ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634: The Powerhouse Gaming Laptop with Trendsetting Features

At first, I believed the Scar 17 was the pinnacle, but to my surprise, the “ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634” surpassed it. This model boasts the premium ROG Nebula HDR Mini LED display, as well as the ability to support MUX Switch hardware switching and G-Sync synchronization. Its cooling system is impressive, featuring large ring-shaped outlets, a trio of fans, seven thermal pipes, and a dual liquid gold cooling medium. At its core, it runs on the Intel Core i9-13980HX CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4080 laptop GPU, and it can harness up to 230W in Turbo mode, making it a dream for performance-driven gamers.

ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634JZ Details:

• OS: Windows 11 Home
• CPU: Intel Core i9-13980HX with 8P+16E, 24C32T, maxing at 5.6GHz
• RAM: 32GB DDR5-4800 (2x16GB modules)
• GPU: Dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 for laptops with 12GB GDDR6, 175W Dynamic Boost, and integrated Intel UHD graphics
• Display: 16-inch ROG Nebula HDR, QHD+ 16:10 (2560 x 1600 resolution), Mini LED with 1100 nits brightness, anti-glare, covers 100% DCI-P3, Pantone Certified, refreshing at 240Hz, with G-Sync, MUX Switch, and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus
• Storage: Two M.2 slots, with one housing a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
• Keyboard: 80% layout with per-key RGB lighting and a NumberPad
• Ports: A range including a 3.5mm headphone jack, HDMI 2.1 FRL, multiple USB types, 2.5G LAN, and Thunderbolt 4
• Audio: Quadruple speakers with Smart Amplifier technology, inbuilt mic, Dolby Atmos, and AI Noise Cancelation
• Connectivity: 2.5GbE LAN, Wi-Fi 6E 2×2, and Bluetooth v5.2
• Power: 4-cell battery with 90WHrs capacity, and a 330W power adapter
• Size: 35.4cm x 26.4cm x ranging from 2.26 to 3.04 cm in thickness
• Weight: 2.6kg
• Webcam: Offers 720p resolution at 30fps

ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 Gaming Laptop Unboxing / Distinctive Style RGB Trendy Appearance

The moment you power up the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634, it’s evident that you’ll stand out. This laptop retains the hallmark design of ROG, with its iconic slash and illuminated ROG logo finely laser-etched, complementing the semi-transparent keyboard. An all-around RGB design is evident in its single-key RGB illuminated keyboard, and the front and rear RGB lighting emphasizes the trending RGB aesthetics.

Beyond its eye-catching design, the Scar 16 boasts a ROG Nebula HDR display. This 16-inch screen with a 16:10 aspect ratio has a QHD+ resolution of 2560 x 1600, utilizing a Mini LED backlight. Its support for HDR, peak brightness of 1100nits, 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, and Pantone certification make it ideal. For gaming enthusiasts, a 240Hz refresh rate along with G-Sync synchronization is present, and users can choose between MUX Switch hardware or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus software for display switching.

Performance-wise, it doesn’t disappoint. It runs on the Intel Core i9-13980HX processor, featuring 8P+16E, 24C32T, and a turbo boost up to 5.6GHz. The dedicated graphics is the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 for laptops, with 12GB GDDR6 and a 175W Dynamic Boost. Additionally, it packs 32GB DDR5-4800 RAM (2x16GB modules).

However, storage might be a limitation for some, with just a single 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD. Connectivity is robust, boasting a combination of USB 2A2C, including Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C 3.2 Gen2, with support for DP/PD/G-SYNC. The audio is immersive, courtesy of its four Smart Amplifier speakers, ensuring a top-tier gaming and multimedia experience.

Be cautious while unboxing this laptop. Ensure you’re aware of the inner box’s orientation; otherwise, the laptop might slide out and potentially fall. Interestingly, right beside the unboxing guidelines, there’s the tagline “For Those Who Dare.” So, if an accident happens, perhaps it’s just a nod to their daring motto!

The ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 proudly showcases its signature slashes on its exterior. Complementing this is the illuminated ROG RGB Logo and an additional RGB backlight at the laptop’s rear. These lights brilliantly shine through the semi-transparent casing. Internally, the laptop is equipped with an expansive row of cooling fins, enhancing the overall surface area for efficient heat dissipation.

Included with the laptop is a magnetic cover found on the upper left hinge. One design is translucent while the other features the ROG font styling. Thanks to its magnetic design, swapping them out is a breeze.

ROG Nebula HDR, Mini LED, QHD 1600p 240Hz, G-Sync gaming screen

The ROG Nebula HDR Display truly stands by its name in the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634. This 16-inch screen, boasting a 16:10 aspect ratio and QHD+ resolution of 2560 x 1600, utilizes a Mini LED backlight. The IPS panel, shining at a peak brightness of 1100 nits, covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum and is Pantone-certified. Factory-set color profiles ensure accurate visuals right out of the box. Tailored for gaming, the display offers a 240Hz refresh rate, a rapid 3ms response time, and features like the MUX Switch for hardware display switching. Additionally, with the NVIDIA Advanced Optimus software, the laptop supports G-Sync synchronization, ensuring a seamless and immersive gaming experience.

