Acer Predator Helios 300 (2021)
| Manufacturer | Acer |
|---|---|
| Product family | Predator |
| Release date | January 2021 |
| Introductory price | USD 1399 to 1799 |
| Discontinued | No |
| Operating system | Windows 10 Home |
| CPU | Intel Core i7-10750H Intel Core i7-11800H |
| Memory | 16 GB (2x8 GB) or 32 GB (2x16 GB) DDR4-3200 (supports up to 64 GB) |
| Memory slots | 2 user accessible |
| Storage | 512 GB, 1 TB or 2 TB M.2 NVMe SSD |
| Storage slots | 2 user accessible M.2 slots, 1 user accessible 2.5-inch drive bay |
| Display | Screen size: 15.6 inch Panel type: IPS Coating: Matte (anti-glare) Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Refresh rate: 144 Hz or 240 Hz Brightness: 290.4 to 395.18 Nits sRGB: 92.6 % Adobe RGB: 63.9 % DCI P3: 66.9 % Screen-to-body ratio: |
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Laptop 8 GB GDDR6 80-110 W |
| Sound | 2 x stereo speakers |
| Camera | Front: 720p |
| Touchpad | Plastic, mid-sized |
| Connectivity | Killer AX1650i WiFi 6 Bluetooth 5.2 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-A) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-C, Thunderbolt 4) 1 x HDMI 2.1 1 x Mini DisplayPort 1.4 1 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack |
| Power brick | 230W AC adapter |
| Battery | 4 cell Li-Polymer 58.75 Wh |
| Keyboard | 4 zone RGB backlit |
| Chassis | Color: Black Materials: Aluminum lid and main deck, plastic bottom cover Cooling: 2 x fans, 4 x radiators, 3 x heatpipes |
| Number pad | Yes |
| Fingerprint reader | No |
| Facial recognition | No |
| Predecessor | Acer Predator Helios 300 (2020) |
| Website | Acer |
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.
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The Acer Predator Helios 300 (2021) is a mid-range gaming laptop that offers a balance of performance and value. It features Intel's 10th and 11th generation processors and Nvidia's RTX 3000 series GPUs, making it suitable for modern gaming and multitasking. Available configurations vary by store and location.[1]
Primary Hardware
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Processor
The Predator Helios 300 (2021) can come with the following processors[1]:
- Intel Core i7-10750H with 6 cores and 12 threads, 12 MB cache, and a base frequency of 2.6 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 5.0 GHz.
- Intel Core i7-11800H with 8 cores and 16 threads, 24 MB cache, and a base frequency of 2.3 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 4.6 GHz.
The Intel Core i7-10750H is adequate for gaming but falls behind competitors with eight-core processors in multitasking capabilities. In synthetic benchmarks, it scored well in PCMark 10 but lagged behind the Alienware m15 Ryzen Edition R5 and MSI Stealth 15M in productivity and content-creation workflows.[2] The Intel Core i7-11800H, on the other hand, offers a significant performance boost over the previous six-core model, performing within 10% of AMD Ryzen 7/9 and Intel i9 alternatives of the same generation.[3]
Benchmarks:
- Cinebench R15:
- i7-11800H: 2189 cb (multi-core), 229 cb (single-core)[3]
- Cinebench R20:
- i7-11800H: 5268 cb (multi-core), 578 cb (single-core)[3]
- Cinebench R23:
- i7-11800H: 13621 cb (multi-core), 1495 cb (single-core)[3]
- Geekbench 5.5:
- i7-10750H: 14438 (multi-core), 1854 (single-core)[4]
Graphics
In addition to the integrated Intel UHD Graphics, the Predator Helios 300 (2021) ships with the following discrete GPU[1]:
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Laptop GPU with 8 GB GDDR6 memory, 80-110 W TGP.
