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Gaming laptop with Ryzen 5, RTX 2050 GPU and 144Hz: HP Victus 15.6’ Review (2024)
Introduction
I’ve been searching for a gaming laptop that doesn’t cost a fortune but still delivers on performance. The HP Victus 15.6” Gaming Laptop has been quite worth it so far - more on this below.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | HP | Model Name | HP Victus |
| Screen Size | 15.6 Inches | Color | Mica Silver |
| Hard Disk Size | 512 GB | CPU Model | Ryzen 5 |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 16 GB | Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Special Feature | 144Hz Refresh Rate, Backlit Keyboard | Graphics Card Description | GeForce RTX 2050 |
Photos
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Prices
Check prices of the HP Victus 15.6’ Gaming Laptop Bundle on:
Performance & Gaming Prowess
When it comes to gaming laptops, performance is a critical factor, and with the HP Victus, I’m glad to say that it can hold its own in the current market. I’ve had my eyes on multiple gaming rigs, but this laptop caught my attention with its upgraded configuration—a substantial 16GB of DDR5 RAM coupled with a 512GB SSD, ensuring that load times are a thing of the past and multitasking is as smooth as butter.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what I’ve experienced with this machine:
The Good:
The AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS processor is a solid mid-ranger, comfortably handling most modern games without a hiccup.
A 144Hz refresh rate on the FHD display makes gameplay incredibly smooth, and with Nvidia’s RTX 2050 GPU, I’ve got the dedicated power to turn visual settings up high without worrying about frame drops.
I really appreciate the non-gaming perks like the backlit keyboard—perfect for late-night sessions—and the inclusion of an ample port selection, offering flexibility in peripherals.
It also came with a 64GB USB flash drive, which is a nice little bonus for extra storage.
The Not-So-Good:
Though not a dealbreaker, the absence of a fingerprint reader is a bit disappointing considering the other modern features this laptop packs.
I noticed the weight is somewhat on the heavier side—over 5 lbs—so it’s not the most portable option out there.
While gaming, the laptop performs admirably. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 graphics card is a game-changer, delivering detailed and vibrant visuals. It might not be the top of the line, but for this price point, it punches above its weight. And with adaptive sync, screen tearing is a non-issue. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Apex Legends ran smoothly, which is saying something given their demanding nature.
However, no product is without its downsides. The absence of a fingerprint reader means security relies on traditional passwords or PINs, which is somewhat behind the times for tech in this price range. The 5.06 lbs weight can also be a bit cumbersome for those who are constantly on the move.
But, when it’s all said and done, these drawbacks are minor when weighed against the laptop’s overall capabilities. Running on Windows 11 Home, I find myself with the latest operating system that supports all new software updates, and experiences are generally seamless.
I’ve also appreciated the understated look of the Mica Silver color—it doesn’t scream “gaming laptop” when I’m in more professional settings.
While there are many options on the market, the HP Victus 15.6’ gaming laptop offers a balance of performance and aesthetic that could easily please both gamers and casual users alike, especially considering the competitive edge it has over similar configurations from other brands. If you’re looking for a solid gaming laptop that won’t break the bank, this might fit the bill.
Design & Build Quality
I recently got my hands on the HP Victus 15.6” Gaming Laptop, and I must say, the design and build quality has left me quite impressed, with a few caveats. Here’s my take on what works and what doesn’t:
Pros:
Sleek mica silver finish that stands out.
Sturdy construction that feels durable for the long haul.
Minimal flex on the keyboard deck with a nifty backlit feature.
Adequate port selection for all my peripherals.
Cons:
A bit on the heavier side, not ideal for frequent travelers.
No fingerprint reader, which is a miss for quick logins.
Starting with the positives, the mica silver color gives the Victus a sophisticated look that doesn’t scream “I’m a gaming laptop,” which is a refreshing change from the usual black and red accents. The body is solid, and I haven’t noticed any significant flex while typing or gaming; this tells me it should hold up well to regular use.
The backlit keyboard is a neat addition that isn’t just for show. It helps me see what I’m typing during late-night gaming sessions and adds to the overall premium feel of the laptop. Plus, the inclusion of a full numeric pad is a welcome feature, especially when jumping between games and Excel sheets.
The variety of ports is another win. I can connect my mouse, external hard drive, and even an Ethernet cable when I need a more stable internet connection for gaming without needing a dongle.
Moving on to the drawbacks, the first thing I noticed was its weight. At over 5 pounds, it’s not the laptop I’d want to lug around often. This is definitely something to keep in mind if you’re a student or a professional always on the move.
Another feature I found lacking is the fingerprint reader — it’s not a deal-breaker, but I’ve become accustomed to the convenience of using one for logging in. In today’s world where quick access is highly valued, this feels like a missed opportunity for efficiency.
