
( Brand: Asus ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: GL704GW-PS74 ), ( Compatible Brand: For Asus ), ( Screen Finish: Matte ), ( Type: Screen ), ( Screen Size: 17.3 In ), ( Maximum Resolution: 1920 X 1080 ), ( Color: Black )
The **ASUS ROG Strix GL704GW-PS74** is a high-performance gaming laptop engineered for enthusiasts who demand both raw power and premium visual fidelity. Built around a **17.3-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS LCD display**, this machine delivers crisp, vibrant imagery with a **144Hz refresh rate**, ensuring silky-smooth gameplay and fluid multimedia experiences. The IPS panel not only enhances color accuracy and viewing angles but also reduces eye strain during extended sessions, making it ideal for late-night gaming marathons or creative work. Under the hood, the GL704GW is powered by a **high-end Intel Core i7 processor** (likely the 7th or 8th generation, depending on the model variant), paired with a dedicated **NVIDIA GTX 10-series GPU** (such as the GTX 1060 or 1070) for seamless execution of modern AAA titles at high settings. The **16GB of DDR4 RAM** ensures multitasking prowess, allowing gamers to run resource-intensive applications alongside their games without sacrificing performance.
The laptop s **ROG Strix aesthetic** is evident in its aggressive, angular design, featuring a **black and silver color scheme** with subtle RGB accents that add a touch of flair. The **chill vent design** on the underside not only enhances airflow but also contributes to a sleek, futuristic look. Built-in **ROG Cooling Technology**, including a **large heatsink and dual-fan system**, helps maintain optimal temperatures even during prolonged gaming sessions, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring consistent performance. The **backlit keyboard** with **ROG-specific keycaps** provides tactile feedback and customizable RGB lighting, catering to both aesthetics and functionality. Storage options typically include a **fast NVMe SSD** for quick boot times and load speeds, paired with additional storage capacity via an optional HDD or extra SSD slot, depending on the configuration.
Connectivity on the GL704GW is robust, featuring **Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)** for high-speed wireless performance, **Bluetooth 4.2** for peripheral connectivity, and a variety of **USB ports**, including **USB 3.1 Type-C** for future-proofing. The inclusion of **HDMI and DisplayPort** outputs allows for easy connection to external monitors, while **DVI and USB 3.0 ports** provide additional flexibility for peripherals. The **17.3-inch screen size** strikes a balance between portability and screen real estate, making it suitable for both on-the-go gaming and immersive desktop-like experiences. With its **Windows 10 operating system** pre-installed, the GL704GW is ready out of the box for gaming, content creation, or productivity tasks, offering a premium gaming laptop experience that blends power, design, and performance seamlessly.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a ASUS ROG Strix GL704GW-PS74 (17.3" FHD 144Hz LCD)**
#### **Pros:**1. **Strong Performance for Gaming and Productivity**
The GL704GW typically comes with high-end components, such as Intel Core i7/i9 processors, NVIDIA GTX 1660 Ti or RTX 2060 GPUs, and up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM. This makes it capable of handling modern games at high settings, 1080p/1440p, and demanding productivity tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and software development.
2. **High-Refresh-Rate Display (144Hz)**
The 17.3" FHD (1920x1080) IPS LCD panel with 144Hz refresh rate provides smooth visuals, reducing motion blur and improving responsiveness in fast-paced games. This is a significant upgrade over standard 60Hz displays, enhancing the gaming experience.
3. **Good Cooling System**
ASUS ROG laptops are known for their robust cooling solutions, including multiple fans and vapor chamber technology. The GL704GW features a dual-fan setup with heat pipes to manage thermal throttling during intense workloads, which is crucial for sustained high-performance gaming.
4. **RGB Backlit Keyboard**
The keyboard is backlit with customizable RGB lighting, which adds aesthetic appeal and allows users to adjust brightness and colors via software. This is a common feature in gaming laptops and enhances the overall user experience.
5. **Portability Compared to Gaming Desktops**
While not as lightweight as ultrabooks, the GL704GW is more portable than a gaming desktop. Its 17.3" screen and relatively slim design (for a gaming laptop) make it easier to carry than a bulky desktop setup.
6. **Upgradability (To Some Extent)**
Unlike ultrabooks, many gaming laptops allow for RAM and storage upgrades. The GL704GW may support additional RAM (though soldered RAM is common in newer models) and often includes an SSD that can be expanded via an M.2 slot.
7. **ASUS Aura Software for Customization**
The laptop comes with ASUS Aura software, which allows users to customize RGB lighting, fan curves, and other performance-related settings. This adds a layer of personalization and control over the hardware.
8. **Decent Audio (For a Gaming Laptop)**
While not studio-grade, the GL704GW typically includes stereo speakers with Dolby Audio support, providing better sound quality than many budget laptops. Some models may also feature a dedicated microphone.
9. **Durable Build Quality**
ASUS ROG laptops are built with reinforced materials, such as metal chassis sections and sturdy hinges, which contribute to longevity compared to flimsier ultrabooks.
