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Acer Predator Triton 500 (i7-8750H, RTX 2080 Max-Q) Laptop Review

Hardly anything wrong with it. With the Predator Triton 500, Acer presents an extremely compact gaming notebook that offers powerful components despite its small dimensions. In addition to an Intel hexa-core processor, Nvidia's brand-new GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q high-end GPU is also flexing its muscles.
Acer Predator Triton 500

Attentive readers might have already discovered the Triton 500 in our performance test of Nvidia's mobile Turing chips. After we already evaluated the gaming capabilities and the performance in the synthetic benchmarks in detail (see GPU page), we now run the full test.

With its slim case, the Triton 500 is targeting gamers who are fond of traveling and often carry along their notebook. The 15-inch device competes against other thin-and-light notebooks such as the MSI GS65 8RF, the Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS (each with a GTX 1070 Max-Q) and the new versions of the Razer Blade 15 and Gigabyte Aero 15 (each with an RTX 2070 Max-Q). Currently Acer does not offer the latter graphics card for the Triton 500, so buyers have to decide between the GeForce RTX 2060 and the significantly faster RTX 2080 Max-Q.

As processor, there is either the Core i5-8300H quad-code model or the Core i7-8750H hexa-core. While the working memory ranges between 8 and 16 GB DDR4-RAM, our US review unit was equipped with 32 GB RAM (however, this should not have any effect on the benchmarks and the evaluation). The storage solution of our test unit consisted of two M.2-SSDs in a RAID-0 configuration and a total capacity of 512 GB. As we expect for a current gaming notebook, there is also a G-Sync capable 144-Hz panel on board.

Acer Predator Triton 500 (Predator Triton Series)
Processor
Intel Core i7-8750H 6 x 2.2 - 4.1 GHz, Coffee Lake-H
Graphics adapter
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q - 8 GB VRAM, Core: 735 MHz, Memory: 6000 MHz, GDDR6, ForceWare 417.71
Memory
32 GB 
, 2x 16 GB DDR4-2666, dual channel, all slots occupied
Display
15.60 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 141 PPI, AU Optronics B156HAN08.2 (AUO82ED), IPS, Full-HD, 144 Hz, G-Sync, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel HM370
Storage
2x WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-256G-1014 (RAID 0), 512 GB 
, NVMe SSDs; slots: 2x M.2 Type 2280
Soundcard
Realtek Unknown @ Intel Cannon Point PCH
Connections
3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 USB 3.1 Gen2, 1 Thunderbolt, 1 HDMI, 2 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: 1x headphones, 1x microphone
Networking
Killer E3000 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Controller (10/100/1000/2500MBit/s), Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW) (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 5.0
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 18 x 359 x 255 ( = 0.71 x 14.13 x 10.04 in)
Battery
82 Wh, 5400 mAh Lithium-Polymer, 4 cells
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HD
Additional features
Speakers: 2.0, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, 180-watt power supply, various manufacturer tools, XSplit Gamecaster trial, 24 Months Warranty
Weight
2.144 kg ( = 75.63 oz / 4.73 pounds) ( = 0 oz / 0 pounds)
Price
2600 EUR
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

While the Triton 700 from 2017, which also measured 15.6 inches, was only able to convince us to a limited extent with its wide display bezels and the unusual placement of the input devices, the Triton 500 offers a much better impression even at first glance. This begins with the extremely slim display bezels that reduce the footprint of the notebook from 39.3 x 26.6 cm (15.5 x 10.5 in) to 35.9 x 25.5 cm (14.1 x 10 in). Not only does this make the device look better, but it is also easier to carry.

In terms of the weight, instead of 2.39 kg (5.27 lb), the Triton 500 only weighs 2.14 kg (4.72 lb) which is also a relief on your arms. A small drawback of the slimming regimen is the mediocre stability. Particularly the lid turns out to be not very warp-resistant. However, this is a problem that various competitors also struggle with.

Acer Predator Triton 500
Acer Predator Triton 500
Acer Predator Triton 500
Acer Predator Triton 500
Acer Predator Triton 500
Acer Predator Triton 500
Acer Predator Triton 500
Acer Predator Triton 500
Acer Predator Triton 500
Acer Predator Triton 500
Acer Predator Triton 500

In terms of the workmanship, the 15-incher does not show any weaknesses. In our test unit, the transitions between most surfaces were very clean. Thanks to the use of metal, the Triton 500 also looks very high-quality. The elegant, and at the same time subtle, design also earns some positive marks. With the exception of the blue border around the logo on the lid and the blue-colored cooling elements, Acer forgoes all the color gimmicks. Only when you turn it on, does the Triton 500 show its real nature, with the arrow keys and the WASD area being emphasized by the blue illumination.

