ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 (2021): Difference between revisions
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| Manufacturer | ASUS |
|---|---|
| Product family | ROG Zephyrus |
| Release date | 2021 |
| Introductory price | USD 1849 and up |
| Discontinued | No |
| Operating system | Windows 10 Home (Upgradeable to Windows 11 Pro) |
| CPU | Intel Core i7-11800H Intel Core i9-11900H |
| Memory | 16 GB or 32 GB DDR4-3200 (supports up to 40 GB) |
| Memory slots | 1 user accessible (supports up to 32 GB) |
| Storage | 512 GB or 1 TB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD |
| Storage slots | 2 user accessible |
| Removable storage | 1 x microSD card reader |
| Display | Screen size: 16 inch Panel type: IPS Coating: Matte (anti-glare) Resolution: 2560 x 1600 PPI: 189 Aspect ratio: 16:10 Refresh rate: 144 Hz or 165 Hz Brightness: 437.64 Nits sRGB: 100 % Adobe RGB: 75.35 % DCI-P3: 100 % VRR: Adaptive-Sync Screen-to-body ratio: 94 % |
| Graphics | Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Laptop 4 GB GDDR6 75 W w/ Dynamic Boost Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 Laptop 6 GB GDDR6 95 W w/ Dynamic Boost Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Laptop 8 GB GDDR6 100 W w/ Dynamic Boost |
| Sound | 2 x 2 W tweeter, 4 x 2 W woofer w/ Smart Amp Technology |
| Camera | 720p HD |
| Touchpad | Glass, 5.1 inches (13 cm) x 3.4 inches (8.6 cm) |
| Connectivity | Intel AX200 WiFi 6 Bluetooth 5.1 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-A) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-C, DP 1.4, PD) 1 x Thunderbolt 4 (DP 1.4, PD) 1 x HDMI 2.0b 1 x RJ45 LAN port 1 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack 1 x microSD card reader |
| Dimensions | W: 14 inches (36 cm) D: 9.6 inches (24 cm) H: 0.78 inches (2.0 cm) |
| Mass | 4.19 pounds (1.90 kg) |
| Power brick | 240W slim AC adapter |
| Battery | 4 cell Li-ion 90 Wh |
| Keyboard | 1-zone RGB backlit |
| Chassis | Color: Matte black Materials: Plastic and aluminum alloy Cooling: 2 high-capacity fans, multiple heatpipes |
| Number pad | No |
| Fingerprint reader | Yes (integrated into power button) |
| Facial recognition | No |
| Website | ASUS |
All statements attributed to reviews are the reviewer's own opinion. Note that these claims were accurate at the time of publication and may be dated when you are reading this article. Read more.
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 (2021) is a high-end gaming laptop designed for both gaming and productivity. It features Intel Tiger Lake processors and Nvidia GeForce RTX 30 series GPUs, housed in a compact and sleek chassis. The Zephyrus M16 is known for its 16:10 WQXGA display, excellent speakers, and high performance, making it a competitive option in the gaming laptop market.[1]
Primary Hardware
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Processor
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 (2021) can be configured with the following processors[1]:
- Intel Core i7-11800H with 8 cores and 16 threads, 24 MB cache, and a max frequency of 4.6 GHz.
- Intel Core i9-11900H with 8 cores and 16 threads, 24 MB cache, and a max frequency of 4.9 GHz.
The Intel Core i9-11900H processor provides exceptional performance for productivity tasks, although it struggles in gaming scenarios compared to Ryzen competitors. In synthetic benchmarks, the i9-11900H performs well, scoring 1,646 points on single-core tests and 8,495 points on multi-core tests in Geekbench 5.[2] The i9-11900H stabilizes at 70+W of sustained power on the Turbo setting, translating to frequencies of 3.8+ GHz and temperatures in the low 80s °C.[3]
In Cinebench R15 stress tests, the i9-11900H's performance dropped by 11% over time, but it often outperformed competitors with the same CPU.[4]
Benchmarks:
- Cinebench R15: ~2000 points[3]
- Cinebench R20: ~5333 cb[3]
- Cinebench R23: ~13865 cb[3]
- Geekbench 5: Single-Core - 1854 points, Multi-Core - 14438 points[4]
Graphics
The Zephyrus M16 (2021) can be configured with the following discrete GPUs[1]:
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Laptop GPU with 4 GB GDDR6 memory, 1585 MHz boost clock, and 75 W TGP with Dynamic Boost.
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 Laptop GPU with 6 GB GDDR6 memory, 1525 MHz boost clock, and 95 W TGP with Dynamic Boost.
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Laptop GPU with 8 GB GDDR6 memory, 100 W TGP with Dynamic Boost.