The moment I laid eyes on the ROG Nebula HDR Display, its vibrant colors immediately caught my attention. Whether you’re navigating through Windows, streaming videos, or gaming, the screen’s luminance is noticeably ample. The elevated backlight intensifies the color vibrancy. However, for those accustomed to screen brightness levels above 90%, it’s advisable to adjust the brightness to around 60-70% with this device. The Mini LED’s intensity can be overwhelming and might exacerbate eye strain during prolonged use.

Switching on HDR and diving into a game is a transformative experience on this machine. It’s a cut above the standard gaming laptops out there. The game’s radiant elements truly pop, so much so that I found myself squinting when gazing directly at them. This is particularly evident when playing games like “2077” with ray tracing OverDrive and HDR modes enabled. The gaming experience is undeniably more luminous and immersive.

Single-key RGB backlit keyboard, 80% equipped with NumberPad digital trackpad

The ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 features a keyboard layout that utilizes 80% of the space, accommodating larger keycaps. It boasts full-sized directional keys and also incorporates 5 custom shortcut keys, M1 through M5, located at the top. By default, these shortcut keys offer functionalities like volume control, microphone muting, fan speed adjustments, and access to the Armory Crate. The F1 to F12 keys, when used in combination with the Fn Key, provide control over a range of functions, including volume, keyboard lighting effects, performance modes, and screen brightness, among others.

The keyboard on the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 boasts single-key RGB backlighting and employs an Overstroke design with a 2mm key travel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users. Thoughtfully, the power button is isolated to the top right corner, minimizing the risk of accidental presses. Furthermore, those with a keen eye for alignment will appreciate the central positioning of the enlarged touchpad – it’s a nod to those with alignment preferences (OCD rejoice!).

But this touchpad is more than just a navigational tool. It cleverly integrates the NumberPad functionality. By tapping the “NUMLK” icon on the touchpad, users can toggle between regular cursor control and a digital numeric keypad. In the numeric keypad mode, backlit outlines illuminate the positions of the numeric keys. This ingenious design not only maximizes the touchpad’s utility but also ensures the laptop retains a full-sized keyboard layout.

I/O configuration: USB 2A2C with Thunderbolt 4, USB-C 3.2 Gen2 supports DP / PD / G-SYNC

The ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 has strategically positioned its connection ports on both the left and right sides, as the laptop’s rear is exclusively reserved for its cooling apparatus. This design choice underscores ROG Strix’s meticulous attention to details and user experience.

On the laptop’s left flank, you’ll find:

• DC In (for charging)
• 2.5GbE LAN RJ-45 (for wired internet connection)
• HDMI 2.1 (for video output)
• Thunderbolt 4 Type C (multipurpose port supporting fast data transfer and video output)
• USB 3.2 Gen2 Type C (also supporting data and video output)
• A 3.5mm headset/microphone combo jack

Meanwhile, on its right side:

• 2 USB 3.2 Gen2 Type A ports, ideal for connecting peripherals like mice and other input devices.

Further enhancing its utility, the Thunderbolt 4 Type C and USB 3.2 Gen2 Type C ports on the left also support DisplayPort display output, compatible with G-Sync monitors. Notably, the USB 3.2 Gen2 Type C port boasts support for USB Power Delivery (PD) up to 100W, offering another charging option for the laptop.

The ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 is designed for multitaskers, offering the ability to connect to three external displays, in addition to its own screen. This means users can potentially create a four-screen setup, enhancing productivity and immersion. When connecting external monitors, the laptop’s HDMI 2.1 and both USB-C DisplayPort 1.4 G-Sync outputs harness the power of its RTX 4080 dedicated graphics card to deliver the visuals.

ROG smart cooling technology, three fans, seven heat pipes, full fins, and four air outlets

The underside of the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 showcases a contemporary cooling design that mirrors its front aesthetics. It features an array of diagonal stripes, dust filters, and the ROG branding, contributing to its distinct bottom profile. Additionally, the laptop is equipped with uniquely shaped rubber feet, which not only stabilize the device but also elevate it slightly to optimize airflow and enhance cooling underneath.

The ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 is armed with an expansive cooling system in its latest iteration. Featuring a ring-shaped air outlet, it ensures effective ventilation from the left, right, and rear. The uniquely designed, full-size radiator adopts an ultra-thin “ㄇ” configuration, boasting 0.1mm fins. Impressively, its total surface area is a whopping 62% larger than its predecessor, ensuring enhanced cooling capabilities. This advanced cooling system incorporates a “three-fan” active cooling mechanism paired with seven heat pipes, ensuring optimal temperature management for key components like the CPU, GPU, VRAM, and VRM.

Furthermore, to enhance thermal efficiency, both the CPU and GPU in this laptop are treated with Thermal Grizzly’s liquid metal solution, Conductonaut Extreme. This application ensures superior heat conduction. However, users are advised against attempting DIY modifications on the cooling module, likely due to the complexities and potential risks involved.

The laptop comes with two pre-installed 16GB DDR5-4800 SO-DIMM memory modules. Adjacent to the left of these memory modules, there’s an M.2 2280 slot, which is believed to support the PCIe 4.0 x4 specification. To the right of the third cooling fan, the system’s primary storage is provided by a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD.

