ASUS TUF Dash 15 (2021) Gaming Laptop TUF516PE: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS TUF Dash 15 (2021), model TUF516PE-AB73, is a 15.6-inch gaming laptop in a slim chassis. It combines an 11th-generation Intel Core i7 processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti graphics chip in a body only 0.8 inches (about 20 mm) thick and 4.4 lb (2 kg), so it can serve as both a games machine and a portable everyday computer.

Processor and memory

The processor is the Intel Core i7-11370H, with a 12MB cache and a boost speed of up to 4.8GHz. Boost speed is the maximum a core can reach for short periods; sustained speed depends on cooling and power settings. The laptop has 8GB of DDR4 RAM, which is enough for many games and everyday multitasking, though people who edit video or keep many applications open often prefer more. Check the manual for whether the memory can be upgraded.

Graphics

ASUS lists an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti with 4GB of GDDR6 memory, running up to 1585MHz at 60W, or 75W with Dynamic Boost 2.0. Dynamic Boost shifts power between the processor and graphics chip depending on which one a game is stressing. A graphics chip with a 4GB memory pool is typically aimed at 1080p gaming at sensible settings, and the Full HD screen fits that.

Display

The screen is a 15.6-inch IPS-type Full HD (1920 x 1080) panel with adaptive sync and a 144Hz refresh rate. Refresh rate is how often the image redraws each second; 144Hz is smoother than the 60Hz found on many ordinary laptops, especially for fast games. Adaptive sync lets the screen match the graphics chip's frame rate to reduce tearing. The product description also mentions a 240Hz option, which applies to other configurations; this model is listed at 144Hz.

Storage, keyboard and connectivity

Storage is a 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 solid-state drive, which typically loads games and the operating system far faster than a hard disk. The keyboard is backlit, and ASUS calls it a precision gaming keyboard. Wireless networking is Wi-Fi 6, which works best with a Wi-Fi 6 router.

The laptop ships with Windows 10 Home and, per ASUS, an upgrade to Windows 11 when eligible devices become available; ASUS points to its own website for details.

Build and battery

ASUS says the TUF chassis meets MIL-STD durability standards, meant to resist everyday knocks and bumps. The product description quotes up to 16.6 hours of battery life. Manufacturer battery figures come from specific test conditions, and gaming drains a battery much more quickly, so expect plugged-in use for demanding games.

Who it suits

This laptop is for students and young professionals who want one machine for study, work and gaming, and who value a thinner, lighter body over the biggest gaming specifications. It is a 2021 model, so it uses the generation of components of that year.

What to check before you buy

• Whether 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage will cover your games and files, and whether you can add more.
• Which games you plan to play and whether a 4GB graphics chip handles them at the settings you want.
• Which ports you need (check the manual), and whether your headset and accessories will connect.
• That you're comfortable with the operating system version shipped and the upgrade conditions.
• The charger's size and weight, if you plan to carry it every day.
• Fan noise under load, which varies from laptop to laptop.

The short version

• 15.6-inch Full HD IPS-type screen at 144Hz with adaptive sync.
• Intel Core i7-11370H and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti (4GB GDDR6).
• 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD.
• Slim at 0.8 inches and 4.4 lb, with a backlit keyboard and Wi-Fi 6.
• A 2021 model with Windows 10 Home.

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