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Schenker Key 16 (Clevo P960EN-K) Review: The slim notebook pleases with a lot of computing power

Elegant, slim gamer. The powerful hardware of the Schenker Key 16 is able to bring all the current computer games smoothly to the matte 16.1-inch screen (FHD, IPS, 144 Hz). Schenker offers individual configuration options, such as up to three storage drives (2x M.2-2280, 1x 2.5-in) and up to 64 GB of working memory. In addition, the BIOS allows for undervolting of CPU and iGPU.

Although Schenker calls the Key 16 a "slim mobile workstation," we see the device more as a multimedia all-rounder with an emphasis on gaming. The reason is fairly obvious: In the Key-16 series (and the Key-17 as well), the GeForce GPUs that are targeted for the consumer market are used. Nvidia's professional Quadro GPUs are only available in the current Key-15 series.

The Key 16 is based on a Barebone from Clevo (P960EN-K). The test unit provided to us is run by a Core i7-8750H processor and a GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q GPU. Alternatively you can also select the GeForce GTX 1660 TiGeForce RTX 2060, or GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q graphics cores.

Since there are currently no other 16.1-inch notebooks in our database, the competitors of the Key 16 include the current 15.6 and 17.3-inchers that fall within a similar price range, such as the HP Omen 15-dc1303ng, the Gigabyte Aero 15-X9, the Acer Predator Triton 500, the MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG, the Razer Blade 15, and the Alienware m15 P79F.

SCHENKER Key 16
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: 1500 MHz, GDDR6, 256-bit connection, ForceWare 431.60, Optimus
Memory
32 GB 
, DDR4-2666, dual-channel, two memory slots (both occupied), max. 64 GB
Display
16.10 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 137 PPI, Chi Mei N161HCA-GA1 (CMN1602), IPS, 144 Hz, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Cannon Lake HM370
Storage
Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 1TB, 1024 GB 
, 2x M.2 slots (RAID 0/1), 1x 2.5-in slot, 890 GB free
Soundcard
Realtek ALC1220 @ Intel Cannon Point PCH
Connections
2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 2 USB 3.1 Gen2, 1 HDMI, 2 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: headphone port, microphone port, Card Reader: SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC, 1 Fingerprint Reader
Networking
Realtek RTL8168/8111 Gigabit-LAN (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Wireless-AC 9560 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 5
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 19.9 x 380 x 252 ( = 0.78 x 14.96 x 9.92 in)
Battery
62 Wh, 3680 mAh Lithium-Ion, 15.2 V
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HD
Primary Camera: 0.9 MPix
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, 180-Watt power supply, recovery DVD, driver DVD, cleaning cloth, manual, Control Center, one-year license for Bullguard Internet Security, 36 Months Warranty
Weight
2.2 kg ( = 77.6 oz / 4.85 pounds), Power Supply: 486 g ( = 17.14 oz / 1.07 pounds)
Price
2547 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case - Schenker uses metal

The Key 16 is based on the P960EN-K Barebone from Clevo. The slim case is able to please at first sight. With its simple design, it would strike a good figure on any desk. The relatively slim display bezels contribute to the visually pleasing overall impression. To a large extent, the case is made of metal, and only the display frame is made from plastic. Gray (display lid) and black colors (rest of the case) are used. Schenker bets on matte surfaces. The device does not offer a maintenance flap, but you have to remove the bottom of the case in order to access the insides. More on this later.

The notebook does not show any faults in terms of the workmanship. The gap measurements are even and there are no noticeable material overhangs. In terms of the stability, there are also no major complaints. If you press down a little below the touchpad, the base unit shows a little give. In addition, the base unit can also be warped slightly. However, all this remains within limits. While the display lid can be warped significantly more, pressure on the lid does not lead to any changes in the displayed image. The hinges hold the cover tightly in position, but wobble slightly. You can also open the display lid with a single hand, and the maximum opening angle is about 130 degrees.

Schenker uses a 16.1-inch display in a case that has the approximate dimensions of a 15.6-inch device. While the case is able to keep up with the 15.6-inch competitors in terms of height and width, it is slightly longer. With a weight of about 2200 grams (4.85 lb), the Key 16 is also at the same level as the competitors. 

Size Comparison

380 mm / 15 inch 252 mm / 9.92 inch 19.9 mm / 0.783 inch 2.2 kg4.85 lbs360 mm / 14.2 inch 263 mm / 10.4 inch 25 mm / 0.984 inch 2.4 kg5.25 lbs363 mm / 14.3 inch 275 mm / 10.8 inch 21 mm / 0.827 inch 2.2 kg4.76 lbs359 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 2 kg4.35 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 2.2 kg4.87 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connections - There is no Thunderbolt 3

The Key 16 offers a selection of connections that is overall well-rounded. The two USB Type-A connections support the USB 3.2 Gen-1 standard, and the two USB Type-C connections support the USB 3.2 Gen-2 standard. We would have preferred if there had been at least one Type-C port that could also handle Thunderbolt 3. One of the two Type-C ports supports DisplayPort via USB-C (an adapter needs to be purchased separately). With this, together with the HDMI-2.0 port and the Mini-DisplayPort 1.4 (offering G-Sync support), the 16.1-incher offers a total of three video ports. Those are accompanied by a headphone port, a 2-in-1 audio port (microphone in + S/PDIF optical), and an opening for a cable lock.

Below the storage card reader is an additional slot, which is meant for a SIM card. However, the Key 16 includes neither a SIM card reader, nor an LTE modem on board.

The ports are in the front areas of the left and right side, so some cables might get in the way when using a mouse. 

Note that in addition to our own photos, in this review we also use some image material offered by Schenker. However, some of this was slightly misleading, since the images showed two Mini-DisplayPorts on the left side of the device, even though there is only a single port. In addition, the symbols of the audio ports were switched. We therefore did some processing of the images of the side views, so that they now correspond to our test unit.