Acer could still improve a bit on the hinges. Although it is laudable that the display can be opened to a whole 180°, the display lid drops down fairly quickly in our shake test. However, the case makes a good impression overall.

Size Comparison

359 mm / 14.1 inch 255 mm / 10 inch 18 mm / 0.709 inch 2.1 kg4.73 lbs358 mm / 14.1 inch 248 mm / 9.76 inch 18 mm / 0.709 inch 1.8 kg4.07 lbs360 mm / 14.2 inch 268 mm / 10.6 inch 15.8 mm / 0.622 inch 2.1 kg4.62 lbs356 mm / 14 inch 250 mm / 9.84 inch 18.9 mm / 0.744 inch 2.1 kg4.67 lbs355 mm / 14 inch 235 mm / 9.25 inch 17.8 mm / 0.701 inch 2.1 kg4.63 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Equipment

Connections

The word "good" is also fitting for the connection equipment. Acer has equipped the Triton 500 with almost all the connections you could hope for in a gaming notebook in 2019. Despite its slim height of 1.8 cm (0.6 in), the 15-inch notebook offers an RJ45 port. Buyers should also be satisfied with three classic USB-3.0 ports (Type-A) and one modern Thunderbolt-3 port (Type-C). External displays can either be connected via the HDMI port or the mini-DisplayPort connection. In addition, there are two audio connections (headphones + microphone) and an opening for Kensington locks. On the other hand, it is unfortunate that Acer has foregone a card reader.

The positioning of the connections is also a bit unfortunate. Since many of the ports are positioned in the front half of the case, this can create some obstacles to moving a mouse around. 

Left side: power, RJ45-LAN, USB-A 3.0, HDMI, microphone, headphones
Left side: power, RJ45-LAN, USB-A 3.0, HDMI, microphone, headphones
Right side: Thunderbolt 3, mini-DisplayPort, 2x USB-A 3.0, Kensington lock
Right side: Thunderbolt 3, mini-DisplayPort, 2x USB-A 3.0, Kensington lock

Communication

Acer did not fall asleep in terms of the WLAN performance. With the Killer Wireless-AC 1550i, a brand-new Wi-Fi chip handles the wireless connections. In our WLAN test (at 1 m distance from the Linksys EA8500 reference router), the Triton 500 reached almost 700 Mb/s when sending as well as receiving – which is a very good result that is at the same level as the competitors.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Average of class Gaming
  (450 - 1412, n=14, last 2 years)
1006 MBit/s +47%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
693 MBit/s +1%
Acer Predator Triton 500
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
683 MBit/s
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
680 MBit/s 0%
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
Killer Wireless-AC 1550 Wireless Network Adapter
662 MBit/s -3%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
655 MBit/s -4%
iperf3 receive AX12
Average of class Gaming
  (423 - 1700, n=14, last 2 years)
1203 MBit/s +79%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
684 MBit/s +2%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
683 MBit/s +2%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
678 MBit/s +1%
Acer Predator Triton 500
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
671 MBit/s
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
Killer Wireless-AC 1550 Wireless Network Adapter
660 MBit/s -2%

Accessories

In terms of the accessories, our test unit only included a power supply. At a size of about 14 x 7.5 x 2 cm (5.5 x 3 x 0.8 in), the power supply turned out to be surprisingly compact, while the offered power is also limited. 180 watt is borderline even for a Max-Q notebook. For comparison, the Aero 15 X9 with the weaker RTX 2070 Max-Q includes a 230-watt power supply.

Maintenance

The limited maintenance is one of the largest disadvantages of the Triton 500. If you remove the 10 Torx screws from the case bottom and lift the bottom plate out of its bracing, you only get access to the fans, the Wi-Fi module, and the battery. The rest of the components are either covered by a black foil, or they are even on the other side of the motherboard. 

The insides remind us strikingly of the MSI GS65, which could also hardly be maintained. The Razer Blade 15 and the Gigabyte Aero 15 show how this can be done much better, allowing access to the working memory and the storage solution. The same was also the case for the Acer Triton 700 earlier.

Acer Predator Triton 500
Acer Predator Triton 500

Warranty

The warranty lasts for two years. Please see our Guarantees, Return policies and Warranties article for country-specific information.

