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{{Infobox computing device
| name = Predator Helios 18 (2024)
| title =
| aka =
| logo =
| image =
| image_size = 260px
| caption =
| developer =
| manufacturer = [[Acer]]
| family = [[Predator Helios]]
| type =
| generation =
| release date = {{Start date and age|2024|03|df=yes|br=y}}
| lifespan =
| price =  [[United States dollar|USD]] 2499 to 2999
| discontinued =
| units sold =
| units shipped =
| media =
| os = [[Windows 11 Home]]
| power =
| soc =
| cpu = Intel i9-14900HX
| memory = 32 GB
| memory slots = 2 user accessible
| storage = 1024 GB
| storage slots = 2 user accessible
| memory card =
| camera = '''Front:''' 1080p <br/>
| display = '''[[Screen Size|Screen size]]''': 18 inch <br/>'''[[Panel Type|Panel type]]''': [[IPS]] <br/>'''[[Resolution]]''': 2560 x 1600 <br/>'''[[Pixel density|PPI]]''': 167.72 <br/>'''[[Aspect Ratio|Aspect ratio]]''': 16:10 <br/>'''[[Refresh Rate|Refresh rate]]''': 240 or 250 Hz <br/>'''[[Brightness|Brightness]]''': 499 Nits <br/>'''[[Color Gamut|sRGB coverage]]''': 100 % <br/>'''[[Color Gamut|Adobe RGB coverage]]''': 80 % <br/>'''[[Color Gamut|P3 coverage]]''': 81.6 %
| graphics = [[Nvidia RTX 4080]] 12 GB [[Video Memory|VRAM]] [[Total GPU Power|175 W]] <br/><br/>[[Nvidia RTX 4090]] 16 GB [[Video Memory|VRAM]] [[Total GPU Power|175 W]]
| sound =
| input =
| controllers =
| touchpad =
| connectivity = '''[[WiFi|WiFi version]]''': 7 <br/>'''[[Bluetooth|Bluetooth version]]''': 5.4 <br/>'''[[USB Type-A|USB type-A]]''': 3 <br/>'''[[USB-C]]''': 2 <br/>'''[[Thunderbolt 3]]''': 0 <br/>'''[[Thunderbolt 4]]''': 2 <br/>'''[[HDMI]]''': 1 <br/>'''[[DisplayPort]]''': 0 <br/>'''[[USB4]]''': Yes <br/>'''[[Ethernet]]''': Yes <br/>'''[[USB-C]] charging''': Yes
| currentfw =
| platform =
| service =
| dimensions = '''W''': {{convert|15.9|in|mm}} <br/>'''D''': {{convert|12.3|in|mm}} <br/>'''H''': {{convert|1.14|in|mm}}
| weight = {{convert|7.17|lbs|g}}
| weight of power brick =
| number pad = Yes
| backlit keyboard = Yes
| keyboard lighting color = RGB
| fingerprint reader = No
| facial recognition = No
| special features = None
| topgame =
| compatibility =
| predecessor =
| successor =
| related =
| website = [https://www.acer.com/us-en/predator/laptops/helios/helios-18/pdp/NH.QP5AA.001,%20https://www.acer.com/us-en/predator/laptops/helios/helios-18/pdp/NH.QP4AA.001 Acer]
}}The Acer Predator Helios 18 (2024) is a laptop.


