ASUS TUF Gaming A16 FA617NSR-N3028W Review: A Powerful Portable Gaming Machine?
Introduction
The ASUS TUF Gaming A16 FA617NSR-N3028W arrived on my desk promising a powerful gaming experience in a durable, portable package. This review details my experience with the Sandstorm-colored model, featuring a Ryzen 7 7435HS processor, 16GB of RAM, a 512GB SSD, and an impressive 165Hz display. I’ve put it through its paces, subjecting it to various gaming titles and productivity tasks to provide you with a comprehensive overview.
Key Features
The TUF Gaming A16 boasts a compelling feature set. The standout is undoubtedly the 16-inch, 165Hz display, providing incredibly smooth visuals. The AMD Ryzen 7 7435HS processor, coupled with the AMD Radeon RX 7600S graphics card, handles demanding games surprisingly well. The 16GB DDR5 RAM ensures smooth multitasking, and the 512GB SSD provides ample storage for your games and applications. Its build quality is also notable, with its robust chassis promising durability.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Processor Speed | 3.1 GHz |
| RAM Size | 16 GB |
| Internal Memory | 512 GB |
| Screen Size | 16 in |
| Display Resolution | 1920×1200 |
| Screen Features | High Refresh Rate |
| Refresh Rates | 165Hz |
| Colour Name | Sandstorm |
| Keyboard Language | English/Arabic |
| Graphics Processor Version | AMD Radeon RX 7600S |
| Display Type | IPS |
| Display Resolution Type | Full HD |
| Connection Type | HDMI |
| Average Battery Life | 13 Hours |
| Storage Type | SSD |
| Operating System Version | Windows 11 Home |
| Operating System | Windows |
| Usage Type | Gaming |
| Model Series | ASUS TUF Gaming |
| Processor Version Number/Generation | Not Applicable |
| Number of Cores | Octa Core |
| RAM Type | DDR5 |
| External Graphics | Graphic Card |
| Graphic Memory | 8 GB |
| Model Number | FA617NSR-N3028W |
| Model Name | FA617NSR-N3028W |
| HDMI Output | Yes |
| Number of USB Ports | 4 |
| SD Card Slot | NO |
| Number of HDMI Ports | 1 |
| Processor Version | Ryzen 7 7435HS |
Performance & Benchmarks
The Ryzen 7 7435HS proved itself more than capable for both gaming and general use. In my testing, I ran several popular titles, including Cyberpunk 2077, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Fortnite. While settings needed adjustment for optimal frame rates in more demanding titles, the 165Hz display consistently delivered smooth gameplay. The 16GB of RAM allowed for seamless multitasking even during intense gaming sessions. Battery life met the advertised 13 hours on lighter tasks, but obviously diminished with heavy gaming. The SSD also provided quick load times, making the overall user experience very fluid.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Excellent 165Hz display, Powerful processor and graphics card, Good battery life for a gaming laptop, Durable build, Ample RAM.
- Cons: No SD card slot, Full HD resolution rather than higher (though reasonable given the price point), Can get quite warm under heavy load.
Final Verdict
The ASUS TUF Gaming A16 FA617NSR-N3028W offers a compelling blend of performance, portability, and durability. While it may not boast the highest specs on the market, it delivers an exceptional gaming experience at a competitive price. The 165Hz display is a real highlight and makes a huge difference. The lack of an SD card slot is a minor drawback, but not a deal-breaker for most users. Overall, I highly recommend the TUF Gaming A16 to anyone looking for a well-rounded gaming laptop without breaking the bank.