The RTX 3060 provides decent performance but is inconsistent compared to competitors with higher-end GPUs. In gaming benchmarks, the RTX 3060 achieved 69 fps in _Shadow of the Tomb Raider_, 58 fps in _Red Dead Redemption 2_, 86 fps in _Grand Theft Auto V_, 84 fps in _Far Cry: New Dawn_, and 53.51 fps in the _Metro: Exodus_ RTX benchmark.[2] The RTX 3070 can handle the latest games at high settings, although it sometimes underperforms compared to competitors.[4]
Benchmarks:
- 3DMark Fire Strike: 15460 points[4]
- 3DMark Time Spy: 6448 points[4]
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: 69 fps[2]
- Red Dead Redemption 2: 58 fps[2]
- Grand Theft Auto V: 86 fps[2]
- Far Cry: New Dawn: 84 fps[2]
- Metro: Exodus RTX: 53.51 fps[2]
Memory
The Zephyrus M16 supports up to 40 GB of DDR4-3200 memory, with 8 GB soldered on board and an additional 8 GB or 32 GB SO-DIMM slot.[1]
The laptop comes with 16 GB or 32 GB of DDR4-3200 memory, which provides high performance in multitasking and gaming scenarios. The RAM configuration supports smooth operation of demanding applications and games.[4]
Benchmarks:
- Not specified.
Storage
The Zephyrus M16 can be configured with either a 512 GB or 1 TB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 SSD.[1]
The SSD performance is slower than competitors in file transfer speed benchmarks, which may affect productivity tasks. In the file transfer speed benchmark, the SSD transferred files at 567.06 MBps.[2] The SSD achieves superb read and write rates, placing it at the top of the comparison chart.[4]
Benchmarks:
- CrystalDiskMark 5.2 / 6: Read Seq - 4592 MB/s, Write Seq - 4515 MB/s[4]
- AS SSD: Seq Read - 5615 MB/s, Seq Write - 4297 MB/s[4]
- Write 4K: 239.6 MB/s[4]
- Read 4K: 89.3 MB/s[4]
Co-processors
The Zephyrus M16 includes Intel UHD Graphics Xe 750 as integrated graphics, suitable for basic tasks but not for gaming.[4]
Input Devices
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Keyboard
The Zephyrus M16 features a tenkeyless keyboard with 1-zone RGB lighting. The keyboard layout is standard and minimalistic, without a NumPad or an extra column of Function keys. The typing experience is quiet and fast, with improved feedback compared to previous models. The keys are rather dim, and the feedback is firmer, with quieter actuations.[3]
The keyboard provides good feedback and has a clear actuation point. It features dedicated keys for volume control, turning off and on the microphone, and the Armoury Crate utility. The backlight offers three luminance levels, making it usable in low-light conditions.[4]
Touchpad
The Zephyrus M16 comes with a large glass clickpad measuring 5.1 inches (13 cm) x 3.4 inches (8.6 cm).[1]
The clickpad is smooth and excellent for tracking, swipes, and gestures. It does not rattle with taps, and the physical clicks are quiet and smooth.[3]
Webcam
The Zephyrus M16 features a 720p HD webcam.[1]
The webcam's color is accurate with enough light but produces poor quality images in dim light and overly bright images in strong light. The resolution is low, making it less suitable for high-quality video conferencing.[2][4]
Microphone
The Zephyrus M16 includes a built-in array microphone.[1]
The microphone quality is adequate for video calls and voice commands.[4]
Output Devices
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Display
The Zephyrus M16 features a 16-inch, 16:10 WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS-level display with a refresh rate of 144 Hz or 165 Hz, 3ms response time, and Adaptive-Sync.[1]
The display is bright, with a max brightness of 437.64 nits, and color-accurate, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 spectrum. The panel is excellent for daily use, video streaming, gaming, and creative work.[3] The display supports high refresh rates, making it suitable for gaming.[2]
Benchmarks:
Audio
The Zephyrus M16 comes with six speakers: two 2W tweeters and four 2W woofers with Smart Amp Technology.[1]
The speakers provide a high-fidelity listening experience, with good audio quality for casual listening. The audio system includes 6 speakers, with two woofers on the bottom and four tweeters firing through the grills surrounding the keyboard. The quality and volumes are excellent, with even some decent bass.[3][4]
Connectivity
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WiFi
The Zephyrus M16 is equipped with an Intel AX200 WiFi 6 module and Bluetooth 5.1.[1]
The WiFi module supports modern connectivity standards, providing reliable and fast connectivity.[4]
Bluetooth
The Zephyrus M16 comes with a Bluetooth 5.1 module.[1]
SD Card Reader
The Zephyrus M16 includes a microSD card reader.[1]
The card reader can take only microSD cards and managed to achieve good read and write rates.[4]
Benchmarks:
USB
The Zephyrus M16 is equipped with the following USB ports[1]:
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4 and Power Delivery
- 1 x Thunderbolt 4 with DisplayPort 1.4 and Power Delivery
The inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 allows for high-speed data transfer and connectivity options.[3]
Display Outputs
The Zephyrus M16 comes with the following display outputs[1]:
- 1 x HDMI 2.0b
- 1 x Thunderbolt 4 with DisplayPort 1.4
The HDMI 2.0 port allows for external display connections, enhancing productivity and gaming experiences.[3]
Case
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The Zephyrus M16 features a compact chassis with a 94% screen-to-body ratio. The laptop is smaller and much thinner than similarly specced competitors, making it highly portable. The design features a gamer aesthetic with a diagonal pattern on the lid and RGB lighting.[2]
The M16 is built on the same chassis as the G15, with some small differences in design and IO. The overall aesthetics are similar, but the main chassis still creaks when picked up, and the lid is rather fragile and flexible. The laptop smudges easily due to the rubberized coating.[3]
Maintenance
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The bottom panel of the Zephyrus M16 can be removed by unscrewing multiple Philips-head screws. The screws are of different sizes, and three of them in the middle are hidden behind rubber caps.[3]
Upgradeable components:[3]
- Two M.2 PCIe SSD slots.
