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Review One K56-3N2 (Clevo P157SM) Notebook

High flyer. What happens when Nvidia's fastest laptop graphics card, the GeForce GTX 780M, teams up with Intel's brand-new Haswell quad-core CPU? Exactly, an extremely potent high-end laptop is created. Despite its limited chassis volume, the 15-inch One K56-3N2 offers great performance. We are taking a more detailed look at its virtues and vices.
One K56-3N2 (Clevo P157SM)

For the original German review, see here.

If you are looking for a powerful and semi-transportable gaming laptop, One might have just the right device for you. The K56-3N2 is stuffed with brand-new high-end components, most prominently an Intel Haswell CPU and a GPU from Nvidia's GeForce 700 series - the customer may choose between the GeForce GTX 770M and the GeForce GTX 780M. The latter costs far more, but it also yields a considerable performance boost (as will be seen in the "Performance" section of this article).

But not only the graphics card can be individualized: As always with One, it is possible to customize basically every internal component of the K56-3N2, among them the Wi-Fi module, the optical drive, the operation system and the system memory (although it might not make sense to go beyond 8 GB of RAM as there are very few applications which profit enough from this upgrade to justify such an expense).

The hard drive is one of the components where a more expensive model might actually make sense. Demanding users will only be content with a solid-state drive, whether it is the Samsung SSD 840 or the Samsung SSD 840 Pro. Everyone has to decide for him- or herself whether the MLC memory of the latter is worth its premium over its TLC sibling. Great: Up to four hard drive disks can be fitted into the 15-inch laptop thanks to two 2.5-inch drive bays and two mSATA slots.

The price of the K56-3N2 depends on its configuration, but it is safe to assume that the final notebook will cost more than 1000 Euros (~$1310). By the way: The test device used for this review was just a pre-production model. In theory, there might be some small differences to the final customer version.

Case

How we test - Case

rubberized surfaces
rubberized surfaces

The case has been manufactured by the Taiwanese company Clevo. The P157SM barebone is distinctly different from its predecessor, appearing much more playful and MSI-like (see the GT60) than the plainer P150EM.

Not only is the keyboard backlit, but the touchpad as well. According to One, the final production run will possibly swap the tribal emblem for a different logo. Also a matter of taste is the glossy - and extremely fingerprint-prone - bar right above the keyboard. Another disadvantage: The speaker grilles do not really have a premium look to them. Thankfully, Clevo has chosen to ax the larger P177SM's annoying volume display - there is nothing but a few status LEDs between the speaker grilles.

Most similarities come into effect when looking at the choice of materials. Both devices are rubberized, especially on the lid and on the palm rest. According to our past experiences, these dark gray surfaces feel soft and pleasant, but they quickly become ugly when touched with greasy fingers. Still, laptops with glossy surfaces are even more sensitive.

Concerning stability, we are divided. On the one hand, we have the base unit which feels rather sturdy (with the exception of the vicinity of the optical drive), but then there is also a wobbly lid which can be twisted noticeably using two hands. To Clevo's defense: Few laptops fare better in this regard.

Despite this being a pre-production model, we permit ourselves to talk about its build quality. As usual with laptops made by One, overall quality is okay, although there are some small discrepancies. Most potential users should be content with the chassis.

Concerning contentment: Despite its high weight (~ 3.3 kilograms/~7.3 pounds) and the above-average height (close to 50 millimeters/~2 inches), the K56-3N2 is actually quite easy-to-transport. Considering its performance, the 15-inch laptop does not feel excessively large. One hint: People who prefer a simpler, sleeker design might be happier with the (more expensive) P150SM barebone.

Connectivity

How we test - Connectivity

Ports

Port variety is great. Apart from a Thunderbolt port and an ExpressCard slot, there was nothing we were missing. The K56 comes with three video ports (HDMI, DisplayPort and Mini DisplayPort), three USB 3.0 ports and four audio jacks, so that owners of a surround system do not have to make do with the HDMI ports, as is the case with many laptops.

Even Firewire and eSATA cables can be connected to the One K56. In addition, a well-rounded card reader (supporting MMC, RSMMC, SD, mini SD, SDHC, SDXC, MS, MS Pro and MS Duo), a Kensington lock, an RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet port, a fourth USB (2.0) port, a microphone and a high-resolution webcam (2 megapixels) can be found on the device.

Port placement was well thought out, too. Everything is moved to the back of the device in order to enable the user to have enough space for an external mouse even when numerous cables are in use.

Wireless Communication

Similar to the K73-3N, our test device ships with an Intel Centrino Ultimate-N 6300 radio modem. When compared to its lower-priced siblings (the Advanced-N 6235 and the Wireless-N 2230), the Ultimate-N 6300 has lost its Bluetooth capabilities, but it has gained a higher data transfer rate of 450 Mbit/s instead of 300 Mbit/s. Next to the Wireless Display technology, the Intel modem comes with high frequency capabilities, using the 2.4 and 5.0 GHz bands - which leads to good reception even at greater distances.

on the left: Mini FireWire, RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet, 2x USB 3.0, eSATA / USB 3.0, 9-in-1 card reader
on the left: Mini FireWire, RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet, 2x USB 3.0, eSATA / USB 3.0, 9-in-1 card reader
on the back: DisplayPort, HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, power connector
on the back: DisplayPort, HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, power connector
on the right: optical drive, 4x audio jack, USB 2.0, Kensington Lock
on the right: optical drive, 4x audio jack, USB 2.0, Kensington Lock

Maintenance

We were especially impressed by the K56's lavish maintenance options. Beneath the smaller maintenance hatch, the optical drive, two normal 2.5-inch hard drive bays and an mSATA slot can be found. The larger hatch allows access to the CPU and GPU cooling systems, the primary memory banks and the second mSATA slot.