Right side: headphone port, 2-in-1 audio (microphone in + S/PDIF optical), USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type A), storage card reader (SD), Gigabit Ethernet, slot for a cable lock
Right side: headphone port, 2-in-1 audio (microphone in + S/PDIF optical), USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type A), storage card reader (SD), Gigabit Ethernet, slot for a cable lock
Left side: power, HDMI 2.0, Mini DisplayPort 1.4 (supports G-Sync), 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type C), USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type A)
Left side: power, HDMI 2.0, Mini DisplayPort 1.4 (supports G-Sync), 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type C), USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type A)

SD Card Reader

SD cards can be inserted completely into the storage card reader of the Key 16, which also locks them in place. The model used here runs blazing fast. While copying larger data blocks, a maximum transfer rate of 210 MB/s is reached. The transfer of 250 JPG files (about 5 MB each) is completed with a speed of 188 MB/s. We test storage card readers using a reference card (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II). 

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
200 MB/s +6%
SCHENKER Key 16
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
188 MB/s
SCHENKER Key 15 Coffee Lake
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
166 MB/s -12%
Average of class Gaming
  (19 - 202, n=104, last 2 years)
98.2 MB/s -48%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
78.4 MB/s -58%
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
242 MB/s +15%
SCHENKER Key 16
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
210 MB/s
SCHENKER Key 15 Coffee Lake
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
208 MB/s -1%
Average of class Gaming
  (26 - 269, n=95, last 2 years)
122.3 MB/s -42%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
85.3 MB/s -59%

Communication

Our test unit includes a WLAN module that has an Intel chip (Wireless-AC 9560). In addition to the 802.11 a/b/g/n WLAN standards, the fast ac standard is also supported. The module also supports Bluetooth-5 functionality. The transfer rates we measure under optimal conditions (no other WLAN devices in close proximity, small distance between notebook and server PC) turn out good. A Gigabit Ethernet controller from Realtek's well-known RTL8168/8111 family handles wired network connections, completing its tasks without any problems.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Average of class Gaming
  (450 - 1412, n=14, last 2 years)
1006 MBit/s +49%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200
718 MBit/s +6%
Acer Predator Triton 500
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
683 MBit/s +1%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
680 MBit/s +1%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
676 MBit/s
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
620 MBit/s -8%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
Intel Cannon Lake-H/S CNVi: WiFi
601 (562min - 639max) MBit/s -11%
Alienware m15 P79F
Killer Wireless-AC 1550 Wireless Network Adapter
387 MBit/s -43%
iperf3 receive AX12
Average of class Gaming
  (423 - 1700, n=14, last 2 years)
1203 MBit/s +73%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
694 MBit/s
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200
688 MBit/s -1%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
678 MBit/s -2%
Acer Predator Triton 500
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
671 MBit/s -3%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
Intel Cannon Lake-H/S CNVi: WiFi
666 (597min - 686max) MBit/s -4%
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
659 MBit/s -5%
Alienware m15 P79F
Killer Wireless-AC 1550 Wireless Network Adapter
652 MBit/s -6%

Accessories

As typical for Schenker, the notebook also includes some accessories. The box includes a recovery DVD, a driver DVD, a cleaning cloth, various screws (to fasten a 2.5-inch storage drive), and a printed user manual. In addition, there is also a license key for the Bullguard Internet Security software. The license is valid for 12 months and can be used on up to three devices.

Maintenance

The Key 16 does not have a maintenance flap. To get access to the hardware, you need to open the case. To do this, you first need to remove the keyboard. After removing the two screws that hold the keyboard in place, it can be carefully pushed out from the bottom. Next, you need to remove the three flat cables that connect the keyboard with the main board. You can then see five screws below the keyboard, which also have to be removed. After that, you remove all the screws from the bottom of the case. And finally, you can then remove the bottom of the case with a thin spatula or prying tool. 

Warranty

The basic warranty covers two years, including pick-up service and six months of quick-repair (within 48 hours) service. A 36-months warranty will cost about 100 to 150 Euros (~$111-166), depending on the quick-repair time period.

Input Devices - The glass touchpad invites sliding

Keyboard

The Key 16 has an illuminated chiclet keyboard, including a number block. The main keys have a size of 15 x 15 mm (~0.6 x 0.6 in) and can be easily distinguished from one another (~3 mm/~0.12 inch gap between the keys). The built-in keys offer a medium stroke overall and a clear pressure point. The resistance of the keys pleasing. While typing, the keyboard has a minimal give, but this did not turn out to interfere with our typing. The RGB illumination offers four brightness levels in total. Four function keys control the illumination. Overall, Schenker succeeds in delivering a keyboard suitable for everyday tasks.

Touchpad

The multi-touch capable touchpad has a footprint of about 10.7 x 6.1 cm (~4.2 x 2.4 in). This offers sufficient space for using gesture controls. The smooth glass surfaces make sliding of the fingers very easy. The pad responds accurately to inputs, including in the corners. There are two separate mouse keys below the pad, which offer a medium stroke and clear pressure point.

Input devices
Input devices
The fingerprint reader is integrated into the touchpad.
The fingerprint reader is integrated into the touchpad.

Display - 144-Hz IPS

With its 16.1-inch screen, the Schenker Key 16 offers a new display size that we will see more often in the future. The model used here has a matte surface and a native resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. While the display offers a good contrast (1138:1), the brightness turns out a little low (271 cd/m²). We consider values above 300 cd/m² as good. Within our comparison field, the display of the Alienware m15 P79F with its brightness of 452 cd/m² is clearly able to leave the competitors behind.

The built-in 144-Hz panel shows good response times overall. However, it is also bested by the display of the Alienware m15 in this regard, which is equipped with an OLED panel. 

Unfortunately, at brightness levels of 20% and below, the display of the Key 16 shows flickering at a frequency of 25,510 Hz. But since this is a very high frequency, even sensitive people should not be afflicted with headaches or eye problems.