Input Devices

Keyboard

The input devices do not need to hide behind the competitors. As the keyboard, there is a chiclet model that has keys that are framed in white and can be easily identified even without the illumination (adjustable in several steps). Whether the lack of a number block is an advantage or disadvantage is a matter of taste. We would call the typing experience "good," even if it does not reach the level of a mechanical keyboard.

By the way, there is a special key between the fan vents on the top that activates the fan turbo. However, due to the enormous noise development, you might not want to use it much.

Chiclet keyboard...
Chiclet keyboard...
...with illumination
...with illumination

Touchpad

While the touchpad of the Triton 700 that resembled glass was hardly usable and quite annoying in practice, Acer has equipped the Triton 500 with a significantly more conventional model that - as is the case in most laptops - is placed below the keyboard instead of above. The smooth finish ensures great sliding characteristics. There is also hardly anything to complain about in terms of the precision. We particularly like the multi-touch support. Two-finger gestures such as zooming and scrolling work very smoothly. The size of the touchpad is about 10.6 x 6.6 cm (~4.2 x 2.6 in).

Display

Like most of the gaming competitors, the Triton 500 is equipped with a Full HD IPS display. 144 Hz and G-Sync ensure an extremely smooth image - provided there are the corresponding FPS values. The panel used in our test unit is called AU Optronics B156HAN08.2 and is therefore slightly different than that of the Triton 700 (B156HAN04.2).

280
cd/m²
298
cd/m²
290
cd/m²
296
cd/m²
304
cd/m²
312
cd/m²
287
cd/m²
306
cd/m²
314
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
AU Optronics B156HAN08.2 (AUO82ED) tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 314 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 298.6 cd/m² Minimum: 3 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 89 %
Center on Battery: 304 cd/m²
Contrast: 1126:1 (Black: 0.27 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 4.66 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5, calibrated: 1.72
ΔE Greyscale 5.53 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
93% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
60% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
65.7% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
92.6% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
64.2% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.5
Acer Predator Triton 500
AU Optronics B156HAN08.2 (AUO82ED), IPS, 1920x1080
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
LGD05C0, IPS, 1920x1080
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
LG Philips LGD05C0, IPS, 1920x1080
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
AU Optronics B156HAN08.0 (AUO80ED), IPS, 1920x1080
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
AU Optronics B156HAN08.2 (AUO82ED), IPS, 1920x1080
Display
-1%
2%
1%
1%
Display P3 Coverage
64.2
63.5
-1%
65.3
2%
66.2
3%
66.7
4%
sRGB Coverage
92.6
93.1
1%
94.9
2%
92.1
-1%
91.2
-2%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
65.7
64.5
-2%
66.3
1%
67.2
2%
66.7
2%
Response Times
-63%
-57%
-67%
9%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
8 ?(4, 4)
16.4 ?(8.8, 7.6)
-105%
16.8 ?(9.2, 7.6)
-110%
17.6 ?(9.2, 8.4)
-120%
7.4 ?(3.8, 3.6)
7%
Response Time Black / White *
11.2 ?(6, 5.2)
13.6 ?(8.4, 5.2)
-21%
11.6 ?(7.2, 4.4)
-4%
12.8 ?(7.6, 5.2)
-14%
10 ?(4.4, 5.6)
11%
PWM Frequency
Screen
15%
7%
14%
11%
Brightness middle
304
250
-18%
314.7
4%
254
-16%
294
-3%
Brightness
299
235
-21%
312
4%
262
-12%
275
-8%
Brightness Distribution
89
85
-4%
90
1%
89
0%
84
-6%
Black Level *
0.27
0.29
-7%
0.38
-41%
0.22
19%
0.24
11%
Contrast
1126
862
-23%
828
-26%
1155
3%
1225
9%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
4.66
1.46
69%
2.56
45%
2.37
49%
2.57
45%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
9.65
2.47
74%
4.89
49%
4.71
51%
4.88
49%
Colorchecker dE 2000 calibrated *
1.72
1.71
1%
1.84
-7%
2.14
-24%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
5.53
1.27
77%
3.4
39%
1.58
71%
2.41
56%
Gamma
2.5 88%
2.4 92%
2.3 96%
2.48 89%
2.5 88%
CCT
8028 81%
6749 96%
6435 101%
6785 96%
6370 102%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
60
60
0%
60.7
1%
60
0%
59
-2%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
93
93
0%
94.6
2%
92
-1%
91
-2%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-16% / 1%
-16% / -2%
-17% / 2%
7% / 9%

* ... smaller is better

The measured values are definitely impressive. A contrast of almost 1130:1 is just as good for an IPS panel as a black value of 0.27 cd/m². While a brightness of about 300 cd/m² is also decent, it could have been more for improving readability outdoors.