Beneath the keyboard, the Wi-Fi module and the third as well as fourth memory banks are located. While the power bar can easily be removed for its barebone siblings P150SM, P170SM and P177SM, greater care has to be taken with the P157SM.

Apart from this, even non-professionals can perform many upgrades, especially so when it comes to installing a new hard drive or another RAM module. Advanced users will be glad to know that even the GPU, the CPU and the fan can be swapped.

step I: remove the glossy bar above the keyboard
step II: unscrew the screws
step III: carefully pull off the keyboard
Keyboard removal guide

Software

Only a clean Windows install is a good Windows install - something that holds true for laptops made by One as well. Apart from a few drivers and tools (which are all connected to the hardware), no bloatware can be found. Larger manufacturers such as Acer, Sony or Toshiba might want to take a page from One's book.

Accessories

Our pre-production model came with just a driver DVD. Usually, Clevo also includes a manual in the box. Some customers will be stunned when they see the chunky power adapter: It weighs 820 grams (~1.8 pounds) while measuring 168 x 83 x 35 millimeters (~6.6 x 3.3 x 1.4 inches), but this is not unheard of with powerful gaming laptops. The battery is an 8-cell model with 77 Wh.

Warranty

12 months of standard warranty are nothing to write home about. For a premium, One offers a warranty extension up to 24 or 36 months. The same holds true for the pickup & return service.

BIOS Main
BIOS Advanced
BIOS Security
BIOS Boot
BIOS screens One K56-3N2

Input Devices

How we test - Input Devices

Keyboard

3-zone-illumination
3-zone-illumination

Despite some minor flaws, we were actually quite satisfied with the keyboard. We especially liked the three distinct lighting zones which do not only offer several brightness levels but which are far more evenly lit than those of some of the K56's competitors (we are looking at you, Asus G75V!).

Pressing "Fn" and "/" at the same time starts a clean software interface which allows the user not only to choose different colors for each of the zones (a selection of blue, red, pink, green, cyan, yellow and white) but also to activate one of seven special modes. The color of the touchpad backlighting is determined by that of the middle zone.

The keyboard is quite pleasant to use. Feedback is neither too hard nor too soft - we actually think One might have hit the sweet spot here. The keys are amply sized (17 x 17 millimeters) although only 13 x 13 millimeters remain once the graded rims of this non-chiclet layout are taken into account.

On the right, a four-column numpad (with a half-sized "0" due to the normal-sized arrow keys) is located. Not everybody will be happy with the position of the ><|-key or the Fn key, which has migrated to the right. The unusual layout may actually be one of the biggest weaknesses of the K56's keyboard – something not made up for by the useful special keys in the F-row and the large palm rest.

keyboard (unlit)
keyboard (unlit)
keyboard (lit)
keyboard (lit)

Touchpad

The touchpad is far more unsatisfying than the keyboard. Despite being 100 millimeters (~3.9 inches) wide, it is just 58 millimeters (~2.3 inches) high (instead of 70 millimeters/~2.8 inches, as with the P177SM). Even worse is the fact that Clevo has chosen to lower the touchpad deep into the case, leading to an annoying sudden drop from the palm rest down to the touchpad. In addition, the touchpad is not very precise, with input feeling spongy and vague at times.

One advantage of all Sentelic Finger Sensing Pads is their comprehensive multitouch support, recognizing four fingers and a multitude of gestures. A horizontal and a vertical scrolling feature can be activated as well. Unfortunately, there are some gaps at the edges where dirt can easily accumulate.

We were not happy with the dedicated mouse buttons. They are loud and wobbly, but also hard to find when not looking. At least one does not have to fear any involuntary input while gaming since the touchpad has been placed on the right hand side of the laptop. Optionally, it can also be deactivated completely.

touchpad (unlit)
touchpad (unlit)
touchpad (lit)
touchpad (lit)

Display

How we test - Display

The Full HD display is quite similar to that in the P150SM barebone that we have recently tested. Despite the fact that on paper, the LG Philips LP156WF1-TLF3 is slightly inferior to the 17-inch Chi Mei N173HGE-L11 (P170SM Test One K73-3N (Clevo P170SM) NotebookP177SM), subjectively both are on par. Its maximum brightness of 244 cd/m² (the Schenker W503 offered close to 260 cd/m²) is nothing to write home about, but its contrast ratio of 660:1 is better than that of most of its competitors. Accordingly, black levels of 0.4 cd/m² are quite decent as well. Only in dark scenes during movies or games have we noticed a slight tendency of blacks washing out into a dark gray.

255
cd/m²
264
cd/m²
254
cd/m²
238
cd/m²
263
cd/m²
243
cd/m²
215
cd/m²
240
cd/m²
227
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
LG Philips LP156WF1-TLF3 (LGD0259) tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 264 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 244.3 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 81 %
Center on Battery: 118 cd/m²
Contrast: 658:1 (Black: 0.4 cd/m²)59.7% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
86.6% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
57.8% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)

Color space accuracy is reasonable. Some colors seem more natural and more realistic when compared to the Chi Mei N173HGE, probably due to superior calibration. Both models offer the same resolution of 1920x1080 pixels, which has more or less become the gold standard for mobile PC gaming. Multitasking and Blu-ray playback work perfectly with this amount of screen real estate. For games, 1600x900 pixels might have been sufficient, but then again, a GeForce GTX 780M is very well up to the task of driving a Full HD panel.

