ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM: A High-Performance Gaming Laptop

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM is a gaming laptop from ASUS's Republic of Gamers (ROG) line. It's a high-performance machine that's designed to provide an excellent gaming experience to serious gamers. The laptop features a large 17.3-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS-level display with a 144Hz refresh rate and a 3ms response time. This makes it ideal for fast-paced games that require quick reflexes.

Under the hood, the laptop is powered by an Intel Core i7-8750H processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card with 6GB of dedicated video memory. It also includes 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD for storage. These hardware specs ensure that the laptop can handle even the most demanding games and applications with ease.

In addition to its powerful hardware, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM also has a variety of software features that enhance the gaming experience. The ROG Gaming Center software allows you to customize settings for different games, while the Sonic Studio III software improves the audio quality for an immersive gaming experience.

The laptop also has a sleek and modern design with a brushed aluminum finish that's both durable and stylish. The backlit keyboard is perfect for gaming in low-light conditions, and the touchpad is responsive and accurate. It also includes a variety of ports for connectivity, including USB 3.1 Type-A, USB 3.1 Type-C, HDMI 2.0, Mini DisplayPort 1.2, and Ethernet. It also has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM is a powerful and reliable gaming laptop that's designed for serious gamers who want the best possible gaming experience. Its hardware specs and software features make it an excellent choice for those who demand high performance and reliability.

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM are top-notch. The laptop has a sleek and modern look with a brushed aluminum finish that gives it a premium feel. The laptop is also fairly slim for a gaming laptop, measuring just 24.9mm thick, which makes it easy to carry around.

The laptop has a large 17.3-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS-level display that's surrounded by thin bezels, which gives it a more immersive feel. The display also has a 144Hz refresh rate and a 3ms response time, which makes it perfect for fast-paced games that require quick reflexes.

The backlit keyboard on the laptop is another standout feature. It's designed specifically for gaming and has a responsive and tactile feel. The WASD keys are highlighted for easy navigation, and the keys are well-spaced and comfortable to type on. The laptop also has a large touchpad that's accurate and responsive.

The build quality of the laptop is excellent as well. It feels sturdy and well-built, and the hinge mechanism is smooth and sturdy. The laptop also has a good selection of ports for connectivity, including USB 3.1 Type-A, USB 3.1 Type-C, HDMI 2.0, Mini DisplayPort 1.2, and Ethernet. It also has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM has a premium design and build quality that's sure to impress. It's a well-built machine that's designed to last and offers a great gaming experience.

Display and Audio Performance

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM has an excellent display and audio performance that enhances the overall gaming experience.

The laptop features a large 17.3-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS-level display that has a 144Hz refresh rate and a 3ms response time. This means that the display is able to show fast-moving images smoothly without any motion blur or ghosting. The colors are also vivid and accurate, which makes gaming and watching movies more enjoyable.

The laptop also has a variety of software features that enhance the display performance. The ROG Gaming Center software allows you to adjust the display settings for different games, while the Splendid Utility allows you to adjust the color temperature and brightness levels.

The audio performance of the laptop is also impressive. The laptop features two 3.5W speakers that deliver clear and crisp sound. The Sonic Studio III software also enhances the audio quality by providing various audio settings, such as EQ and Surround Sound, to provide an immersive gaming experience.

Overall, the display and audio performance of the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM are excellent. The display is vibrant and smooth, while the audio is clear and immersive. These features make the laptop an excellent choice for gamers who demand high-quality display and audio performance.

Performance and Gaming Experience on the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM is a powerful gaming laptop that delivers excellent performance and gaming experience.

Under the hood, the laptop is powered by an Intel Core i7-8750H processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card with 6GB of dedicated video memory. It also includes 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD for storage. These hardware specs ensure that the laptop can handle even the most demanding games and applications with ease.

The laptop runs games smoothly and without any lag or stuttering. The 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time of the display ensures that fast-paced games look smooth and fluid. The NVIDIA graphics card also provides excellent graphics performance, delivering crisp and detailed visuals.

In addition to its powerful hardware, the laptop also has a variety of software features that enhance the gaming experience. The ROG Gaming Center software allows you to customize settings for different games, while the Sonic Studio III software improves the audio quality for an immersive gaming experience.

The laptop also has a backlit keyboard that's perfect for gaming in low-light conditions, and the WASD keys are highlighted for easy navigation. The touchpad is also responsive and accurate, which is essential for gaming.

Overall, the performance and gaming experience on the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM are exceptional. It's a powerful machine that's designed to deliver an immersive and enjoyable gaming experience for serious gamers.

Keyboard, Touchpad, and Other Features of the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM has a variety of keyboard, touchpad, and other features that enhance the overall gaming experience.