CalMAN: Grayscale
CalMAN: Grayscale
CalMAN: Saturation
CalMAN: Saturation
CalMAN: ColorChecker
CalMAN: ColorChecker
CalMAN: Grayscale (calibrated)
CalMAN: Grayscale (calibrated)
CalMAN: Saturation (calibrated)
CalMAN: Saturation (calibrated)
CalMAN: ColorChecker (calibrated)
CalMAN: ColorChecker (calibrated)

The color accuracy of the 15-inch screen ranges in the middle of the field. The blue tint that is there can be removed via calibration or by using the linked ICC file. In terms of the color space, we measured 93% sRGB and 60% AdobeRGB, which is completely sufficient from a gaming and multimedia perspective.

Acer Triton 500 vs. sRGB (93%)
Acer Triton 500 vs. sRGB (93%)
Acer Triton 500 vs. AdobeRGB (60%)
Acer Triton 500 vs. AdobeRGB (60%)

As is typical for IPS panels, the viewing-angle stability is good, so that sitting at an angle from the screen will not pose a problem. The response time also gives no reason for complaint. At first glance, 8 ms gray-to-gray points to a TN panel.

In direct light
In direct light
Subpixel array
Subpixel array
Viewing angles
Viewing angles

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
11.2 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 6 ms rise
↘ 5.2 ms fall
The screen shows good response rates in our tests, but may be too slow for competitive gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 25 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
8 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 4 ms rise
↘ 4 ms fall
The screen shows fast response rates in our tests and should be suited for gaming.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 15 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM not detected

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18110 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

Performance

The hexa-core CPU and the high-end GPU promise ample power for current games. Fitting to that, Acer has equipped it with a fast SSD duo and more than sufficient RAM for the next few years. 

CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
HWiNFO
GPU-Z
AS SSD Benchmark
CrystalDiskMark
LatencyMon

Processor

The more-expensive models of the Triton 500 have an Intel Core i7-8750H with six cores that are able to operate on up to 12 threads in parallel via Hyper-Threading.

Single-core rendering
Single-core rendering
Multi-core rendering
Multi-core rendering
GPU load
GPU load

The standard clock speed is 2.2 GHz, which can be increased up to 4.1 GHz via Turbo Boost. However, the Core i7-8750H only reaches this value in single-core load. In multi-core scenarios, the clock speed varies between 1.7 and 3.9 GHz, which indicates temporary throttling. But if you look for the "Config TDP Level" item in the Windows power-saving options (hiding under the "Intel Dynamic Platform and Thermal Framework Settings") and adjust the setting to 2.2 GHz, you can prevent the throttling (at least in most applications). The clock speed will then vary between 2.2 and 3.9 GHz.

Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.98 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
10.98 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
176 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
1019 Points
Help
060120180240300360420480540600660720780840900960102010801140Tooltip
Acer Predator Triton 500 Intel Core i7-8750H: Ø980 (961.82-1019.05)
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9 Intel Core i7-8750H: Ø1095 (1087.31-1156.25)
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q Intel Core i7-8750H: Ø922 (913.2-999)
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin Intel Core i7-8750H: Ø981 (927.26-1023.23)
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS Intel Core i7-8750H: Ø1004 (937.73-1119.73)

According to our endurance test with Cinebench R15, the performance settles at the level of the MSI GS65. The Asus Zephyrus S fares slightly better, whereas the Razer Blade 15 comes in last in terms of the CPU. The following chart lists the results after a cold start without previous load.

Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Average of class Gaming
  (79.2 - 318, n=247, last 2 years)
265 Points +51%
Acer Predator Triton 500
Intel Core i7-8750H
176 Points
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
Intel Core i7-8750H
175 Points -1%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
Intel Core i7-8750H
174 Points -1%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
Intel Core i7-8750H
166 Points -6%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H
166 Points -6%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Average of class Gaming
  (400 - 5663, n=248, last 2 years)
2986 Points +193%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H
1156 Points +13%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
Intel Core i7-8750H
1120 Points +10%
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
Intel Core i7-8750H
1053 Points +3%
Acer Predator Triton 500
Intel Core i7-8750H
1019 Points
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
Intel Core i7-8750H
999 Points -2%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Single 64Bit
Average of class Gaming
  (2.62 - 3.73, n=23, last 2 years)
3.21 Points +62%
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
Intel Core i7-8750H
2 Points +1%
Acer Predator Triton 500
Intel Core i7-8750H
1.98 Points
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
Intel Core i7-8750H
1.89 Points -5%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Average of class Gaming
  (19.7 - 64.3, n=24, last 2 years)
35.7 Points +225%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
Intel Core i7-8750H
12.44 Points +13%
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
Intel Core i7-8750H
11.82 Points +8%
Acer Predator Triton 500
Intel Core i7-8750H
10.98 Points

System Performance

The SSD RAID helps the Triton 500 to place first among the comparison devices in the system tests. The 15-inch notebook manages a first-rate 5883 points in PCMark 10. Subjectively, Windows also boots up very fast and is very responsive. The load times in (well-optimized) games are pleasantly short.

PCMark 10 - Score
Average of class Gaming
  (4477 - 9852, n=208, last 2 years)
7531 Points +28%
Acer Predator Triton 500
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H, 2x WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-256G-1014 (RAID 0)
5883 Points
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
5416 Points -8%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Intel SSD 760p SSDPEKKW010T8
5353 Points -9%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
5170 Points -12%
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
5095 Points -13%

Storage Solution

As we mentioned before, Acer has combined two 256 GB PCIe SSDs into a lightning-fast RAID assembly. The two NVMe drives from WDC (PC SN720 model) together achieve more than 2000 MB/s during sequential reading and writing. While the single Western Digital SSD of the Asus GX531 is significantly slower, the Samsung SSDs of the Razer Blade 15 and the MSI GS65 achieve similar overall scores in the AS SSD benchmark despite slower sequential values.

Acer Predator Triton 500
2x WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-256G-1014 (RAID 0)
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel SSD 760p SSDPEKKW010T8
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G
AS SSD
-16%
1%
-3%
-21%
Score Total
3770
2722
-28%
4079
8%
4122
9%
3294
-13%
Seq Write
2492
1471
-41%
1822
-27%
1834
-26%
1261
-49%
Seq Read
2913
2113
-27%
1840
-37%
1266
-57%
903
-69%
4K Write
107.2
107.1
0%
110.7
3%
107.2
0%
103.6
-3%
4K Read
38.7
55
42%
52.3
35%
48.94
26%
40.02
3%
Score Write
1435
957
-33%
2010
40%
2051
43%
1515
6%
Score Read
1558
1180
-24%
1362
-13%
1346
-14%
1161
-25%
2x WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-256G-1014 (RAID 0)
CDM 5/6 Read Seq Q32T1: 3536 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write Seq Q32T1: 2902 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Read 4K Q32T1: 338.7 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write 4K Q32T1: 298.7 MB/s
CDM 5 Read Seq: 2107 MB/s
CDM 5 Write Seq: 2455 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Read 4K: 38.82 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write 4K: 93.6 MB/s

Graphics Card

The GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q is currently the second most-powerful graphics card from Nvidia's Turing portfolio for notebooks. Compared to the regular RTX 2080, mainly the clock speeds were reduced. Instead of 1380 - 1590 MHz (150 watts TDP), it is only 735 - 1095 MHz (80 watts TDP) in the Max-Q version. The amount of shader units remains identical at 2944. The video storage also includes the usual 8 GB GDDR6, but with a speed of only 6 GHz instead of 7 GHz.

3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Average of class Gaming
  (1029 - 72070, n=246, last 2 years)
39499 Points +41%
Acer Predator Triton 500
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
28083 Points
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
22723 Points -19%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
22089 Points -21%
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q
18687 Points -33%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q
18296 Points -35%

As our performance test has brought to light, due to the strongly reduced clock speed, the performance follows more the GeForce RTX 2070 than the RTX 2080, which makes its labeling appear a bit unfortunate, particularly since not all shops list the Max-Q ending on their product pages (even the box of the notebook only says "RTX 2080").

3DMark 11 Performance
20149 points
Help

During the 60-minute test with The Witcher 3 (Full HD, Ultra), the behavior of the Triton 500 remained inconspicuous. Thanks to GPU Boost, which works similarly to Intel's Turbo Boost, the GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q settled at 1215 MHz and 78 °C (172 °F) on average. The CPU ranged between 80 and 90 °C (176-194 °F).