Armory Crate monitoring, performance switching and Advanced Optimus + MUX hardware switching

The ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 primarily utilizes the Armory Crate software for its system management. The main dashboard displays comprehensive system statistics, covering details about the CPU, GPU, memory, and fan statuses. Moreover, the software offers features like performance mode toggling, GPU Mode adjustments, and other system configurations.

The laptop’s performance can be tailored using various modes:

• Custom Mode: Allows manual adjustments, such as setting the CPU’s max power consumption and Turbo clock rates. Users can also overclock the GPU to enhance its clock speeds. Features like Dynamic Boost, power-saving settings, and fan curve customizations for both the CPU and GPU are accessible in this mode.
• Turbo Mode: Optimized for peak gaming or computational needs. This mode squeezes out the highest performance but can result in fan noise levels around 40-50dBA.
• Performance Mode: Suitable for plugged-in daily tasks, balancing power and noise.
• Silent Mode: Prioritizes quiet operations over performance, ideal when minimal disruptions are desired.
• Windows Mode: A basic mode with reduced performance, ideal for on-the-go tasks when conserving power is a priority.

For everyday use with the laptop plugged in, the Performance mode is recommended. If you’re on the move, switching to Windows or Silent mode is advisable for battery conservation. When the situation calls for raw power, like intense gaming sessions or demanding computational tasks, Turbo or Custom modes are your go-to. But do note, in these high-performance modes, while the fan noise is noticeable, it becomes less intrusive when using headphones.

The ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 offers users flexibility with its GPU switching capabilities, leveraging both “Advanced Optimus” and “Hardware MUX” functionalities.

When the GPU Mode in Armory Crate is set to Standard, the Advanced Optimus function (accessible through the NVIDIA Control Panel) takes the lead. It will decide whether to operate in the energy-efficient Optimus internal display hybrid mode or go full throttle with the NVIDIA GPU Only mode.

For those seeking maximum graphics performance, switching the GPU Mode to Ultimate via Armory Crate activates the MUX hardware. However, this change necessitates a system reboot. Once restarted, the laptop screen relies exclusively on the powerful RTX 4080 dedicated graphics for its output, sidelining the Advanced Optimus function. This function remains inactive until the mode is toggled back to Standard.

For users who prefer avoiding frequent restarts, the Standard mode offers a middle ground. Within this mode, you can seamlessly transition between the Optimus and NVIDIA GPU Only modes using the NVIDIA Control Panel. However, a word of caution: it’s advisable not to set the NVIDIA Display Mode to Auto. When set to Auto, the system may exhibit slight delays as it alternates between integrated and dedicated graphics based on the application being run. These intermittent lags can be distracting. As a best practice, users can keep their systems in Optimus mode for regular tasks and switch to NVIDIA GPU Only manually when gaming or running graphics-intensive programs.

ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 creation PR, LR, DaVinci, Blender test

In a performance test of the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634, the laptop was configured to Turbo mode with the dedicated graphics card enabled. The key specifications of the laptop under review are as follows:

• Processor: Intel Core i9-13980HX
• Memory: 16GBx2 DDR5-4800 in dual channel configuration
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 laptop GPU with a 175W specification

Upon examining the system with CPU-Z:

• The Intel Core i9-13980HX processor, codenamed Raptor Lake, was identified. It’s a notebook processor built on a 10nm process with an 8P+16E core configuration, resulting in 32 threads. Its maximum Boost clock rate can surge up to 5.6GHz. It operates with a thermal power consumption of 55W TDP.
• The system’s memory is configured in a dual-channel setup with two 16GB DDR5-4800 modules.

This combination of hardware ensures a potent performance capacity, catering to intensive computing needs and high-end gaming requirements.

Using GPU-Z to inspect the details of the GeForce RTX 4080 notebook GPU reveals the following characteristics:

• Rendering Cores: 7424
• Memory: 12GB GDDR6
• GPU Boost Clock: 2330MHz
• Resizable BAR: This feature is not enabled.
• Driver Version: At the time of testing, the GPU was running on NVIDIA driver version 537.42.
• Integrated Graphics: The laptop also has an Intel UHD Graphics as its internal display solution.

This set of specs indicates a high-end GPU, suitable for demanding tasks such as 3D rendering, intensive gaming, and more.

The PugetBench for Photoshop test offers an assessment of a computer’s ability to handle standard Photoshop tasks and is broken down into “General” and “Filter” tasks:

• General Tasks: These tasks revolve around common actions performed on 18MP .CR2 RAW images, such as resizing to 500MB, rotating, using the magic wand tool, refining masks, utilizing the paint bucket, creating gradients, content-aware filling, saving as .PSD, and opening .PSD files.
• Filter Tasks: This set of tasks measures performance with more advanced Photoshop operations like the Camera Raw Filter, lens correction, noise reduction, auto-sharpening, tilt-shift blurring, aperture blurring, adaptive wide-angle adjustments, and the liquefy tool.

The test is executed three times, with the resulting score being benchmarked against a baseline score of 1000 points. A score above 1000 indicates performance exceeding this benchmark.

For the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634:

• Overall Score: 1407 points
• GPU Score: 114.2 points
• General Tasks Score: 177.4 points
• Filters Score: 103.9 points

In context, the ROG Strix’s performance surpassed the desktop computer benchmark by 40%. This level of performance is commendable for a laptop, indicating its strong capabilities in managing 2D imaging tasks efficiently. It’s a testament to the laptop’s prowess in handling graphics-intensive software like Photoshop.