One K56-3N2 vs. sRGB (grid)
One K56-3N2 vs. sRGB (grid)
One K56-3N2 vs. AdobeRGB (grid)
One K56-3N2 vs. AdobeRGB (grid)
One K56-3N2 vs. Schenker W503 (grid)
One K56-3N2 vs. Schenker W503 (grid)
Calman 5.1 software: grayscale
Calman 5.1 software: grayscale
Calman 5.1 software: CMS calibration
Calman 5.1 software: CMS calibration
Calman 5.1 software: saturation sweeps
Calman 5.1 software: saturation sweeps

Annoyingly, display brightness decreases by more than 100 cd/m² while running on battery - a problem that is amplified on bright days. Due to its matte surface, the One K56-3N2 could have been the ideal outdoor gaming laptop, but the way it is designed right now, it is really only useable once plugged in.

Outdoor usage One K56-3N2 (Clevo P157SM)
Outdoor usage One K56-3N2 (Clevo P157SM)
Outdoor usage One K56-3N2

The K56's viewing angles are astonishingly wide for a TN panel, especially horizontally. Enjoying a movie with a few friends should not be a problem. Vertical distortions occur sooner, but the LP156WF1-TLF3 still beats most ordinary TN panels in this regard. Overall, we were quite satisfied with the display quality of the K56-3N2.

Viewing angles One K56-3N2
Viewing angles One K56-3N2

Performance

How we test - Performance

Processor

Haswell
Haswell

One makes use of an Intel Haswell quad-core CPU, specifically a Core i7-4700MQ clocked at 2.4 to 3.4 GHz. This is 300 MHz less than its more expensive sibling, the Core i7-4800MQ running at 2.7 to 3.7 GHz. L3 cache size of 6 MB is the same with both models, but less than with the Core i7-4900MQ which sports 8 MB.

Similar to its predecessor, Haswell supports Hyperthreading, which assigns a virtual counterpart to each core, resulting in the CPU being recognized as an octa-core. Due to an integrated transformer, the thermal design power (TPD) has risen slightly to 47 Watts (from 45 Watts). As its predecessor, the Haswell has been manufactured using the 22nm-process.

Unsurprisingly, the P157SM comes with a graphics switching system, Nvidia's Optimus (which is more reliable than AMD's Enduro at the time of this writing). If necessary, the dedicated Nvidia GPU is used - otherwise, the system relies on the HD 4600 graphics card that is integrated in the CPU. The Nvidia control panel contains numerous options, ranging from profiles and a global preset ("manage 3D settings") to comfort functions and information panels ("desktop" menu).

Stuttering gameplay is usually caused by the Windows energy-saving plan, the configuration of Nvidia Optimus or the power adapter not being plugged in (the GeForce GTX 780M loses 50% of its speed while running on battery), not by the graphics card being too weak. To the left of the airplane symbol, a status LED always shows whether the Nvidia GPU is active.

System info CPUZ CPU
System info CPUZ Cache
System info CPUZ Mainboard
System info CPUZ RAM
System info CPUZ RAM SPD
System info HWiNFO
System info GPUZ (HD 4600)
System info GPUZ (GTX 780M)
System info CrystalDiskMark
System info DPC latencies
System information One K56-3N2

Turbo Boost

The automatic CPU overclocking feature should not go unmentioned, allowing the clock speed of the Core i7-4700MQ to be increased from 2.4 to up to 3.4 GHz. The 15-inch One K56-3N2 often uses the full turbo speed, routinely reaching 3.2 to 3.3 GHz during 3D games. This is quite satisfactory. Even a clock speed reduction down to 2.6 GHz while under full load is acceptable. Actual throttling (the clock speed getting decreased beyond its base value) never occurred with our test device.

Single Core Rendering
Single Core Rendering
Multi Core Rendering
Multi Core Rendering
CPU & GPU stress
CPU & GPU stress

CPU Performance

The performance increase some might have hoped for with the new Haswell processor generation does not occur. Intel's new CPU architecture merely lands 10% ahead of any similarly-clocked Ivy Bridge CPU.

This can be shown by running the Cinebench R11.5 benchmark. The Core i7-4700MQ's 1.50 points during the single-core rendering test are merely 6% better than the 1.41 points of the Core i7-3630QM (as tested with the Asus N56VB-S4050H). The same holds true during our multi-core rendering tests (6.90 points vs. 6.41 points). For comparison purposes: The Core i7-4800MQ (as used in the Schenker W503) yields 1.68 points and 7.61 points respectively, over 10% more than the Core i7-4700MQ.

Cinebench R10
Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit (sort by value)
Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
6565 Points
Core i7-3630QM
HP dv7-7202eg
5847 Points -11%
Core i7-4800MQ
Schenker W503
7270 Points +11%
Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit (sort by value)
Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
24348 Points
Core i7-3630QM
HP dv7-7202eg
22101 Points -9%
Core i7-4800MQ
Schenker W503
27058 Points +11%
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit
6565 Points
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit
24348 Points
Cinebench R10 Shading 64Bit
6799 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.5 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
6.9 Points
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
58.1 fps
Help

Graphics Card

GPU information
GPU information
Clock speeds (3D)
Clock speeds (3D)

Avid gamers with the necessary funds will be happy to hear that the GeForce GTX 780M is currently the fastest consumer laptop graphics card in the world. Thanks to 1536 shader units and a clock speed of 823 MHz (core) and 2500 MHz (memory), Nvidia's new flagship outperforms the GeForce GTX 680M with ease. The predecessor shipped with 1344 shader units (-12.5%), and clock speeds of 720 MHz and 1800 MHz (-12% / -28%).