05101520253035404550556065707580Tooltip
Acer Predator Triton 500 GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H, 2x WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-256G-1014 (RAID 0): Ø76.1 (70-81)
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ: Ø62.2 (57-70)
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9 GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Intel SSD 760p SSDPEKKW010T8: Ø51.3 (44-61)
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ: Ø49.5 (46-53)
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, WDC PC SN520 SDAPNUW-512G: Ø50.3 (45-54)

Gaming Performance

Max-Q or not, as long as you only use 1920x1080 pixels, the GeForce RTX 2080 is able to power any modern game smoothly with high to maximum details and activated edge smoothing. Since it achieves more than 60 FPS in many games, the 144 Hz of the display is also often used to the full extent.

The Witcher 3
1920x1080 High Graphics & Postprocessing (Nvidia HairWorks Off)
Average of class Gaming
  (17.5 - 449, n=177, last 2 years)
213 fps +57%
Acer Predator Triton 500
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, Intel Core i7-8750H
136 (104min) fps
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, Intel Core i7-8750H
130.1 fps -4%
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, Intel Core i7-8750H
95.5 fps -30%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, Intel Core i7-8750H
90.4 fps -34%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, Intel Core i7-8750H
86.5 fps -36%
1920x1080 Ultra Graphics & Postprocessing (HBAO+)
Average of class Gaming
  (8.61 - 216, n=245, last 2 years)
114 fps +49%
Acer Predator Triton 500
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, Intel Core i7-8750H
76.5 (63min) fps
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, Intel Core i7-8750H
68.9 fps -10%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, Intel Core i7-8750H
58.3 (48min) fps -24%
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, Intel Core i7-8750H
52.7 fps -31%
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, Intel Core i7-8750H
49.2 fps -36%
low med. high ultra
The Witcher 3 (2015) 136 76.5
Battlefield 1 (2016) 134 129
Assassin´s Creed Origins (2017) 65 62

Emissions

System Noise

The noise development is neither particularly high nor low. During idle operation, the Triton 500 is mostly pleasantly quiet (30-34 dB) or even completely silent. However, from time to time the fans rev up powerfully, as we also know from other notebooks.

Noise level - idle
Noise level - idle
Noise level - load
Noise level - load
Sound level - speaker
Sound level - speaker

Under load, we measured between 44 and 47 dB. This makes the 15-inch notebook quieter than the Asus GX531GS but louder than the Razer Blade 15. The MSI GS65 8RF and the Gigabyte Aero 15 X9 produce a comparable noise level.

Noise Level

Idle
30 / 32 / 34 dB(A)
Load
44 / 47 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Audix TM1, Arta (15 cm distance)   environment noise: 29 dB(A)
Acer Predator Triton 500
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Average of class Gaming
 
Noise
-2%
9%
2%
-9%
8%
off / environment *
29
30
-3%
28.8
1%
30
-3%
29
-0%
24.1 ?(19.5 - 29.9, n=194, last 2 years)
17%
Idle Minimum *
30
32
-7%
28.8
4%
30
-0%
33
-10%
25.6 ?(21.9 - 41.6, n=195, last 2 years)
15%
Idle Average *
32
34
-6%
28.8
10%
31
3%
34
-6%
27.4 ?(21.9 - 42.1, n=195, last 2 years)
14%
Idle Maximum *
34
36
-6%
29.4
14%
34
-0%
40
-18%
30.7 ?(21.9 - 47, n=195, last 2 years)
10%
Load Average *
44
42
5%
35.7
19%
43
2%
47
-7%
43.2 ?(25.2 - 62.9, n=195, last 2 years)
2%
Witcher 3 ultra *
46
44
4%
42.5
8%
42
9%
51
-11%
Load Maximum *
47
48
-2%
45
4%
44
6%
53
-13%
53.2 ?(42.1 - 68.2, n=195, last 2 years)
-13%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

Like most gaming laptops, the Triton 500 also becomes fairly warm in 3D operation. After 60 minutes of the stress test with the FurMark and Prime95 tools, we measured up to 58 °C (136 °F) at the bottom of the case, which speaks against gaming sessions on your lap. At the same time, the top only warmed up to a maximum of 49 °C (120 °F).

The Witcher 3
The Witcher 3
Stress test
Stress test
Full load - top
Full load - top
Full load - bottom
Full load - bottom

Inside the case, the situation is much less restrained. However, a maximum of 79 °C (174 °F) for the GPU and up to 91 °C (196 °F) for the (slightly throttled) CPU are still not critical.