The PugetBench for Lightroom Classic provides an analysis of a computer’s capability to handle standard Lightroom tasks by simulating a workflow that many photographers might employ:

• Test Library: The benchmark sets up a library comprising 500 photos sourced from various popular cameras – Canon EOS 5D Mark III with 22MP .CR2, Sony a7r III with 42MP .ARW, and Nikon D850 with 45MP .NEF files.
• Active Tasks: These tasks test real-time operations in Lightroom, such as zooming, switching between images, and auto white balance/tint adjustments.
• Passive Tasks: These represent longer, batch-style operations. The test includes actions such as importing the 500 photos, generating smart previews, panorama merging, HDR merging, and exporting files in both JPEG and DNG formats.

The results are benchmarked against a baseline score of 1000 points, with higher scores indicating superior performance.

For the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634:

• Overall Score: 1481 points
• Active Tasks Score: 80.8 points
• Passive Tasks Score: 215.5 points

Relative to the benchmark, the ROG Strix outperformed the standard desktop reference by 48%. This impressive score implies that the laptop can handle tasks like batch processing in Lightroom, photo selection, and image retouching with a level of smoothness and efficiency that’s comparable to, or even better than, many desktop systems. It showcases the device’s aptitude in managing photo-editing software like Lightroom Classic.

The PugetBench for DaVinci Resolve assesses a computer’s proficiency in handling video editing tasks, particularly within DaVinci Resolve, a popular professional video editing software:

• Test Media: The benchmark employs various high-resolution formats for evaluation, including 4K H.264 150mbps 8-bit, 4K ProRes 422, 4K RED, 8K H.265 100mbps, and 8K RED.
• Video Effects Testing: The computer’s capability to handle GPU-specific effects and the Fusion visual effects and motion graphics component of DaVinci Resolve are tested using OpenFX and other special effects.

The scoring is set against a baseline score of 1000 points, which represents a standard desktop’s performance. A score above this threshold suggests performance beyond this standard.

For the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634:

• Overall Score: 2763 points
• 4K Media Score: 184 points
• GPU Special Effects Score: 124 points
• Fusion Score: 521 points

In comparison to the benchmark, the ROG Strix performed remarkably well, exceeding the typical desktop benchmark by a staggering 176%. Such a score indicates that this laptop is not only suitable for video editing tasks but is exceptionally proficient at them. Whether on the go or at a fixed workstation, the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 promises a robust performance for video editing and output in DaVinci Resolve.

Blender is a versatile tool, known for its comprehensive suite of capabilities encompassing the entirety of the 3D creation pipeline. Being cross-platform and open-source makes it accessible to a wide range of users, and its support for both CPU and GPU rendering acceleration functions ensures that artists and creators can make the most of their hardware.

When subjected to the Blender Benchmark test, the results for the RTX 4080 laptop GPU were impressive:

• Monster Scenes: Achieved a sample rate of 3320 samples per minute.
• Junkshop Scenes: Attained a rate of 1582 samples per minute.
• Classroom Scenes: Delivered a rate of 1610 samples per minute.

These results emphasize the GPU’s potency in accelerating 3D rendering and creation tasks. Furthermore, the performance of the RTX 4080 in Blender indicates a significant advantage over CPU-based rendering, underscoring the importance of a robust GPU in 3D visualization and content creation workflows.

ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 computer performance benchmark test

CINEBENCH, by MAXON, is a renowned benchmarking tool that gauges the 3D rendering capabilities of computer hardware, specifically focusing on the CPU and, in its newer versions, the GPU as well. It’s rooted in the workings of Cinema 4D, a top-tier software in the realm of 3D modeling and animation. The recent 2024 version of CINEBENCH, leveraging Cinema 4D’s Redshift rendering engine, offers an exhaustive evaluation of both CPU and GPU performances and is designed to support cross-platform performance comparisons.

For the i9-13980HX processor, here are the scores achieved in the different versions of CINEBENCH:

CINEBENCH R23:

• CPU Multi-Thread (nT): 31936 points
• CPU Single-Thread (1T): 2127 points

CINEBENCH 2024:

• GPU: 17362 points
• CPU Multi-Thread (nT): 1770 points
• CPU Single-Thread (1T): 125 points

These results paint a vivid picture of the i9-13980HX’s capabilities. While its multi-threaded CPU performance in R23 is remarkable, it seems there’s a disparity in scores between R23 and 2024 versions, which could be attributed to the different rendering engines and methodologies utilized in these benchmark versions. The GPU score in the 2024 version is impressive, emphasizing the robust graphical capabilities of the machine.

Geekbench is a popular cross-platform benchmarking tool that provides an in-depth analysis of both CPU and GPU performance through a variety of tests, which simulate real-world scenarios.

Geekbench 6 CPU Test: This version of the test focuses on several aspects, including data compression, image processing, machine learning, and program code compilation. It’s designed to assess both the single-core and multi-core capabilities of the CPU.

For the i9-13980HX:

• Multi-Core Score: 17,290 points
• Single-Core Score: 2,798 points

These scores illustrate the processor’s adeptness in handling tasks that require either a single core (like most everyday applications) or multiple cores (such as parallel computing tasks or specific software that leverages all available cores).

