Two refresh-rate numbers appear against this ROG Strix G16, and both can be right. ASUS specifies 240 Hz as the default in its everyday GPU modes and up to 300 Hz in Ultimate mode. That makes the display setting as important as the number on a retail page.
In depth
ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2026) review
Published
Best forHigh-refresh PC players who want a fast 16-inch screen and substantial graphics memory.
At a glance
- Screen size
- 16 inches
- Display resolution
- 2560 × 1600
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus
- Installed memory
- 32GB
- Storage
- 1TB
Pros
- The same 1600p panel supports a practical 240 Hz default and an optional 300 Hz mode.
- The linked RTX 5080 has 16 GB of dedicated graphics memory.
Cons
- 300 Hz requires a mode change in Armoury Crate.
- The related RTX 5070 model has half the graphics memory of the linked 5080.
Display
- 16-inch IPS-level
- 2560 × 1600
- up to 300 Hz
ASUS lists 240 Hz in Standard, Eco and Optimized GPU modes. Select Ultimate in Armoury Crate to enable 300 Hz. A lightweight competitive game is a sensible place to try the extra refresh. A game that renders 90 frames a second does not gain another 210 frames simply by selecting the quicker display mode.
Performance
- Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus
- RTX 5080 or RTX 5070 by SKU
The linked AB96 uses the RTX 5080 Laptop GPU with 16 GB of graphics memory. The MB96 has an RTX 5070 with 8 GB. Texture-heavy games and projects that exceed the lower graphics-memory allowance provide a concrete reason to choose the larger GPU, even when both machines list 32 GB of system RAM.
Memory & Storage
- 32 GB DDR5
- 1 TB PCIe SSD
- two SO-DIMM slots
A terabyte gives a working set of games room to coexist, but high-resolution texture packs and captured video can consume much of it. The platform has replaceable RAM and M.2 storage. That makes it sensible to compare graphics configurations now and leave a bigger drive for a later upgrade.
Design & Connectivity
- Anti-glare screen
- Wi-Fi 7
- HDMI
At a desk, connect a display or home theater system over HDMI and keep the built-in panel available for another application. Wi-Fi 7 needs appropriate network hardware, so the radio label alone will not fix a weak connection. Avoid making this purchase solely to replace a router or wired link.
Alternatives
The MB96 preserves the screen and CPU while reducing GPU resources. Compare it if your games are competitive titles played at reduced settings. An existing high-refresh system already delivering the frames you want is a weak case for replacement just for the move from 240 to 300 Hz.
Verdict
Choose the RTX 5080 G16 when demanding graphics work and high-refresh gaming both belong on the same portable system. Read the suffix before ordering and check the GPU mode after setup to get the display behavior you paid for.
About this review
This is a research-based review. The Fasit has not physically tested this product.
Sources & Research
Manufacturer documentation
The specifications and features discussed in this review come from manufacturer documentation.
ASUS — ROG Strix G16 (2026) documentation