Razer recently introduced its popular Blade 15 with the latest GPU generation and powerful displays. However, the professional model of the slim gaming notebook is also supposed to get Intel’s latest CPU in its mid-2021 generation. Thus, the brand-new processors find their way into the case, which were manufactured in the 10 nm process.
Whoever has the choice …
…is spoiled for choice. Because with the new professional models, the range of available equipment variants has been expanded once again. The powerful machine is now available in six different basic features. You don’t just have to choose between two different processors.
In addition, three different GPUs and three different displays are part of the construction kit. If you want uncompromising technology, you can go for the top model. It comes with an Intel Core i9, a GeForce RTX 3080 from Nvidia, and an OLED panel with UHD resolution. The total package costs a proud 3,699.99 Euros.
New Intel CPU with up to 8 cores
Razer has already increased the Blade 15’s graphics power with its models from earlier this year. And it’s a decent one at that. The US gaming experts gave their compact gaming beast the brand-new Ampere series from Nvidia. The RTX 3060, RTX 3070 or RTX 3080 have been installed in the notebook since the update. The same options remain in the Mid 2021 model. Only the new available processors change in the small update.
So now you can opt for the latest Intel Tiger Lake-H45 CPUs. If you take a look at the cores of the latest generation, they don’t come across much stronger at first. Thus, the maximum is once again eight cores. Nevertheless, both the Core i9-11900H and the Core i9-11980HK should be able to deliver a better performance due to their special architecture. If you decide against the top model, you can also have the mid-2021 model equipped with a Core i7.
A lot of RAM
Those who opt for the Blade 15’s basic configuration will already get 16 GB of RAM with 3,200 MHz. If, on the other hand, you want to provide maximum support for the CPU, up to 32 GB of RAM is possible. However, we already know this from the Early 2021 model. Nothing has changed in terms of looks, either. Thus, the Blade 15 comes across just as slim in its Mid 2021 model as in the model from the beginning of the year. The height of the notebook is related to the choice of GPU. Those who opt for the RTX 3060 will get a case with a thickness of 16 mm.
When equipped with the RTX 3070 or RTX 3080, the notebook measures 17 mm. There are also no savings in terms of ports. Besides 2x Thunderbolt 4, 3x USB-A (3.2 Gen 2), 1x USB-C (3.2 Gen 2), 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5 mm jack and an SD card reader are on board. In its latest version, Razer also focuses on maximum connection speed and stability for wireless connections. Thus, the Blade 15 in the professional model has an integrated WLAN module that can even communicate with the latest WiFi 6E networks.
Perfectly sharp display
Looking at the storage space, not much has changed either. The Blade 15 has two PCIe slots, each reserved for an M.2 SSD. An SSD with 1 TB is installed in one of the slots ex-works. More storage space is not available ex-works and can only be created by the user. You also look in vain for innovations in the displays. Thus, you have the choice between a high resolution (QHD with 240 Hz) or a fast refresh rate (Full HD with 360 Hz). While the QHD model covers the DCI-P3 color space to 100 percent, the 360 Hz model covers the sRGB color space to 100 percent.
Should you opt for the display with QHD resolution, you will benefit from a big advantage. Namely, G-Sync and Optimus Advanced are on board here. This means that this model can turn off the GPU while idle despite G-Sync being enabled. This is especially useful for simple applications like office work or WWW browsing. Those who do not want to do without high-contrast OLEDs will have to go for the TOP model. This also offers a UHD resolution, but “only” reaches 60 Hz due to the panel.
Prices and availability
Pre-ordering the new professional models is now possible via Razer’s official website. The delivery is supposed to start as early as June. But don’t worry: If your wallet isn’t too bulging, you can still fall back on the “old” models.
