Test: Acer's new AI-powered gaming laptops could significantly enhance your performance.
My name is Neo.
Acer has introduced a new model in its "Neo" line of laptops with the Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 AI. This computer is a version of the recently announced Helios 18 AI but features some design adjustments and a more accessible entry price. During the time I spent with it, I can say that it is a solid system for replacing a desktop, offering good performance relative to its price, although it is important to note that it is not very portable.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Among its positive points are its powerful internal specifications, Mini-LED and OLED display options, an improved chassis, and a reasonable price. On the downside, its considerable size and weight make it impractical for taking out of the house, and the CPU and GPU options are somewhat limited.
Presentation Details
The new Helios Neo 18 AI was unveiled at the Intel Extreme Masters esports tournament in Katowice, Poland, alongside the Helios Neo 16 AI. During my experience with the 18-inch version, I was impressed. This model features an 18-inch Mini-LED display with a QHD+ resolution, which looks spectacular. Its bulky design also includes a full RGB keyboard and numerous ports, features that are highly appreciated in a laptop. Weighing in at 3.3 kg, it falls into the category of desktop replacement laptops, although it is not among the heaviest on the market.
The Helios Neo 16 AI, on the other hand, has a slimmer design and offers an OLED option for its 16-inch display, weighing 2.7 kg, making it a bit more portable, although still quite robust. A 16S version was also presented, which is slightly thinner.
Pricing and Availability
The Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 AI will have a starting price of $2,199.99 in the United States, with a launch scheduled for May, while the 16-inch model will start at $1,899.99 and is expected to be available in April. It is important to note that these prices correspond to basic configurations that include an RTX 5070 GPU and a Core Ultra 7 255HX CPU, as well as a standard 1200p LED display. Both models allow for configurations of up to 64GB of RAM and 2TB of SSD storage.
Design and Connectivity
In terms of design, build quality has markedly improved compared to the first generation of Neo laptops. The keyboard and trackpad are sturdier, which is a significant advancement. The selection of ports is excellent, allowing for everything needed for gaming and creative work to be connected. The laptop includes USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet, a 3.5 mm jack, and a microSD card slot, with some ports located on the back of the chassis for added convenience.
Performance and Features
Although I couldn't conduct extensive performance tests, the technical specifications indicate that the Helios Neo 18 AI and Neo 16 AI are very powerful, with options for an RTX 5070 or RTX 5070 Ti GPU, along with Intel Core Ultra 7 or Ultra 9 HX CPUs. The combination of up to 64GB of RAM and up to 2TB of SSD storage is ideal for high-performance tasks. However, they lack compatibility with Wi-Fi 7, instead using Wi-Fi 6E, which could be seen as a cost-cutting measure.
Initial Conclusion
Overall, the Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 AI is an attractive model that seems to capture the interest of those looking for a powerful machine without the price tag of a premium laptop. While it would be ideal to see thinner designs in gaming laptops, the power and practical design of this model compensate for its thickness. I am eager to learn more about this product, as a full review is planned when Acer begins shipping review units.
