New Asus V16 offers good value for under $1000, but its all-plastic case is a turn off

Asus recently launched its budget V16 series designed for multimedia users who want discrete GeForce RTX graphics without breaking the bank. We had a chance to test out the base configuration equipped with RTX 3050 graphics for ~$950, but configurations with the RTX 4050 are also available for only $100 more.

Based on our time with the model, we love that it comes standard with a fast 144 Hz IPS display, Core 7 CPU, and the aforementioned GeForce RTX GPU considering the price and more compact design when compared to an Asus TUF model. Such specifications on a similar VivoBook model would typically retail for a few hundred dollars more in comparison. The V16 excels in amateur graphics editing and 1080p gaming especially for the price.

Unfortunately, two key characteristics of the V16 reflect the budget price point: weak colors and a cheap plastic case. Higher-end models typically offer >95 percent sRGB colors compared to only <60 percent on the V16. Meanwhile, the fingerprint-loving matte plastic case contrasts the metal alloy usually found on pricier laptops. The V16 specifications are decent for the price, but it's definitely inferior to the VivoBook series when it comes to looks and feel.