Both graphics cards have 4096 MB of 256-bit GDDR5 memory at their disposal. The memory bandwidth has grown by 39% from 115.2 GB/s (GeForce GTX 680M) to 160.0 GB/s (GeForce GTX 780M).

Another advantage of the newer model is its dynamic overclocking feature. Nvidia's new GPU boost technology takes into account the temperature of the GPU as well - and not just power consumption levels as with the GeForce 600-series. The GPU-Z tool shows a maximum clock speed of 849 MHz. The memory stays at 2500 MHz at all times. The GTX 780M's specifications are rather similar to those of the GeForce GTX 680MX which so far has solely been used in Apple's iMac.

A small hint: At the time of this writing, no official Nvidia drivers for the GTX 780M exist. Thus, the GeForce GTX 780M was not able to sprint ahead by much in many recent games such as BioShock Infinite due to the older ForceWare 311.27 used. Still, overall results as shown in the figure below should not change too much with better-suited drivers.

7.1
Windows 8 Experience Index
Processor
Calculations per second
7.9
Memory (RAM)
Memory operations per second
7.9
Graphics
Desktop performance for Windows Aero
7.1
Gaming graphics
3D business and gaming graphics
7.1
Primary hard disk
Disk data transfer rate
8.1

GPU Performance

The performance of the GeForce GTX 780M is absolutely top-notch. An average of 75.9 fps during the Unigine Heaven 3.0 benchmark (1920x1080 pixels, high settings, tessellation normal) are more than impressive, yielding 30% better results than both the Radeon HD 7970M and the GeForce GTX 680M, which reach around 58 fps each.

This luxury GPU also manages to achieve excellent results in the Fire Strike test of 3DMark 2013. With a GPU score of 5244, it beats its weaker Kepler-generation siblings by 35% (GeForce GTX 770M: 3392 points @ One K73-3N) or even by 50% (GeForce GTX 765M: 2479 points @ Schenker W503).

3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M
One K56-3N2
7913 Points
Radeon HD 7970M
Schenker XMG P502
6272 Points -21%
GeForce GTX 680M
Schenker XMG P702
6025 Points -24%
GeForce GTX 770M
One K73-3N
5187 Points -34%
Unigine Heaven 2.1 - 1280x1024 high, Tesselation (normal), DirectX11 AA:off AF:1x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M
One K56-3N2
100.5 fps
Radeon HD 7970M
Schenker XMG P502
82.6 fps -18%
GeForce GTX 680M
Schenker XMG P702
74.2 fps -26%
GeForce GTX 770M
One K73-3N
65.5 fps -35%
3DMark 06 Standard Score
23366 points
3DMark Vantage P Result
26297 points
3DMark 11 Performance
7737 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
83609 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
17867 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
4739 points
Help

Mass Storage

AS SSD benchmark
AS SSD benchmark

Due to its great value-for-money ratio, we have decided to test the model with a 500 GB Samsung SSD 840. The SATA-III model delivers a convincing performance, despite being slower at times than some of its competitors like the OCZ Vertex 4.

A sequential reading rate of 514 MB/s and a sequential writing rate of 331 MB/s come close to the results of the One K73-3N, which we have tested with the same SSD inside. The 840's access times were excellent: 0.08 and 0.04 ms (read/write).

The strengths of an SSD are immediately evident during actual usage, beating every HDD in existence (as well as hybrid models such as the Seagate Momentus XT). Everything profits from an increased responsiveness: Boot and load times, install speeds and data transfer rates.

Samsung 840 Series 500 GB (MZ-7TD500)
Sequential Read: 531 MB/s
Sequential Write: 329.8 MB/s
512K Read: 435.3 MB/s
512K Write: 325.4 MB/s
4K Read: 31.95 MB/s
4K Write: 117 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 395.4 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 274 MB/s

System Performance

We have rarely had laptops that are more potent in one of our tests before. The 15-inch One K56-3N2 is one of very few devices capable of reaching more than 20,000 points in the PCMark Vantage benchmark.

Apart from prohibitively expensive workstations such as the Bullman E-class (Core i7-3940XMQuadro K3000M) or the Dell Precision M6700 (Core i7-3920XMFirePro M6000), there are mostly dual GPU laptops such as the Alienware M18x R2 (Core i7-3920XMRadeon HD 7970M CF) or the Schenker XMG P722 (Core i7-3820QMGeForce GTX 680M SLI). The brand-new Clevo barebones P150SM, P170SM Test One K73-3N (Clevo P170SM) Notebook and P177SM also manage to exceed 20,000 points if the right solid-state drive is used.

PCMark Vantage Result
21140 points
PCMark 7 Score
5935 points
Help

Gaming Performance

games almost always run smoothly on maximum settings
games almost always run smoothly on maximum settings

To keep it short: In games, the GeForce GTX 780M is 30% faster than the GeForce GTX 680M and almost 40% faster than the GeForce GTX 770M. Even the main competitor, the AMD Radeon HD 7970M, is 20% slower.

Thanks to its first-class performance, most games run smoothly even with the most extreme settings. Only the most demanding games such as Far Cry 3 or Crysis 3 require us to scale down a bit concerning antialiasing and details.

