Asus TUF Gaming A14 (2024) – Design and Features (Rewrite with USD Prices)
At first glance, the Asus TUF Gaming A14 (2024) doesn’t scream “gaming laptop.” With its compact 14-inch display, lightweight 3.2-pound frame, and thin 0.78-inch profile, it looks more like a sleek productivity machine. There’s no flashy RGB lighting, no aggressive design elements, and its gunmetal aluminum body offers a minimalist aesthetic. The subtle branding on the lid is almost unnoticeable, making it blend seamlessly into any non-gaming environment.
However, beneath its understated exterior lies a capable gaming machine. Unlike most laptops in its category that rely on integrated graphics, the A14 comes with a dedicated GPU. Available in three configurations, the model we tested was the entry-level version priced at $1,399 USD and equipped with the following specs:
Asus TUF Gaming A14 – Specs
- Display: 14-inch, 2560 x 1600 IPS, 165Hz
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS (8C/16T)
- Graphics: Nvidia RTX 4060 (Mobile Version)
- Memory: 16GB LPDDR5X, 7500 MHz
- Storage: 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
- Networking: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- I/O Ports: 1x 3.5mm Audio, 1x HDMI 2.1, 2x USB 3.2 Type-A, 1x USB 3.2 Type-C, 1x USB 4 Type-C, microSD card reader
- Camera: 1080p, 30 FPS
- Battery: 73WHrs
- Dimensions: 12.24″ x 8.94″ x 0.67″ – 0.78″
- Weight: 3.2 lbs
- Price: $1,399 USD
Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS, this version boasts impressive multitasking capabilities with its 8 cores and 16 threads. Paired with 16GB of RAM, it performs smoothly across gaming, productivity, and creative tasks. While the memory isn’t upgradeable, the 1TB SSD is, though it requires reinstalling Windows.
In August 2024, two higher-tier models will join the lineup. Both will feature the more powerful AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, offering 12 cores, 24 threads, and enhanced AI capabilities. One model, priced at $1,499 USD, will be available at Walmart, while a $1,699 USD variant with 32GB of RAM will debut at AntOnline.
Despite being powered by the entry-level Nvidia RTX 4060, the A14 performs well in 1080p and 1600p gaming, thanks to Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling technology. Although not as powerful as Nvidia’s top-tier GPUs, the RTX 4060 handles most modern games with ease, extending the laptop’s gaming lifespan.
To conserve battery, the Advanced Optimus feature lets users switch between the RTX GPU and the integrated Radeon 780M graphics. This “gaming vs. productivity” mode maximizes efficiency for lighter tasks, offering playable frame rates at reduced settings for older or indie games.
Display and Build
The 14-inch, 165Hz IPS panel provides vivid colors, covering 100% of the sRGB spectrum. While it’s bright indoors, outdoor visibility can be challenging. However, its 403 nits of brightness, G-Sync support, and 165Hz refresh rate ensure smooth gameplay. An OLED version would improve contrast, but this screen still holds its own for its class.
The keyboard and trackpad are comfortable and responsive. The chiclet-style keys offer satisfying tactile feedback, and the large 5×3 inch trackpad is excellent at rejecting accidental touches.
Battery Life and Performance
The TUF A14 shines in battery life, lasting just under 10 hours in light usage thanks to Advanced Optimus. However, gaming reduces this to 1-2 hours. Despite its slim design, it remains impressively cool and quiet, with the fans barely audible under normal loads.
Verdict
The Asus TUF Gaming A14 (2024) strikes a near-perfect balance of portability, performance, and thermal management. While the price rises with higher configurations, its power-efficient design and impressive gaming capabilities make it a strong contender for those wanting a compact yet capable gaming laptop.
