Gigabyte GS27FC Gaming Monitor
The Gigabyte GS27FC is a budget gaming monitor that offers a combination of high speed and low price, making it a strong contender in the market. Priced at $180, it features a 27-inch fast refresh display with Adaptive-Sync and HDR, along with a curved screen and gaming enhancements. The review aims to assess its performance and value for gamers.
Design and Build
Lightweight and Portable Design
With a focus on portability, the GS27FC weighs only 2.6 pounds, making it significantly lighter than other 15.6" and 16" notebooks like the MacBook Pro 16 and Dell XPS 15. This lightweight feature enhances its portability, making it easy to carry around without strain.
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Concerns Over Build Quality
Despite its portability, the GS27FC's build quality raises some concerns. The screen and base show noticeable flex and twist, posing questions about durability compared to more solid metal constructions of its competitors. However, it has been tested and certified to MIL-STD-810G standards, ensuring resilience against various environmental challenges.
Display Quality
Resolution and Screen Brightness
The GS27FC features a 2,560 x 1,600 resolution, which is adequate for everyday tasks but lacks a 4K option. Its brightness level of 368 nits is suitable for indoor use but may struggle under bright outdoor conditions, especially when compared to competitors like the MacBook Pro and Dell XPS line.
Keyboard and User Experience
Keyboard Design and Typing Experience
The keyboard of the GS27FC has been designed with consideration, offering a satisfactory typing experience despite the shallow key travel. The layout includes full-sized enter and backspace keys and a function key. The arrow keys are condensed, which might not appeal to all users.
Trackpad and Fingerprint Sensor
The large trackpad is a highlight, offering smooth multi-finger gestures and effective palm and thumb rejection. The front fingerprint sensor, integrated with Windows Hello, adds convenient biometric security, although it's not as fast as modern smartphone sensors.
Connectivity and Ports
Limited Ports and Connectivity
The GS27FC offers limited connectivity options, with a focus on minimalism. The left side houses dual USB-C Thunderbolt ports and a headphone/mic combo jack, while the right side features a power button and a full-sized USB 3 Type-A port with always-on charging. The port selection is adequate but could have been more expansive.
Hinge Design and Heat Management
Innovative Hinge and Cooling System
One of the standout features of the GS27FC is its hinge, which allows for a fluid 360-degree fold. The all-metal bottom acts as a heatsink, aiding in heat dissipation and keeping the touchpad and keyboard cool. The heat is expelled through the hinge even when the laptop is folded or on a flat surface.
Audio Quality and Battery
Speaker Performance
The down-firing speakers of the GS27FC offer clear and loud audio for a laptop of its size, ranking among the best laptop speakers available.
Battery Life and Internal Design
The large battery occupies two-thirds of the internal space, contributing to the laptop's extended battery life. The internal layout is well-organized, ensuring efficient use of space and optimal performance.
Conclusion: Position in the Market
Final Assessment
The Lenovo Yoga 920 2-in-1 laptop stands out for its premium design, portability, and versatile features. Its innovative hinge, effective thermal management, and high-quality speakers are notable highlights. While it has some limitations, such as the condensed arrow keys and limited I/O ports, the Yoga 920 presents itself as a strong contender in the 2-in-1 laptop market, suitable for both professional and personal use. Its combination of performance, design, and usability make it a compelling choice for users looking for a sleek, high-performing 2-in-1 laptop.