286
cd/m²
266
cd/m²
261
cd/m²
262
cd/m²
296
cd/m²
265
cd/m²
274
cd/m²
267
cd/m²
261
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
Chi Mei N161HCA-GA1 (CMN1602) tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 296 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 270.9 cd/m² Minimum: 16 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 88 %
Center on Battery: 296 cd/m²
Contrast: 1138:1 (Black: 0.26 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 2.24 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5, calibrated: 0.72
ΔE Greyscale 2.76 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
99% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
60% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
65.9% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
94.9% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
63.8% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.52
SCHENKER Key 16
Chi Mei N161HCA-GA1 (CMN1602), IPS, 1920x1080, 16.10
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
Sharp LQ156M1JW03 (SHP14C5), IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Acer Predator Triton 500
AU Optronics B156HAN08.2 (AUO82ED), IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
LG Philips LGD05C0, IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Alienware m15 P79F
Samsung SDCA029, 156WR04, OLED, 3840x2160, 15.60
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
Sharp LQ156M1JW03 (SHP14C5), IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
LGD05C0, IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Display
5%
-0%
-1%
38%
4%
-1%
Display P3 Coverage
63.8
67.6
6%
64.2
1%
63.8
0%
99.9
57%
66.9
5%
63.5
0%
sRGB Coverage
94.9
97.5
3%
92.6
-2%
93.4
-2%
100
5%
98.1
3%
93.1
-2%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
65.9
68.9
5%
65.7
0%
65
-1%
100
52%
68.5
4%
64.5
-2%
Response Times
0%
24%
8%
21%
7%
-11%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
18 ?(8.8, 9.2)
13.6 ?(8, 5.6)
24%
8 ?(4, 4)
56%
14 ?(7, 7)
22%
2.6 ?(1.2, 1.4)
86%
12.8 ?(6.8, 6)
29%
16.4 ?(8.8, 7.6)
9%
Response Time Black / White *
10.4 ?(6, 4.4)
12 ?(7.6, 4.4)
-15%
11.2 ?(6, 5.2)
-8%
11 ?(7, 4)
-6%
2.3 ?(1, 1.3)
78%
10.4 ?(6, 4.4)
-0%
13.6 ?(8.4, 5.2)
-31%
PWM Frequency
25510 ?(20)
23260 ?(19)
-9%
60.2 ?(100)
-100%
23810 ?(10)
-7%
Screen
3%
-44%
-23%
-29%
-3%
5%
Brightness middle
296
282.3
-5%
304
3%
316
7%
452.1
53%
293
-1%
250
-16%
Brightness
271
269
-1%
299
10%
295
9%
452
67%
270
0%
235
-13%
Brightness Distribution
88
90
2%
89
1%
84
-5%
90
2%
87
-1%
85
-3%
Black Level *
0.26
0.32
-23%
0.27
-4%
0.42
-62%
0.29
-12%
0.29
-12%
Contrast
1138
882
-22%
1126
-1%
752
-34%
1010
-11%
862
-24%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
2.24
1.17
48%
4.66
-108%
2.7
-21%
6.34
-183%
1.69
25%
1.46
35%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
4.04
3.29
19%
9.65
-139%
5.65
-40%
12.97
-221%
3.37
17%
2.47
39%
Colorchecker dE 2000 calibrated *
0.72
1.06
-47%
1.72
-139%
1.58
-119%
1.24
-72%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
2.76
1.3
53%
5.53
-100%
2.35
15%
2.8
-1%
2.3
17%
1.27
54%
Gamma
2.52 87%
2.2 100%
2.5 88%
2.41 91%
2.21 100%
2.3 96%
2.4 92%
CCT
6830 95%
6643 98%
8028 81%
6904 94%
6114 106%
6758 96%
6749 96%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
60
63.8
6%
60
0%
60
0%
91
52%
63
5%
60
0%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
99
97.5
-2%
93
-6%
93
-6%
100
1%
98.5
-1%
93
-6%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
3% / 2%
-7% / -27%
-5% / -15%
10% / -4%
3% / 0%
-2% / 2%

* ... smaller is better

The display of the Key 16 offers a very good color reproduction already in the state of delivery. With a DeltaE-2000 color deviation of 2.24, the target (DeltaE < 3) is met. You can even achieve further improvement via calibration of the display. We tried it and were able to reduce the color deviation to a value of 0.72 and to cause the grayscales to be reproduced significantly more balanced. The color space coverage also does not look bad. The coverage rates are 60% (AdobeRGB) and 99% (sRGB).

Using the color profile we are offering, you can adjust the color reproduction of the display according to our calibration. However, you need to make sure that you have the same display model (manufacturer + model number) as our test unit, since otherwise the color reproduction can become worse, instead of improving. Often displays from different manufacturers are used within the same notebook model series.

CalMAN: Grayscales
CalMAN: Grayscales
CalMAN: Saturation
CalMAN: Saturation
CalMAN: ColorChecker
CalMAN: ColorChecker
CalMAN: Grayscales (calibrated)
CalMAN: Grayscales (calibrated)
CalMAN: Saturation (calibrated)
CalMAN: Saturation (calibrated)
CalMAN: ColorChecker (calibrated)
CalMAN: ColorChecker (calibrated)
Schenker Key 16 vs. sRGB (99%)
Schenker Key 16 vs. sRGB (99%)
Subpixel grid
Subpixel grid
Screen bleeding
Screen bleeding
Schenker Key 16 vs. AdobeRGB (60%)
Schenker Key 16 vs. AdobeRGB (60%)

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
10.4 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 6 ms rise
↘ 4.4 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. » 22 % 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
18 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 8.8 ms rise
↘ 9.2 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 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 26 % 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 detected 25510 Hz ≤ 20 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 25510 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) Flickering detected at a brightness setting of 20 % and below. There should be no flickering or PWM above this brightness setting.

The frequency of 25510 Hz is quite high, so most users sensitive to PWM should not notice any flickering.

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.

Schenker has equipped the Key 16 with an IPS panel with stable viewing angles, allowing the display to be read from any angle. Outdoors, you can only read the display when the sunlight is not too bright.

The Key 16 outdoors (in direct sunlight)
The Key 16 outdoors (in direct sunlight)
Viewing angles
Viewing angles

Performance - Sufficient for the next few years

With the Key 16, Schenker offers a slim, 16.1-inch notebook that is able to bring any current game to the screen smoothly, and also strikes a good figure in all the other application areas. You have to pay about 2500 Euros (~$2773) for our test unit. The most affordable model can be purchased for about 1600 Euros (~$1775), and then there will be a GeForce GTX 1660-Ti graphics core on board. Since Schenker allows for very individual configurations, some correspondingly well-equipped models can cost more than 4000 Euros (~$4437).

CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
GPU-Z
GPU-Z
HWInfo
LatencyMon

Test Conditions

In addition to functions to view the system status and control the keyboard illumination, the preinstalled Control Center also offers the option to set up a performance profile and adjust the fan control. The profiles "Silent Mode," "Power Saver Mode," "Entertainment Mode," and "Performance Mode" are available. We ran our tests with the "Entertainment Mode" profile and automatic fan control activated.

The "Performance Mode" does not lead to a performance increase in the Key 16. The results in the CPU and GPU tests remain within the same range in the "Entertainment" and "Performance" modes. The fan running constantly at maximum speeds will not change anything about this.

Undervolting via BIOS

The BIOS of the Key 16 allows for the so-called "undervolting" of the processor and the integrated GPU. This will run the two components with less voltage than intended by the manufacturer. As a result, the power consumption and also the heat development will turn out lower. If the voltage is lowered too much, there is a danger of the system becoming unstable or errors occurring. Schenker has therefore limited the voltage drop to a maximum of 100 mV, since this will still ensure stable operation of the hardware. The BIOS enables undervolting in steps of 10 mV. If the system becomes unstable or errors occur, you should go back to the previous voltage setting.

Processor

The Schenker Key 16 is run by an Intel Core i7-8750H (Coffee Lake) hexa-core processor. The CPU represents a good compromise between computing performance, power consumption, and purchase price. The same goes for its successor, the Core i7-9750H, which is also available. The 8750H runs at a basic clock speed of 2.2 GHz. The clock speed can be increased via Turbo to 3.9 GHz (six cores), 4 GHz (four cores), and 4.1 GHz (one or two cores).

The processor runs through the multi-thread tests of the Cinebench benchmarks at 3.4 to 3.9 GHz for a short time, before the clock speed drops to 3.1 - 3.2. GHz. It runs through the single-thread tests at 3.9 to 4.1 GHz. This is the behavior in mains operation. In battery operation, the CPU runs at 1.4 to 2.9 GHz (multi-thread) and 2.5 to 4.1 GHz (single-thread).

Singlecore rendering
Singlecore rendering
Multicore rendering
Multicore rendering
GPU load
GPU load

By running the multi-thread test of the Cinebench R15 benchmarks for at least 30 minutes in a constant loop, we evaluate whether the CPU Turbo is also used constantly in mains operation. From the first to the second run, the results drop by about 12% and then remain at a constant level. So while the Turbo is used, it is not used to the full extent possible. 

060120180240300360420480540600660720780840900960102010801140Tooltip
SCHENKER Key 16 Intel Core i7-8750H, Intel Core i7-8750H: Ø1004 (993.22-1135.62)
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG Intel Core i7-9750H, Intel Core i7-9750H: Ø1110 (975.73-1185.01)
Acer Predator Triton 500 Intel Core i7-8750H, Intel Core i7-8750H: Ø980 (961.82-1019.05)
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng Intel Core i7-8750H, Intel Core i7-8750H: Ø1006 (997.68-1086.13)
Alienware m15 P79F Intel Core i7-8750H, Intel Core i7-8750H: Ø1123 (1106.07-1188.78)
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q Intel Core i7-9750H, Intel Core i7-9750H: Ø1056 (1046.13-1175)
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9 Intel Core i7-8750H, Intel Core i7-8750H: Ø1095 (1087.31-1156.25)
CPU clock speeds while running the CB15 loop (Entertainment Mode)
CPU clock speeds while running the CB15 loop (Entertainment Mode)

A glance at the following diagram shows that the Core i7 remains slightly behind its full potential, and the Alienware m15, which is equipped with the same CPU, offers better results. The activation of Performance Mode in the Control Center does not lead to any improvement, since Schenker has implemented a power limit (PL2) of 68 watts for Entertainment Mode as well as Performance Mode.

Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Average of class Gaming
  (79.2 - 318, n=247, last 2 years)
265 Points +55%
Acer Predator Triton 500
Intel Core i7-8750H
176 Points +3%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
Intel Core i7-9750H
175 Points +2%
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
Intel Core i7-9750H
174 Points +2%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
Intel Core i7-8750H
171 Points 0%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
171 Points
Alienware m15 P79F
Intel Core i7-8750H
168 Points -2%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H
166 Points -3%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Average of class Gaming
  (400 - 5663, n=248, last 2 years)
2986 Points +168%
Alienware m15 P79F
Intel Core i7-8750H
1192 Points +7%
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
Intel Core i7-9750H
1185 Points +6%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
Intel Core i7-9750H
1175 Points +5%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H
1156 Points +4%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
1116 Points
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
Intel Core i7-8750H
1082 Points -3%
Acer Predator Triton 500
Intel Core i7-8750H
1019 Points -9%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Single 32Bit
Average of class Gaming
  (5847 - 15819, n=24, last 2 years)
9035 Points +37%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
6579 Points
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H
6351 Points -3%
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
Average of class Gaming
  (35806 - 112749, n=24, last 2 years)
59061 Points +80%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H
33923 Points +3%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
32846 Points
Cinebench R20
CPU (Single Core)
Average of class Gaming
  (169 - 855, n=243, last 2 years)
690 Points +66%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
416 Points
CPU (Multi Core)
Average of class Gaming
  (930 - 13769, n=243, last 2 years)
7152 Points +207%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
2333 Points
Geekbench 3
32 Bit Multi-Core Score
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
22635 Points
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H
21358 Points -6%
32 Bit Single-Core Score
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
4163 Points
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H
3741 Points -10%
Geekbench 4.4
64 Bit Multi-Core Score
Average of class Gaming
  (27071 - 71700, n=28, last 2 years)
47975 Points +107%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
23213 Points
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H
18716 Points -19%
64 Bit Single-Core Score
Average of class Gaming
  (5812 - 8936, n=28, last 2 years)
7514 Points +46%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H
5146 Points
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H
4810 Points -7%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H (Edge 44)
1138 ms * -3%
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
Intel Core i7-9750H (Edge 44.17763.1.0)
1137 ms * -3%
Alienware m15 P79F
Intel Core i7-8750H
1136 ms * -3%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H (Edge 44)
1107 ms *
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
Intel Core i7-9750H (Edge 44.17763.1.0)
1079 ms * +3%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
Intel Core i7-8750H
847 ms * +23%
Average of class Gaming
  (421 - 882, n=219, last 2 years)
526 ms * +52%
Octane V2 - Total Score
Average of class Gaming
  (66558 - 111243, n=51, last 2 years)
90966 Points +161%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
Intel Core i7-8750H
37088 Points +6%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
Intel Core i7-9750H (Edge 44.17763.1.0)
36865 Points +6%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H (Edge 44)
34874 Points
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
Intel Core i7-9750H (Edge 44.17763.1.0)
34660 Points -1%
Alienware m15 P79F
Intel Core i7-8750H (Edge 44.17763.1.0)
33931 Points -3%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H (Edge 44)
33659 Points -3%
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
Average of class Gaming
  (356 - 639, n=27, last 2 years)
478 Points +87%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
Intel Core i7-9750H (Edge 44.17763.1.0)
265.7 Points +4%
SCHENKER Key 16
Intel Core i7-8750H (Edge 44)
255 Points
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
Intel Core i7-9750H (Edge 44.17763.1.0)
252.1 Points -1%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel Core i7-8750H (Edge 44)
245.4 Points -4%
Alienware m15 P79F
Intel Core i7-8750H (Edge 44.17763.1.0)
245.1 Points -4%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
Intel Core i7-8750H
218.1 Points -14%