10. **Strong Brand Reputation**
ASUS ROG is a well-known brand in the gaming laptop market, with a reputation for reliability, customer support, and community-driven updates. This can be reassuring for buyers who prioritize brand trust.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Heavy and Bulky**
The GL704GW is a large gaming laptop, weighing around 5.5 6.5 lbs (2.5 3 kg). This makes it less ideal for frequent travelers or users who prioritize portability. The 17.3" screen also contributes to a less compact form factor.
2. **Limited Battery Life**
Gaming laptops, especially those with high-end GPUs, consume significant power. The GL704GW typically offers 2 4 hours of battery life under light use (web browsing, office work) and barely lasts an hour during gaming or heavy workloads. This requires frequent charging or the use of an external power source.
3. **Overheating and Noise Under Load**
Despite its cooling system, the GL704GW can still overheat under prolonged heavy loads (e.g., gaming at max settings for extended periods). This may lead to thermal throttling, where performance drops to prevent damage. Additionally, the fans can become loud during intense use, which may be disruptive in quiet environments.
4. **Potential for Outdated Components Over Time**
Gaming laptops often use mid-range GPUs (e.g., GTX 1660 Ti) that may not handle newer AAA games at high settings for long. Within a few years, the laptop could struggle with newer titles, requiring an upgrade or replacement sooner than a desktop.
5. **Limited Upgradability in Newer Models**
Many newer gaming laptops (including some GL704GW variants) have soldered RAM and storage, making upgrades impossible. Always check the specific model s specifications to confirm upgradability before purchasing.
6. **High Price Relative to Performance**
The GL704GW is priced competitively for a gaming laptop, but the cost may not justify the performance for users who don t need high-end specs. For example, a desktop PC with similar components could offer better performance for less money, especially if you re not constrained by portability.
7. **Screen Quality Limitations**
While the 144Hz refresh rate is excellent, the FHD (1080p) resolution may not be ideal for users who prefer higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K. The IPS panel provides good color accuracy, but it s not as vibrant as an OLED or higher-end TN panel in some cases.
8. **Potential for Driver and Software Issues**
NVIDIA drivers can sometimes cause crashes, compatibility issues, or performance drops. Additionally, gaming laptops often come with bloatware (pre-installed software you may not need), which can slow down the system over time.
9. **Limited Connectivity Options**
The GL704GW may lack modern ports like Thunderbolt 4 or USB-C with video output. Instead, it often includes HDMI, USB 3.0/2.0, and sometimes an Ethernet port. This can be inconvenient if you rely on Thunderbolt for peripherals or docking stations.
10. **Resale Value Depreciation**
Gaming laptops, especially those with dedicated GPUs, depreciate quickly. If you plan to upgrade in a few years, the resale value of the GL704GW may not recover a significant portion of its original cost.
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### **Conclusion:**The ASUS ROG Strix GL704GW-PS74 is a solid choice for users who prioritize gaming performance, a high-refresh-rate display, and a balance of portability and power. It excels in scenarios where you need a laptop that can handle modern games at high settings, run productivity software efficiently, and provide a smooth visual experience. However, its heavy weight, limited battery life, potential for overheating, and high cost relative to alternatives mean it may not be ideal for everyone.
This laptop is best suited for:- Gamers who need a portable machine for competitive or casual gaming.
- Content creators or professionals who require a laptop for gaming and light-to-moderate productivity work.
- Users who value customization (RGB lighting, fan control) and a robust build.
It is less ideal for:- Users who prioritize ultra-portability or long battery life.
- Those who work primarily in office settings where noise and heat may be concerns.
- Buyers who prefer higher resolutions (1440p/4K) or plan to use the laptop for professional-grade video editing/3D work (where a desktop might be better).
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### **Recommendation:**If you are looking for a gaming laptop that balances performance, refresh rate, and build quality, the **ASUS ROG Strix GL704GW-PS74 is a strong contender**, especially if you find a model with a powerful GPU (e.g., RTX 2060 or better) and sufficient RAM (16GB minimum, 32GB ideal). Ensure that the specific model you re considering supports the components you need (e.g., upgradable RAM/storage) and fits your budget.
However, if you can stretch your budget, consider newer models with better GPUs (e.g., RTX 3060 or RTX 40 series) or alternatives like the **Lenovo Legion Y7000** or **MSI GE75 Raider**, which may offer better performance or features. Alternatively, if you don t need portability, a **gaming desktop** could provide better value for money and longevity.
Ultimately, the GL704GW is a reliable gaming laptop that delivers where it matters most performance and visual smoothness but weigh the trade-offs carefully against your specific needs.
Make the best deals with us. Screen has been gently removed from a working Asus ROG Strix GL704GW-PS74 laptop and is in GOOD cosmetic condition, screen face only faint signs of use invisible with on, back cover shows minor scratches marks. Actual Item Pictured.