Accessories
ASUS ROG Shows Off New Laptops and Gaming Gear at its “For Those Who Dare: Transcendence” Virtual Launch Event
ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) unveiled a broad array of new and exclusive performance-oriented products at its virtual launch event, “For Those Who Dare: Transcendence,” for CES 2024. This latest generation of gaming solutions, designed for both home and on-the-go gaming, includes impressively fast and visually stunning displays, as well as laptops with exceptional speed and high-end graphics.
The ROG Strix family has undergone a revamp, with both the SCAR 16 and SCAR 18 now featuring Nebula HDR panels with Mini LED backlights and over 2,000 dimming zones. This marks the first time a Nebula HDR display has been available in an 18-inch form factor. This innovative new Strix SCAR 18 is now available in the UAE, inviting daring individuals to redefine their gaming and creative experiences.
Viewers can embark on an immersive journey into the advanced world of gaming with ROG’s unmatched lineup of superior products. With the new Advanced Back to the Future (BTF) ecosystem, ROG is aiding in reducing visible cable clutter in DIY builds. From the performance-driven ROG Maximus Z790 Hero BTF motherboard, which features concealed connectors for optimal cable management, to the groundbreaking ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4090 BTF Edition graphics card, every detail is meticulously designed for an extraordinary gaming experience.
The ROG Zephyrus G14 and G16 laptops revolutionize portable gaming with robust internals and breathtaking displays. Gamers can immerse themselves in the unparalleled performance of the ROG Strix SCAR 18 laptop, crafted for esports enthusiasts seeking maximum performance. These new gaming laptops deliver unmatched power with up to the Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and the flagship NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop GPU.
Following the recent agreement between ASUS and Intel to acquire Intel’s Next Unit of Computing (NUC) business, ROG has introduced the first-ever ROG NUC — the compact yet potent PC codenamed Scorpion Canyon. This ultra-small gaming wonder, equipped with Intel Core Ultra processors and NVIDIA RTX graphics, offers a versatile gaming solution.
The event also showcased the ROG Hyperion GR701 BTF Edition chassis, the ROG Swift OLED PG39WCDM monitor, the ROG Aura Monitor Light Bar and ROG Ergo Monitor Arm for setup upgrades, the ROG Carnyx microphone for precision sound capture, the ROG Keris II Ace mouse with the ROG Polling Rate Booster, the ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova headphones, the ROG Falchion RX Low Profile keyboard, and many more.
The latest ROG Zephyrus G14 and G16 gaming laptops are transforming the gaming landscape with an array of exceptional features. The reimagined premium aluminium chassis, available in Eclipse Gray and Platinum White, is not only lightweight but also robust – the G14 is a mere 1.59 cm thin and weighs 1.5 kg, while the G16, just 1.49 cm thin, weighs only 1.85 kg.
A distinctive Slash Lighting LED bar on the chassis continues and enhances the popular customization options of the previous generation. These are also the first laptops to incorporate ROG Nebula Display OLED panels. The Zephyrus G14 boasts a 3K 120 Hz panel, and the Zephyrus G16 features a 2.5K 240 Hz display, both with a 16:10 aspect ratio, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification, and an impressive 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio. Hi-Res Audio and Dolby Atmos technology augment audio quality, supplemented by integrated HD cameras for seamless communication.
Tailored for gamers, creators, and designers, the Zephyrus Series includes the G14 with an AMD Ryzen 9 8940H processor and the G16 with up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 185H. Both laptops come equipped with NVIDIA GeForce RTX GPUs and offer a range of potent ROG Intelligent Cooling solutions for optimal performance.
With the enhanced Zephyrus Series, ROG elevates portable gaming to a new dimension, harmoniously blending technology, performance, and aesthetics for an unmatched gaming experience. Whether you’re a gamer, creative professional, or design enthusiast, the Zephyrus series allows you to elevate your gaming reality.
The ROG Strix SCAR 16 and SCAR 18 laptops are redefining gaming excellence with state-of-the-art features. Equipped with the Intel Core i9 processor 14900HX and up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 laptop GPU, they deliver unprecedented performance. The thermal design, which includes Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal on both CPU and GPU, Tri-Fan technology, and full-surround vents, ensures optimal cooling.
The Mini LED 2.5K (2560×1600) 240Hz ROG Nebula HDR displays, including ROG’s inaugural 18-inch Mini LED display, have up to a 90% screen-to-body ratio. Along with quad-speaker Dolby Atmos audio, the laptops provide an immersive gaming experience. They also feature a gamer-centric keyboard, Thunderbolt 4, 2.5 Gbps LAN, WiFi 6E, and a 90 Wh battery with 100 W USB-C charging. The meticulously crafted metal chassis showcases the iconic RGB ROG logo and a new ROG slash design.