* ... smaller is better

Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
6579
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
32846
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
7982
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
171 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
1116 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
108.9 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
99.6 %
Help

System Performance

The Key 16 does not lack in system performance. The six-core processor offers more than enough computing power for all the usual application areas - and that also includes the next few years. The dedicated graphics core allows playing the current computer games. The system runs smoothly and without a hitch, and we did not encounter any problems. This impression is accompanied by very good results in the PC-Mark benchmarks. 

Two working memory modules are built-in, so the storage runs in dual-channel mode.
Two working memory modules are built-in, so the storage runs in dual-channel mode.
PCMark 7 Score
6701 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
4277 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
4037 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
5617 points
PCMark 10 Score
5694 points
Help
PCMark 10 - Score
Average of class Gaming
  (4477 - 9852, n=208, last 2 years)
7531 Points +32%
Acer Predator Triton 500
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H, 2x WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-256G-1014 (RAID 0)
5883 Points +3%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
5839 Points +3%
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
5725 Points +1%
SCHENKER Key 16
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 1TB
5694 Points
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB256HAHQ
5609 Points -1%
Alienware m15 P79F
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV512G
5485 Points -4%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Intel SSD 760p SSDPEKKW010T8
5353 Points -6%
PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Average of class Gaming
  (3570 - 6657, n=37, last 2 years)
5218 Points +22%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB256HAHQ
5077 Points +19%
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
4454 Points +4%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
4380 Points +2%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Intel SSD 760p SSDPEKKW010T8
4338 Points +1%
SCHENKER Key 16
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 1TB
4277 Points
Alienware m15 P79F
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV512G
3570 Points -17%
Work Score Accelerated v2
Average of class Gaming
  (4622 - 7085, n=36, last 2 years)
6071 Points +8%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB256HAHQ
5857 Points +4%
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
5751 Points +2%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
5749 Points +2%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Intel SSD 760p SSDPEKKW010T8
5645 Points 0%
SCHENKER Key 16
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 1TB
5617 Points
Alienware m15 P79F
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV512G
4465 Points -21%

Storage Solution

As the system drive, an NVMe SSD from Samsung is used. This is an M.2-2280 model with a total capacity of 1 TB. In the state of delivery, about 890 GB of that is still available. The rest of the storage is occupied by the recovery partition and the Windows installation. The SSD offers very good transfer rates. Its connection via PCI Express becomes noticeable here.

But this is not the end of it. Inside the notebook, there is also a second, unoccupied M.2-2280 slot. Both storage slots support NVMe SSDs, and the unoccupied slot can also accept SATA SSDs. The slots also support RAID 0/1. In order to create a RAID configuration, both slots have to be occupied with NVMe models. In addition, there is also an option to insert a 2.5-inch storage drive into the notebook.

An NVMe SSD serves as the system drive.
An NVMe SSD serves as the system drive.
A second M.2-SSD (NVMe or SATA) can also be inserted.
A second M.2-SSD (NVMe or SATA) can also be inserted.
There is also a space for a 2.5-inch storage drive.
There is also a space for a 2.5-inch storage drive.
Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 1TB
Sequential Read: 2251 MB/s
Sequential Write: 1744 MB/s
512K Read: 1095 MB/s
512K Write: 1186 MB/s
4K Read: 63.3 MB/s
4K Write: 135.1 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 565 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 475.4 MB/s
SCHENKER Key 16
Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 1TB
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
Acer Predator Triton 500
2x WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-256G-1014 (RAID 0)
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB256HAHQ
Alienware m15 P79F
Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV512G
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
Intel SSD 760p SSDPEKKW010T8
CrystalDiskMark 5.2 / 6
-7%
-2%
-15%
6%
4%
-14%
Write 4K
112.5
91.3
-19%
93.6
-17%
50.2
-55%
148.4
32%
137.2
22%
97.1
-14%
Read 4K
43.79
40.73
-7%
38.82
-11%
35.32
-19%
49.65
13%
46.82
7%
53.7
23%
Write Seq
1944
1915
-1%
2455
26%
991
-49%
1139
-41%
1221
-37%
1526
-22%
Read Seq
1656
2051
24%
2107
27%
1526
-8%
2353
42%
1217
-27%
2020
22%
Write 4K Q32T1
324.6
308.3
-5%
298.7
-8%
445.1
37%
484.7
49%
527
62%
285.6
-12%
Read 4K Q32T1
407
417.4
3%
338.7
-17%
526
29%
542
33%
614
51%
321.8
-21%
Write Seq Q32T1
3296
1922
-42%
2902
-12%
1647
-50%
1139
-65%
1986
-40%
1533
-53%
Read Seq Q32T1
3555
3395
-5%
3536
-1%
3427
-4%
3108
-13%
3234
-9%
2351
-34%

Graphics Card

The Schenker notebook brings a dedicated GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q graphics core from Nvidia. This is a version of the regular RTX 2080 that is trimmed for efficiency and targeted for slim and light notebooks. The GPU supports DirectX 12 and is able to use fast GDDR6 storage (8192 MB).