The backlit keyboard on the laptop is specifically designed for gaming. It has a responsive and tactile feel that makes it comfortable to type on for long periods of time. The WASD keys are highlighted for easy navigation, and the keys are well-spaced and well-positioned. The keyboard also includes a number pad, which is essential for gamers who need to input numbers quickly.

The laptop also has a large touchpad that's accurate and responsive. The touchpad supports multi-touch gestures, which makes it easy to navigate through different applications and games. The touchpad also has a separate set of physical buttons, which provides a more tactile feel when clicking.

The laptop has a variety of other features that enhance the overall gaming experience. The ROG Gaming Center software allows you to customize settings for different games and optimize performance. The laptop also has a variety of ports for connectivity, including USB 3.1 Type-A, USB 3.1 Type-C, HDMI 2.0, Mini DisplayPort 1.2, and Ethernet. It also has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

Other notable features include a 720p HD webcam, which is useful for video conferencing and live streaming, and a variety of pre-installed software, such as Microsoft Office and McAfee Anti-Virus.

Overall, the keyboard, touchpad, and other features on the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM are well-designed and functional. They enhance the overall gaming experience and make the laptop a great choice for gamers who demand high-quality features and performance.

Connectivity and Port Selection on the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM has a wide selection of ports and connectivity options that make it easy to connect to a variety of devices and peripherals.

The laptop includes USB 3.1 Type-A and Type-C ports, which allow for high-speed data transfer and charging. The HDMI 2.0 port and Mini DisplayPort 1.2 allow you to connect to external displays and enjoy high-quality visuals. The laptop also has an Ethernet port for a stable and reliable internet connection.

In addition to these ports, the laptop also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is useful for connecting headphones or external speakers. The laptop also includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to connect to wireless networks and peripherals, such as a wireless mouse or keyboard.

Overall, the connectivity and port selection on the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM are impressive. The laptop has a wide selection of ports and connectivity options that make it easy to connect to a variety of devices and peripherals. These features make the laptop a great choice for gamers who require versatile connectivity options.

Battery Life and Power Management

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM has a battery life of around 4-5 hours, which is average for a gaming laptop. However, the battery life can vary depending on usage and performance settings. If you're using the laptop for intensive tasks such as gaming or video editing, the battery life will be significantly shorter.

To optimize the battery life, the laptop includes several power management features. The ROG Gaming Center software allows you to adjust power settings and optimize performance based on your usage. You can also adjust the screen brightness and turn off unnecessary features such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to conserve battery life.

The laptop also includes a fast-charging feature that allows you to charge the battery up to 60% in just 49 minutes. This is useful if you need to quickly recharge the laptop before a gaming session or other intensive task.

Overall, the battery life and power management features on the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM are decent. While the battery life may not be the longest, the power management features allow you to optimize performance and conserve battery life when needed.

Comparing the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM to Other Gaming Laptops

When compared to other gaming laptops on the market, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM stands out in several ways.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design and build quality, the laptop is sturdy and well-built, with a sleek and modern design. The keyboard is comfortable and responsive, and the touchpad is accurate and easy to use. The laptop also includes a variety of ports and connectivity options, making it versatile and easy to connect to external devices.

In Terms of Performance

In terms of performance, the laptop is equipped with an Intel Core i7-8750H processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card, which provides fast and smooth gaming performance. The laptop also includes a 144Hz display, which provides a smooth and immersive gaming experience.

In Terms of Price

In terms of price, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM is competitive with other gaming laptops on the market. While it may not be the cheapest option available, it offers a great balance of features and performance for the price.

Some Potential Drawbacks

Some potential drawbacks of the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM include the average battery life and the loud fan noise when the laptop is under heavy load. However, these issues are common among gaming laptops and are not unique to this particular model.

Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM is a great choice for gamers who want a well-designed and high-performance laptop at a competitive price point.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Sleek and modern design
• Sturdy build quality
• Fast and smooth gaming performance
• 144Hz display provides a smooth and immersive gaming experience
• Comfortable and responsive keyboard
• Accurate and easy-to-use touchpad
• Wide selection of ports and connectivity options
• Competitive price point

Cons:

• Average battery life
• Loud fan noise under heavy load
• Limited storage options, with only one M.2 SSD slot
• No Thunderbolt 3 port
• Bulky and heavy, making it less portable than some other gaming laptops

Overclocking and Thermals

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM has some overclocking capabilities, allowing you to push the performance of the CPU and GPU beyond their stock settings. This can provide a noticeable boost in performance for gaming and other intensive tasks.

However, it's important to note that overclocking can increase the heat generated by the laptop, which can have an impact on its thermals. To mitigate this, the laptop includes a variety of cooling features, such as dual fans and an anti-dust cooling system. These features help to keep the laptop cool under heavy load and prevent thermal throttling.