The ROG Strix G16 and G18 deliver a potent gaming experience with the Intel Core i9 processor 14900HX and up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 laptop GPU. The thermal design, which includes Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal with Tri-Fan technology and full-surround vents, ensures optimal cooling. With two distinct designs and up to a 90% screen-to-body ratio, the Strix G series offers immersive visuals with 16-inch and 18-inch 2.5K (2560×1600) 240Hz ROG Nebula displays featuring Dolby Vision HDR.
Combined with Dolby Atmos audio technology, they deliver exceptional audiovisual performance. Gamer-friendly features include a wide touchpad, large arrow keys, Thunderbolt 4 support, a per-key RGB keyboard, 1Gbps LAN, WiFi 6E, and a 720p HD camera for seamless connectivity. The high-capacity 90 Wh battery and 100 W USB-C charging ensure on-the-go gaming without compromising performance. The Volt Green version features a metal chassis with the RGB ROG logo and a unique new ROG slash design, while the Eclipse Gray version boasts a metal chassis with a subtle ROG slash pattern.
In the domain of small form factor PCs, ASUS exemplifies innovation, as demonstrated by the groundbreaking ROG NUC. Going beyond a typical gaming system, the PC codenamed Scorpion Canyon, represents a compact gaming powerhouse, offering the freedom to game anytime, anywhere. ASUS, renowned for delivering exceptional gaming experiences, upholds this reputation with the ROG NUC. At its core, the ROG NUC leverages the power of Intel Core Ultra 7 or Core Ultra 9 processors for unparalleled gaming performance.
The Performance Hybrid Architecture ensures seamless multitasking with additional e-cores, while Intel Thread Director and Intel Smart Cache optimize workloads for a smooth gaming experience. Paired with NVIDIA RTX 4060 or RTX 4070 Discrete Graphics, the ROG NUC promises stunning visuals on up to four 4K-enabled display outputs. The tool-less chassis design allows integration in under 10 minutes, with dimensions of 270 x 180 x 50 mm for uncompromised gaming in a minimalistic form factor. Beyond performance, the ROG NUC pairs seamlessly with the ROG Raikiri PRO controller for a redefined gaming interaction.
ARGB lighting and the ROG Armory Crate app allow users to create stunning light shows. Connectivity features HDMI 2.1a, DisplayPort 1.4, Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB 2.0, and Intel Killer WiFi 6E AX1690i. Compatible with both Microsoft Windows 11 and Linux distros, the ROG NUC offers operating system flexibility. The ROG NUC exemplifies ASUS’ commitment to innovation and gaming excellence, setting the stage for a robust series of gaming NUCs. With its ultra-small design, extreme performance, and tool-less integration, it heralds a new era in NUC gaming, empowering gamers to choose how, where, and in what style they want to game. With the ROG NUC, ROG ushers in a new epoch of gaming excellence.
The introduction of the ROG Swift OLED PG39WCDM signifies another substantial advancement in immersive gaming technology. This 39-inch ultrawide (3440 x 1440) 240 Hz 800R curved OLED gaming monitor exemplifies our commitment to pushing the limits of gaming display technology. Additionally, the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDP is the world’s first dual-mode gaming monitor with a Frame Rate Boost feature that enables users to switch from 4K 240 Hz to FHD 480 Hz at any time. Rounding out the impressive new lineup is the ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDP, the world’s fastest 480Hz OLED gaming monitor.
Equipped with third-gen ROG OLED technology, the latest META technology, and ELMB technology, the new Swift displays achieve a 30% enhancement in peak brightness and a 20% improvement in viewing angle, surpassing their predecessors. The custom heatsink not only lowers operating temperatures but also protects against burn-in, ensuring the longevity of the OLED display. With a 1300-nit peak brightness and DisplayHDR True Black 400 compliance, the ROG Swift OLED delivers stunning visuals for an immersive gaming experience. A remarkable 0.03 ms response time, with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro compliance, provides smooth, tear-free visuals with low latency, and exclusive Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) technology enables even sharper and clearer motion in fast-paced games.
The ROG Swift OLED PG39WCDM with built-in Smart KVM allows users to control two devices seamlessly with a keyboard and mouse, and USB 3.2 connectivity enables rapid file transfers. Extensive connectivity options, including DisplayPort, HDMI (v2.1), and USB-C with 90 W Power Delivery, make the ROG Swift OLED a versatile hub for gaming setups. Alongside these groundbreaking features, the monitor includes the ROG VESA wall-mount kit for easy wall or partition mounting. With its 800R panel curvature, the ROG Swift OLED stands as the most curved monitor available, providing a truly immersive gaming experience.
