Notebookcheck Logo

Schenker XMG Core 15 (Tongfang GK5CP6V) Laptop Review: Budget Gamer

Gaming for the masses. The XMG Core 15 from Schenker Technologies is a comparatively light and compact gaming notebook that is available with good equipment for less than 1500 Euros (~$1637). Find out in our test, how the 15-inch notebook fares against the competitors.
Schenker XMG Core 15

On the bestware.com home page of the manufacturer, the XMG Core 15 can be configured extensively in order to adjust it to your individual preferences. The graphics calculations can be handled by either a GeForce GTX 1650 or a significantly more powerful GeForce GTX 1660 Ti. The working memory ranges from 8 GB up to a maximum of 64 GB, and as the storage solution, you can choose a 2.5-inch drive and up to two M.2 SSDs. While you can also select the wireless module, the keyboard language, and the operating system, there are currently no configuration options for the display and the processor. The matte 144-Hz IPS panel is accompanied by a Core i7-9750H.

The price of the XMG Core 15 starts at 1149 Euros (~$1254). For our configuration model with a GTX 1660 Ti, 16 GB of DDR4 RAM in the dual-channel mode, and a 500-GB SSD (additional specifications in the data sheet), you would have to pay about 1500 Euros (~$1637).

SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V (XMG Core 15 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i7-9750H 6 x 2.6 - 4.5 GHz, Coffee Lake-H
Graphics adapter
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile - 6 GB VRAM, Core: 1455 MHz, Memory: 1500 MHz, GDDR6, ForceWare 436.48, Optimus
Memory
16 GB 
, 2x 8 GB SO-DIMM DDR4-2666, dual channel, all slots occupied, 64 GB max.
Display
15.60 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 141 PPI, BOEhydis NV156FHM-N4G (BOE084D), IPS, Full-HD, 144 Hz, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel HM370
Storage
Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 500GB, 500 GB 
, slots: 2x M.2 Type 2280 & 1x 2.5 in
Soundcard
Realtek ALC269 @ Intel Cannon Point PCH
Connections
1 USB 2.0, 3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, 2 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: microphone, headphones, Card Reader: SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC
Networking
Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Wireless-AC 9560 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 5.0
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 26 x 360 x 244 ( = 1.02 x 14.17 x 9.61 in)
Battery
46 Wh, 4100 mAh Lithium-Ion
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HD
Additional features
Speakers: 2.0, Keyboard: chiclet RGB, Keyboard Light: yes, 180-Watt power supply, USB stick with software and drivers, 2.5-in drive-slot accessories, Control Center, 24 Months Warranty
Weight
1.99 kg ( = 70.2 oz / 4.39 pounds), Power Supply: 420 g ( = 14.82 oz / 0.93 pounds)
Price
1476 EUR
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

The competitors of the XMG Core 15 include other 15-inch gaming notebooks based on the GTX 1660-Ti such as the Razer Blade 15, the Asus Zephyrus M GU502GU, the Aorus 15-SA, the Lenovo Legion Y540-15, and the Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315. These notebooks are also listed in our charts as comparison devices.

Rating
Date
Model
Weight
Height
Size
Resolution
Best Price
81.3 %
02/2020
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
2 kg26 mm15.60"1920x1080
84.2 %
09/2019
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
2.1 kg19.9 mm15.60"1920x1080
82.9 %
10/2019
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
2 kg18.9 mm15.60"1920x1080
85.5 %
06/2019
Aorus 15-SA
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
2.1 kg24.4 mm15.60"1920x1080
82.3 %
08/2019
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
2.2 kg26 mm15.60"1920x1080
82.1 %
11/2019
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
2.3 kg23.2 mm15.60"1920x1080

Case

The case of the Core 15 has changed a lot since our test in 2017. Following the current trend, Schenker has implemented a slim-bezel design, which also ensures significantly smaller dimensions, and instead of 38.6 x 26.2 cm (15.2 x 10.3 in), the footprint is now only 36.0 x 24.4 cm (14.2 x 9.6 in). The weight was also reduced, and barely 2 kg (~4.4 lb) are noticeably more comfortable to lug around than 2.6 kg (~5.7 lb).

In terms of quality, the case makes a decent impression. The workmanship as well as the stability offer no reason for complaints. Like in most other laptops, only the display lid could have been slightly more robust and resistant to warping. The fact that most of the case is made from plastic is no negative mark in our opinion, particularly since the look and feel of most of the surfaces (around the keys, cover) remind us of sandblasted aluminum.

Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15

Apropos looks: as with almost all Schenker laptops, the design of the Core 15 is fairly subdued and without frills. The hinges could still need some improvements by the manufacturer: even though the lid can be opened with one hand, the base unit then also moves quite a bit. By the way, the Core 15 is based on the GK5CP6V Barebone from Tongfang.

Size Comparison

365 mm / 14.4 inch 260 mm / 10.2 inch 26 mm / 1.024 inch 2.2 kg4.85 lbs360 mm / 14.2 inch 244 mm / 9.61 inch 26 mm / 1.024 inch 2 kg4.39 lbs361 mm / 14.2 inch 246 mm / 9.69 inch 24.4 mm / 0.961 inch 2.1 kg4.69 lbs361.4 mm / 14.2 inch 254.2 mm / 10 inch 23.2 mm / 0.913 inch 2.3 kg5.09 lbs360 mm / 14.2 inch 252 mm / 9.92 inch 18.9 mm / 0.744 inch 2 kg4.39 lbs355 mm / 14 inch 235 mm / 9.25 inch 19.9 mm / 0.783 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

Those users who do not need Thunderbolt 3 or the latest USB technology should be happy with the connection equipment. In contrast to some other gaming laptops from the thin-and-light category, the 15-incher offers a card reader and a RJ45 port. Those are accompanied by an opening for a Kensington Lock, two audio connections, one USB 2.0 port, and the USB 3.0 ports (1x Type C + 2x Type A). External displays can be connected to the HDMI 2.0 port and/or the two Mini DisplayPorts. 

The placement of the connections leaves some mixed feelings. Since the ports on the side are placed fairly close toward the front, you can run into some space problems and cable collisions when using a mouse.

Left side: Kensington Lock, RJ45 LAN, USB 2.0 (Type A), microphone, headphones
Left side: Kensington Lock, RJ45 LAN, USB 2.0 (Type A), microphone, headphones
Ride side: card reader, 2x USB 3.0 (Type A)
Ride side: card reader, 2x USB 3.0 (Type A)
Back: 2x Mini DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0 (Type C), power
Back: 2x Mini DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0 (Type C), power

SD Card Reader

You should not expect a fast SD card reader in the Core 15. Between 20 and 30 MB/s are very meager and only correspond to the USB 2.0 level. Theoretically, our Toshiba reference card should be able to reach up to 260 MB/s.

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Average of class Gaming
  (19 - 202, n=104, last 2 years)
98.2 MB/s +327%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
23 MB/s
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
Average of class Gaming
  (26 - 269, n=95, last 2 years)
122.3 MB/s +370%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
26 MB/s

Communication

On the other hand, the WLAN is not slow at all. In ideal conditions, the wireless module of our test configuration (Intel Wireless-AC 9560) is able to crack the 1000-Mbit mark when sending as well as receiving data. Note: Due to our recently changed test setup (ax router instead of ac-router), the results from the competitors are not really comparable. 

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
1140 MBit/s
Aorus 15-SA
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
683 MBit/s -40%
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
659 MBit/s -42%
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
653 (615min - 670max) MBit/s -43%
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
630 MBit/s -45%
iperf3 receive AX12
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
1380 MBit/s
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
672 (658min - 682max) MBit/s -51%
Aorus 15-SA
Killer Wireless-AC 1550i Wireless Network Adapter (9560NGW)
670 MBit/s -51%
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
649 MBit/s -53%
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
619 MBit/s -55%

Webcam

ColorChecker
13 ∆E
16.6 ∆E
21.7 ∆E
11.4 ∆E
23.3 ∆E
15 ∆E
8.3 ∆E
26.7 ∆E
13.8 ∆E
12.8 ∆E
12.2 ∆E
6.9 ∆E
20.5 ∆E
10.5 ∆E
17.5 ∆E
4.6 ∆E
16.7 ∆E
18.7 ∆E
8.8 ∆E
15.5 ∆E
15.5 ∆E
12.7 ∆E
12.3 ∆E
8.9 ∆E
ColorChecker SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V: 14.34 ∆E min: 4.6 - max: 26.66 ∆E
Schenker XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V test chart
Schenker XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V test chart

Accessories

Not only does Schenker include a 420-gram (~14.8 oz), light, 180-Watt power supply (120 Watt @GTX 1650) with the notebook, but also a mouse pad, screws for the 2.5-inch slot, and a USB stick with software and drivers. Additional accessories such as bags are available on the home page.