== Reviews ==
      {{Infobox computing device
[https://www.laptopmag.com/reviews/acer-predator-helios-18#section-acer-predator-helios-18-price-and-configuration LaptopMag], [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Acer-Predator-Helios-18-2024-laptop-review-New-hardware-for-the-18-inch-gamer.808564.0.html NotebookCheck]
  | name = Acer Predator Helios 18 (2024)
  | title =
  | aka =
  | logo =
  | image =
  | image_size =
  | caption =
  | developer =
  | manufacturer = [[Acer]]
  | family = [[Predator]]
  | type =
  | generation =
  | release date = {{Start date and age|2024|01|df=yes|br=y}}
  | lifespan =  
  | price =
  | discontinued = No
  | units sold =
  | units shipped =
  | media =
  | os = [[Windows 11 Home]]
  | power =
  | soc =
  | cpu = [[Intel Core i9-14900HX]]
  | memory = 32 GB DDR5-5600 MHz SDRAM
  | memory slots = 2 user accessible
  | storage = 1 TB or 2 TB PCIe NVMe SSD
  | storage slots = 2 user accessible
  | memory card = microSD
  | camera = 1080p webcam
  | display = '''[[Screen Size|Screen size]]''': 18 inch <br/>'''[[Panel Type|Panel type]]''': [[IPS]] with Mini-LED technology <br/>'''[[Coating]]''': Matte (ComfyView)<br>'''[[Resolution]]''': 2560 x 1600 <br/>'''[[Aspect Ratio|Aspect ratio]]''': 16:10 <br/>'''[[Refresh Rate|Refresh rate]]''': 240 or 250 Hz <br/>'''[[Brightness|Brightness]]''': up to 751 Nits <br/>'''[[Color Gamut|DCI-P3]]''': 100 %<br>'''[[Variable Refresh Rate|VRR]]''': [[Nvidia G-Sync|G-Sync]]
  | graphics = [[Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Laptop]] 12 GB [[Video Memory|GDDR6]] [[Total GPU Power|175 W]]<br/>[[Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop]] 16 GB [[Video Memory|GDDR6]] [[Total GPU Power|175 W]]
  | sound = 2 x stereo speakers
  | input =
  | controllers =
  | touchpad = Microsoft Precision Touchpad, {{convert|5.9|in|cm}} x {{convert|3.5|in|cm}}
  | connectivity = [[WiFi]] 7 (Killer 1750x)<br>[[Bluetooth]]<br>1 x [[USB]] 3.2 Gen 1 ([[Type-A]])<br>2 x [[USB]] 3.2 Gen 2 ([[Type-A]])<br>2 x [[USB]] Type-C (supports [[DisplayPort]] over USB-C, [[Thunderbolt]] 4, USB charging 5 V; 3 A, DC-in port 20 V; 65 or 100 W)<br>1 x [[HDMI]]<br>1 x [[microSD card reader]]
  | currentfw =
  | platform =
  | service =
  | dimensions = '''W''': {{convert|15.9|in|cm}} <br/>'''D''': {{convert|12.3|in|cm}} <br/>'''H''': {{convert|1.14|in|cm}}
  | battery = 90 Wh Li-Ion
  | weight = {{convert|7.17|lbs|kg}}
  | weight of power brick = 330W power supply
  | number pad = Yes
  | chassis = '''Color''': Black<br>'''Materials''': Plastic or metal chassis<br>'''Cooling''': Advanced thermal design with Aeroblade metal fans and liquid metal thermal solution
  | keyboard lighting color = Per-key RGB backlit
  | fingerprint reader = No
  | facial recognition = No
  | special features =
  | topgame =
  | compatibility =
  | predecessor =
  | successor =
  | related =
  | website = [https://www.acer.com/us-en/predator/laptops/helios/helios-18/pdp/NH.QP4AA.001 Acer]
  }}


== Purchase Links ==
{{ReviewNotice}}
[https://www.acer.com/us-en/predator/laptops/helios/helios-18/pdp/NH.QP5AA.001 Acer], [https://www.acer.com/us-en/predator/laptops/helios/helios-18/pdp/NH.QP4AA.001 Acer]
    {{CheckAI}}
    The '''Acer Predator Helios 18 (2024)''' is a high-performance gaming laptop designed for enthusiasts seeking top-tier gaming experiences. It features the powerful Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4000 series GPUs, making it suitable for demanding gaming and productivity tasks.<ref name="specs">{{cite web |url=https://www.acer.com/us-en/predator/laptops/helios/helios-18/pdp/NH.QP4AA.001 |title=Acer Predator Helios 18 Specifications |publisher=Acer}}</ref> The Helios 18 is positioned as a premium gaming laptop with a large 18-inch display and advanced cooling solutions.<ref name="laptopmag">{{cite web |url=https://www.laptopmag.com/reviews/acer-predator-helios-18#section-acer-predator-helios-18-price-and-configuration |title=Acer Predator Helios 18 Review |publisher=LaptopMag}}</ref>