The RTX 2080 Max-Q runs at a basic clock speed of 735 MHz. Via Boost, this can be increased up to 1095 MHz. You can even achieve higher speeds, if the GPU does not reach a specified temperature and/or power limit. We measure a maximum of 1875 MHz, which can only be maintained for a short time. During our benchmarks, we measured an operating speed of 1320 MHz on average. The GPU runs through our "The Witcher 3" test with an average speed of 1125 MHz.

In mains operation, the results in the 3D Mark benchmarks range at a normal level for the GPU. In battery operation, less than half of the graphics performance is available. The UHD Graphics 630 GPU integrated in the processor is active, and the notebook uses Nvidia's Optimus graphics switching solution.

Fire Strike
Fire Strike
Time Spy
Time Spy
Port Royal
Port Royal
3D Mark 11 (mains operation)
3D Mark 11 (mains operation)
3D Mark 11 (battery operation)
3D Mark 11 (battery operation)
3DMark 06 Standard Score
36601 points
3DMark 11 Performance
20298 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
116851 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
34938 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
17301 points
3DMark Time Spy Score
7484 points
Help
3DMark
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Average of class Gaming
  (781 - 53059, n=250, last 2 years)
28955 Points +41%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
20718 Points +1%
SCHENKER Key 16
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
20565 Points
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
18962 Points -8%
Alienware m15 P79F
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
18443 Points -10%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
17598 Points -14%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
11563 Points -44%
2560x1440 Time Spy Graphics
Average of class Gaming
  (224 - 22547, n=248, last 2 years)
11781 Points +52%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
7840 Points +1%
SCHENKER Key 16
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
7775 Points
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
7266 Points -7%
Alienware m15 P79F
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
7105 Points -9%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
6562 Points -16%
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Average of class Gaming
  (1029 - 72070, n=246, last 2 years)
39499 Points +47%
Acer Predator Triton 500
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
28083 Points +5%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
27762 Points +4%
SCHENKER Key 16
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
26822 Points
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
24926 Points -7%
Alienware m15 P79F
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
23819 Points -11%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
22089 Points -18%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
14723 Points -45%

Gaming Performance

The Key 16 is able to bring all the games in our database smoothly to the screen. Generally, Full-HD resolution and high to maximum quality settings can be selected. The GPU can also handle resolutions beyond Full-HD (you would need an external monitor for this). However, you then have to be more conservative in the choice of your quality settings.

The Witcher 3 - 1920x1080 Ultra Graphics & Postprocessing (HBAO+)
Average of class Gaming
  (8.61 - 216, n=245, last 2 years)
114 fps +47%
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H
78.3 fps +1%
SCHENKER Key 16
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H
77.4 fps
Acer Predator Triton 500
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H
76.5 (63min) fps -1%
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H
66.9 fps -14%
Alienware m15 P79F
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
64.4 fps -17%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
58.3 (48min) fps -25%
BioShock Infinite - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset, DX11 (DDOF)
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H
170 fps +3%
SCHENKER Key 16
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H
165.7 fps
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H
156.9 fps -5%
Alienware m15 P79F
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
153.7 fps -7%
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
127.7 fps -23%
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
115.8 fps -30%
Far Cry New Dawn - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset
Average of class Gaming
  (67 - 131, n=6, last 2 years)
97 fps +20%
SCHENKER Key 16
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H
81 fps
Rage 2 - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset (Resolution Scale Off)
SCHENKER Key 16
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H
91.9 fps
For Honor - 1920x1080 Extreme Preset AA:T AF:16x
SCHENKER Key 16
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H
123.4 fps
X-Plane 11.11 - 1920x1080 high (fps_test=3)
Average of class Gaming
  (12.4 - 166.2, n=259, last 2 years)
99.9 fps +34%
SCHENKER Key 16
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H
74.8 fps
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H
61.6 fps -18%

In order to evaluate whether the frame rates remain mostly constant even over a longer time period, we run the game "The Witcher 3" for about 60 minutes in Full-HD resolution and maximum settings. The character of the gamer is not moved for the whole time period. While the frame rates drop slightly in the first few minutes, they always remain at playable levels. We did not notice any FPS drops.

05101520253035404550556065707580Tooltip
SCHENKER Key 16 GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 1TB: Ø73.3 (69-80)
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ: Ø67.7 (62-73)
Acer Predator Triton 500 GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-8750H, 2x WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-256G-1014 (RAID 0): Ø76.1 (70-81)
Alienware m15 P79F GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV512G: Ø63.5 (59-69)
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ: Ø72.8 (68-80)
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9 GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, i7-8750H, Intel SSD 760p SSDPEKKW010T8: Ø51.3 (44-61)
GPU measurements during The Witcher-3 test
GPU measurements during The Witcher-3 test
low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 297.6 268 255.1 165.7
The Witcher 3 (2015) 294.7 236.6 146.6 77.4
For Honor (2017) 267.2 165.2 156.5 123.4
Final Fantasy XV Benchmark (2018) 125.2 100.1 75.9
X-Plane 11.11 (2018) 101.9 89.2 74.8
Far Cry 5 (2018) 122 103 97 93
Far Cry New Dawn (2019) 110 95 90 81
Rage 2 (2019) 204.2 111 93.5 91.9
Total War: Three Kingdoms (2019) 224.8 126.1 88.8 65.5
F1 2019 (2019) 188 165 137 114

Emissions - Hot and loud under load

Noise emissions

During idle operation and under low load, the fans generally run at a low speed. We measure a noise level of 31 to 34 dB(A). Occasionally the fans turn off and it is quiet. Under load, the three fans rev up quite a bit. During the stress test, we measure a noise level of 49 dB(A). It gets similarly loud during gaming operation. When running our The Witcher-3 test, the Key 16 reaches a level of 48 dB(A). 