Max. Load
 44 °C
111 F
48 °C
118 F
47 °C
117 F
 
 45 °C
113 F
49 °C
120 F
45 °C
113 F
 
 38 °C
100 F
39 °C
102 F
38 °C
100 F
 
Maximum: 49 °C = 120 F
Average: 43.7 °C = 111 F
58 °C
136 F
58 °C
136 F
44 °C
111 F
55 °C
131 F
56 °C
133 F
44 °C
111 F
44 °C
111 F
43 °C
109 F
41 °C
106 F
Maximum: 58 °C = 136 F
Average: 49.2 °C = 121 F
Power Supply (max.)  42 °C = 108 F | Room Temperature 20 °C = 68 F | Voltcraft IR-900
(-) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 43.7 °C / 111 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 49 °C / 120 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 58 °C / 136 F, compared to the average of 43.2 °C / 110 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 30.2 °C / 86 F, compared to the device average of 33.8 °C / 93 F.
(-) Playing The Witcher 3, the average temperature for the upper side is 42.8 °C / 109 F, compared to the device average of 33.8 °C / 93 F.
(±) The palmrests and touchpad can get very hot to the touch with a maximum of 39 °C / 102.2 F.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.9 °C / 84 F (-10.1 °C / -18.2 F).
Acer Predator Triton 500
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Average of class Gaming
 
Heat
2%
14%
11%
1%
7%
Maximum Upper Side *
49
56
-14%
49
-0%
49
-0%
54
-10%
46.3 ?(28.2 - 61, n=194, last 2 years)
6%
Maximum Bottom *
58
66
-14%
49
16%
63
-9%
60
-3%
49.7 ?(30 - 66.3, n=194, last 2 years)
14%
Idle Upper Side *
33
27
18%
25.4
23%
24
27%
30
9%
31.5 ?(21.2 - 43, n=194, last 2 years)
5%
Idle Bottom *
33
27
18%
27.2
18%
25
24%
30
9%
32.7 ?(22.6 - 45, n=194, last 2 years)
1%

* ... smaller is better

Speakers

According to our audio analysis, the sound system is in parts significantly better than that of the Triton 700. Acer has selected two speakers that are positioned in the case front. With a maximum level of 81 dB, the 15-incher is suited for small to medium-sized rooms. The sound image is halfway balanced, even if there are still the weaknesses in terms of precision and bass that are typical for notebooks.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2042.542.72540.138.23130.133.44034.142.15037.532.6632732.380313210031.339.212524.845.216023.450.720022.555.22502461.331520.967.640019.165.350018.161.963017.767.280017.371.6100016.969.4125018.97016001869.6200016.771.3250017.270315017.170.640001767500017.363.4630017.165.5800017.167.21000017.164.21250017.157.61600016.852.9SPL29.980.7N1.451.1median 17.3median 65.5Delta26.634.433.32930.527.227.627.131.92729.42532.324.83925.241.222.438.322.845.721.753.421.357.219.860.719.56519.470.119.475.519.377.119.37619.374.619.472.919.469.319.568.719.763.519.764.619.465.819.364.919.563.419.858.619.954.219.648.431.683.21.654.2median 19.5median 64.60.68.8hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseAcer Predator Triton 500Acer Predator Triton 700
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
Acer Predator Triton 500 audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (81 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 13% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (12.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 3.8% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (5.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2.3% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (14.5% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 25% of all tested devices in this class were better, 7% similar, 69% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 18%, worst was 132%
Compared to all devices tested
» 15% of all tested devices were better, 3% similar, 82% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Acer Predator Triton 700 audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (83 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 15.2% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (10.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 8% higher than median
(+) | mids are linear (6.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.9% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (19.9% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 67% of all tested devices in this class were better, 6% similar, 27% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 18%, worst was 132%
Compared to all devices tested
» 45% of all tested devices were better, 7% similar, 47% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Power Management

Power Consumption

Although the Triton 500 is destined as a mobile companion, Acer left out the graphics switching. With Nvidia's Optimus technology, not only would the power consumption be lower (at least in idle mode), but the battery life would also benefit. Our measurements confirm that a 180-watt power supply is quite sufficient for the RTX 2080 Max-Q. During the stress test, the 15-inch notebook drew a maximum of 173 watts from the outlet (about 147 watts during The Witcher 3). During idle, this was between 16 and 32 watts, depending on the power-saving mode and display brightness.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.3 / 1.7 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 16 / 22 / 32 Watt
Load midlight 89 / 173 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
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.
Acer Predator Triton 500
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
Average of class Gaming
 
