Asus ROG Strix GL553VD-DS71 Review: Still Relevant in 2024?

The Asus ROG Strix GL553VD-DS71, released several years ago, represents a specific point in the evolution of gaming laptops. It aimed to provide a powerful gaming experience at a relatively competitive price point. This review will delve into its performance, design, and overall value proposition to help you determine if it’s still a viable option in today’s market, or a relic of the past. We will explore its strengths and weaknesses with an unbiased approach, considering its age and the advancements in gaming technology since its launch.

Design and Build Quality

The GL553VD-DS71 boasts a design that is typical of its era. It’s a relatively bulky laptop, reflecting the limitations of cooling technology at the time. The chassis is predominantly plastic, contributing to its weight. While not as premium as some modern gaming laptops, the build quality is sturdy enough for regular use. The keyboard, though not mechanical, provides a decent typing experience. The trackpad is functional but not particularly impressive. The overall aesthetic leans towards a more aggressive, gamer-oriented design with its angular lines and dark color scheme. However, it lacks the subtle sophistication found in newer models. The hinges are reasonably robust, preventing the screen from wobbling excessively.

Performance and Specifications

The heart of the GL553VD-DS71 typically includes an Intel Core i7 processor (the specific generation varies depending on the exact configuration) and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 Ti graphics card. This combination offered solid performance for its time, capable of running many popular games at respectable settings. However, it’s crucial to remember that this hardware is now significantly outdated. Modern games, especially at higher resolutions and settings, will struggle to maintain smooth frame rates. RAM configurations typically range from 8GB to 16GB, and storage options often include a combination of HDD and SSD, though some models may have solely an SSD. The performance is adequate for less demanding tasks like web browsing and video editing, but its gaming prowess is limited by the age of its components.

Benchmarking and Gaming Performance

Independent benchmarks from its release date show that the GL553VD-DS71 could handle many AAA titles at medium to high settings at 1080p resolution. However, today, those same games might require significant compromises in graphical fidelity to achieve playable frame rates. More demanding modern titles will likely struggle to maintain a smooth 60fps, even at low settings. The GTX 1050 Ti, while a capable card in its day, is simply not up to the standards of current-generation GPUs. Upgrading the GPU is not feasible, as it’s soldered directly to the motherboard.

Display and Audio

The GL553VD-DS71 typically features a 15.6-inch display with a Full HD (1920×1080) resolution. The panel’s quality is average for its time; color accuracy and contrast are not exceptional, and viewing angles are somewhat limited. While sufficient for casual gaming and media consumption, it does not compare favorably to modern IPS panels with superior color reproduction and wider viewing angles. The audio is equally unremarkable, lacking the depth and clarity of high-quality laptop speakers. Expect a thin, tinny sound that is best complemented with headphones or external speakers for an immersive experience.

Connectivity and Ports

In terms of connectivity, the GL553VD-DS71 offers a decent selection of ports. This typically includes multiple USB 3.0 ports, USB 2.0 ports, an HDMI port, an Ethernet port, and a headphone jack. The inclusion of an Ethernet port is beneficial for users who prefer a wired internet connection, offering greater stability than Wi-Fi. The placement of the ports is generally convenient, though the density of ports on one side might cause some cable management challenges. Wireless connectivity relies on the older 802.11ac standard, which is less efficient than newer Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor for any laptop, and the GL553VD-DS71’s performance in this area is mixed. Under light usage, such as web browsing or document editing, it can offer a few hours of battery life. However, under heavier loads, like gaming, the battery drains rapidly. Expect to need to keep the laptop plugged in for extended gaming sessions. The battery’s capacity is relatively modest compared to newer laptops with more efficient components and larger batteries. This is a significant limitation for users who prioritize portability and unplugged use.

Thermals and Noise

Gaming laptops generate heat, and the GL553VD-DS71 is no exception. Under heavy loads, such as intensive gaming, the chassis can become quite hot, particularly around the keyboard area. The cooling system, while functional, is not particularly silent. Expect noticeable fan noise during demanding tasks. This can be distracting during quieter gaming sessions or while working in a quiet environment. The loud fan noise is a consequence of the older cooling technologies used in the laptop’s design. It’s a trade-off between performance and noise levels.

Software and Upgradability

The GL553VD-DS71 usually ships with Windows 10 pre-installed. However, upgrading to a newer operating system is possible, though this requires ensuring compatibility with the older hardware. Upgradability is quite limited. RAM is usually upgradeable, and in some configurations, the storage drive can be replaced. However, the GPU is soldered onto the motherboard, meaning it’s not possible to upgrade the graphics card. This severely restricts the longevity of the machine’s gaming capabilities.

Overall Value and Conclusion

The Asus ROG Strix GL553VD-DS71, viewed in the context of its release date, offered a respectable gaming experience for its price. However, in today’s market, its age shows. The components are outdated, resulting in limited gaming performance compared to modern laptops. The build quality is adequate but not exceptional, and the display and audio are average at best. While it might still suffice for less demanding tasks, its gaming capabilities are severely hampered by its aging hardware. Therefore, unless you can acquire it at a significantly reduced price, investing in a more modern gaming laptop would likely be a wiser decision. Consider its limitations carefully before purchasing.

• Pros: Relatively affordable (used), decent build quality for its age, sufficient connectivity.
• Cons: Outdated components, limited upgradability, noisy fans, average display and audio.

• Outdated GPU limits gaming performance significantly.
• Battery life is short, especially under load.
• Chassis can get hot during intensive usage.
• The overall design is bulky and not as sleek as modern laptops.
• Software updates are limited by the age of the hardware.