ASUS TUF Gaming F17 FX706LI-ES53 17.3-inch Laptop: specs explained

The ASUS TUF Gaming F17 FX706LI-ES53 is a 17.3-inch Windows gaming laptop built around an Intel Core i5-10300H processor and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti graphics chip. It's from ASUS' TUF line, which stresses durability, and it comes in a Bonfire Black finish.

Processor and memory

The Intel Core i5-10300H is a quad-core processor with 8MB of cache and boost speeds up to 4.5 GHz, as listed. Four cores with multi-threading typically handle games, browsing and everyday multitasking. The laptop has 8GB of DDR4 memory running at 2933MHz. That is adequate for many games and general use, though heavier multitasking or large projects can benefit from more, so check the manual about whether the memory can be upgraded.

Graphics

The GeForce GTX 1650 Ti has 4GB of GDDR6 memory, running up to 1585MHz at 80W TGP, ASUS says. TGP (total graphics power) is the power allowance for the graphics chip, and a higher figure typically allows higher sustained performance. This chip is an entry-level gaming GPU. It suits 1080p gaming at moderate settings in many titles, and it doesn't include hardware ray tracing.

A 144Hz Full HD display

The screen is 17.3 inches, Full HD (1920 x 1080), IPS-type, with a 16:9 aspect ratio and a 144Hz refresh rate. A 144Hz panel redraws the picture 144 times a second, against 60 for a typical screen, which usually looks smoother in fast games if the graphics hardware can produce enough frames. A narrow bezel keeps the body from growing too large around the large screen.

Storage

A 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD holds the system and games. NVMe drives typically load and boot much faster than hard disks. With modern game sizes, 512GB fills up faster than you might expect, so check the manual for additional storage options.

Build, cooling and keyboard

ASUS says the chassis meets the MIL-STD-810H military standard for durability, which refers to a set of environmental and shock tests; it doesn't make the laptop indestructible. ASUS also describes a patented Anti-Dust Cooling system that aims to extend the machine's lifespan, and a backlit RGB gaming keyboard rated at 20 million keystrokes. The listing gives the dimensions as 15.7 x 10.6 x 1.0 inches and the weight as 5.7 lb (about 2.6 kg).

Wi-Fi and software

The laptop supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax). It comes with Windows 10 Home, and ASUS says it's eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11 when available; check ASUS' site for eligibility details.

Who it suits

It suits students and casual gamers who want a larger screen for 1080p games, schoolwork and media. Its portability is limited by the size and weight, so it works best as a mostly desk-based machine.

What to check before you buy

• Memory and storage: confirm whether 8GB and 512GB meet your needs, and what upgrades the manual allows.
• Games you play: compare their requirements with the GTX 1650 Ti.
• Battery and charger: check the battery size and the charger weight if you'll travel.
• Operating system: check the Windows version in the box and the upgrade steps.
• Ports: confirm that the ports match your monitor, headset and accessories.
• Size: 17.3 inches needs a larger bag and desk space.

The short version

• A 17.3-inch gaming laptop with a 144Hz Full HD IPS-type display.
• Intel Core i5-10300H, GeForce GTX 1650 Ti 4GB, 8GB DDR4 and a 512GB NVMe SSD.
• MIL-STD-810H construction, Anti-Dust Cooling, RGB keyboard and Wi-Fi 6.
• Windows 10 Home; 5.7 lb.

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