All three new models come with ROG Gaming Artificial Intelligence technology with Dynamic shadow boost, Dynamic cross-hair, Variable Overdrive 2.0, and Dynamic GameVisual to enhance users’ gaming experience. ROG also introduced two innovative monitor accessories, the CES 2024 Innovation Award-winning ROG Aura Monitor Light Bar ALB01 and ROG Ergo Monitor Arm AAS01, which revolutionise gaming setups.
The ROG Aura Light Bar offers three modes — front light for eye care, backlight for Aura Sync setup, and a combination for immersive viewing, minimizing eye strain with superior optical design. It accommodates both curved and flat monitors, supporting personalised adjustments in colour temperature and brightness, and seamlessly integrating into gaming setups with AURA Sync and ASUS DisplayWidget Center software, which enables advanced features such as App Sync, preset light schedules, and System Sync.
The ROG Ergo Monitor Arm can support 39-inch monitors and beyond, up to the maximum recommended weight of 11.5 kg. Featuring double-sided cable management and a cyberpunk-inspired design with VESA support, the Ergo Monitor Arm delivers a clutter-free, customizable setup. The mechanical spring arm mechanism allows smooth, effortless adjustments through a wide range of movements: 75° up and 15° down and pivot a full 360°. Stringent durability tests include a 10,000-cycle range-of-motion test. Together, these accessories elevate the latest ROG OLED monitors, combining aesthetics and functionality for the ultimate gaming space upgrade.
ASUS has introduced a groundbreaking hidden-connector solution known as BTF, marking a new era in DIY PC building that emphasizes aesthetics and cleanliness. This innovation seeks to surpass traditional PC assembly methods by minimizing the number and visibility of internal cables in the front, offering a supremely clean DIY experience. The success of BTF has led to the development of the ROG Advanced BTF ecosystem, which includes the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero BTF motherboard, the ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4090 BTF Edition graphics card, and the ROG Hyperion GR701 BTF Edition chassis.
The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero BTF motherboard, the flagship of the Advanced BTF ecosystem, is a pioneer in design with a hidden-connector layout. All connectors are cleverly hidden on the underside, providing an unmatched level of cable management for PC DIY enthusiasts. The motherboard also introduces other innovative features, including the Q-LED diagnostic display in the top right corner, which provides real-time feedback on power delivery issues and memory module installation before boot.
A notable feature of the motherboard’s design is the PCIe Slot Q-Release Slim, a simpler solution for unlocking graphics cards. Users can easily tilt and pull their card to automatically remove it from the slot, simplifying upgrades and maintenance without the need for button presses. The motherboard also features a graphics card high-power slot, specifically designed for compatibility with graphics cards using the PCIe high-power connector, such as the ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4090 BTF Edition.
The ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4090 BTF Edition graphics card retains all the powerful features of the standard ROG Strix RTX 4090 while introducing a PCIe high-power connector compatible with the new graphics card high-power slot on the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero BTF motherboard. This innovative design eliminates the need for visible 8-pin or 16-pin power cables on the card, simplifying cable routing and reducing exposed wires. The Advanced BTF structure adds extra support to prevent sag, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
Rounding out the Advanced BTF ecosystem is the ROG Hyperion GR701 BTF Edition chassis, which offers seamless cable management to complement the hidden-connector solution. As a result, the ROG BTF ecosystem enhances ROG aesthetics, integrating innovative engineering innovations for a smoother, faster, and cleaner PC DIY experience. The ROG Advanced BTF ecosystem aims to unlock new possibilities for PC DIY building, merging innovation, aesthetics, and functionality into a cohesive package. With groundbreaking features in each component, ASUS continues to push the boundaries of DIY PC building, offering users a heightened and satisfying experience.
Finally, ROG unveiled a diverse range of state-of-the-art gaming accessories that enable gamers to enhance their gaming experience. The innovative ROG Carnyx microphone, specifically designed for studio-quality recording, features a large 25 mm condenser capsule, 192 kHz / 24-bit sampling rate for detailed, vibrant sound, with a cardioid polar pattern for solo recording. Its high-pass filter, built-in pop filter, and premium metal shock mount ensure clear and smooth sound, even during intense gaming sessions with distracting background noises such as typing, clicking, or shouting. With the intuitive multi-functional control knob, one-touch mute button, and Aura Sync RGB lighting, the Carnyx is the ideal companion for streaming.