== Primary Hardware ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== [[Central Processing Unit (CPU)|Processor]] ===
The Acer Predator Helios 18 (2024) is equipped with the Intel Core i9-14900HX processor, a 14th Gen Tetracosa-core (24 Core) CPU with a base frequency of 2.20 GHz. This processor is designed to handle intensive tasks, offering 8 performance cores with hyper-threading and 16 efficiency cores without hyper-threading, resulting in 32 parallel threads.<ref name="specs" />
Reviewers note that the CPU delivers excellent performance, suitable for both gaming and productivity tasks. It performs well in synthetic benchmarks, although it shows slightly below-average results in performance mode during prolonged loads. The CPU is considered overkill for just gaming, making the Helios 18 suitable for demanding workloads outside of gaming.<ref name="notebookcheck">{{cite web |url=https://www.notebookcheck.net/Acer-Predator-Helios-18-2024-laptop-review-New-hardware-for-the-18-inch-gamer.808564.0.html |title=Acer Predator Helios 18 (2024) Review |publisher=NotebookCheck}}</ref><ref name="pcmag">{{cite web |url=https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/acer-predator-helios-18 |title=Acer Predator Helios 18 Review |publisher=PCMag}}</ref>
'''Benchmarks''':
* Cinebench R23 Multi Core: 32428 points<ref name="notebookcheck" />
* Geekbench 6.2 Multi-Core: 17695 points<ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== [[Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)|Graphics]] ===
The Helios 18 can be configured with either the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 or RTX 4090 Laptop GPUs. The RTX 4080 comes with 12 GB GDDR6 memory, while the RTX 4090 features 16 GB GDDR6 memory. Both GPUs have a maximum graphics power of 175 W and support NVIDIA G-SYNC technology.<ref name="specs" />
The RTX 4090 GPU performs well but does not fully utilize its potential in performance mode, achieving slightly less than the previous average. It is capable of handling modern titles at maximum settings, particularly at 1080p, and maintains smooth performance even at its QHD+ native resolution.<ref name="notebookcheck" /><ref name="pcmag" />
'''Benchmarks''':
* 3DMark Time Spy Score: 18542 points<ref name="notebookcheck" />
* 3DMark Fire Strike Score: 33907 points<ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== [[Random Access Memory (RAM)|Memory]] ===
The Helios 18 is equipped with 32 GB DDR5-5600 MHz SDRAM, configured as 2x 16 GB SO-DIMM modules. This configuration provides sufficient bandwidth for gaming and multitasking, ensuring smooth operation during intensive tasks.<ref name="specs" />
'''Benchmarks''':
* AIDA64 Memory Copy: 83392 MB/s<ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== [[Storage]] ===
The Helios 18 comes with either a 1 TB or 2 TB PCIe NVMe SSD, with some configurations featuring RAID 0 for enhanced performance. The storage delivers excellent sequential read and write rates, although performance fluctuations may occur under load during extended use.<ref name="specs" /><ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Benchmarks''':
* CrystalDiskMark 5/6 Read Seq: 8578 MB/s<ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== Co-processors ===
The Helios 18 includes the Intel Raptor Point-S PCH for HD Audio, providing standard integrated sound capabilities suitable for general use.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
== Input Devices ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== [[Keyboard]] ===
The Helios 18 features a chiclet-style keyboard with per-key RGB backlighting, a number pad, and swappable MagKey 3.0 WASD keys. The keyboard is noted for its satisfying depth and clickiness, enhancing the typing experience. It includes a Predator Sense key for quick access to system settings.<ref name="specs" /><ref name="laptopmag" />
=== [[Touchpad]] ===
The laptop is equipped with a large Microsoft Precision Touchpad, measuring {{convert|5.9|in|cm}} x {{convert|3.5|in|cm}}. While the touchpad is responsive and supports smooth movements, it may require a bit of force to press down, which could hinder navigation.<ref name="laptopmag" />
=== [[Webcam]] ===
The Helios 18 includes a 1080p webcam, which delivers mediocre video quality with grainy images and over-exposure in certain lighting conditions. It is not recommended for high-quality streaming or conferencing.<ref name="laptopmag" />
=== [[Microphone]] ===
The integrated microphone provides standard quality suitable for casual use but is not exceptional for professional audio recording.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
== Output Devices ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== [[Display]] ===
The Helios 18 features an 18-inch Mini-LED display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a refresh rate of either 240 Hz or 250 Hz. The display supports NVIDIA G-SYNC and offers excellent brightness and color space coverage, making it suitable for gaming and media consumption.<ref name="specs" /><ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Benchmarks''':
* Maximum brightness: 751 cd/m²<ref name="notebookcheck" />
* Color coverage: 100% sRGB, 99.7% Display P3<ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== [[Audio]] ===
The Helios 18 is equipped with a 2.0 speaker system. While the audio quality is improved over previous models, it lacks bass, and the mids and highs are more pronounced. The maximum volume is 85 dB(A), but external audio devices are recommended for better sound quality.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