Noise level - idle
Noise level - idle
Noise level - load
Noise level - load
Speaker volume level
Speaker volume level

Noise Level

Idle
30 / 31 / 34 dB(A)
Load
47 / 49 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: 30 dB(A)
SCHENKER Key 16
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
Acer Predator Triton 500
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
Alienware m15 P79F
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
Average of class Gaming
 
Noise
4%
2%
0%
-10%
11%
-0%
9%
off / environment *
30
28.3
6%
29
3%
30.5
-2%
28.2
6%
28.3
6%
30
-0%
24.1 ?(19.5 - 29.9, n=194, last 2 years)
20%
Idle Minimum *
30
30.4
-1%
30
-0%
32.8
-9%
30.3
-1%
28.8
4%
32
-7%
25.6 ?(21.9 - 41.6, n=195, last 2 years)
15%
Idle Average *
31
30.5
2%
32
-3%
32.8
-6%
35.4
-14%
28.8
7%
34
-10%
27.4 ?(21.9 - 42.1, n=195, last 2 years)
12%
Idle Maximum *
34
30.6
10%
34
-0%
32.8
4%
50.3
-48%
29
15%
36
-6%
30.7 ?(21.9 - 47, n=195, last 2 years)
10%
Load Average *
47
37.6
20%
44
6%
42.5
10%
50.3
-7%
33.5
29%
42
11%
43.2 ?(25.2 - 62.9, n=195, last 2 years)
8%
Witcher 3 ultra *
48
46
4%
46
4%
50.2
-5%
45
6%
44
8%
Load Maximum *
49
55.1
-12%
47
4%
47.5
3%
50.2
-2%
45.2
8%
48
2%
53.2 ?(42.1 - 68.2, n=195, last 2 years)
-9%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

The Key 16 runs through our stress test (Prime95 and FurMark run for at least one hour) in different ways in mains and battery operation. In mains operation, the processor runs at 1.9 to 2 GHz and the graphics core at 1125 MHz. In battery operation, the clock speeds are at 800 MHz (CPU) and 1200 to 1300 MHz (GPU). The stress test represents an extreme scenario which does not occur in everyday operation. We use this test to evaluate whether the system remains stable even under full load.  

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

Schenker's 16.1-incher warms up quite significantly under load. At several measurement points, we register temperatures beyond the 50-degree Celsius mark (122 °F). While running our "The Witcher 3" test (the game runs for one hour in Full-HD resolution and maximum quality settings), the heat development turns out only slightly less. With this, you would not be able to place the device on your lap. During everyday operation, the temperatures remain within an acceptable range.

Max. Load
 50 °C
122 F
50 °C
122 F
51 °C
124 F
 
 48 °C
118 F
48 °C
118 F
41 °C
106 F
 
 44 °C
111 F
43 °C
109 F
30 °C
86 F
 
Maximum: 51 °C = 124 F
Average: 45 °C = 113 F
50 °C
122 F
57 °C
135 F
59 °C
138 F
42 °C
108 F
54 °C
129 F
53 °C
127 F
34 °C
93 F
45 °C
113 F
43 °C
109 F
Maximum: 59 °C = 138 F
Average: 48.6 °C = 119 F
Power Supply (max.)  43 °C = 109 F | Room Temperature 23 °C = 73 F | Voltcraft IR-900
(-) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 45 °C / 113 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 51 °C / 124 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 59 °C / 138 F, compared to the average of 43.2 °C / 110 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 30.4 °C / 87 F, compared to the device average of 33.8 °C / 93 F.
(-) Playing The Witcher 3, the average temperature for the upper side is 43.9 °C / 111 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 44 °C / 111.2 F.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.9 °C / 84 F (-15.1 °C / -27.2 F).
SCHENKER Key 16
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
Acer Predator Triton 500
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
Alienware m15 P79F
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
Average of class Gaming
 
Heat
10%
3%
-0%
-7%
12%
5%
9%
Maximum Upper Side *
51
45.6
11%
49
4%
47.6
7%
55.6
-9%
47
8%
56
-10%
46.3 ?(28.2 - 61, n=194, last 2 years)
9%
Maximum Bottom *
59
53.8
9%
58
2%
59.6
-1%
62.4
-6%
49.2
17%
66
-12%
49.7 ?(30 - 66.3, n=194, last 2 years)
16%
Idle Upper Side *
32
28.6
11%
33
-3%
33.8
-6%
36
-13%
28.6
11%
27
16%
31.5 ?(21.2 - 43, n=194, last 2 years)
2%
Idle Bottom *
36
33.2
8%
33
8%
36.5
-1%
36
-0%
31.4
13%
27
25%
32.7 ?(22.6 - 45, n=194, last 2 years)
9%

* ... smaller is better

Speakers

The stereo speakers are placed at the front edge of the case bottom. They produce a rather mediocre sound that lacks bass to a large extent. For a better sound experience, you have to use headphones or external speakers.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2032.341.92538.244.73130.9354034.435.65029.737.26326.434.18026.130.210025.525.212529.226.416026.332.320023.126.825020.938.331520.146.240019.258.150019.265.163018.471.780017.874.4100017.674.4125018.268.2160017.968200017.572.3250017.771.9315017.771.5400017.672.9500017.671.5630017.672.1800017.769.61000017.667.21250017.457.61600017.466SPL30.283.3N1.456.7median 17.8median 68Delta1.411.943.349.239.641.246.232.134.245.427.334.226.730.824.433.628.536.924.829.124.22725.431.327.136.120.641.519.95018.95617.762.819.564.919.567.317.666.517.463.916.867.817.264.117.662.217.262.417.360.417.160.21761.21758.71760.516.854.730.375.81.435median 17.6median 60.41.910.1hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseSCHENKER Key 16SCHENKER Key 15 Coffee Lake
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
SCHENKER Key 16 audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (83 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 35.5% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (12.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4.2% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (9.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3.2% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (2.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (24.5% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 87% of all tested devices in this class were better, 4% similar, 9% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 18%, worst was 132%
Compared to all devices tested
» 70% of all tested devices were better, 6% similar, 24% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

SCHENKER Key 15 Coffee Lake audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (76 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 26.7% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (10.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 5.7% higher than median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (9.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 1.4% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (3.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (24.6% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 87% of all tested devices in this class were better, 4% similar, 9% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 18%, worst was 132%
Compared to all devices tested
» 71% of all tested devices were better, 6% similar, 23% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Power Management - Nothing unusual

Power Consumption

The Schenker notebook does not show any unusual behavior in terms of its power consumption. During idle operation, we measure a maximum power consumption of 22 watts, which is a normal value for the hardware platform used here. During our stress test, the value increases up to 191 watts, but during gaming operation, the value turns out lower. While running our "The Witcher 3" test, we measure a consumption of about 145 watts. The power supply is rated at 180 watts. 