Geekbench 6 GPU Test: This test evaluates the GPU’s performance across a range of tasks like image processing, computational photography, computer vision, and machine learning. The tests utilize the OpenCL API to execute these operations, ensuring consistent benchmarking across various platforms.

For the RTX 4080:

• GPU Score: 180,937 points

This score is an indicator of the graphics card’s prowess, particularly in tasks related to visual processing, computational tasks in photography and videography, as well as machine learning applications.

In summary, the i9-13980HX and RTX 4080’s scores on Geekbench 6 underscore the hardware’s robust capabilities, suggesting that this configuration is well-suited for demanding tasks and professional applications.

AIDA64 is a comprehensive system diagnostic tool and benchmarking application that provides detailed information about installed software and hardware components. One of its functions is the memory test, which gauges the performance of the RAM in a system.

For the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 with its dual-channel DDR5-4800 32GB configuration, here are the results from the AIDA64 memory test:

• Memory Read: 75,776 MB/s
• Memory Write: 68,514 MB/s
• Memory Latency: 87.4 ns

These scores indicate:

• The Read and Write speeds demonstrate how swiftly data can be read from or written to the memory. The high MB/s values here signify fast memory operations, which contribute to the overall speed and responsiveness of the system.
• Latency, measured in nanoseconds (ns), represents the delay or the time it takes for a memory request to be fulfilled. Lower latency is preferable as it means quicker data retrieval. The value of 87.4 ns is within an expected range for DDR5 memory.

The performance metrics from this test underscore the robust memory capabilities of the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634, indicating it would be adept at handling tasks that rely heavily on RAM, such as large-scale data processing, gaming, and running memory-intensive applications.

PCMark 10 is a trusted benchmarking tool that evaluates a computer’s performance across a variety of common tasks. These tasks range from basic operations to more intensive activities related to digital content creation. The results from this test provide an understanding of how well the computer will handle day-to-day tasks.

For the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634, here’s a breakdown of the scores achieved in PCMark 10:

• Overall Score: 9,300 points
  • This score gives a general idea of the laptop’s competence in everyday usage scenarios, such as web browsing, video conferencing, and app launches.
• General Computer Work Score: 11,587 points
  • This rating encapsulates basic computing tasks that most users will perform daily, providing an indication of the laptop’s efficiency in managing everyday tasks.
• Productivity Score: 11,679 points
  • Measured using tasks like spreadsheet editing and word processing, this score shows the laptop’s prowess in office-related activities, which are central to many professional environments.
• Digital Content Creation Score: 16,131 points
  • This score reveals the laptop’s capability in more intensive tasks such as photo editing, video editing, and 3D rendering. A high score here suggests the laptop would be suitable for professionals in creative fields.
• Peak CPU Clock Speed: 5.48GHz
  • This recorded speed is close to the advertised boost speed of the Intel Core i9-13980HX, highlighting the processor’s potential to ramp up performance under demanding workloads.

In summary, the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 boasts impressive performance metrics across various tasks. It’s evident that this laptop can handle a broad spectrum of activities, from basic computing to more specialized tasks in digital content creation. The scores emphasize its adaptability and prowess in delivering optimal performance for both everyday users and professionals.

CrossMark, developed by BAPCo, is a cross-platform benchmarking tool designed to gauge a computer’s performance across a range of tasks that simulate everyday usage scenarios and professional workloads. Being cross-platform, it allows for comparison between various operating systems and devices.

The tests in CrossMark are structured around tasks that a typical user might encounter, such as:

• Productivity: This encompasses tasks like text editing, spreadsheet manipulation, and web browsing. A higher score in this category indicates that the device will excel in office and general usage scenarios.
• Creativity: This focuses on more intensive tasks like photo editing, organization, and video editing. A good score here suggests the device is apt for professionals in creative fields or hobbyists looking to engage in media creation and editing.
• Responsiveness: This evaluates the computer’s agility in handling tasks, essentially measuring how quickly the system reacts to user inputs and executes operations. A higher score indicates a more fluid and snappy user experience.

For the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634, the results from the CrossMark test are:

• Overall Score: 2114 points
• Productivity Score: 1921 points
• Creativity Score: 2499 points
• Responsiveness Score: 1706 points

These results showcase the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 as a versatile and capable machine. Its high Creativity score confirms its proficiency in handling media-rich tasks, while its solid Productivity score suggests it’s equally adept at everyday tasks. The Responsiveness score further emphasizes its capability to provide a smooth user experience.

In conclusion, the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 demonstrates a balanced performance, making it suitable for both general users and professionals who demand more intensive computing capabilities.

CrystalDiskMark is a commonly used benchmarking tool that assesses the read and write speeds of storage devices, primarily solid-state drives (SSDs) and hard drives. Sequential read and write speeds are crucial metrics as they provide insights into how fast large files can be read from or written to the drive, which is especially pertinent for tasks like transferring movies, large datasets, or game installations.

For the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634, the results from the CrystalDiskMark test for its 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD are:

• Sequential Read Speed: 6969.6 MB/s
• Sequential Write Speed: 5107.7 MB/s

These speeds are impressive and indicative of the latest advancements in SSD technology. PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSDs are currently among the fastest consumer-grade storage devices available in the market.