When overclocking, it's important to monitor the temperatures of the CPU and GPU to ensure that they stay within safe levels. The ROG Gaming Center software includes built-in temperature monitoring and control features, which allow you to adjust fan speeds and power settings to optimize thermals and performance.

Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM has some overclocking capabilities and solid cooling features, making it a good choice for gamers who want to push the limits of their hardware. However, it's important to use caution when overclocking and to monitor temperatures to prevent damage to the laptop.

Upgradability and Maintenance

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM is designed to be relatively easy to upgrade and maintain. The laptop includes a single M.2 SSD slot and a single 2.5-inch drive bay, which allows for storage upgrades. Additionally, the laptop includes two DDR4 SO-DIMM slots, which allows for RAM upgrades.

To access the internals of the laptop, you'll need to remove the bottom panel, which is secured by a series of screws. Once inside, you'll have access to the storage, RAM, and other internal components.

In terms of maintenance, the laptop includes an anti-dust cooling system, which helps to prevent the buildup of dust and debris inside the laptop. This can help to extend the lifespan of the internal components and prevent thermal issues.

Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM is designed to be relatively easy to upgrade and maintain, which makes it a good choice for users who want to customize and optimize their hardware over time. However, it's important to use caution when making upgrades, and to follow proper maintenance procedures to ensure the longevity and performance of the laptop.

Software and User Interface

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM comes with a pre-installed software suite called the ROG Gaming Center, which provides a central hub for controlling various aspects of the laptop's performance and customization.

The Gaming Center allows you to monitor system information such as CPU and GPU temperatures, as well as control fan speeds and power settings. It also provides access to several performance modes, including Silent, Balanced, and Turbo, which optimize the laptop's performance for different usage scenarios.

In addition to the Gaming Center, the laptop includes several other ASUS-branded software programs, such as the ASUS Live Update utility, which keeps your laptop up-to-date with the latest software and firmware updates.

The laptop runs on the Windows 10 operating system, which provides a user-friendly interface for accessing all of your files and programs. The laptop includes a variety of pre-installed apps and programs, such as Microsoft Office and the Microsoft Edge web browser.

Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM provides a solid software and user interface experience, with the Gaming Center offering a central hub for controlling the laptop's performance and customization. The Windows 10 operating system provides a familiar and user-friendly interface for accessing all of your files and programs.

Unboxing and Packaging

When you receive the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM, it comes in a large and sturdy box that's designed to protect the laptop during shipping. The box features the ASUS and ROG logos, as well as a picture of the laptop and its main features.

Inside the box, you'll find the laptop itself, along with the power adapter, a quick start guide, and other documentation. The laptop is secured in place by foam inserts, which help to prevent it from shifting during shipping and getting damaged.

The power adapter is a compact and lightweight brick-style charger, with a detachable power cable that plugs into the laptop. The quick start guide provides basic instructions for setting up the laptop and getting started.

Overall, the unboxing and packaging of the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM is a straightforward and easy process, with the laptop and accessories arriving safely and securely packaged.

Warranty and Customer Support 

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM comes with a one-year limited warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty can be extended for an additional fee, depending on your region and the specific terms of your purchase.

In terms of customer support, ASUS provides a variety of resources for users who need assistance with their laptop. This includes an online support center with FAQs, driver downloads, and user manuals, as well as a community forum where users can ask questions and share advice.

ASUS also provides phone and email support, with representatives available to assist you with technical issues or warranty claims. Additionally, the company offers an optional ASUS Premium Care service, which provides additional coverage and support beyond the standard warranty.

Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM provides a solid warranty and customer support experience, with a variety of resources and options available to help you troubleshoot issues and get the most out of your laptop.

Accessories and Add-Ons

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM comes with a power adapter and a quick start guide, but there are several accessories and add-ons that can enhance your gaming experience with this laptop.

One popular accessory is an external gaming mouse, which can provide more precise control and additional customization options compared to the laptop's built-in touchpad. ASUS offers several gaming mice in its ROG line that are designed to complement the Strix Scar II GL704GM.

Another popular accessory is an external monitor, which can provide a larger and more immersive display for gaming or productivity tasks. The Strix Scar II GL704GM features an HDMI output, which can be used to connect to an external monitor.

Other accessories that can enhance your gaming experience include a gaming headset, a gaming keyboard, and a cooling pad or stand. ASUS offers a variety of accessories in its ROG line that are designed to complement the Strix Scar II GL704GM and provide additional features and functionality.

Overall, while the ASUS ROG Strix Scar II GL704GM comes with everything you need to get started, there are several accessories and add-ons available that can enhance your gaming experience and provide additional customization options.