== Connectivity ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== [[WiFi]] ===
The Helios 18 supports Wi-Fi 7 with the Killer 1750x module, providing solid performance with good transmission and receiving rates, supporting the latest wireless standards.<ref name="specs" /><ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Benchmarks''':
* iperf3 transmit: 1011 MBit/s<ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== [[Bluetooth]] ===
The laptop includes Bluetooth connectivity, supporting modern wireless peripherals.<ref name="specs" />
=== [[SD Card Reader]] ===
The Helios 18 features a microSD card reader, which achieves mediocre speeds compared to competitors, making it less ideal for high-speed data transfers.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== [[USB]] ===
The laptop is equipped with multiple USB ports, including 1 USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 2 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, and 2 USB Type-C ports with support for DisplayPort over USB-C, Thunderbolt 4, and USB charging.<ref name="specs" />
=== Display Outputs ===
The Helios 18 includes 1 HDMI output and 2 DisplayPort connections, allowing for multiple external displays with high-quality output.<ref name="specs" />
== Case ==
{{CheckAI}}
The Helios 18 features a sturdy chassis available in either plastic or metal, with a black finish. The design is robust, though the hinges could be improved for better stability. The laptop's dimensions are {{convert|15.9|in|cm}} in width, {{convert|12.3|in|cm}} in depth, and {{convert|1.14|in|cm}} in height, with a weight of {{convert|7.17|lbs|kg}}.<ref name="specs" /><ref name="laptopmag" />
== Maintenance ==
{{CheckAI}}
The Helios 18 requires unscrewing 14 Torx screws to access the internals, which may deter some users. The RAM and SSDs are accessible but may be difficult to swap out due to thermal pads covering them.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
== Cooling System ==
{{CheckAI}}
The Helios 18 is equipped with an advanced thermal design featuring Aeroblade metal fans and a liquid metal thermal solution on the CPU. The cooling system is effective in keeping the powerful components running smoothly, although it can lead to throttling under heavy loads.<ref name="pcmag" />
=== Heat ===
The laptop can get quite hot, especially on the bottom during heavy use, making it uncomfortable for lap use. During gaming, the hottest it got was 99 degrees Fahrenheit at the bottom center of the chassis.<ref name="laptopmag" />
=== Noise ===
The fan control is suboptimal, leading to unnecessary noise during idle and load. Under load, the noise levels are audible but not excessively loud, with load noise levels reaching 48 to 51 dB(A).<ref name="notebookcheck" />
== Energy Management ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== Power Consumption ===
The Helios 18 comes with a 330 W power supply. It has high idle power consumption, leading to poor battery life, with the laptop requiring more power than many competitors.<ref name="notebookcheck" />
'''Benchmarks''':
* Idle: 31 to 43 watts<ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== Battery Life ===
The Helios 18 is equipped with a 90 Wh Li-Ion battery. The battery life is limited, lasting just over 3 hours in web surfing tests, which is below average for gaming laptops. Users should expect to keep it plugged in during extended gaming sessions.<ref name="notebookcheck" /><ref name="laptopmag" />
'''Benchmarks''':
* WiFi Websurfing: 3h 12min<ref name="notebookcheck" />
== Biometrics ==
{{CheckAI}}
The Helios 18 does not include a fingerprint reader or support for facial recognition.<ref name="specs" />
== [[Software]] ==
{{CheckAI}}
The Helios 18 ships with Windows 11 Home and includes Acer’s suite of pre-installed applications, such as Predator Sense for performance monitoring and customization. It is recommended to remove Acer Jumpstart as it advertises random mobile games to the user.<ref name="laptopmag" />
== Accessories & Warranty ==
{{CheckAI}}
The Helios 18 comes with a 330 W power supply and standard documentation. Warranty details are not specified in the reviews.
== Reviews Summary ==
{{CheckAI}}
=== Overall Sentiment ===
The Acer Predator Helios 18 (2024) is praised for its powerful performance and high-quality display, making it a strong contender in the gaming laptop market. It is particularly suited for stationary gaming setups due to its size and powerful hardware. However, it suffers from high idle power consumption and suboptimal fan control, leading to less than ideal battery life.<ref name="pcmag" /><ref name="laptopmag" /><ref name="notebookcheck" />
=== Problems Summary ===
* High idle power consumption
* Suboptimal fan control leading to unnecessary noise
* Limited battery life
* Mediocre webcam quality
* Hinges could be improved for better stability
* MicroSD card reader achieves mediocre speeds
=== Links ===
i9-14900HX, RTX 4090, 32 GB RAM, 2 TB SSD: [https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/acer-predator-helios-18 PCMag]
i9-14900HX, RTX 4080, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: [https://www.laptopmag.com/reviews/acer-predator-helios-18#section-acer-predator-helios-18-price-and-configuration LaptopMag]
i9-14900HX, RTX 4090, 32 GB RAM, 2 TB SSD: [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Acer-Predator-Helios-18-2024-laptop-review-New-hardware-for-the-18-inch-gamer.808564.0.html NotebookCheck]
== Community Reception ==
=== Overall Sentiment ===
=== Problems Summary ===
== References ==
[[Category:Laptops]]
[[Category:Laptops]]
[[Category:Acer Laptops]]
[[Category:Acer Laptops]]
 
