I've been testing the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16's 2023 G634 model. Available in the UK for £3,400, and with essentially the same model in the US priced at $2,750, there's an expectation of zero compromises for a gaming laptop containing both Intel and Nvidia's latest mobile offerings. Not just when it comes to gaming prowess, but the overall user experience. And while the RTX 4080 and Core i9 13980HX provide a fantastic core config for a gaming laptop today, there are a couple of things holding this powerful machine back, not least the competition at that price point.
Before we get into the numbers, the Scar 16 is off to a good start with its aesthetic. There's an industrial flair to the design, but not enough to make it look too 'edgy'. It's reminiscent of the resurgent retro console trend, with a subtle translucent plastic strip around the chassis edge and front.
