Asus is giving its gaming laptop range a fresh update, adding more budget-friendly choices by introducing Nvidia’s new RTX 5060 graphics card to seven models. This change allows gamers to enjoy better frame rates and smoother gameplay with features like Multi Frame Generation, all at lower prices than before.
These updated laptops now include the ROG Strix G16 and G18, the sleek and travel-friendly ROG Zephyrus G14, and four models from the more affordable TUF Gaming line: the A14, A16, A18, and F16. By making the RTX 5060 the new base GPU across these models, Asus has reduced prices by around US$300 to US$400 compared to the versions equipped with the RTX 5070.
ROG Strix G16 and G18 offer power at a lower price
The ROG Strix G16 and G18 models have features and start at just US$1,499.99. Higher-end options in the same line go up to US$2,099.99, depending on upgrades such as faster processors, more memory, and larger storage. These laptops keep the same bold design, including the RGB lighting around the case, but drop the expensive features found in the Scar models, such as Mini LED screens and animated LED lids.
Instead, you get IPS displays with a 2560 x 1600 resolution and a fast 240Hz refresh rate. These machines can be configured with Intel’s Raptor Lake Refresh, Arrow Lake processors, or AMD’s Dragon Range and Fire Range chips. You can also choose between 16GB and 32GB of RAM, with storage up to 2TB.
Despite their size — the 18-inch model weighs around seven pounds — these laptops have plenty of ports. Intel versions have five USB ports (three USB-A, one USB-C, and one Thunderbolt 4), while AMD models include four (two USB-A and two USB4), along with HDMI 2.1, ethernet, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
TUF Gaming series keeps things strong and simple
The TUF Gaming A14, A16, A18, and F16 models also now come with the RTX 5060 as a cheaper option compared to the RTX 5070. Though these laptops have chunkier builds and slightly more basic screens with refresh rates of 144Hz or 165Hz, they aim to provide reliable gaming performance without breaking the bank.
The 18-inch TUF A18 and 16-inch TUF F16 are priced at US$1,599.99. The A18 is powered by AMD’s Ryzen 7 260 (Hawk Point), while the F16 features Intel’s Core Ultra 9 275HX (Arrow Lake). The TUF A14 and A16 are slightly more expensive, each priced at US$1,699.99. The A14 includes the AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 processor, the same chip seen in the Framework Laptop 13. Meanwhile, the A16 shares the Ryzen 7 260 with its larger sibling.
While these models don’t have top-tier specs, they’re still well-equipped for modern games. The only downside is that the A18 still includes a dated USB 2.0 port among its five USB slots — a surprising choice for a modern gaming laptop.
Zephyrus G14 keeps things sleek and travel-friendly
The ROG Zephyrus G14, known for its slim and stylish design, now has a configuration available with the RTX 5060 for US$1,799.99. This laptop is perfect if you want strong gaming performance but also need something portable and suitable for everyday use, whether at a coffee shop or studying in a library.
The updated G14 retains the same look from its early 2024 redesign. It includes a 14-inch OLED display with a sharp 2880 x 1800 resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Inside, it’s powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 9 270 CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. Port options include one USB4, one USB-C, two USB-A, and HDMI 2.1.
Whether you’re after a powerful desktop replacement or a sleek laptop to take on the go, Asus now offers more affordable choices without sacrificing the performance you need for gaming.