Right now, the GeForce GTX 780M is probably the best graphics card for gamers. Whether the same will hold true for the upcoming Radeon HD 8970M, only time will tell. From what we have heard so far, it seems as if Nvidia is going to take the crown.

As can be seen in the figure below the verdict, a more expensive CPU model usually is not worth the premium. The Schenker XMG P703 with a Core i7-4900MQ is not necessarily faster than the K56.

Graphics Card Overall performance
GeForce GTX 780M Base (average from almost 30 games)
GeForce GTX 680M -22 %
Radeon HD 7970M -23 %
GeForce GTX 770M -29 %
low med. high ultra
Battlefield 3 (2011) 50
CoD: Modern Warfare 3 (2011) 117.3
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011) 68.3
Anno 2070 (2011) 72.6
Alan Wake (2012) 54.1
Mass Effect 3 (2012) 59.9
Risen 2: Dark Waters (2012) 53.8
Diablo III (2012) 188
Dirt Showdown (2012) 66.4
Max Payne 3 (2012) 54.5
Darksiders II (2012) 136.9
Sleeping Dogs (2012) 30.8
Counter-Strike: GO (2012) 194
Guild Wars 2 (2012) 41.2
F1 2012 (2012) 100
Borderlands 2 (2012) 83.3
Fifa 13 (2012) 307.7
Dishonored (2012) 125
Medal of Honor: Warfighter (2012) 54.8
Need for Speed: Most Wanted (2012) 59.9
Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 (2012) 95.1
Hitman: Absolution (2012) 33.8
Assassin´s Creed III (2012) 42.6
Far Cry 3 (2012) 30.4
Dead Space 3 (2013) 144.2
Crysis 3 (2013) 29.3
Tomb Raider (2013) 65.3
SimCity (2013) 39.9
BioShock Infinite (2013) 46.6

Emissions

How we test - Emissions

System Noise

As expected, such powerful components inside the P157SM lead to a lot of excess heat and thus high noise levels - as is the case with most barebones made by Clevo. Sometimes, the fans turn off all the way while the system is idle, but there are also times when the laptop gets rather loud (~ 37 dB(A) from a distance of 6 inches) despite having nothing to do.

That is not only annoying, but also completely incomprehensible - especially the fact that Clevo has not thought about introducing more levels of fan speeds. It feels as if they are either off or set to maximum speed. We do sincerely hope that Clevo will optimize the fan control system before the customer version is released.

Less can be done about the noise emissions when actually in use. 44 dB(A) during the 3DMark 06 benchmark are on par with other configurations such as the P150SM (~ 42 dB(A)) or the P177SM (~ 46 dB(A)). Under full load, e.g. during demanding games, the One K56-3N2 gets up to 50 dB(A) loud, something which can only be tolerated when the speakers are turned as far as they will go or when headphones are used.

Noise Level

Idle
30.3 / 36.9 / 37.7 dB(A)
DVD
40.1 / dB(A)
Load
44.1 / 52.9 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Voltcraft sl-320 (15 cm distance)

Temperature

stress test (Furmark + Prime)
stress test

While the noise emissions are too high, temperatures were actually fine when compared to other gaming laptops. After having been idle for two hours, the K56 was only 27 degrees Celsius (80.6 Fahrenheit) warm.

We measured 34 degrees (93.2 Fahrenheit) at the top and 33 degrees (91.4 Fahrenheit) below the base unit while the laptop had to cope with 3D games. Despite a significant temperature rise at the rear part of the device, this was still a very decent result. Even better: The front third never exceeded 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit), leaving us with a comfortably cool palm rest.

Both CPU and GPU temperatures reach up to 90 degrees (194 Fahrenheit), but this should not pose any problems. The critical range starts between 95 and 100 degrees (203 and 212 degrees Fahrenheit). Also, the laptop usually remains noticeably cooler during games. Unfortunately, the core clock speed of the GeForce GTX 780M seems to be running with only 700 MHz during extreme conditions.

Max. Load
 39.3 °C
103 F
39.4 °C
103 F
38.5 °C
101 F
 
 35.4 °C
96 F
35.5 °C
96 F
32.7 °C
91 F
 
 28.4 °C
83 F
30 °C
86 F
26 °C
79 F
 
Maximum: 39.4 °C = 103 F
Average: 33.9 °C = 93 F
38.4 °C
101 F
38 °C
100 F
41.4 °C
107 F
32.4 °C
90 F
33.3 °C
92 F
32.9 °C
91 F
26 °C
79 F
27.5 °C
82 F
25.2 °C
77 F
Maximum: 41.4 °C = 107 F
Average: 32.8 °C = 91 F
Power Supply (max.)  50.4 °C = 123 F | Room Temperature 22 °C = 72 F | Voltcraft IR-550
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 33.9 °C / 93 F, compared to the average of 33.8 °C / 93 F for the devices in the class Gaming.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 39.4 °C / 103 F, compared to the average of 40.4 °C / 105 F, ranging from 21.2 to 68.8 °C for the class Gaming.
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 41.4 °C / 107 F, compared to the average of 43.2 °C / 110 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 27.2 °C / 81 F, compared to the device average of 33.8 °C / 93 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 30 °C / 86 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.9 °C / 84 F (-1.1 °C / -2 F).

Speakers

Sound Blaster X-Fi MB3
Sound Blaster X-Fi MB3

The sound system looks mighty fine on paper. Two high-quality speakers made by Onkyo, a subwoofer beneath the base unit and Creative's Sound Blaster X-Fi MB3 technology: The 15-inch comes with a number of thrilling features.

