Does Razer Still Have It? - Blade 2018 Review

The video begins with Linus revisiting the Razer Blade line, highlighting how past iterations have oscillated between exciting peaks and disappointing valleys. The 2018 Blade is introduced as a return to form, with a boxier chassis, a stronger aluminum build, and notably thinner bezels that push the design firmly into 2018 territory. Early impressions emphasize the device’s rigidity and the impression that this model can appeal to both gamers and professionals, provided the RGB is kept in check. The video then dives into core hardware: a Core i7-8750H paired with a GTX 1070 Max-Q, which Linus notes trades some clock speed for better thermals, leading to a more stable overall performance in real-world gaming while maintaining reasonable temperatures and noise levels. The testing segment shows how the machine behaves under Ida64 stress, with turbo boosts up to around 4 GHz in gaming scenarios and a cooling solution that sustains GPU temperatures in the low 70s with fans audible but not disruptive. The reviewer then critiques performance modes, suggesting that gaming mode increases power draw and may not provide a net benefit in many titles, and recommends using the standard power profile for everyday use. A key recommendation centers on the 1080p 144 Hz panel option as the best balance between visual smoothness and performance for this CPU-GPU pairing, while pointing out that a 4K touchscreen variant adds cost and reduces practical value for most gamers. In terms of peripherals, the Blade 2018 inherits some mobile audio design cues for better sound separation and improved volume, even if it lacks the deepest bass. The keyboard has seen meaningful upgrades, with a more satisfying typing experience and a notably large touchpad that draws favorable comparison to the MacBook Pro, though some caveats about heat and surface temperature remain. The segment closes with a candid pricing assessment, placing the reviewed configuration at around $2,400, and contrasts it with the Zephyrus, arguing that while the Zephyrus offers higher sustained performance, the Blade 2018 holds a professional aesthetic, stronger trackpad, and better battery life for a premium, albeit thinner, experience. Finally, the sponsor segment discusses Corsair Strafe MK.2 keyboards and Dbrand skins as accessories that complement the Blade 2018, while the host emphasizes why protection and personalization matter for high-end laptops.Overall, the video argues that the Blade 2018 is a well-rounded machine that excels in portability, build quality, and balanced performance, but it also cautions viewers about the price-to-performance ratio and the need for fine-tuning power and display options to maximize the experience.

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