The ASUS ROG Mothership (GZ700) stands as a revolutionary entry in the realm of gaming laptops, redefining the boundaries between desktop and portable gaming systems. Introduced at CES 2019, this machine combines cutting-edge hardware with an innovative design to deliver unparalleled performance and versatility.ASUS Global
Design and Form Factor
Breaking away from traditional laptop designs, the ROG Mothership adopts a unique upright stance. This orientation enhances airflow, allowing the advanced cooling system to operate more efficiently. The detachable keyboard offers flexibility, enabling users to position it for optimal comfort or replace it entirely without sacrificing desk space. This design not only improves thermal performance but also provides a more ergonomic gaming experience. ASUS Global
Display and Visual Experience
Equipped with a 17.3-inch Full HD IPS-level display, the ROG Mothership delivers stunning visuals with a 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time. NVIDIA G-SYNC™ technology ensures smooth gameplay by eliminating screen tearing and minimizing input lag. The display’s anti-glare coating and wide viewing angles make it suitable for various lighting conditions, enhancing the overall gaming and viewing experience.
Performance and Hardware
At the heart of the ROG Mothership lies the Intel® Core™ i9-9980HK processor, capable of reaching speeds up to 5.0GHz. Paired with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 GPU, this machine handles demanding games and applications with ease. The system boasts 64GB of DDR4 RAM and a RAID 0 array of three NVMe SSDs, providing lightning-fast data access and ample storage capacity.
Audio and Sound Quality
The ROG Mothership features four front-facing 4W speakers powered by smart-amplifier technology. This setup delivers rich, immersive sound with enhanced bass and dynamic range. An ESS Sabre™ DAC and headphone amp ensure high-resolution audio output, while Sonic Studio III software offers surround-sound virtualization for headphones and VR headsets. ASUS Global
Connectivity and Ports
This gaming powerhouse offers a comprehensive selection of ports:Tech Critter
- 3x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 2
- 2x USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2 (one with Thunderbolt 3 support
- 1x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1
- 1x HDMI 2.0
- 1x SD card reader
- 1x RJ-45 LAN jack
- 1x headphone out
- 1x microphone in
The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 ensures fast and reliable wireless connectivity.
Cooling and Thermal Management
The upright design of the ROG Mothership facilitates superior cooling by allowing more air intake from the back. This configuration, combined with a robust cooling system featuring multiple heat pipes and fans, ensures that the CPU and GPU maintain optimal temperatures even under heavy loads. ASUS Global
Keyboard and Input Devices
The detachable keyboard connects via low-latency 2.4GHz wireless or USB-C, offering flexibility in positioning. Each key features 2.5mm of travel and is enhanced by Overstroke technology for faster response. Per-key RGB backlighting allows for extensive customization, and the touchpad doubles as a numeric keypad, adding to the device’s versatility. ASUS Global
Battery Life and Portability
Powered by a 90Wh battery, the ROG Mothership provides reasonable battery life for a device of its caliber. However, due to its size and weight (approximately 4.8 kg), it is best suited for stationary use or transport between setups rather than on-the-go gaming. Tech Critter
Price and Availability in the USA
As of the latest information, the ASUS ROG Mothership GZ700GX-XB98K is priced at approximately $6,676.83 to $6,979.00 in the United States. Availability may vary, and it’s advisable to check with authorized retailers for current stock and pricing.
Conclusion
The ASUS ROG Mothership (GZ700) is a testament to innovation in gaming hardware, offering desktop-level performance in a uniquely designed portable form factor. Its combination of powerful components, advanced cooling, and versatile design makes it an ideal choice for gamers seeking top-tier performance without compromising on flexibility.
