Acer has unveiled two new gaming laptops under its Predator Helios Neo series, the Predator Helios Neo 16 AI and Predator Helios Neo 18 AI. These devices come with powerful processors, high-end graphics, and fast displays, promising an exceptional gaming experience. Packed with Intel’s latest processors and Nvidia’s cutting-edge graphics cards, the new laptops are built to handle demanding gaming and creative workloads.
The Predator Helios Neo 16 AI is priced starting at $1,899.99 (around Rs. 1,66,400) or EUR 1,699 (approximately Rs. 1,54,300). It will be available for sale in North America from April, and in EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) regions starting May.
The Predator Helios Neo 18 AI will cost $2,199.99 (roughly Rs. 1,92,700) or EUR 1,799 (about Rs. 1,63,400). It will launch in North America in May and in EMEA in June. While Acer has confirmed the timeline for many regions, the exact launch details for India are yet to be revealed.
Display and Performance Features
Both models offer stunning display options, ensuring a top-notch gaming experience. The Helios Neo 16 AI is available with either an OLED or IPS panel, featuring a WQXGA (2560×1600) resolution. The display supports up to 240Hz refresh rates, delivering smooth visuals, and a peak brightness level of 500 nits for vibrant colors. This makes it ideal for both gaming and content creation.
On the other hand, the Helios Neo 18 AI sports an 18-inch mini-LED display, also with WQXGA (2560×1600) resolution. It offers a 250Hz refresh rate, which is perfect for fast-paced gaming. You can also opt for a LED version, which comes with a 240Hz refresh rate and 500 nits brightness. Both screens are designed to provide users with excellent clarity, vibrant colors, and responsive gameplay.
Performance Under the Hood
The Helios Neo series features Intel’s Core Ultra 9 275HX and Core Ultra 7 255HX processors, along with Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5070 Ti or RTX 5070 GPUs. This combination of high-end hardware ensures that the laptops can handle AAA games and intensive workloads effortlessly.
With up to 64GB DDR5 RAM and 2TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage, both devices offer plenty of space and memory for smooth multitasking and faster loading times. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or creating, these laptops provide the performance you need.
Both models are equipped with the latest 5th Gen AeroBlade 3D fans. These fans, combined with liquid metal thermal grease and vector heat pipes, are designed to keep the laptops cool during extended gaming sessions. The advanced cooling system ensures that your system runs efficiently, even under heavy workloads, helping to prevent overheating.
The Predator Helios Neo 16 AI and 18 AI come with several standout features. One of the most exciting additions is Copilot, which assists in optimizing performance for various applications. Additionally, the Experience Zone 2.0 provides useful tools such as Acer PurifiedView 2.0, PurifiedVoice 2.0, and ProCam. These features enhance your overall experience, whether you’re gaming, video conferencing, or multitasking.
Moreover, these laptops come pre-installed with the PredatorSense 5.0 utility app, offering easy access to system control and optimization. To add value, Acer includes a 3-month free subscription to PC Xbox Game Pass, giving users access to a wide range of games.
Both laptops pack 90Wh batteries, offering decent battery life for gaming laptops. However, you’ll want to keep them plugged in for long gaming sessions to make the most of their power.
For audio, they feature DTS:X Ultra-backed dual speakers, ensuring a high-quality sound experience. The built-in full-HD IR webcams make them perfect for online meetings, streaming, and content creation.
When it comes to connectivity, the laptops support Wi-Fi 6E, Intel Killer Ethernet, and Bluetooth 5.3 or higher, ensuring stable internet connections for lag-free gaming. You’ll also find a range of ports, including Thunderbolt 4 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, dual USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, HDMI 2.1, microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm combo audio jack.
The Predator Helios Neo 16 AI measures 356.78 x 275.5 x 26.75mm and weighs 2.7kg. The Predator Helios Neo 18 AI is larger, measuring 400.96 x 307.9 x 28mm and weighs 3.3kg. Despite the large screens, both laptops have a sleek design, providing a balance between portability and performance.
Acer’s new Predator Helios Neo 16 AI and Neo 18 AI are powerful, high-performance laptops aimed at gamers and creators who demand the best. With impressive hardware specs, excellent displays, advanced cooling, and great connectivity options, these gaming laptops are designed to deliver an immersive experience. Though they may be on the pricier side, their features, performance, and cooling systems justify the cost for serious gamers and professionals.
If you’re in North America or EMEA, mark your calendars for April and May for the launch. Indian users, however, will need to stay tuned for any updates regarding availability.