[[Category:Predator]]
[[Category:Predator Helios]]
 
[[Category:2024 Laptops]]
[[Category:2024 Laptops]]
 
<references />
           
     

Latest revision as of 18:01, 6 August 2024

Acer Predator Helios 18 (2024)
ManufacturerAcer
Product familyPredator
Release dateJanuary 2024;
2 years ago (2024-01)
DiscontinuedNo
Operating systemWindows 11 Home
CPUIntel Core i9-14900HX
Memory32 GB DDR5-5600 MHz SDRAM
Memory slots2 user accessible
Storage1 TB or 2 TB PCIe NVMe SSD
Storage slots2 user accessible
Removable storagemicroSD
DisplayScreen size: 18 inch
Panel type: IPS with Mini-LED technology
Coating: Matte (ComfyView)
Resolution: 2560 x 1600
Aspect ratio: 16:10
Refresh rate: 240 or 250 Hz
Brightness: up to 751 Nits
DCI-P3: 100 %
VRR: G-Sync
GraphicsNvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Laptop 12 GB GDDR6 175 W
Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop 16 GB GDDR6 175 W
Sound2 x stereo speakers
Camera1080p webcam
TouchpadMicrosoft Precision Touchpad, 5.9 inches (15 cm) x 3.5 inches (8.9 cm)
ConnectivityWiFi 7 (Killer 1750x)
Bluetooth
1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A)
2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-A)
2 x USB Type-C (supports DisplayPort over USB-C, Thunderbolt 4, USB charging 5 V; 3 A, DC-in port 20 V; 65 or 100 W)
1 x HDMI
1 x microSD card reader
DimensionsW: 15.9 inches (40 cm)
D: 12.3 inches (31 cm)
H: 1.14 inches (2.9 cm)
Mass7.17 pounds (3.25 kg)
Power brick330W power supply
Battery90 Wh Li-Ion
KeyboardPer-key RGB backlit
ChassisColor: Black
Materials: Plastic or metal chassis
Cooling: Advanced thermal design with Aeroblade metal fans and liquid metal thermal solution
Number padYes
Fingerprint readerNo
Facial recognitionNo
WebsiteAcer

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 Acer Predator Helios 18 (2024) is a high-performance gaming laptop designed for enthusiasts seeking top-tier gaming experiences. It features the powerful Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4000 series GPUs, making it suitable for demanding gaming and productivity tasks.[1] The Helios 18 is positioned as a premium gaming laptop with a large 18-inch display and advanced cooling solutions.[2]