• The Read Speed of 6969.6 MB/s means that the laptop can read data from the SSD at nearly 7 GB/s. This would allow for extremely fast boot times, application launches, and data retrieval.
• The Write Speed of 5107.7 MB/s indicates that data can be saved or written to the SSD at over 5 GB/s, making tasks like saving large files, game installations, or video rendering much quicker.

In summary, the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634’s SSD offers top-tier performance, ensuring rapid data access and storage operations. This enhances the overall responsiveness and efficiency of the laptop, delivering a smooth user experience, especially for tasks that rely heavily on storage speed.

3DMark’s Fire Strike is a widely recognized benchmarking test that gauges the graphics and computational capabilities of a computer, particularly concerning gaming. It’s tailored around the DirectX 11 (DX11) API, which is used in many of today’s AAA games.

Here are the results for the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 across different resolutions:

1. 1080p (Full HD) Fire Strike Test:
   • Score: 35,844 points
   • This resolution is standard for most gaming and is what many gamers use. A score of 35,844 points at this resolution indicates that the laptop can handle most of today’s AAA games at high to ultra settings with ease.
2. 1440p (Quad HD) Fire Strike Extreme Test:
   • Score: 21,843 points
   • 1440p is a more demanding resolution, often used by enthusiasts looking for a sharper image without the performance demand of 4K. A score of 21,843 suggests the laptop can handle gaming at this resolution with good performance, albeit potentially requiring some settings adjustments in the most demanding titles.
3. 2160p (4K) Fire Strike Ultra Test:
   • Score: 11,626 points
   • 4K is the pinnacle of gaming resolutions right now, demanding significantly more from hardware. The score of 11,626 implies that while the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 can handle 4K gaming, users might need to adjust graphics settings in certain AAA games to maintain smooth frame rates.

The evaluations:

• Excellent (for 1080p): Indicates superior performance at this resolution.
• Great (for 1440p): Shows that the performance is well above average and suitable for gaming at this resolution.
• Good (for 4K): Suggests that while the laptop can handle 4K, there might be a need for some compromises in settings for the best experience in certain games.

In summary, the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 demonstrates robust gaming capabilities across a range of resolutions, making it a solid choice for gaming enthusiasts looking for versatility in their gaming experience.

3DMark’s Time Spy is another benchmark from the suite specifically designed to evaluate DirectX 12 performance, the latest graphics API that’s utilized by many contemporary AAA games. Given its focus on DX12, Time Spy offers insights into how systems might perform with newer titles and graphics technologies.

For the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634, the results for the Time Spy tests are as follows:

1. 1440p (Quad HD) Time Spy Test:
   • Score: 18,921 points
   • 1440p, or Quad HD, has become increasingly popular among gamers who want a balance between high resolution and performance. A score of 18,921 at this resolution indicates that the laptop provides excellent performance in the context of modern gaming standards, especially for titles leveraging DirectX 12.
2. Time Spy Extreme Test:
   • Score: 9,306 points
   • Time Spy Extreme is a more demanding variant of the benchmark, designed to push the limits of the hardware further. A score of 9,306 suggests that while the laptop is more than capable of handling challenging gaming scenarios, there may be some titles where settings might need to be adjusted for optimal performance.

The evaluations:

• Great (for the standard Time Spy test): This rating indicates that the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634’s performance is considerably above average, ensuring a smooth experience in most modern AAA titles at 1440p.
• Good (for Time Spy Extreme): The laptop shows commendable performance but might require some settings tweaking for the most demanding games.

To conclude, the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 continues to exhibit impressive gaming capabilities, particularly in the context of DirectX 12 titles. The scores on the Time Spy tests further affirm its standing as a high-performance gaming laptop, capable of delivering a premium experience across a variety of games and resolutions.

ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 – 4 eSports game performance tests

E-sports titles, although typically not as graphically demanding as AAA games, require high frame rates for competitive play. Many players prioritize achieving high frames per second (FPS) to ensure fluid gameplay and to gain a competitive edge. The 1600p resolution (approximately QHD+ or 2560 x 1600 pixels) is a step above the standard 1080p, which makes these results particularly impressive.

Here’s a breakdown of the performance results for the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 in the mentioned e-sports titles:

1. CS2: Force 2:
   • Average FPS: 218
   • As an original shooter, achieving an average FPS of 218 at 1600p with the highest settings indicates the laptop handles the game with ease, ensuring smooth gameplay even during intense firefights.
2. APEX Legends:
   • Average FPS: 246
   • APEX Legends is a popular battle royale title known for its fast-paced gameplay. An average FPS of 246 is well beyond the standard 60 FPS threshold, providing a seamless gaming experience.
3. League of Legends:
   • Average FPS: 445
   • League of Legends, a popular MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena), benefits from high frame rates for improved response times. 445 FPS ensures that gameplay remains fluid even during the most chaotic team battles.
4. Rainbow Six Siege:
   • Average FPS: 368
   • This tactical shooter is known for its emphasis on strategy and precise aiming. An average FPS of 368 ensures that players can react quickly and accurately, which is crucial in competitive scenarios.

Overall, the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 displays exceptional performance in e-sports titles, consistently achieving high frame rates that exceed the requirements for competitive play. This makes the laptop an ideal choice for e-sports enthusiasts or professional players who demand top-tier performance to stay ahead in competitive matches.

ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 – 10 game performance tests

AAA games are the industry’s highest-quality titles, often with the most advanced graphics, realistic animations, and detailed environments. Playing these games at 1600p resolution (approximately QHD+ or 2560 x 1600 pixels) with all visual effects turned to the maximum is a rigorous test of a laptop’s gaming capabilities.

Here’s a detailed analysis of the performance results for the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 in the mentioned AAA titles:

1. Starry Sky:
   • Average FPS: 80
   • Hitting 80 FPS in a AAA game at 1600p with maximum settings is a respectable score, indicating a smooth gameplay experience.
2. Baldur’s Gate 3:
   • Average FPS: 129
   • For a role-playing game, achieving an average FPS of 129 ensures that even the most intense in-game scenes play out seamlessly.
3. Diablo IV:
   • Average FPS: 159
   • Diablo IV’s dark and detailed world comes to life with such high FPS, making both exploration and combat enjoyable.
4. F1® 22:
   • [No specific FPS provided] Racing games benefit from high frame rates to capture the speed and intensity of the race. It can be inferred that the laptop provides a satisfactory experience given the overall average.
5. Tomb Raider: Shadow, Horizon: Waiting for Dawn, Borderline 3, Assassin’s Creed: Viking Age:
   • [No specific FPS provided for these titles] These are known to be visually demanding games, and achieving good frame rates ensures immersive gameplay.
6. Red Dead Redemption 2:
   • Average FPS: 91.6
   • For a game renowned for its expansive and detailed open world, an FPS of 91.6 demonstrates the laptop’s capability to deliver an exceptional gaming experience.
7. God of War:
   • Average FPS: 94
   • A visually stunning title, the 94 FPS score ensures fluid combat and exploration throughout the game’s captivating storyline.

The overall average FPS for these 10 AAA titles is 114.4, which is an excellent score at 1600p resolution with all effects on. This performance suggests that the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 is more than capable of handling the demands of the latest AAA titles, providing gamers with a premium experience without requiring compromises on visual settings or resolution.

ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 – 9 ray tracing DXR games tested

Ray tracing is a rendering technique that simulates the way light interacts with objects to produce realistic shadows, reflections, and illuminations in a virtual environment. With the advent of NVIDIA’s RTX series, ray tracing has been pushed to mainstream gaming, enhancing the realism and visual fidelity of games. However, ray tracing is computationally demanding and often requires powerful hardware and supportive technologies like DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) from NVIDIA or FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) from AMD to boost performance.

Let’s break down the results for the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 in the mentioned ray tracing titles:

1. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor:
   • Average FPS: 77 with DLSS3
   • Given the demanding nature of ray tracing, an average FPS of 77 in such a detailed environment is a testament to the laptop’s gaming prowess.
2. Cyber 2077:
   • Average FPS: 130
   • Cyber 2077, with its dense urban environments and myriad of lighting effects, is notably demanding, especially with ray tracing turned on. Achieving 130 FPS at 1600p with ray tracing and DLSS speaks volumes about the laptop’s capabilities.
3. Spider-Man: Miles Moras:
   • Average FPS: 139
   • The detailed New York City environment, combined with the various reflective surfaces in the game, make this FPS score particularly impressive.
4. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt:
   • Average FPS: 112
   • This RPG classic, known for its expansive world and intricate details, further benefits from ray tracing, making the world even more immersive.
5. Portal with RTX:
   • Average FPS: 102
   • Given Portal’s already impressive lighting and environmental effects, the added realism from ray tracing makes the gameplay experience even more captivating.

The overall average FPS for these 9 ray-traced titles is 112.4 at 1600p resolution with maximum effects and ray tracing turned on. Coupled with DLSS/FSR acceleration, this ensures that players get the best of both worlds – the stunning visual fidelity of ray tracing without compromising on performance.

In conclusion, the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634, powered by the RTX 4080, provides gamers with the ability to fully experience the next generation of gaming graphics. The laptop effectively handles ray-traced titles, ensuring that games look their best and perform smoothly. It is a suitable choice for gamers who prioritize both performance and visual quality.

ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 temperature test

Temperature performance is crucial when it comes to gaming laptops. Overheating can lead to throttling, where the CPU or GPU reduces its speed to prevent damage, which can significantly reduce performance. It can also reduce the lifespan of the components. Therefore, it’s essential to look at the temperature statistics critically.

Here’s an evaluation of the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 based on the provided results:

1. Standby Temperatures:
   • CPU: 56°C
   • GPU: 44.9°C
   • Standby temperatures are generally non-operational temperatures when the system isn’t under any significant load. These temperatures are pretty decent and within the expected range.
2. Stress Tests:
   • AIDA64 (10-min): CPU at 79°C
   • Cinebench R23 (10-min): Highest CPU temperature at 87°C
   • Time Spy Stress Test: CPU at 89°C, GPU at 86.7°C
   • Dian Yu Rebel 2077: CPU at 88°C, GPU at 87.4°C
   The Cinebench R23 and Time Spy Stress Test results show temperatures just under the typical threshold (around 90°C for most CPUs) under intense loads. The brief peak to 97°C for Core 0/1 during the Cinebench R23 test could be due to uneven thermal paste application or uneven contact with the heatsink. However, these peaks were temporary and not sustained, which is relieving.
3. Noise Levels: 50dBA during high-performance tests is relatively loud. For perspective, a quiet suburb or conversation at home is typically around 40-50dBA. While the noise can be masked with headphones, users without them might find the noise level a bit distracting or uncomfortable.