In summary, the HP Victus nails several aspects of design and build, which are commendable for a mid-range gaming laptop. The thoughtful aesthetics coupled with its robust structure make it a solid choice for gamers and everyday users alike, provided you can overlook the minor inconveniences related to portability and biometric access. Overall, this laptop balances style and substance, though the scale tips slightly towards style.
Productivity & Multitasking Capabilities
In my time using the HP Victus 15.6’ Gaming Laptop, I’ve found the productivity and multitasking capabilities to be impressive, largely thanks to the well-rounded hardware. Here’s a rundown of what makes it work for me:
16GB DDR5 RAM: Plenty of memory for running multiple applications without a hitch.
512GB SSD: Speedy storage that reduces load times and lets me access files quickly.
AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS Processor: Handles heavy multitasking without slowing down.
15.6” FHD 144Hz Display: Crisp visuals and smooth scrolling, which is great for editing and design work.
The DDR5 RAM is a standout; it makes a noticeable difference in how smoothly I can switch between tasks. Whether I’m juggling spreadsheets, browsing with numerous tabs open, or editing photos, the laptop keeps up without any lag. This is critical for me, particularly on days with heavy workloads.
Moreover, the quick 512GB SSD means not only can I store a hefty amount of data, but it’s also accessible at speeds that don’t leave me waiting. Boot times are incredibly fast, and loading software feels instantaneous, contributing to a more efficient workflow.
While the Victus is branded as a gaming laptop, its AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS Processor gives it the flexibility to be a productivity beast. I’ve edited videos and rendered graphics without any frustrating slowdowns, which I attribute to both the processor and the dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 graphics card.
However, it’s not all perfect. Though the machine is sturdy, its 5.06 lbs weight makes it less ideal for those who need to frequently move around. Plus, the lack of a fingerprint reader means one less layer of convenience and security.
The 15.6” FHD 144Hz Display isn’t just about games; it gives me a smoother experience when scrolling through lengthy documents or when doing precise graphical work. It’s surprisingly beneficial outside of gaming and something I didn’t know I needed until I experienced it.
And while it might seem minor, the inclusion of a 64GB USB flash drive bundle was a nice touch, adding immediate extra value for transferring files on the go. That’s one less accessory to worry about purchasing separately.
I also appreciate the aesthetic; the Mica Silver color is professional and understated, fitting well in an office environment. Plus, the backlit keyboard isn’t just for show – it’s incredibly practical for those late-night work sessions.
In my experience, though, places like Best Buy might offer competitive configurations that can be better priced, especially during sales seasons, so it pays to shop around.
Overall, from a productivity standpoint, the HP Victus is adept at handling a variety of tasks with ease. It strikes a good balance between being a workhorse for professional tasks and a powerhouse for leisure and gaming, even if it’s a bit on the heavier side for a portable laptop.
Value for Money & Conclusion
After putting the HP Victus 15.6” gaming laptop through its paces, I must say, I’ve been caught off guard - this machine brings a lot to the table, especially when considering its price point. The 16GB of DDR5 RAM paired with a responsive 512GB SSD makes multitasking a breeze. Plus, the included 64GB USB flash drive is a nice touch for extra storage on the go.
Here’s a quick rundown of what stood out to me:
Pros:
The AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS processor delivers solid performance.
A crisp 15.6” FHD 144Hz display is a feast for the eyes during gaming sessions.
The dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 graphics card handles modern games well.
Comes bundled with a useful 64GB USB flash drive.
Cons:
While it’s competitively priced, there might be cheaper options available.
No touchscreen or 2-in-1 design may deter some users.
No fingerprint reader for those who prefer biometric security.
Gaming aside, the everyday experience is pretty good. The backlit keyboard with an integrated numeric pad is a godsend for late-night work (or play), and Windows 11 Home is as snappy as you’d hope for on a new machine. However, I can’t help but notice the lack of a fingerprint reader - a feature that is becoming standard on many laptops today.
The color, Mica Silver, is sleek, and the machine has a good range of ports. However, one thing to note is the laptop’s weight; at over 5 pounds, it’s not the lightest, so if you’re planning to move around a lot, this could be a deciding factor. It also lacks some of the bells and whistles like a touch screen or a 2-in-1 design, which, depending on your needs, might be a miss.
Although there are claims that you might find better and cheaper options at stores like Best Buy, I’ve found the value proposition of the HP Victus to be quite compelling. It handles gaming competently, makes a solid work companion, and looks good while doing it. It might not be the absolute best deal out there - sure, sales and discounts elsewhere might offer more bang for your buck - but it certainly holds its ground as a solid middle-of-the-pack choice.
In conclusion, the HP Victus strikes a balance between potent gaming hardware and the pragmatism of an everyday laptop. If you’re on the hunt for a reliable ally in gaming that won’t necessitate a second mortgage, this laptop deserves a spot on your shortlist. While it might not win the race for the flashiest specs or the lowest price, it’s a workhorse that I’ve come to appreciate.