Another addition is the ROG Keris II Ace, the latest member of the Ace Esports Lineup. Weighing only 54 grams and featuring an ergonomic shape designed for long periods of intense gripping, this mouse is a dream come true for FPS enthusiasts. With ROG SpeedNova wireless technology, the lowest latency is guaranteed even in crowded wireless environments. The ROG AimPoint Pro optical sensor and the durable 100M ROG Optical Micro Switch excel in both precision and durability. The ROG Polling Rate Booster is a stand-alone device that supports wireless polling rates up to 4000 Hz and wired rates up to 8000 Hz, minimizing cursor delay to ensure that in-game actions are executed as intended.
The ROG Falchion RX Low Profile keyboard, a CES 2023 Innovation Award winner, is an evolution of the game-changing Falchion, introducing the ROG RX Low-Profile Switches. The RX Red Low-Profile offers a silky-smooth linear feel, while the RX Blue Low-Profile delivers a satisfying clicky sensation. With a compact design and minimalist look, plus unique features like a multi-functional touch panel, ROG SpeedNova wireless technology, and the ROG Omni Receiver, this keyboard redefines on-the-go gaming for both gamers and everyday users.
Gamers can experience synchronized sound with the ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova headphones, featuring dual-mode 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth® wireless connectivity for unmatched adaptability. Powered by ROG SpeedNova wireless technology, they offer ultra-low latency, robust wireless connection, and optimized power usage. They also feature high-resolution 24-bit 96 kHz audio, and lifelike details enhanced by Dirac Opteo. Bone-conduction AI microphones ensure clear communication, and Adaptive ANC with Auto mode automatically optimizes noise cancellation for full immersion in music or gameplay. The headphones offer up to 46 hours of battery life, wireless charging, quick in-case charging, and feature customizable ASUS Aura RGB lighting for maximum style.
Accessories
Cooler Master Unveils the Shark X
Cooler Master has announced the Shark X, a groundbreaking pre-built PC that redefines the boundaries between performance, design, and art. The Shark X delivers an exceptional computing experience while standing as a bold statement piece inspired by the ocean’s mightiest and most efficient predator. “The Shark X is not just a high-performance PC—it’s a masterpiece that brings art and technology together, reflecting Cooler Master’s commitment to innovative design and engineering,” said Jimmy Sha, CEO of Cooler Master.
Standing three feet tall (1 meter), the Shark X is crafted using advanced manufacturing techniques, seamlessly blending organic forms with technological precision. Drawing inspiration from custom mods in Cooler Master’s Case Mod World Series 2019, its distinctive design offers raw power and striking visual impact. More than just a computer, the Shark X is an art piece that transforms any space it occupies.
Beneath its striking exterior, the Shark X houses a mini-ITX framework allowing for full upgradability. The internal structure, visible through strategic openings in the chassis, adds to its mystique. The Shark X defies conventional market categories, appealing to a diverse audience. It captivates design enthusiasts, satisfies tech-savvy professionals and gamers, and intrigues individuals seeking exclusive products. Its artistic presence makes the Shark X a versatile masterpiece of technology and design.
The Cooler Master Shark X is now available at Cooler Master’s official online store in North America and select retailers worldwide.
Accessories
Lenovo Legion Unveils New Monitors and Accessories
The Lenovo Legion ecosystem just got even more expansive, with a pair of new Lenovo Legion gaming displays and a slew of new Lenovo Legion Go accessories so gamers can min/max their devices and gaming sessions as they see fit.
Lenovo Legion Go USB-C Dock
The Lenovo Legion Go USB-C dock gives gamers a base station for their Lenovo Legion Go when not on the move, with a USB-C Power port (up to 100Wmax), 1G RJ45 port, full-function Type-C port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and an HDMI 2.0 port that supports up to 4K at 60Hz. The dock also has a 230mm integrated Type-C cable to connect to the Lenovo Legion Go.
Lenovo Legion Go Charging Connector
The Lenovo Legion Go Charging Connector turns the Lenovo Legion Go’s detachable TrueStrike controllers into a single, chargeable controller. At full charge, the Charging Connector’s onboard battery also provides a full charge for both the left and right detachable TrueStrike controllers1. The Lenovo Legion Go Charging Connector itself is rechargeable via a Type-C port.
Lenovo Legion Go Carry Case
The hard shell, dual-zip Lenovo Legion Go Carry Case features a clapboard to protect the screen, with an internal zip pocket to hold an auxiliary USB cable, USB flash drive, portable keyboard, earphones, or other accessories. The Lenovo Legion Go power adapter and FPS Mode controller puck fit in the case beneath the device.
Lenovo Legion Go Joystick and Joystick Caps
For more precise control when playing racing or FPS games, look no further than the Lenovo Legion Go Joystick and Joystick Caps. The extra grippy textured material enhances comfort and control when in the heat of an intense gaming session.
