Acer Predator Gaming Laptop: Australian Hands On

Video: Acer’s new Predator gaming laptops put extra emphasis on cooling to optimise performance. Features include two rear-exhaust fans and custom software that directs airflow — which also reduces dust and noise. The laptops also come with ‘Frostcore’, a cooling module that fits into the optical drive for intense gaming sessions. Let’s take a look.

Shipping with Windows 10, the Predator 15 starts from $2999, and the 17 from $3299 in Australia.

Acer Predator 15 review configuration –hit up Acer Australia for full specs.

  • Windows 10
  • 15.6″ LCD screen
  • Intel® Core™ i7-6700HQ
  • NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 980M with 4 GB of dedicated GDDR5 VRAM
  • 16 GB of DDR4 system memory
  • 256GB SSD & 1000GB HDD
  • 8-cell Li-ion battery
  • Blu-ray Disc RE drive
  • 802.11ac WLAN
  • Frostcore fan module
  • HD Camera
  • [clear]


    FrostCore: An Acer-exclusive third fan module from Cooler Master that swaps out with the optical drive to lower the CPU/GPU temp by 5 per cent.

    DustDefender: Two fans and vents on the back of the device that use reverse rotation to remove dust build-up, improve heat dissipation and reduce noise. Added benefit of helping to improve the laptop’s lifespan.

    AeroBlade: Acer claims to have patented the world’s thinnest metal fan blade and a process built on its efficiency that improves thermals by a further 9 per cent.

    CoolBoost:
    Lastly, Acer’s CoolBoost app lets you customise fan airflow, including kicking into a turbo mode for heavy use.

    Acer’s PredatorSense gaming software also lets you tailor macro programmable keys for up to 15 in-game shortcuts and adjustable lighting controls. The Predator ProZone backlit keyboard is divided into four lighting zones which can be lit or dimmed individually and features a programmable key. And a dedicated physical key allows gamers to lock both the Windows key and touchpad quickly to prevent accidental key presses.

    Both the 15-Inch and 17-Inch Predator laptops support up to three displays, pack in four built-ins speakers (plus two subwooofers), and include USB 3.1 Type-C support. [Acer Predator]


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