Once extending the Predator line into mobile segment, by
releasing Predator 8 tablet and Predator 6 smartphone, Acer is now back to its
roots, i.e. PC gaming. Two latest gaming laptops: Acer Predator 15 and Predator 17, not only bring awesome specifications, but also a number of unique features
that are not owned by other competitors.
Physically, these two laptops look so fierce with the mix of
black chassis and red accents, especially when we see the air vents in the
back. Acer claims that the technology which is applied to the air vents can
prevent the dusts that accumulate over the time.
Both Predator 15 and Predator 17 are powered by Intel's
sixth generation processor, Intel Core i7-6700HQ. The most expensive
configuration includes Nvidia GeForce GTX 980M GPU, 64 GB DDR4 RAM and 512 GB
SSD. The consumers of Predator 15 can choose between the 15.6-inch screen with
resolution of 1080p or 4K, while the 17.3-inch screen of Predator 17 is only
offered in 1080p resolution. Both are also equipped with USB-C port.
Then what features are they bringing? The first feature lies
in the cooling system. The CD slot on the side can be loaded with a special
module named Predator FrostCore. This module is a removable fan module from
Cooler Master which is made exclusively for Acer.
The second feature is the LED backlight that will illuminate
the keyboard keys and can be set at will; users can set four different lighting
zones on the keyboard. In addition there are a number of macro keys on the left
side that can be programmed according to the needs of the users.
The third feature is the Killer DoubleShot Pro technology.
This feature allows the device to maximize performance of Ethernet connection
and Wi-Fi simultaneously, which in theory could increase the stability of the
connection. The companion software will automatically control which
applications that will use the Ethernet connection or Wi-Fi.
The fourth feature lies in the audio system. Predator 17
packs 4 speakers and 2 subwoofers, providing 4.2-channel configuration with a
total power of 12 watts that's maximized by Dolby technology. Meanwhile the
Predator 15 only brings 2 speakers and 1 subwoofer, with a total power of 6 watts.
Both laptops also support upscale headphones which usually have an impedance of
600 ohms.
Acer Predator 15 and Predator 17 are planned to be marketed
in various countries ranging from October to November. Each of them is priced
starting from $ 1,500 and $ 1,600 for the lowest configuration.