Maintenance

The maintenance options are typical for a notebook of this price class. After you have removed 11 Phillips screws from the bottom, you can remove the whole case bottom. As you can see in the pictures, you then get access to all the components inside, including the RAM slots, storage drive slots, battery, and WLAN module. The cooling system consists of two fans and several heat pipes that run across the CPU and GPU. The latter are soldered-in and therefore cannot be replaced.

Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15
Schenker XMG Core 15

Warranty

The basic warranty includes pickup-and-return service and covers 24 months. At an additional cost, the warranty can be expanded to three years. A longer time period for quick-repair is also offered. 

Input Devices

Keyboard

We would call the keyboard "good." The manufacturer has opted for a chiclet model with RGB illumination. The latter can be adjusted in several steps and modified in detail via software (mode, colors, speed, etc.). In combination with the bright labeling, you can always read the keys easily, day and night. 

The typing experience is also good and offers a good compromise of soft (comfortable) and hard (accurate feedback). Compared to other gaming laptops, the keyboard is neither particularly loud nor quiet. As usual, the layout is a matter of taste. In order to offer regular-sized arrow keys, the "0" key of the dedicated number block was cut in half and the right Shift and Ctrl keys were moved to the left. 

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

Touchpad

The Touchpad or more accurately, ClickPad, delivers an acceptable performance. At 10.6 x 7.4 cm (~4.2 x 2.9 in) it is sized sufficiently large for a 15-inch device. The surface, which appears slightly rubberized, offers relatively good sliding characteristics. Of course, there is also multi-touch support. Two-finger gestures such as zooming and scrolling worked flawlessly in our test. The accuracy of the mouse replacement turned out to be mediocre. Despite a clear feedback, left and right clicks on the lower edge are not always accepted reliably and produce a loud clattering noise.

Display

As expected, an IPS panel with 144 Hz is used as the display. The measured values are not particularly spectacular, but this is not meant as a negative. As long as you stay indoors, an average brightness of barely 300 cd/m² is okay. Only if you stay outdoors, the brightness should be higher. 

295
cd/m²
287
cd/m²
295
cd/m²
288
cd/m²
324
cd/m²
285
cd/m²
284
cd/m²
312
cd/m²
293
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
BOEhydis NV156FHM-N4G (BOE084D) tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 324 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 295.9 cd/m² Minimum: 12 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 88 %
Center on Battery: 324 cd/m²
Contrast: 1200:1 (Black: 0.27 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 4.07 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5, calibrated: 1.49
ΔE Greyscale 4.01 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
91% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
59% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
65% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
91.2% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
63.3% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.6
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
BOEhydis NV156FHM-N4G (BOE084D), IPS, 1920x1080
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
BOE NV156FHM-N4K, IPS, 1920x1080
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
AU Optronics B156HAN08.2, IPS, 1920x1080
Aorus 15-SA
LG Philips LP156WFG-SPB2 (LGD05E8), IPS, 1920x1080
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
BOE 084D, IPS, 1920x1080
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
AUO, B156HAN08.2, IPS, 1920x1080
Display
2%
2%
2%
0%
1%
Display P3 Coverage
63.3
65.3
3%
66.5
5%
64.3
2%
63.6
0%
64.1
1%
sRGB Coverage
91.2
91.8
1%
90.8
0%
93.6
3%
91.7
1%
93
2%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
65
66.5
2%
66.5
2%
65.6
1%
65.2
0%
65.7
1%
Response Times
-26%
21%
-50%
-8%
-29%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
8.8 ?(4.4, 4.4)
13.6 ?(7.2, 6.4)
-55%
6.4 ?(3.4, 3)
27%
15.6 ?(8, 7.6)
-77%
8.8 ?(4, 4.4)
-0%
15 ?(8, 7)
-70%
Response Time Black / White *
10.4 ?(5.2, 5.2)
10 ?(6, 4)
4%
8.8 ?(4.4, 4.4)
15%
12.8 ?(8.4, 4.4)
-23%
12 ?(6.8, 5.2)
-15%
9 ?(5, 4)
13%
PWM Frequency
200 ?(99)
Screen
-11%
-15%
-1%
-6%
-4%
Brightness middle
324
312.7
-3%
297.7
-8%
266
-18%
299
-8%
325
0%
Brightness
296
305
3%
280
-5%
254
-14%
290
-2%
310
5%
Brightness Distribution
88
90
2%
84
-5%
90
2%
89
1%
82
-7%
Black Level *
0.27
0.27
-0%
0.43
-59%
0.28
-4%
0.29
-7%
0.255
6%
Contrast
1200
1158
-3%
692
-42%
950
-21%
1031
-14%
1275
6%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
4.07
4.57
-12%
3.13
23%
3.11
24%
3.7
9%
4.28
-5%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
6.39
6.81
-7%
7.1
-11%
5.84
9%
7
-10%
8.42
-32%
Colorchecker dE 2000 calibrated *
1.49
2.91
-95%
3.06
-105%
1.37
8%
2
-34%
1.45
3%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
4.01
4.3
-7%
1.9
53%
3.94
2%
4.1
-2%
5.01
-25%
Gamma
2.6 85%
2.29 96%
2.23 99%
2.53 87%
2.19 100%
2.6 85%
CCT
7350 88%
7098 92%
6325 103%
6210 105%
7166 91%
7678 85%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
59
59.4
1%
59.2
0%
60
2%
59.3
1%
60
2%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
91
91.3
0%
90.5
-1%
93
2%
91.5
1%
93
2%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-12% / -10%
3% / -7%
-16% / -6%
-5% / -5%
-11% / -6%