- One DDR4-3200 SO-DIMM slot (supports up to 32 GB).
- Wi-Fi module.
Cooling System
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The Zephyrus M16 is equipped with two high-capacity fans and multiple heatpipes. The cooling module does an excellent job at taming the components in both daily use and demanding loads and games. However, the thermal module blows hot air straight into the screen, which is a concern for long-term durability.[3]
Heat
The laptop can get toasty under even light load, with the underside reaching 125 degrees Fahrenheit during gaming. The touchpad registered a cooler 84.5 degrees Fahrenheit during gaming sessions.[5]
Benchmarks:
Energy Management
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Power Consumption
The Zephyrus M16 ships with a 240 W AC adapter and supports USB-C charging up to 100 W.[1]
The laptop draws about 20 W when idle and up to 197 W under load, which is comparable to other devices in its class.[4]
Battery Life
The Zephyrus M16 is equipped with a 90 Whr Li-ion battery. In non-gaming tests, it lasted 6 hours and 22 minutes, which is competitive for a gaming laptop.[2] The battery life is not amazing and is a major step back from the AMD-based Zephyrus G15. The laptop lasts around 3-5 hours of daily use and 6-7 hours of video on a charge.[3]
Benchmarks:
- WiFi Browsing (150 nits): 6 hours and 22 minutes[2]
- Daily use: 3-5 hours[3]
- Video playback: 6-7 hours[3]
Biometrics
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The Zephyrus M16 features a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button, providing a convenient and secure way to log in.[1]
Software
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All SKUs ship with Windows 10 Home, but the laptop can be upgraded to Windows 11 Pro, either manually or when buying directly from ASUS.
Preinstalled Software
Armoury Crate
The ASUS Armoury Crate program acts as the primary control center in the Zephyrus M16. It allows users to customize settings, monitor system performance, and control RGB lighting.[4]
Other Preinstalled Software
The Zephyrus M16 also comes with Intel Driver and Support Assistant, Dolby Access for audio and video settings, and a 1-month trial for new Microsoft 365 customers.[2]
Linux Support
There is no specific information available regarding Linux support for the Zephyrus M16.
Accessories & Warranty
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The Zephyrus M16 comes with a 240 W AC adapter and paperwork.[1]
There is a one-year limited manufacturer warranty if purchased in the US.[4]
Reviews Summary
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Overall Sentiment
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 (2021) is praised for its compact design, high performance, and excellent display. It is considered a strong contender in the gaming laptop market, especially for those who prioritize a high-quality screen and portability. However, it has some drawbacks, including inconsistent gaming performance compared to Ryzen competitors, loud fan noise, and concerns about long-term durability due to the thermal design.[2][3][4]
Problems Summary[2][3][4]
- Inconsistent gaming performance compared to Ryzen competitors.
- Loud fan noise, especially on Turbo and Performance profiles.
- Thermal module blows hot air straight into the screen, raising concerns about long-term durability.
- Webcam quality is subpar for a laptop in this price range.
- Limited upgradeability due to partially soldered RAM.
- The chassis creaks when picked up, and the lid is fragile and flexible.
- The laptop smudges easily due to the rubberized coating.
Links
i9-11900H, RTX 3060, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: Tom's Hardware
i9-11900H, RTX 3070, 32 GB RAM, 2 TB SSD: NotebookCheck
i9-11900H, RTX 3070, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: UltrabookReview
Community Reception
Overall Sentiment
Problems Summary
References
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.17 "ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 (2021) Specifications". ASUS.
- ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 2.14 2.15 "ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 Review". Tom's Hardware.
- ↑ 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 3.17 3.18 3.19 3.20 3.21 "ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 Review". UltrabookReview.
- ↑ 4.00 4.01 4.02 4.03 4.04 4.05 4.06 4.07 4.08 4.09 4.10 4.11 4.12 4.13 4.14 4.15 4.16 4.17 4.18 4.19 4.20 4.21 4.22 4.23 4.24 4.25 "ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 Review". NotebookCheck.
- ↑ Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; no text was provided for refs namedtomshardware=== Noise === The fans in the Zephyrus M16 run loud, especially on the Turbo and Performance profiles. On Turbo, the fans can reach noise levels of 50+ dB, while on Performance, they hover around 47-48 dB. The Silent profile is much quieter but comes with a significant loss in performance.<ref name=