconvenient, especially for left-handed mouse users. The connector’s loose fit, while functionally sound, detracts from the premium feel.
Gigabyte Aorus 16X
Keyboard, Trackpad, and Display
Gigabyte Aorus 16X
The chiclet keyboard offers comfortable typing with snappy keys and 1.7mm of key travel. The three-zone RGB lighting and transparent WASD keys enhance the gaming experience. The large, responsive trackpad also provides a satisfying click.
Gigabyte Aorus 16X
The Aorus 16X’s 16-inch, 2560×1600 IPS display is a highlight. With a 165Hz refresh rate, HDR support, and up to 500 nits of peak brightness, it delivers vibrant colors, excellent contrast, and smooth motion. The Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers provide decent audio quality for a laptop.
Performance and Battery Life
The Aorus 16X performs admirably in both everyday tasks and gaming, thanks to its powerful hardware and efficient cooling system. Benchmark results demonstrate its capabilities, outperforming similarly configured laptops in several tests.
Gigabyte Aorus 16X
The 99 Watt-hour battery provides impressive battery life for a gaming laptop, reaching almost seven hours in our video playback test.
Conclusion
The Gigabyte Aorus 16X is a compelling gaming laptop with a lot to offer. Its powerful performance, beautiful display, and comfortable keyboard make it a solid choice. However, the power connector issue and somewhat inconvenient placement detract from the overall premium experience. If you can find it at a competitive price, especially after the power connector issue is resolved, the Aorus 16X is a worthwhile contender in the gaming laptop market.