Primary Hardware

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

Processor

The Acer Predator Helios 18 (2024) is equipped with the Intel Core i9-14900HX processor, a 14th Gen Tetracosa-core (24 Core) CPU with a base frequency of 2.20 GHz. This processor is designed to handle intensive tasks, offering 8 performance cores with hyper-threading and 16 efficiency cores without hyper-threading, resulting in 32 parallel threads.[1]

Reviewers note that the CPU delivers excellent performance, suitable for both gaming and productivity tasks. It performs well in synthetic benchmarks, although it shows slightly below-average results in performance mode during prolonged loads. The CPU is considered overkill for just gaming, making the Helios 18 suitable for demanding workloads outside of gaming.[3][4]

Benchmarks:

  • Cinebench R23 Multi Core: 32428 points[3]
  • Geekbench 6.2 Multi-Core: 17695 points[3]

Graphics

The Helios 18 can be configured with either the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 or RTX 4090 Laptop GPUs. The RTX 4080 comes with 12 GB GDDR6 memory, while the RTX 4090 features 16 GB GDDR6 memory. Both GPUs have a maximum graphics power of 175 W and support NVIDIA G-SYNC technology.[1]

The RTX 4090 GPU performs well but does not fully utilize its potential in performance mode, achieving slightly less than the previous average. It is capable of handling modern titles at maximum settings, particularly at 1080p, and maintains smooth performance even at its QHD+ native resolution.[3][4]

Benchmarks:

  • 3DMark Time Spy Score: 18542 points[3]
  • 3DMark Fire Strike Score: 33907 points[3]

Memory

The Helios 18 is equipped with 32 GB DDR5-5600 MHz SDRAM, configured as 2x 16 GB SO-DIMM modules. This configuration provides sufficient bandwidth for gaming and multitasking, ensuring smooth operation during intensive tasks.[1]

Benchmarks:

  • AIDA64 Memory Copy: 83392 MB/s[3]

Storage

The Helios 18 comes with either a 1 TB or 2 TB PCIe NVMe SSD, with some configurations featuring RAID 0 for enhanced performance. The storage delivers excellent sequential read and write rates, although performance fluctuations may occur under load during extended use.[1][3]

Benchmarks:

  • CrystalDiskMark 5/6 Read Seq: 8578 MB/s[3]

Co-processors

The Helios 18 includes the Intel Raptor Point-S PCH for HD Audio, providing standard integrated sound capabilities suitable for general use.[3]

Input Devices

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

Keyboard

The Helios 18 features a chiclet-style keyboard with per-key RGB backlighting, a number pad, and swappable MagKey 3.0 WASD keys. The keyboard is noted for its satisfying depth and clickiness, enhancing the typing experience. It includes a Predator Sense key for quick access to system settings.[1][2]

Touchpad

The laptop is equipped with a large Microsoft Precision Touchpad, measuring 5.9 inches (15 cm) x 3.5 inches (8.9 cm). While the touchpad is responsive and supports smooth movements, it may require a bit of force to press down, which could hinder navigation.[2]

Webcam

The Helios 18 includes a 1080p webcam, which delivers mediocre video quality with grainy images and over-exposure in certain lighting conditions. It is not recommended for high-quality streaming or conferencing.[2]

Microphone

The integrated microphone provides standard quality suitable for casual use but is not exceptional for professional audio recording.[3]

Output Devices

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

Display

The Helios 18 features an 18-inch Mini-LED display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a refresh rate of either 240 Hz or 250 Hz. The display supports NVIDIA G-SYNC and offers excellent brightness and color space coverage, making it suitable for gaming and media consumption.[1][3]

Benchmarks:

  • Maximum brightness: 751 cd/m²[3]
  • Color coverage: 100% sRGB, 99.7% Display P3[3]

Audio

The Helios 18 is equipped with a 2.0 speaker system. While the audio quality is improved over previous models, it lacks bass, and the mids and highs are more pronounced. The maximum volume is 85 dB(A), but external audio devices are recommended for better sound quality.[3]

Connectivity

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

WiFi

The Helios 18 supports Wi-Fi 7 with the Killer 1750x module, providing solid performance with good transmission and receiving rates, supporting the latest wireless standards.[1][3]

Benchmarks:

