AORUS 17 review
The AORUS AORUS 17 ranks as the #291 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 75. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #15-ranked performance among 39 laptops. Consider the Alienware x14 R2 or Acer Aspire Vero 16, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The AORUS 17 is a solid gaming laptop that can run games without issue, but its worth is questionable. The RTX 3080 Ti configuration barely outperforms the RTX 3070 Ti at native 1080p resolution, making the extra cost unjustifiable for most gamers. Furthermore, the lack of an MUX switch and overdrive mode makes it less appealing to competitive gamers. Additionally, the limited maximum CPU power limit is puzzling given the laptop's size and cooling capabilities. Poor battery life, unimpressive speakers, and subpar software further detract from its value proposition. Unless you're willing to overlook these drawbacks or find an extremely competitive price, it's difficult to recommend the AORUS 17 over other gaming laptops on the market.
Build
The Aorus 17's build is a mixed bag. The large open vent underneath can significantly improve thermals without loud fan noise, but poor battery life and subpar speakers are drawbacks. The keyboard and touchpad are highlights, with the latter being particularly enjoyable to use. However, the camera is underwhelming, and the lack of lit secondary functions on the keyboard is a minor annoyance. Despite its quirks, the Aorus 17's build is serviceable, but it doesn't stand out from the competition in this price range. You may find AORUS 7 a better fit, thanks to its superior build.
Display
The AORUS 17's display is a letdown at 1080p resolution. While the high refresh rate is appealing for eSports enthusiasts, the lack of an overdrive mode and MUX switch hinder performance in competitive titles. The screen response time is slower compared to many other laptops, making it less ideal for fast-paced games. Additionally, the limited display options are puzzling, with no 1440p option available despite a high-refresh-rate 1080p screen. This oversight makes the AORUS 17's display feel somewhat dated and uninspired. If you’re after a better display, AORUS 7 could be the ideal option.
Performance
The AORUS 17's performance is a mixed bag. In games, the RTX 3070 Ti and 3080 Ti configurations barely differ, making the latter seem overpriced. The laptop can run games smoothly, but its lack of an MUX switch and limited maximum CPU power limit hold it back. Content creator workloads show some improvement with the 3080 Ti, but this is not enough to justify the premium. Overall, the AORUS 17's performance is competent, but not exceptional. It falls behind other laptops in its class, making it a hard sell unless you're looking for a specific feature set or price point. AORUS 15X might be a smarter choice, offering an upgraded performance.
Battery and Charging
The AORUS 17's battery life is disappointing compared to other laptops in its class. It failed to last a full workday, requiring multiple charges throughout the day. The charging time was also lengthy, taking over an hour to reach 80% capacity. This lackluster performance makes it difficult to recommend for those who need a laptop that can keep up with their busy schedules. A better battery life would be a welcome improvement in future models.
Connectivity
The AORUS 17's connectivity options are comprehensive, with USB ports, HDMI, and an SD card slot. However, the lack of a MUX switch is notable, especially for gamers. The port selection is generous, but the RTX 3070 Ti and 3080 Ti configurations' minimal performance difference in games seems like a misstep. You might want to check out AORUS 15X, featuring an upgraded connectivity for a superior experience.
Features
The AORUS 17 offers a 17-inch display with limited resolution options, only 1080p native, which may not be ideal for gaming or productivity. It features an RTX 3070 Ti and 3080 Ti configurations, but they barely perform differently in games. The laptop also has a poor battery life and limited port selection, although the touchpad and keyboard are redeeming qualities. Take a look at AORUS 7 - its improved features sets a new standard.
Support and Maintenance
The Aorus 17's software is underwhelming, with a poor control panel that doesn't run with CPU power limit enabled. The camera works but shows infrared view by default. Keyboard shortcuts for brightness and volume work, but screen brightness adjustment and fan speed shortcuts don't. Limited customization options in the BIOS also detract from an otherwise decent laptop experience.
Pros
1. The keyboard and touchpad are great, with the typing experience being comfortable.
2. The port selection is good, with plenty of options for connectivity.
3. A cooling pad can significantly improve thermals without resorting to loud fan noise.
4. The camera is in a better spot now, making it more useful.
5. It's possible to play games at high refresh rates (up to 360Hz) on the 1080p screen.
6. A cooling pad can be used to improve thermals and reduce fan noise.
7. Linux support was tested with Ubuntu 22.04, with most hardware working out of the box.
Cons
1. The RTX 3070 Ti and 3080 Ti configurations barely performed differently in games.
2. There's no MUX switch for improved performance in eSports titles.
3. No overdrive mode on the screen results in a slower response time compared to other laptops.
4. Poor battery life compared to other laptops makes it less portable.
5. Speakers are not good, with most people preferring external audio.
6. The keyboard secondary functions don't get lit up, making them harder to use in the dark.
7. A maximum CPU power limit has been artificially set, limiting potential performance.
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