Unfortunately, we were not as impressed during our actual tests as we had hoped to be. Despite sounding better than most other gaming laptops, the One K56-3N2 struggles to earn rave reviews.

As it is the case with many other laptops, audio content often sounds tinny, imbalanced or mushy. Still, the SBX Pro Studio technology (which can be found in the Sound Blaster software settings) is capable of tickling much out of the 2.1 system. The high maximum volume and the noticeable bass also help to set the 15-inch laptop apart from some of its competitors. It does not come close to the sound quality of an Asus N56VB or MSI GT60 , however.

Energy Management

How we test - Battery Life

Power Consumption

Thanks to the faint display and the more frugal CPU, the One K56-3N2 requires less power than the Schenker XMG P703.

The 18 to 27 Watts that we measured while idle are very decent. They are due to the Optimus graphics switching system, without which we'd expect the 15-inch laptop to need more than 30 Watts. During our 3DMark 06 benchmark, we measured 109 Watts. This is very much, but still feels almost negligible when compared to the 202 Watts it draws under full load. We actually wonder whether the colossal 180 Watt power adapter is sufficiently strong to handle such situations.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.1 / 0.4 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 17.8 / 22.5 / 26.9 Watt
Load midlight 108.6 / 202.2 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Voltcraft VC 940
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.

Battery Life

maximum battery life (Reader's Test)
Reader's Test
minimum battery life (Classic Test)
Classic Test

Battery runtimes come to lie between 1.5 and 5 hours, depending on display brightness, GPU activity and overall stress levels. Almost 3 hours of DVD playback are as decent as 3.5 hours of browsing via Wi-Fi. When compared to other high-end laptops, such as the Samsung Series 7 770G7C or the Toshiba Qosmio X870-119 (which ship without Optimus technology), the One K56-3N2 puts up a good show.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
4h 58min
WiFi Surfing
3h 28min
DVD
3h 07min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 45min

Verdict

How we test - Verdict

Quite the powerhouse
Quite the powerhouse

More power in a 15-inch machine is hardly feasible. Yes, the One K56-3N2 is no lightweight laptop, coming in at 3.3 kilograms (~7.3 pounds), and it is not one of the slimmer ones, either, measuring almost 50 millimeters (~2 inches) thick.

Nevertheless, considering the performance of the GeForce GTX 780M, these shortcomings are quickly forgotten. Thanks to Nvidia’s new top model, the One K56-3N2 trumps most of its competitors, rendering almost all recent games smoothly even with maximum details and activated antialiasing. The previous high-end GPUs (the Radeon HD 7970M and the GeForce GTX 680M) required more compromises.

We also liked the fine Full HD display, the thoughtful selection and positioning of the One K56-3N2's ports and its low temperature levels. One of the major highlights is the maintenance-friendly design. Cleaning the fans is as easy as it is to upgrade its hard drive, its memory and other internal components.

The input devices, on the other hand, failed to impress us. While the keyboard was decent - despite its unusual layout - the touchpad felt half-baked. We were also not happy with the fan control system, which was still quite buggy. The most annoying issue next to the fans' always-present noise was their erratic behavior.

Apart from the laptop's loudness, no other glaring problems occurred. Overall, the One K56-3N2 remains a terrific desktop replacement laptop with brand-new high-end components.

