Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI Review: Slim OLED gaming that doesn't last long

Acer’s Predator Helios Neo 16S AI is a sleek and portable gaming laptop that packs powerful hardware into a slim design. Its Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor and Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti graphics create a compact 4.85-pound package, making it an appealing choice for gamers who prioritize mobility. The laptop features a 16-inch OLED display with a 240 Hz refresh rate, providing a visually immersive gaming experience.

The device sports an impressive array of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB-A 3.2, USB-C 3.2, HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, MicroSD card reader, and an audio jack. Additionally, it includes Wi-Fi 6E, a Killer AX1675i Wi-Fi card, and a Killer Ethernet jack, ensuring gamers can maintain network priority for optimal performance. The inclusion of a padded travel sleeve further enhances its portability.

When it comes to gaming performance, the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI outperforms competitors. In 007 First Light, it delivers 65 to 75 FPS at native 2560 x 1600 resolution with High settings, while requiring DLSS to achieve these frame rates. Compared to the Gigabyte Aero X16 and HyperX Omen 15, the Helios Neo 16S AI offers superior performance, especially in higher-resolution scenarios.

For instance, in Shadow of the Tomb Raider, it maintains 125 FPS at 1080p and excels at 1600p with 76 FPS. Similarly, in Far Cry 6 (Ultra), the Acer Helios Neo 16S AI outperforms both competitors, achieving 122 FPS at 1080p and 76 FPS at native resolution.

Overall, the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI demonstrates solid gaming performance while maintaining a portable design, making it a compelling option for gamers seeking a balance between mobility and gaming prowess.