In conclusion, the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634’s thermal performance seems commendable. The temperatures, while elevated during stress tests, never reach critical levels for prolonged periods. It’s clear the cooling system is working effectively to disperse the heat generated by the powerful CPU and GPU.

However, the trade-off seems to be the noise level, which might be a concern for some users. As always, for the longevity of the device, it’s a good idea to play in a well-ventilated area and possibly use a cooling pad if planning for long gaming sessions.

The surface temperature of a gaming laptop, especially in the keyboard area, is crucial for user comfort. If the temperatures are too high, it can lead to an uncomfortable gaming experience and potential long-term user discomfort.

From the provided data:

1. Hottest Point: 63.1°C directly above the keyboard.
2. Primary Gaming Key Area (QWER): 35.8°C.
3. Handrest Area: Close to ambient temperature.

Here’s an assessment:

• Hottest Point: 63.1°C is considerably warm, especially for a laptop’s surface temperature. This can be uncomfortable if one has to touch this area frequently. It’s also not unusual for powerful gaming laptops, especially those with high-end internals, to get quite warm around areas where there’s significant internal heat generation (like near the CPU or GPU).
• QWER Gaming Key Area: At 35.8°C, this temperature is within a comfortable range for most users. Many gamers often have their fingers on these keys during gameplay, so it’s essential that this area remains cooler.
• Handrest Area: Being close to ambient suggests it’s cool to the touch, ensuring comfort for the wrists and palms over extended usage.

The surface temperature discrepancies can be attributed to the laptop’s internal design and cooling solution. The hottest point being distant from the third fan explains the elevated temperature, as this area might not benefit as much from the airflow provided by the fan.

In conclusion, while the highest point of 63.1°C might feel warm to touch, the critical areas where hands and fingers are most frequently placed during gaming sessions are maintained at a much cooler temperature, ensuring a relatively comfortable user experience. Still, for optimum comfort, designers could aim for slightly cooler temperatures in future iterations or models.

ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 battery life test

Battery life is an essential aspect to consider, especially for users who need the portability of their laptops. For gaming laptops, which traditionally pack high-end components that consume a lot of power, achieving decent battery life can be a challenge.

Based on the provided data:

• Performance Balanced Settings: 4 hours and 17 minutes.
• Windows Mode: 4 hours and 49 minutes.

Let’s break down these results:

• Performance Balanced Settings: This mode likely gives a balanced power consumption to performance ratio. Achieving over 4 hours in such a mode is commendable for a high-performance gaming laptop, given that these laptops prioritize performance over power conservation.
• Windows Mode: This mode typically leans more towards conserving power and providing a bit more battery life. An additional half hour or so compared to the balanced mode is a decent increase. This mode is suitable for tasks like browsing, document editing, and other less resource-intensive activities.

For perspective, many high-end gaming laptops on the market can struggle to achieve over 3 hours of battery life due to their power-hungry components, especially when they house top-tier GPUs and CPUs. Given that, the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634’s battery performance is pretty decent, making it a good fit for gamers who also require some degree of portability and off-plug usage.

However, it’s worth noting that gaming on battery will likely deplete it significantly faster than these test scenarios. If users intend to play high-end games, it’s always best to have the laptop plugged in for optimal performance and longevity.

Summary

The ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 is quite a powerhouse, catering to not only gaming enthusiasts but also professionals who require high-performance computing on the go. Let’s summarize the key points of this laptop:

• Size and Portability: The ROG Strix Scar 16 is relatively bulkier compared to ultra-slim notebooks, but that’s a trade-off for better performance and cooling capabilities. Its weight, including the transformer, is approximately 3.5kg, which is manageable for short commutes or travel, especially with the bundled stylish backpack.
• Performance: With impressive average FPS for AAA games and ray-tracing games, gaming on this machine is bound to be a delightful experience. The presence of G-Sync ensures screen tearing is minimized, providing a fluid visual experience.
• Display: The ROG Nebula HDR display with Mini LED backlighting offers vibrant and sharp visuals. This feature enhances not only gaming but also media consumption, making it ideal for binge-watching your favorite shows or movies.
• Expandability: The available slots for DDR5 SO-DIMMs and M.2 2280 ensure that you won’t run out of space for your games, projects, or other professional work anytime soon.
• Connectivity: The plethora of connectivity options makes this machine versatile. With 2.5GbE LAN, Wi-Fi 6E, multiple USB ports, and Thunderbolt 4 support, you are well-equipped for any task or peripheral.
• Price: While the price tag of NT$88,900 might seem steep, one must consider the high-end specifications and features it brings to the table. It’s an investment towards a machine that promises performance, longevity, and a premium experience.

In conclusion, if you have the budget and are looking for a laptop that can be both a gaming beast and a workhorse, the ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634 could be an excellent choice. Whether you’re a student aiming to unwind with some AAA games after lectures or a professional in a dynamic industry, this laptop seems fit for “Those Who Dare.”

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This article is based on the personality of the reviews. You are responsible for fact-checking if the contents are not facts or accurate.

Title: ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) G634: The Powerhouse Gaming Laptop with Trendsetting Features