Lenovo Multi-Device Bluetooth Mini Keyboard
The Lenovo Multi-Device Bluetooth Mini Keyboard is the perfect complement to the Lenovo Legion Go as a 75% layout, super light 180g keyboard at only 5.6mm thick. The keyboard can easily switch between up to three devices with multi-device connection and supports Microsoft Windows, Android, and iPadOS.
Lenovo Legion R27qc-30 and Lenovo Legion R32qc-30 Monitors
When not gaming on the go, Lenovo Legion Go owners have two new display options in the 27-inch Lenovo Legion R27qc-30 and 31.5-inch Lenovo Legion R32qc-30 Monitors. Both monitors feature an up to 180Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms (MPRT) response times in their 1500R curved displays. The 27-inch monitor supports 120% sRGB and 90% DCI-P3 and the 31.5-inch supports 112% sRGB. Both monitors have two HDMI 2.1 ports, a single DP1.4 port, and an audio out, as well as a pair of 3W speakers.
Gamers who want to get the most out of their new Lenovo Legion accessories, monitors, and devices can upgrade to Legion Ultimate Support, gaining access to expert gaming techs available 24/7/365 via chat, email, or phone. As the Lenovo Legion gaming ecosystem continues to expand, gamers will have more and more options to customize their builds in the pursuit of reaching their impossible.
The Lenovo Legion R27qc-30 Monitor is expected to be available starting October 2024 starting at 259 €. The Lenovo Legion R32qc-30 Monitor is expected to be available starting October 2024 starting at 349 €. The Lenovo Legion Go USB-C Dock is expected to be available starting June 2024 starting at 64.99 €.
The Lenovo Legion Go Charging Connector is expected to be available starting October 2024 starting at 59.99 €. The Lenovo Legion Go Carry Case is expected to be available starting January 2025 starting at 29.99 €. The Lenovo Legion Go Joystick and Joystick Caps is expected to be available starting October 2024 starting at 9.99 €. The Lenovo Multi-Device Bluetooth Mini Keyboard is expected to be available starting November 2024 starting at 39.99 €.
Accessories
Ugreen Nexode RG 65W GaN Charger Review: Compact Charging, Maximum Power
The Ugreen Nexode RG 65W GaN Charger is a remarkable piece of technology that has quickly become a staple in my tech arsenal. Its compact size, impressive power output, and versatile charging capabilities make it an ideal solution for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient way to keep their devices powered up on the go.
Design and Build Quality
One of the most striking aspects of the Nexode RG is its innovative design. Inspired by a robot, the charger features a unique and playful aesthetic that sets it apart from traditional power bricks. The “face” of the charger houses two USB-C ports and a USB-A port. Despite its unconventional appearance, the Nexode RG feels premium and well-constructed.
Performance and Charging Capabilities
The Nexode RG packs a powerful punch, delivering a maximum output of 65W. This allows it to rapidly charge compatible devices, including smartphones, tablets, and even laptops. I was particularly impressed with its ability to charge my Huawei MateBook D16 at full speed, which is a significant achievement for a charger of this size. The three ports on the Nexode RG enable you to charge multiple devices simultaneously, making it a convenient solution for busy households or travellers.
Safety Features and Compatibility
Ugreen has equipped the Nexode RG with a range of safety features to protect your devices and the charger itself. These include overvoltage, overcurrent, and short-circuit protection, ensuring a reliable and worry-free charging experience. The charger is compatible with a wide range of devices, thanks to its support for various charging protocols. Whether you’re using an Apple device, an Android device, or a USB-C-enabled laptop, you can rest assured that the Nexode RG will deliver efficient and reliable power.
In addition to its core charging capabilities, the Nexode RG offers a few additional features that enhance its usability. The built-in LED indicator provides real-time information on the charging status of your devices, allowing you to keep track of their progress.
Verdict
The Ugreen Nexode RG 65W GaN Charger is a standout product that offers exceptional performance, versatility, and style. Its compact design, impressive power output, and safety features make it a must-have accessory for anyone who frequently travels or needs a reliable way to charge their devices. If you’re looking for a powerful and portable charger that can keep your gadgets running smoothly, the Nexode RG is an excellent choice.
Price: AED 149
Buy Now: https://amzn.to/3WUhwbz
Ugreen Nexode RG 65W GaN Charger AED 149
Summary
Ugreen has equipped the Nexode RG with various safety features to protect your devices and the charger itself. These include overvoltage, overcurrent, and short-circuit protection, ensuring a reliable and worry-free charging experience.