Technology|Gadgets|Laptops|Computers|Mobile..: ASUS Laptop G50V-A1 Review

at September 25, 2008

The G50V is ASUS' latest notebook addition to their Republic of Gamers series brand. It is a high-performance 15.4-inch notebook based on the Intel Centrino 2 platform. Highlights of this portable powerhouse include a top-shelf Nvidia GeForce 9700M-GT 512MB, dual hard drives, and a striking, flashy design that says "gamer."

Before we start the review, I would like to give a special thanks to Justin Nolte of XOTIC PC for sending us this evaluation unit.

System Specifications and Pricing

ASUS offers the G50V in several different configurations. The A1 version we are reviewing has the following specifications:

Intel Core 2 Duo T9400 (2.53GHz/6MB L2/1066MHz FSB/ 35W TDP)
Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit w/ SP1
Intel PM45 + ICH9 chipset
4GB DDR2-800 RAM
15.4-inch WSXGA+ (1680x1050) glossy display
Nvidia GeForce 9700M-GT w/ 512MB GDDR3
2x 250GB 5400RPM SATA hard drives
8X DVDRW Super Multi drive
8-in-1 card reader
Built-in 1.3-megapixel camera
Intel Wireless WiFi Link 5100AGN + built-in Bluetooth wireless

As of the publishing date, the ASUS G50V-A1 is listed for $1,639 on XOTICPC.com.

Design

The G50V is aimed squarely at the gaming crowd. Its design says "gamer" no matter what way you look at it. There is nothing understated about the design of this notebook. Let's start with the back of the lid.

The most eye-catching part about the back of the lid is the four blue lights. They are not overly bright, but are easily seen. Two light bars are located at either end of the lid on the very edge, which blink in patterns. At the top of the lid is a clear shield with the Republic of Gamers logo inside. Finally, towards the bottom there is a horizontal light bar that spans about half of the lid. The majority of the lid is glossy metallic black plastic. At the very bottom of the lid below the horizontal light bar is a rubberized and textured section that acts as a grip for carrying the notebook.

The inside of the notebook has a design that is just as flashy as the lid. The trim surrounding the keyboard and bordering the right and left edges of the chassis are glossy orange plastic. The palmrest area is made of the same rubberized textured material found on the back of the lid. The touchpad is bordered by brushed aluminum trim. Above the keyboard is a strip of glossy black plastic where all the touch controls are located, and on either side of that are the two Altec Lansing speakers. Above the screen is a webcam embedded in a mirrored surface. Even the bottom of the notebook has an interesting design - the single large intake vent for the fan has a shiny silver border and an orange vent.

You can see from the pictures that the G50V is larger than a typical 15.4-inch notebook, evidenced by the relatively large screen benzel. The main benefit of the larger chassis is the inclusion of a separate number pad, but the downside is slightly reduced portability. The G50V-A1 weighs in at 6.5 lbs and is 14.2 in (36 cm) wide, 10.2 in (25.9 cm) deep, and 1.1 - 1.6 in (2.8 - 4.1 cm) thick. The notebook feels somewhat heavy, but is not hard to transport in a backpack. As I noted, the G50V is larger than a typical 15.4-inch notebook.

Overall, this notebook's design is striking and well-finished. It is for those that want to be noticed.

Build Quality

The G50V is made of strong plastic and has a solid feel. The chassis resists twisting, and all surfaces are difficult to find flex in. The hinges securely anchor the display to the base of the notebook, and the lid itself is rigid and is hard to twist. Pressing on the back of the lid yields no ripples in the screen. There is basically no display wobble. I am more than impressed with the build quality of this notebook.

Wireless

The G50V-A1 features the latest-generation Intel Wireless WiFi Link 5100AGN, supporting 802.11a/b/g/n wireless signals. I had no trouble connecting to a variety of secured networks.

Battery

The G50V-A1 lasted about two hours in my battery test in power saving mode while surfing the Internet. Though two hours is not a lot, it is reasonable for a gaming notebook with a 6-cell battery.

The G50V-A1's 6-cell battery is rated for 4800mAh, with 11.1V.

Extras

The G50V comes with several accessories, including a backpack and a gaming mouse. The backpack is of reasonable quality and has good padding. There are two compartments; a sleeve inside the main compartment holds the notebook securely in place during travel. There is enough room in the backpack for the notebook, power adapter, mouse, and perhaps a textbook.

The mouse is a well-respected Logitech MX518 gaming mouse. It has rubber grips and a carbon-fiber imprint design. It is corded and has a high resolution optical sensor.

Conclusion

Gamers in the market for a well-priced 15.4-inch gaming notebook should seriously consider the ASUS G50V-A1. Its flashy design, solid build quality, high performance components, and beautiful screen make it the ideal mobile gaming companion. Excellent warranty coverage and good-quality included accessories seal the deal. If you liked what you read in this review, it is difficult to go wrong with this machine.

Pros