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.3 / 1.2 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 10 / 15 / 22 Watt
Load midlight 88 / 191 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.
SCHENKER Key 16
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
Acer Predator Triton 500
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
Alienware m15 P79F
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q
Average of class Gaming
 
Power Consumption
-30%
-24%
-8%
-3%
-8%
-9%
-28%
Idle Minimum *
10
18.3
-83%
16
-60%
14.7
-47%
10.9
-9%
12.5
-25%
16
-60%
13.7 ?(2 - 64, n=191, last 2 years)
-37%
Idle Average *
15
22
-47%
22
-47%
18.6
-24%
12.3
18%
15.3
-2%
18
-20%
18.9 ?(6.5 - 67, n=191, last 2 years)
-26%
Idle Maximum *
22
28.8
-31%
32
-45%
22.6
-3%
19
14%
20.7
6%
23
-5%
26.5 ?(9 - 101.1, n=191, last 2 years)
-20%
Load Average *
88
93
-6%
89
-1%
90
-2%
96
-9%
90.2
-3%
88
-0%
111.7 ?(32.1 - 202, n=191, last 2 years)
-27%
Witcher 3 ultra *
145
142.6
2%
147
-1%
161.7
-12%
162
-12%
120
17%
Load Maximum *
191
215.9
-13%
173
9%
120
37%
229.1
-20%
209.3
-10%
167
13%
249 ?(64.5 - 418, n=190, last 2 years)
-30%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

In our realistic WLAN test, the Key 16 achieves a runtime of 5:29 h. Using a script, we simulate the load when loading websites. The Balanced power profile is active and the display brightness is adjusted to about 150 cd/m². The 16.1-inch notebook lasts for 5:58 h in our video test, where we run the short film Big Buck Bunny (H.264 coding, 1920x1080 pixels) in a constant loop. The Power Saving mode is active, the Wi-Fi module is deactivated, and the display brightness lowered to 150 cd/m².

The battery has a capacity of 62 Wh.
The battery has a capacity of 62 Wh.
Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
9h 45min
WiFi Websurfing (Edge 44)
5h 29min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
5h 58min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 9min
SCHENKER Key 16
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, 62 Wh
MSI GS65 Stealth 9SG
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, 82 Wh
Acer Predator Triton 500
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, 82 Wh
HP Omen 15-dc1303ng
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, 70 Wh
Alienware m15 P79F
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, 90 Wh
Razer Blade 15 RTX 2080 Max-Q
i7-9750H, GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q, 80 Wh
Gigabyte Aero 15-X9
i7-8750H, GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q, 94.24 Wh
Average of class Gaming
 
Battery Runtime
10%
-23%
-30%
-6%
43%
41%
10%
Reader / Idle
585
335
-43%
301
-49%
953
63%
549
-6%
548 ?(57 - 1290, n=90, last 2 years)
-6%
H.264
358
364
2%
392 ?(56 - 747, n=99, last 2 years)
9%
WiFi v1.3
329
362
10%
190
-42%
197
-40%
309
-6%
393
19%
382
16%
366 ?(57 - 745, n=191, last 2 years)
11%
Load
69
81
17%
69
0%
102
48%
174
152%
86 ?(36 - 173, n=155, last 2 years)
25%

Pros

+ matte IPS display
+ 144-Hz panel
+ elegant, slim case
+ moderate weight
+ NMVe SSD
+ undervolting via BIOS
+ up to 3 storage drives
+ individual configurations

Cons

- high noise and temperature development under load
- maintenance could have been easier
- no Thunderbolt 3
- mediocre sound

Verdict

The Schenker Key 16, test unit provided by Schenker Technologies.
The Schenker Key 16, test unit provided by Schenker Technologies.

With the Key 16, Schenker is offering a slim gaming notebook that is able to score with an elegant metal case. Even though a display with a diagonal of 16.1-inch is used, the notebook is overall hardly any larger than the usual 15.6-inch devices.

The built-in combination of a Core i7-8750H processor and GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q graphics core is able to bring all the current computer games to the matte Full-HD screen. You can always use high to maximum quality settings.

Schenker has stuffed a lot of computing power into an elegant, slim case.

A fast NVMe SSD ensures a fast and smoothly running system. There is also a slot for a second M.2 SSD (NVMe or SATA). If you use two NVMe SSDs, they can be joined in a RAID configuration (0 or 1). In addition, you can also add a 2.5-inch storage drive. Any upgrade or maintenance tasks require opening the case, which turns out to be fairly complicated.

The 144-Hz IPS display is able to score with short response times, stable viewing angles, a good contrast, and great color reproduction. However, the brightness of the display could have been better. For using it indoors, the brightness is sufficient.

While the battery life does not inspire much enthusiasm, it is okay for a notebook of this performance class. The chiclet keyboard (RGB illumination) has proven itself suitable for everyday tasks. This is accompanied by a well-rounded amount of connections. We miss a Thunderbolt-3 connection, however.

SCHENKER Key 16 - 09/20/2019 v7
Sascha Mölck

Chassis
79 / 98 → 81%
Keyboard
83%
Pointing Device
92%
Connectivity
65 / 80 → 81%
Weight
62 / 10-66 → 92%
Battery
65 / 95 → 69%
Display
87%
Games Performance
92%
Application Performance
90%
Temperature
75 / 95 → 79%
Noise
76 / 90 → 84%
Audio
57%
Camera
42 / 85 → 49%
Average
74%
84%
Gaming - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Schenker Key 16 (Clevo P960EN-K) Review: The slim notebook pleases with a lot of computing power
Sascha Mölck, 2019-08-17 (Update: 2019-08-18)