What To Know
- The ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18 sports a colossal 18-inch display with a 240Hz refresh rate, while the Scar 17 features a more modest 17.
- The Scar 18’s larger size allows for a full-size keyboard with a dedicated numpad, while the Scar 17 opts for a more compact layout.
- On the other hand, the Scar 17 is a more portable and budget-friendly option with a high refresh rate display and solid performance.
In the realm of gaming laptops, two titans stand tall, ready to battle it out for supremacy: the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18 and the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17. Both machines boast formidable specs and cutting-edge features, but which one reigns supreme? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to find out.
Display: Size and Resolution Matter
The ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18 sports a colossal 18-inch display with a 240Hz refresh rate, while the Scar 17 features a more modest 17.3-inch display with a 360Hz refresh rate. Both panels offer stunning visuals, with the Scar 18 providing a wider canvas for immersive gaming. However, the Scar 17’s higher refresh rate ensures smoother gameplay.
Performance: Raw Power vs Efficiency
Under the hood, both laptops pack the latest 13th-generation Intel Core i9 processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 graphics cards. The Scar 18 offers up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM and 2TB of NVMe SSD storage, while the Scar 17 boasts up to 16GB of DDR5 RAM and 1TB of NVMe SSD storage. For demanding tasks like video editing and high-resolution gaming, the Scar 18’s extra RAM and storage capacity gives it an edge.
Cooling: Keeping the Heat at Bay
Both laptops employ the ROG Intelligent Cooling system, featuring dedicated vapor chambers, liquid metal thermal compound, and multiple fans. The Scar 18’s larger chassis allows for a more robust cooling solution, resulting in lower temperatures and sustained high performance.
Design: Form and Function
The Scar 18 and Scar 17 share a sleek and angular design language, but with subtle differences. The Scar 18’s larger size allows for a full-size keyboard with a dedicated numpad, while the Scar 17 opts for a more compact layout. Both laptops feature RGB lighting zones and customizable Armoury Crate software for personalized aesthetics.
Connectivity: Staying Connected
In terms of connectivity, both laptops offer a wide range of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, HDMI, and Ethernet. The Scar 18 has an additional USB-C port with DisplayPort support, providing greater flexibility for external displays.
Battery Life: Endurance vs Convenience
The Scar 18 houses a larger 90Wh battery, while the Scar 17 has a smaller 66Wh battery. Despite the difference in size, both laptops offer similar battery life of around 5-6 hours for light tasks. However, the Scar 18’s larger battery provides peace of mind for extended gaming sessions.
Price and Value: Budget vs Performance
The ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18 starts at $2,499, while the Scar 17 starts at $1,999. For the extra $500, the Scar 18 offers a larger display, more RAM, and a more powerful cooling system. However, the Scar 17 provides a more portable option with a higher refresh rate display and a more affordable price point.
The Bottom Line: The Final Verdict
Both the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18 and the Scar 17 are exceptional gaming laptops with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Scar 18 is the ultimate choice for those who prioritize a large display, maximum performance, and the most robust cooling system. On the other hand, the Scar 17 is a more portable and budget-friendly option with a high refresh rate display and solid performance. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which laptop has a better display?
A: The Scar 18 has a larger 18-inch display, while the Scar 17 has a higher 360Hz refresh rate.
Q: Which laptop is more powerful?
A: Both laptops offer similar performance, but the Scar 18 has more RAM and storage capacity.
Q: Which laptop has better cooling?
A: The Scar 18 has a more robust cooling system due to its larger chassis.
Q: Which laptop is more portable?
A: The Scar 17 is more portable due to its smaller size and lighter weight.
Q: Which laptop is more affordable?
A: The Scar 17 has a lower starting price than the Scar 18.