In comparison

BioShock Infinite - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset, DX11 (DDOF) (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
46.6 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
46.8 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
46.6 fps 0%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
43.7 fps -6%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
30.8 fps -34%
SimCity - 1920x1080 Ultra / High AA:on (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
39.9 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
40 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
32.1 fps -20%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
30.7 fps -23%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
29.5 fps -26%
Tomb Raider - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:FX AF:16x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
65.3 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
65.5 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
32.2 fps -51%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
46 fps -30%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
41.9 fps -36%
Crysis 3 - 1920x1080 Very High Preset AA:2xSM AF:16x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
29.3 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
29.2 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
21.8 fps -26%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
20.3 fps -31%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
19.3 fps -34%
Dead Space 3 - 1920x1080 Very High Preset (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
144.2 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
143.6 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
111.1 fps -23%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
92.3 fps -36%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
93 fps -36%
Far Cry 3 - 1920x1080 DX11 Ultra Preset (HDAO, Enhanced Alpha To Coverage) AA:4x MS (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
30.4 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
30.4 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
23.6 fps -22%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenekr XMG P502
25.4 fps -16%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
20 fps -34%
Assassin´s Creed III - 1920x1080 Very High (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
42.6 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
42.9 fps +1%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
34.1 fps -20%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenekr XMG P502
24.7 fps -42%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
30.5 fps -28%
Hitman: Absolution - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:4xMS AF:16x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
33.8 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
33.8 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
22.6 fps -33%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenekr XMG P502
28.8 fps -15%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
21.2 fps -37%
Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 - 1920x1080 (Extra) High / On, FXAA AA:4xMS (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
95.1 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
95 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
75.3 fps -21%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenekr XMG P502
75 fps -21%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
66.1 fps -30%
Need for Speed: Most Wanted - 1920x1080 High / On (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
59.9 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
60 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
51.4 fps -14%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenekr XMG P502
48.4 fps -19%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
46.9 fps -22%
Medal of Honor: Warfighter - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:4xMS AF:16x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
54.8 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
55 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
40.9 fps -25%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenekr XMG P502
46.2 fps -16%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
36 fps -34%
Dishonored - 1920x1080 High / On, FOV: 75 AA:FX (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
125 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
127.1 fps +2%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
115.7 fps -7%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
99.9 fps -20%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
108.7 fps -13%
Fifa 13 - 1920x1080 High AA:4xMS (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
307.7 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
319.2 fps +4%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
256.9 fps -17%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
226.6 fps -26%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
291.9 fps -5%
Borderlands 2 - 1920x1080 (Ultra) High / On (PhysX low) AA:FX AF:8x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
83.3 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
86.6 fps +4%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
71.1 fps -15%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
62.9 fps -24%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
64.3 fps -23%
F1 2012 - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:4xMS (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
100 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
104 fps +4%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
87 fps -13%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
76 fps -24%
Guild Wars 2 - 1920x1080 All Maximum / On AA:FX (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
41.2 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
41 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
31.9 fps -23%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
30.6 fps -26%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
28.6 fps -31%
Counter-Strike: GO - 1920x1080 (Very) High, FXAA AA:4x MS AF:8x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
194 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
187.4 fps -3%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
128 fps -34%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
153.5 fps -21%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
150.9 fps -22%
Sleeping Dogs - 1920x1080 Extreme Preset AA:Extreme (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
30.8 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
30.9 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
22.7 fps -26%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
28.5 fps -7%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
19.3 fps -37%
Darksiders II - 1920x1080 2/4 Shadows, No Ambient Occlusion, AA:Low (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
136.9 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
134.9 fps -1%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
108.8 fps -21%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Schenker XMG P502
104.1 fps -24%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
91.3 fps -33%
Max Payne 3 - 1920x1080 Very High, DX11 AA:Very High FX AF:8x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
54.5 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
54 fps -1%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Devil 6700
42.6 fps -22%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
37.1 fps -32%
Dirt Showdown - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:4xMS (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
66.4 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
66 fps -1%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Devil 6700
52.9 fps -20%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Alienware M17x R4
48.7 fps -27%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
45.2 fps -32%
Diablo III - 1920x1080 High AA:on (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
188 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
184.2 fps -2%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Devil 6700
159.6 fps -15%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Alienware M17x R4
100.8 fps -46%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
141.3 fps -25%
Risen 2: Dark Waters - 1920x1080 Ultra / on AA:on AF:8x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
53.8 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
53.7 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Devil 6700
42.2 fps -22%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Alienware M17x R4
43.1 fps -20%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
35.6 fps -34%
Alan Wake - 1920x1080 High Preset AA:4x AF:8x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
54.1 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
52.4 fps -3%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Devil 6700
41.9 fps -23%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Alienware M17x R4
44.7 fps -17%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
35.2 fps -35%
Anno 2070 - 1920x1080 Very High Preset AA:on AF:4x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
72.6 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
72.8 fps 0%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Devil 6700
51 fps -30%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Alienware M17x R4
55.4 fps -24%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
47.2 fps -35%
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:8x AF:16x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
68.3 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
68.7 fps +1%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Devil 6700
54.2 fps -21%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Alienware M17x R4
55.6 fps -19%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
49 fps -28%
CoD: Modern Warfare 3 - 1920x1080 Extra, all on, Image Quality: Native AA:4x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
117.3 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
121.4 fps +3%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Devil 6700
102.8 fps -12%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Alienware M17x R4
90.7 fps -23%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
91.4 fps -22%
Battlefield 3 - 1920x1080 ultra AA:4x MS AF:16x (sort by value)
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4700MQ
One K56-3N2
50 fps
GeForce GTX 780M / Core i7-4900MQ
Schenker XMG P703
49.2 fps -2%
GeForce GTX 680M / Core i7-3610QM
DevilTech Devil 6700
34.7 fps -31%
Radeon HD 7970M / Core i7-3610QM
Alienware M17x R4
34.7 fps -31%
GeForce GTX 770M / Core i7-4800MQ
One K73-3N
32.6 fps -35%
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In Review: One K56-3N2, provided by: ECT Distribution GmbH
In Review: One K56-3N2, provided by: ECT Distribution GmbH

Specifications

One K56-3N2 (K56 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i7-4700MQ 4 x 2.4 - 3.4 GHz (Intel Core i7)
Graphics adapter
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780M - 4 GB VRAM, Core: 823 MHz, Memory: 2500 MHz, GDDR5, ForceWare 311.27, Optimus
Memory
8 GB 
, 2x 4096 MB SO-DIMM DDR3-RAM PC3-12800 (1600 MHz), 4 slots, max. 32 GB
Display
15.60 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel, LG Philips LP156WF1-TLF3 (LGD0259), TN LED, Full HD, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel HM87 (Lynx Point)
Storage
Samsung 840 Series 500 GB (MZ-7TD500), 500 GB 
, SSD, drive bays: 2x mSATA + 2x 2.5-inch
Soundcard
Realtek ALC892 @ Intel Lynx Point PCH - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
1 USB 2.0, 3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 Firewire, 1 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, 1 eSata, Audio Connections: Line In/Out (7.1 out), S/PDIF, Card Reader: MMC, RSMMC, SD, mini SD, SDHC, SDXC, MS, MS Pro, MS Duo, 1 Fingerprint Reader, Mini DisplayPort
Networking
Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Centrino Ultimate-N 6300 AGN (a/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/)
Optical drive
MATSHITA BD-MLT UJ260
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 49 x 375 x 268 ( = 1.93 x 14.76 x 10.55 in)
Battery
77 Wh Lithium-Ion, 5200 mAh, 14.8 V, P157SMBAT-8, 8 cells, 0.42 kg
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 8 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 2.0 Megapxiel (Full HD)
Additional features
Speakers: 2.1 (Onkyo, Sound Blaster X-Fi MB3), Keyboard Light: yes, power adapter: 180 watts, 12-36 Months Warranty
Weight
3.314 kg ( = 116.9 oz / 7.31 pounds), Power Supply: 830 g ( = 29.28 oz / 1.83 pounds)
Price
1870 Euro