  • iperf3 transmit: 1011 MBit/s[3]

Bluetooth

The laptop includes Bluetooth connectivity, supporting modern wireless peripherals.[1]

SD Card Reader

The Helios 18 features a microSD card reader, which achieves mediocre speeds compared to competitors, making it less ideal for high-speed data transfers.[3]

USB

The laptop is equipped with multiple USB ports, including 1 USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 2 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, and 2 USB Type-C ports with support for DisplayPort over USB-C, Thunderbolt 4, and USB charging.[1]

Display Outputs

The Helios 18 includes 1 HDMI output and 2 DisplayPort connections, allowing for multiple external displays with high-quality output.[1]

Case

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

The Helios 18 features a sturdy chassis available in either plastic or metal, with a black finish. The design is robust, though the hinges could be improved for better stability. The laptop's dimensions are 15.9 inches (40 cm) in width, 12.3 inches (31 cm) in depth, and 1.14 inches (2.9 cm) in height, with a weight of 7.17 pounds (3.25 kg).[1][2]

Maintenance

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

The Helios 18 requires unscrewing 14 Torx screws to access the internals, which may deter some users. The RAM and SSDs are accessible but may be difficult to swap out due to thermal pads covering them.[3]

Cooling System

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

The Helios 18 is equipped with an advanced thermal design featuring Aeroblade metal fans and a liquid metal thermal solution on the CPU. The cooling system is effective in keeping the powerful components running smoothly, although it can lead to throttling under heavy loads.[4]

Heat

The laptop can get quite hot, especially on the bottom during heavy use, making it uncomfortable for lap use. During gaming, the hottest it got was 99 degrees Fahrenheit at the bottom center of the chassis.[2]

Noise

The fan control is suboptimal, leading to unnecessary noise during idle and load. Under load, the noise levels are audible but not excessively loud, with load noise levels reaching 48 to 51 dB(A).[3]

Energy Management

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

Power Consumption

The Helios 18 comes with a 330 W power supply. It has high idle power consumption, leading to poor battery life, with the laptop requiring more power than many competitors.[3]

Benchmarks:

  • Idle: 31 to 43 watts[3]

Battery Life

The Helios 18 is equipped with a 90 Wh Li-Ion battery. The battery life is limited, lasting just over 3 hours in web surfing tests, which is below average for gaming laptops. Users should expect to keep it plugged in during extended gaming sessions.[3][2]

Benchmarks:

  • WiFi Websurfing: 3h 12min[3]

Biometrics

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

The Helios 18 does not include a fingerprint reader or support for facial recognition.[1]

Software

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

The Helios 18 ships with Windows 11 Home and includes Acer’s suite of pre-installed applications, such as Predator Sense for performance monitoring and customization. It is recommended to remove Acer Jumpstart as it advertises random mobile games to the user.[2]

Accessories & Warranty

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

The Helios 18 comes with a 330 W power supply and standard documentation. Warranty details are not specified in the reviews.

Reviews Summary

This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.

Overall Sentiment

The Acer Predator Helios 18 (2024) is praised for its powerful performance and high-quality display, making it a strong contender in the gaming laptop market. It is particularly suited for stationary gaming setups due to its size and powerful hardware. However, it suffers from high idle power consumption and suboptimal fan control, leading to less than ideal battery life.[4][2][3]

Problems Summary

  • High idle power consumption
  • Suboptimal fan control leading to unnecessary noise
  • Limited battery life
  • Mediocre webcam quality
  • Hinges could be improved for better stability
  • MicroSD card reader achieves mediocre speeds

Links

i9-14900HX, RTX 4090, 32 GB RAM, 2 TB SSD: PCMag

i9-14900HX, RTX 4080, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: LaptopMag

i9-14900HX, RTX 4090, 32 GB RAM, 2 TB SSD: NotebookCheck

Community Reception

Overall Sentiment

Problems Summary

References

  1. ↑ 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 "Acer Predator Helios 18 Specifications". Acer.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 "Acer Predator Helios 18 Review". LaptopMag.
  3. ↑ 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 3.22 3.23 3.24 "Acer Predator Helios 18 (2024) Review". NotebookCheck.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 "Acer Predator Helios 18 Review". PCMag.
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