ASUS TUF Gaming F16 Review: ASUS launched a new laptop in its TUF Gaming lineup last month, the TUF Gaming F16. This is an updated version of last year’s FX607VU model, with mostly the same design and hardware, but a reduced price with cheaper internals. The 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13620H is now replaced by the Intel Core 5 210H, which comes with NVIDIA RTX 3050A and DDR4 memory. After launch, the price has come down from Rs 80,990 to Rs 76,990, making it a good option for budget gamers. But is it value for money? Let’s find out! Key
ASUS TUF Gaming F16: Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core 5 210H (8 cores, 12 threads, up to 4.8GHz)
- Display: 16-inch FHD+ (1920×1200) IPS, 144Hz, 300 nits
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 3200MHz
- Storage: 512GB PCIe Gen 4 SSD
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3050A (4GB)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3
- Ports: USB-C (DP+PD), 2x USB-A, HDMI 2.1, audio jack, RJ45
- Battery: 56Whr, 150W charger
- Weight: 2.2kg
Design and Display
The chassis of the TUF F16 is sturdy and decent for a 16-inch laptop at 2.2kg. The ‘Mecha Grey’ finish is simple, but doesn’t catch fingerprints. The lid has the TUF logo and small triangles in the design. It passes MIL-STD-810H standards, meaning it’s vibration, temperature and shock resistant. The keyboard deck and lid don’t flex, and the hinge is sturdy – opens with one hand. There are LED indicators in the X pattern on the back.
The 16:10 display has thin bezels and a 144Hz refresh rate. The 300 nits of brightness is good for indoor use, and the matte finish reduces reflections. Colour and contrast are average, but games like Valorant and Apex Legends received a good response.
The keyboard has single-zone RGB lighting, translucent WASD keys and a numpad. The key travel is decent, but lacks tactile feel. The trackpad is smooth and supports Windows gestures.
Ports, audio and connectivity
Ports include USB-C (10Gbps, DP+100W PD), 2x USB-A, HDMI 2.1, audio jack and LAN. There is no Thunderbolt 4. Connectivity is good with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3. The dual speakers are loud, but lack depth and clarity. There is Dolby Atmos and AI noise cancellation. The 720p webcam works well only in good light.
Performance
Intel Core 5 210H (45W TDP) and RTX 3050A (4GB VRAM) are its strengths. There is 16GB DDR4 memory, but DDR5 would have been better. In benchmarks:
Cinebench R23: 10,966 (multi), 1,754 (single)
3DMark Time Spy: 5,887
Night Raid: 41,652
In gaming, I got 225 FPS in Valorant, but only 34 FPS on Ultra Ray Tracing in Cyberpunk 2077. Great for light games, but weak in heavy games.
The SSD speed is 4,200MBps (read) and 2,800MBps (write), and there is also a second M.2 slot. In thermals, the CPU reached 90°C and the GPU reached 85°C, but it does not get that hot in daily use. You can control performance modes and RGB from Armoury Crate.
Battery
The 56Whr battery gave me just 2 hours of backup. Charging is supported by a 150W charger and USB-C (100W), but not enough for gaming. The PCMark 10 test lasted 4 hours and 34 minutes, which is disappointing.
Verdict
The TUF F16 is fine for budget gamers. Good for everyday work, streaming and light games, but the GPU and DDR4 memory hold it back. The Acer Nitro V and ASUS Gaming V16 are better packages. The price is decent at Rs 76,990, but the value seems a bit low.
Ratings: 6.5/10
Likes:
- Sturdy build
- Dual M.2 slots
- Serviceability
Dislikes:
- Weak GPU
- DDR4 memory
What do you think? Comment Now!
Also Read:
Mivi SuperPods Concerto Review: Powerful in features and bass, but lacking in performance
Motorola Razr 60 Ultra: Leaked promo material reveals processor and colors
Honor 400 Lite: New smartphone launched with 108MP camera and MediaTek Dimensity 7025-Ultra