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 provides a substantial performance boost over the previous generation RTX 2070, with a 36% better result in the Superposition 1080p test. The built-in GPU overclocking feature enhances gaming performance, although it increases fan noise.[2] The GPU scores are consistent but about 5-10% beneath the M16, due to slightly lower max power in this laptop and lack of default overclocking.[3]
Benchmarks:
- 3DMark Fire Strike:
- RTX 3070: 19478 points[4]
- 3DMark Time Spy:
- RTX 3070: 8487 points[4]
- 3DMark Port Royal:
- RTX 3070: 5922 points[4]
- Uniengine Superposition:
Memory
The Predator Helios 300 supports up to 64 GB of DDR4-3200 memory through two SO-DIMM slots. Pre-configured SKUs come with either 16 GB (2x8 GB) or 32 GB (2x16 GB) of RAM.[1]
The memory configuration allows for future upgrades, with the system accepting up to 64 GB (two 32 GB modules), which is beneficial for users looking to enhance multitasking performance.[2] The dual-channel memory setup enhances performance in memory-intensive applications.[3]
Benchmarks:
Storage
The Predator Helios 300 can ship with 512 GB, 1 TB, or 2 TB M.2 NVMe SSDs. It supports up to three internal storage drives: two M.2 SSD slots and one 2.5-inch drive bay.[1]
The ability to support three storage drives is a significant advantage, allowing for easy upgrades and expansions. The storage setup allows for fast read/write speeds and ample space for games and applications. The RAID 0 configuration enhances performance further, making it suitable for demanding tasks.[3]
Benchmarks:
- CrystalDiskMark:
- AS SSD:
Co-processors
The Predator Helios 300 does not include any dedicated co-processors. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics is used for less demanding tasks and works alongside the dedicated GPU through Nvidia's Optimus technology, allowing for efficient power management.[4]
Input Devices
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Keyboard
The Predator Helios 300 comes with a four-zone RGB keyboard with customizable colors via the PredatorSense app. The keyboard features a dedicated button on the number pad to launch the app.[2]
The typing experience is satisfactory for gaming, with a long enough key travel to provide tactile feedback. The thicker border on the WASD and arrow-key clusters enhances visibility for gamers. The keyboard is responsive and suitable for gaming, with customizable RGB lighting that enhances the gaming experience.[3][4]
Touchpad
The Predator Helios 300 features a mid-sized plastic clickpad. The touchpad's slightly stiff physical clicking action helps prevent accidental presses, and it can be disabled when using an external mouse.[2]
The clickpad is a bit rougher and clunkier with taps but still works alright with everyday use and gestures. It lacks the smoothness of glass touchpads found in some competitors.[3]
Webcam
The Predator Helios 300 comes with a 720p webcam located above the display.[2]
The webcam provides average video quality for a gaming laptop but lacks a privacy shutter, which may be a concern for privacy-conscious users. It is suitable for casual use but may not meet the standards for professional streaming or conferencing.[4]
Microphone
The Predator Helios 300 comes with integrated microphones.[3]
The microphone is OK for occasional calls but lacks clarity for professional use. It performs adequately for video conferencing.[3]
Output Devices
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Display
The Predator Helios 300 ships with a 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display, available in 144 Hz or 240 Hz refresh rates.[1]
The display offers ample brightness, wide viewing angles, and rated 100% coverage of the sRGB color space, creating vibrant visuals ideal for gaming and media consumption. The entry-level option is fairly good for what it is, with 90+% sRGB color coverage, but limited contrast and blacks. Calibration isn’t great out of the box, but once calibrated, the panel turned out to be fine and uniform.[3][2]
Benchmarks:
- Brightness: 290.4 to 395.18 cd/m²[4][3]
- Contrast: 975:1[4]
- Color accuracy (ΔE): 3.03 (calibrated: 0.71)[4]
- Color coverage: 92.6% sRGB, 63.9% AdobeRGB, 66.9% DCI P3[3]
Audio
The Predator Helios 300 comes with two stereo speakers.[4]
The speakers provide average sound quality, lacking in bass but decent for casual use. They are suitable for gaming and media consumption but may not satisfy audiophiles.[4][3]
Connectivity
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WiFi
The Predator Helios 300 is equipped with a Killer AX1650i wireless card, supporting 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) and Bluetooth 5.2.[1]
The wireless performance is good, both near the router and at 30+ feet away with obstacles in between. The Killer networking technology helps prioritize gaming traffic for a better online experience.[3]
Bluetooth
The Predator Helios 300 comes with a Bluetooth 5.2 module.[1]
SD Card Reader
The Predator Helios 300 does not include an SD card reader.[1]
USB
The Predator Helios 300 is equipped with the following USB ports[1]:
- 3 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps)
- 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps)
- 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) with Thunderbolt 4
