Acer has announced new products across its gaming-centric Predator line at IFA 2015 in Berlin. Between high-spec PCs, new monitors and some intriguing hints at the future, it’s clear that the company is still deeply committed to satisfying gamers.
Gaming notebooks
Leading the pack were the Predator 15 and Predator 17, which Acer is pitching as its most powerful gaming notebooks ever — and based on the fact that they boast a 6th-gen Intel Core i7 processor, GeForce GTX 980 graphics and up to 32GB of DDR4 memory, that sounds about right.
However, it’s not just the system specs that allow these laptops to stand out. The Predator FrostCore triple fan system will make sure your rig stays cool, CoolBoost software allows user control of fan speed and increased customization of automatic fan speed control, a new AeroBlade fan provides better cooling performance despite its one-millimeter profile, and a Killer DoubleShot Pro adapter lets you combine your wired and wireless Internet connection for better speed and stability. Meanwhile, four speakers and two subwoofers supply all the booming audio that you could ask for. Both systems will be available in North America from November, with the Predator 15 retailing for $1499 and the Predator being offered for $1599.
Gaming desktops
Moving on to desktops, Acer unveiled the Predator G6 and G3, a truly fearsome pair of rigs decked out with a chassis intended to evoke battle armor. Beneath that robust exterior, you’ll find a 6th-gen Intel Core processor, GTX graphics and up to 64GB of DDR4 system memory. The G3 is set to be priced at $849 when it releases in December, while details on the G6 are set to be circulated ahead of its launch next month.
A system such as that is begging to be paired with a similarly potent display, and Acer’s own offerings may well turn out to be the perfect partner. The XB1 series is comprised of a 27-inch model that features a ZeroFrame edge-to-edge design and a 28-inch variant with a speedy gray to gray response time of just 1ms, allowing it to accurately display fast movements without any ghosting.
Both displays make use of NVIDIA G-Sync technology, and are fitted with a 4K UHD panel. The 27-inch model will give users the option of swapping out the standard 3,840 x 2,160 panel for a 2,560 x 1,440 IPS alternative. These monitors will be available in North America from November, with prices starting from $799.99.
These displays are accompanied by the jaw-dropping Z35, a 35-inch 21:9 curved display that once again boasts 4K UHD panels and and G-Sync technology. The monitor will use NVIDIA Ultra Low Motion Blur to deliver a pixel-perfect picture, and is decked out with DTS sounds, two 9 watt speakers and Acer TrueHarmony technology to please audiophiles. The Z35 launches in the US this December at a price of $1199.99.
Gaming tablets
Last, but certainly not least, is the Predator 8 gaming tablet. Mobile gaming has come along in leaps and bounds over recent years, and a device like this seems like a great way to make the most of the latest releases — but make no mistake, this is a step beyond playing Alphabears on your stock smartphone.
An 8-inch FHD display with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 is complemented by four front-facing speakers that supply virtual surround sound, and an Atom x7 processor under the hood makes sure there’s plenty of power. TacSense technology provides tactile feedback and vibration, making this a wholly immersive way to enjoy mobile content.
Pricing for Acer’s Predator 8 gaming tablet will start at $299.99, and the device will be available from November 6.
Acer also teased that tactile feedback will be central to an upcoming smartphone release in the Predator line. The company also suggested that a gaming projector built for LAN parties is in the works, but declined to mention how long we can expect to wait for such a product.
