Razer Blade 15 2018 H2: The Ultimate Gaming Laptop Experience
The Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 is a gaming laptop that has garnered attention for its combination of high performance, sleek design, and portability. This article delves deep into the various aspects of the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2, exploring its specifications, performance, and why it remains a favorite among gamers and professionals alike. By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of what makes this laptop stand out in the crowded market of gaming laptops.
Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 Specs
The specifications of the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 are what set it apart as a powerhouse in the gaming world. Here’s a breakdown of the key specs:
- Processor: Intel Core i7-8750H (2.20 GHz)
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Max-Q
- RAM: 16 GB DDR4
- Storage: 256 GB SSD (Upgradeable up to 2 TB)
- Display: 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) with a 60Hz refresh rate
- Battery Life: Approximately 4.9 hours under normal usage
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Weight: 2.1 kg
- Dimensions: 0.78 inches thick
Processor and GPU
The Intel Core i7-8750H is a 6-core processor that delivers excellent performance for gaming and multitasking. Paired with the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Max-Q GPU, the laptop is capable of running most modern games at medium to high settings, providing a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience. The combination of these components ensures that the laptop is not only powerful but also energy-efficient, which is crucial for maintaining battery life during gaming sessions.
Display and Resolution
The Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 features a 15.6-inch Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The display is bright and vibrant, offering excellent color accuracy and contrast. However, the 60Hz refresh rate may not be sufficient for gamers who prefer higher frame rates, especially in fast-paced games like first-person shooters. Despite this, the display remains one of the laptop’s strong points, particularly for those who also use their laptop for content creation or media consumption.
Memory and Storage
With 16 GB of DDR4 RAM, the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 is well-equipped for multitasking and running memory-intensive applications. The RAM is user-upgradeable, allowing for an upgrade to 32 GB if needed. The base model comes with a 256 GB SSD, which, while fast, may be insufficient for gamers with large game libraries. Fortunately, the storage is upgradeable up to 2 TB, providing ample space for all your games, applications, and media files.
Design and Build Quality
One of the standout features of the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 is its design. The laptop sports a sleek, matte black aluminum chassis that is both durable and eye-catching. At just 0.78 inches thick, it is one of the thinnest gaming laptops on the market, making it incredibly portable for a device of its caliber. The build quality is top-notch, with a sturdy feel that reassures users of its durability over time.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The keyboard on the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 is another highlight, featuring Razer’s Chroma RGB backlighting, which allows users to customize the lighting with a range of colors and effects. The keys are well-spaced and provide a comfortable typing experience, though they may be a bit slippery for some users. The trackpad is responsive and precise, making it a pleasure to use for both gaming and general tasks.
Connectivity and Ports
The Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 offers a decent range of connectivity options. It includes three USB 3.1 ports, an HDMI 2.0 port, a Mini DisplayPort, and a Thunderbolt 3 port. The Thunderbolt 3 port is particularly versatile, allowing for high-speed data transfer and the connection of external GPUs or docking stations. However, the laptop lacks an Ethernet port and an SD card reader, which may be a drawback for some users.
Performance in Real-World Scenarios
Gaming Performance
In real-world gaming scenarios, the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 performs admirably. The combination of the i7-8750H processor and GTX 1060 Max-Q GPU ensures smooth gameplay in most modern titles. Games like The Witcher 3 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider run well at medium to high settings, though more demanding titles may require some graphical settings to be dialed down to maintain a stable frame rate.
Content Creation
For content creators, the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 offers a powerful platform for video editing, 3D rendering, and graphic design. The vibrant display with 100% sRGB color gamut ensures accurate color representation, which is essential for creative work. The laptop handles software like Adobe Premiere Pro and Blender with ease, making it a versatile tool for professionals who need both gaming and content creation capabilities.
Battery Life
Battery life is one area where the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 falls short. Under normal usage, such as web browsing and light productivity tasks, the laptop can last around 4.9 hours. However, during gaming or other resource-intensive activities, the battery life drops significantly, often requiring the laptop to be plugged in for extended sessions. This is a common drawback among gaming laptops, but it is something to be mindful of if you plan to use the laptop on the go.
Razer Blade 15 H2 2018: A Closer Look
The Razer Blade 15 H2 2018 is essentially the same model as the 2018 H2, but with slight variations in configurations depending on the region or specific model variant. Some versions may come with different storage options or minor adjustments in design, but the core specifications remain consistent.
Thermal Performance
The thermal performance of the Razer Blade 15 H2 2018 is commendable, especially considering its slim profile. The laptop is equipped with an advanced cooling system that includes a vapor chamber and dual fans. While the laptop can get warm under heavy loads, the cooling system does an adequate job of preventing thermal throttling, allowing the CPU and GPU to maintain consistent performance.
Audio Quality
The audio quality of the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 is decent, though not exceptional. The built-in speakers provide clear sound with good mids and highs, but the bass is somewhat lacking. For an enhanced audio experience, especially during gaming, it is recommended to use external speakers or high-quality headphones.
Portability
Weighing in at just 2.1 kg, the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 is relatively lightweight for a gaming laptop. Its slim design and solid build make it easy to carry around, whether you’re heading to a LAN party or simply moving from room to room. This portability, combined with its powerful specs, makes the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 an excellent choice for gamers and professionals who need a device that can perform well both at home and on the go.
Conclusion
The Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 is a gaming laptop that offers a compelling blend of power, portability, and style. While it may not be the most affordable option on the market, its high-end specifications and sleek design justify the price for those who need a capable machine for gaming, content creation, or both. The laptop’s primary drawbacks are its relatively short battery life and the 60Hz display, which may not satisfy the most demanding gamers. However, for most users, the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 remains a top-tier choice that delivers exceptional performance in a compact, stylish package.
Whether you’re a gamer, a content creator, or someone who simply appreciates high-quality tech, the Razer Blade 15 2018 H2 is a laptop that deserves serious consideration. With its impressive specs and solid build quality, it continues to be a relevant and competitive option even years after its release.