The USB-A port conveniently supports charging devices when the notebook is off, enhancing usability.[2]
Display Outputs
The Predator Helios 300 comes with the following display outputs[1]:
- 1 x HDMI 2.1
- 1 x Mini DisplayPort 1.4
These outputs are capable of supporting 4K at 60Hz, providing flexibility for external display connections.[2]
Case
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The Predator Helios 300 features a partial aluminum design with sharp chassis corners. The build quality is decent, with good strength and minimal lid and chassis flex, but some perceptible gaps in construction may detract from the overall aesthetic.[2]
The design is starting to show its age, with a sharp front lip and retro-looking blue status LEDs. The build quality is solid, making it durable for everyday use.[3]
Maintenance
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The bottom panel of the Predator Helios 300 is easy to remove for upgrades, requiring only a Philips screwdriver. The laptop supports three internal storage drives and up to 64GB of RAM, making it user-friendly for upgrades.[2][3]
Cooling System
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The Predator Helios 300 is equipped with a cooling solution that includes two fans, four radiators, and three heatpipes. The fans are located at the rear corners of the chassis, designed to keep the laptop cool during extended gaming sessions.[3]
Heat
The laptop remains one of the coolest running performance laptops in its class, with max temperatures in the mid-40s on the keyboard deck. The thermal design effectively dissipates heat during heavy loads.[3]
Benchmarks:
- Maximum temperature: 63 °C[4]
Noise
The fans spin slowly and are only audible in a quiet environment, but ramp up on the Extreme and Turbo profile with games and combined CPU+GPU loads. The cooling system is effective in maintaining performance without excessive noise.[3]
Benchmarks:
Energy Management
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Power Consumption
The Predator Helios 300 ships with a 230 W AC adapter.[1]
The laptop consumes up to 220 watts under load, with average consumption around 164 watts during gaming. This indicates efficient power management during various usage scenarios.[4]
Battery Life
The Predator Helios 300 comes with a 58.75 Wh Li-Polymer battery. The battery life during light tasks is slightly below average for this class of laptop.[4]
Benchmarks:
- WiFi Websurfing (Edge 91): 6h 26min[4]
- Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p: 6h 46min[4]
- Load (maximum brightness): 1h 31min[4]
Biometrics
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The Predator Helios 300 does not support Windows Hello face recognition and does not have a fingerprintreader.[1]
Software
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All SKUs ship with Windows 10 Home, but the laptop can be upgraded to Windows 10 Pro, either manually or when buying directly from Acer.
Preinstalled Software
PredatorSense
The PredatorSense app acts as the primary control center in the Predator Helios 300. It allows users to customize RGB lighting, adjust performance profiles, monitor system temperatures, and control fan speeds.[2][3]
Other Preinstalled Software
The laptop also comes with other preinstalled software, including a trial version of Microsoft 365 and Norton Security Ultra.[4]
Linux Support
Linux support is not specified, but it may require additional configuration for optimal performance.[3]
Accessories & Warranty
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The Predator Helios 300 comes with a 230 W AC adapter and standard paperwork.[4]
There is a one-year limited manufacturer warranty if purchased in the US.[4]
Reviews Summary
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Overall Sentiment
The Predator Helios 300 (2021) is considered a strong contender in the mid-range gaming laptop market. It offers solid features for the money, including a powerful GPU, high-refresh-rate display, and good upgradability options. The laptop is praised for its performance in gaming and multitasking, making it suitable for gamers and power users alike. However, it has some drawbacks, such as the absence of biometric features and an SD card reader.[2][3][4]
Problems Summary[2][3][4]
- Lacks biometric features such as a fingerprint reader or face-recognition webcam.
- No SD card reader.
- Average to poor sound quality from speakers.
- The design is starting to show its age.
- The laptop heats up significantly under load.
- The battery life is shorter than on the 2020 Helios 300, especially with light use and video.
- The touchpad is rougher and clunkier compared to competitors.
Links
i7-10750H, RTX 3070, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD: PCMag
i7-11800H, RTX 3070, 32 GB RAM, 2 TB SSD: UltrabookReview
i7-10750H, RTX 3070, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: NoteBookCheck
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 "Acer Predator Helios 300 (2021) Specifications". Acer.
- ↑ 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 "Acer Predator Helios 300 (2021) Review". PCMag.
- ↑ 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 3.25 3.26 "Acer Predator Helios 300 (2021) 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 4.26 4.27 4.28 4.29 4.30 4.31 "Acer Predator Helios 300 (2021) Review". NotebookCheck.