Power Consumption
11%
18%
23%
-7%
-5%
Idle Minimum *
16
16
-0%
10.4
35%
7
56%
17
-6%
13.7 ?(2 - 64, n=191, last 2 years)
14%
Idle Average *
22
18
18%
14.6
34%
11
50%
20
9%
18.9 ?(6.5 - 67, n=191, last 2 years)
14%
Idle Maximum *
32
23
28%
16.3
49%
20
37%
29
9%
26.5 ?(9 - 101.1, n=191, last 2 years)
17%
Load Average *
89
88
1%
88.5
1%
98
-10%
112
-26%
111.7 ?(32.1 - 202, n=191, last 2 years)
-26%
Witcher 3 ultra *
147
120
18%
155.4
-6%
132
10%
152
-3%
Load Maximum *
173
167
3%
182.4
-5%
182
-5%
211
-22%
249 ?(64.5 - 418, n=190, last 2 years)
-44%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

The battery life only does justice to such a traveler-friendly device to a limited extent. Even though a maximum of 5.5 hours is not a total loss for a gaming notebook, if there had been graphics switching, the Triton 500 would have been able to last significantly longer, as we can see for example with the Razer Blade 15 and the MSI GS65, which have batteries that also reach about 80 Wh. In the realistic WLAN test (medium brightness) the 15-inch notebook achieved around 3 hours.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
5h 35min
WiFi Websurfing
3h 10min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 21min
Acer Predator Triton 500
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H, 82 Wh
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, 94.24 Wh
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2070 Max-Q
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, 80 Wh
MSI GS65 8RF-019DE Stealth Thin
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, 82 Wh
Asus Zephyrus S GX531GS
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, 50 Wh
Average of class Gaming
 
Battery Runtime
93%
72%
47%
-34%
54%
Reader / Idle
335
549
64%
682
104%
507
51%
213
-36%
548 ?(57 - 1290, n=90, last 2 years)
64%
WiFi v1.3
190
382
101%
387
104%
362
91%
157
-17%
366 ?(57 - 745, n=191, last 2 years)
93%
Load
81
174
115%
88
9%
81
0%
42
-48%
86 ?(36 - 173, n=155, last 2 years)
6%
H.264
364
356
392 ?(56 - 747, n=99, last 2 years)

Verdict

Pros

+ compact case
+ very good performance
+ metal surfaces
+ Thunderbolt 3
+ slim bezels
+ G-Sync
+ 144 Hz

Cons

- annoying boot sound (can be deactivated in the BIOS)
- limited maintenance
- mediocre battery life
Predator Triton 500, test unit provided by Acer Germany
Predator Triton 500, test unit provided by Acer Germany

The Acer Predator Triton 500 just misses a "very good" evaluation. The 15-inch notebook fulfills almost all the criteria that distinguish a modern gaming notebook. In addition to the slim display bezels and slim case, we should also mention the 144-Hz panel here that scores with G-Sync.

The Triton 500 also does not lack performance. Our tested version with a Core i7-8750H and GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q can effortlessly handle any current game at Full HD resolution. 

However, it is incomprehensible to us why Acer did not use graphics switching. In terms of mobility, Optimus would absolutely offer itself as an advantage. We see additional weaknesses in terms of the maintenance. The design of the insides is such that buyers can hardly access any components at all (keywords: storage solution and RAM). 

Despite all that, the Triton 500 is significantly more successful in our opinion than the old Triton 700.

Update 22.03.19.: According to some forum-posts you can switch between G-Sync and Optimus in the BIOS. If this is true, one of the biggest points of criticism would be elimiminated.

Acer Predator Triton 500 - 02/14/2019 v6(old)
Florian Glaser

Chassis
80 / 98 → 82%
Keyboard
83%
Pointing Device
81%
Connectivity
62 / 81 → 76%
Weight
62 / 10-66 → 93%
Battery
70%
Display
86%
Games Performance
98%
Application Performance
100%
Temperature
75 / 95 → 79%
Noise
75 / 90 → 83%
Audio
75%
Average
79%
87%
Gaming - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Acer Predator Triton 500 (i7-8750H, RTX 2080 Max-Q) Laptop Review
Florian Glaser, 2019-02-15 (Update: 2019-03-22)