 

The laptop is based on the Clevo P157SM barebone.
The laptop is based on the Clevo P157SM barebone.
Not much has changed concerning its looks when compared to its predecessor.
Not much has changed concerning its looks when compared to its predecessor.
3.3 kilograms can still be mobile to a certain degree.
3.3 kilograms can still be mobile to a certain degree.
The matte surfaces help in keeping the laptop free from visible dirt.
The matte surfaces help in keeping the laptop free from visible dirt.
One of the feet of the case is built into the battery compartment.
One of the feet of the case is built into the battery compartment.
The lid is rubberized.
The lid is rubberized.
This is the maximum opening angle.
This is the maximum opening angle.
Heat dissipation is handled by the fans on the rear.
Heat dissipation is handled by the fans on the rear.
There is a fingerprint reader between the touchpad buttons.
There is a fingerprint reader between the touchpad buttons.
The rear of the laptop measures 5 centimeters high.
The rear of the laptop measures 5 centimeters high.
A non-glare panel helps reduce reflections.
A non-glare panel helps reduce reflections.
Only few competitors are this maintenance-friendly.
Only few competitors are this maintenance-friendly.
The silverish One logo is glued onto the lid.
The silverish One logo is glued onto the lid.
Tons and tons of ports.
Tons and tons of ports.
The base unit is rather well-built, feeling sturdy.
The base unit is rather well-built, feeling sturdy.
The maintenance hatches can be unscrewed.
The maintenance hatches can be unscrewed.
The gaming laptop relies on two fans.
The gaming laptop relies on two fans.
The optical drive is attached with just one screw.
The optical drive is attached with just one screw.
The second 2.5-inch hard drive may not be thicker than 7 millimeters.
The second 2.5-inch hard drive may not be thicker than 7 millimeters.
We suggest you use a solid state drive.
We suggest you use a solid state drive.
One of the two mSATA slots is hidden beneath the primary hard drive.
One of the two mSATA slots is hidden beneath the primary hard drive.
The laptop can operate with up to 32 GB of DDR3-RAM.
The laptop can operate with up to 32 GB of DDR3-RAM.
Two of the four memory banks are located right beneath the keyboard.
Two of the four memory banks are located right beneath the keyboard.
Here, the radio module is hidden as well.
Here, the radio module is hidden as well.
Several CPUs are offered.
Several CPUs are offered.
The GPU can be replaced as well.
The GPU can be replaced as well.
Battery runtimes are average.
Battery runtimes are average.
The display frame used to be glossy.
The display frame used to be glossy.
The keyboard backlighting can be deactivated should this be desired.
The keyboard backlighting can be deactivated should this be desired.
Next to the stereo speakers, the laptop also comes with a subwoofer.
Next to the stereo speakers, the laptop also comes with a subwoofer.
Some design elements look a bit cheap.
Some design elements look a bit cheap.
Brand quality (Onkyo).
Brand quality (Onkyo).
Our test device shipped with a US keyboard layout.
Our test device shipped with a US keyboard layout.
Not every 15-inch laptop comes with a four-column numpad.
Not every 15-inch laptop comes with a four-column numpad.
The logo on the touchpad doesn't necessarily have to be the same in the final customer version.
The logo on the touchpad doesn't necessarily have to be the same in the final customer version.
The X-Fi MB3 boosts the laptop's sound quality.
The X-Fi MB3 boosts the laptop's sound quality.
One HDMI port between two DisplayPorts.
One HDMI port between two DisplayPorts.
The card reader now supports nine different formats.
The card reader now supports nine different formats.
From left to right: Headphone jack, microphone jack, S/PDIF, Line-In
From left to right: Headphone jack, microphone jack, S/PDIF, Line-In
Both a DVD burner and a Blu-ray drive are offered.
Both a DVD burner and a Blu-ray drive are offered.
The power adapter weighs more than 800 grams.
The power adapter weighs more than 800 grams.

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Links

Price check

Pros

+Cleverly placed ports
+Many maintenance options
+Decent temperature levels
+Superb performance
+High-quality display
+Backlit keyboard
+No bloatware
+Configurable
+2x mSATA
 

Cons

-Very noisy during games
-Unusual keyboard layout
-Mediocre touchpad
-Heavy power adapter

Shortcut

What we like

The performance is beyond reproach. Connectivity and image quality are top-notch as well.

What we'd like to see

The simpler design of its predecessor.

What surprises us

The fan control system felt quite crude.

The competition

15-inch high-end laptops such as the Asus G55V, the DevilTech Devil 6700, the Lenovo Ideapad Y580, the Medion Erazer X6821, the MSI GT60 or the Schenker W503.

Ratings

One K56-3N2 - 05/13/2013 v3(old)
Florian Glaser

Chassis
82%
Keyboard
84%
Pointing Device
74%
Connectivity
88%
Weight
67%
Battery
83%
Display
85%
Games Performance
97%
Application Performance
100%
Temperature
86%
Noise
60%
Add Points
84%
Average
83%
86%
Gaming - Weighted Average
Florian Glaser, 2013-06- 1 (Update: 2018-05-15)