* ... smaller is better

The black value (0.27 cd/m²) and the contrast (1200:1) hardly give any reason for complaint. The same goes for the color space coverage, which at 91% sRGB and 59% AdobeRGB is similar to that of the competitors. Even through the color accuracy barely misses the target range and white color tones have a slight bluish tint, most buyers should be satisfied with the color reproduction. As an option, you can also improve the color reproduction by using our ICC file which is linked above for your download.

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)

One of the biggest strengths of the 144-Hz panel is its fast response time. About 10 ms promises a streak-free image even during fast games (such as ego shooters). As typical for IPS panels, the viewing angles range at a good level.

Schenker XMG Core 15 vs. sRGB (91%)
Schenker XMG Core 15 vs. sRGB (91%)
Schenker XMG Core 15 vs. AdobeRGB (59%)
Schenker XMG Core 15 vs. AdobeRGB (59%)

Unlike many other laptops, our test unit did not have to struggle with any pronounced screen bleeding. In favor of the battery life, Nvidia's G-Sync image improvement is not used.

In bright light
In bright light
Subpixel grid
Subpixel grid
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
10.4 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 5.2 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. » 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
8.8 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 4.4 ms rise
↘ 4.4 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. » 17 % 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.

Testing Conditions

The preinstalled Control Center allows you to adjust several system settings. All of our tests were run using the Balanced or Standard power profiles and the automatic fan control. With other modes, some of the measurements (such as the noise volume) might be completely different. 

Control Center
Control Center
Control Center
Control Center

Performance

Depending on the configuration, the Core 15 positions itself in the upper mid-range (GTX 1650) or the lower high-end (GTX 1660 Ti). In combination with a PCIe/NVMe SSD and at least 16 GB of RAM, the Core i7-9750H should offer sufficient performance reserves also for the coming years.

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

Processor

The processor is a six-core model from Intel's Coffee Lake generation, which can operate up to 12 threads simultaneously, thanks to Hyper-Threading. In addition, the Core i7-9750H offers 12 MB of L3 cache and an integrated graphics unit called UHD Graphics 630, which takes over non-demanding tasks in the office, video, or web areas. The dedicated GeForce GPU is only activated for demanding tasks such as 3D programs (Optimus technology).

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

The basic clock speed of the Core i7-9750H is 2.6 GHz, and Turbo Boost (=dynamic overclocking) allows speeds of up to 4.5 GHz. However, during Balanced mode, the Core 15 only uses the CPU Turbo to a limited extent. While we were able to measure good speeds of 4.0 to 4.3 GHz in the single-core tests, 3.1 to 3.7 GHz in the multi-core scenarios was a bit meager.

0651301952603253904555205856507157808459109751040110511701235Tooltip
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V Intel Core i7-9750H, Intel Core i7-9750H: Ø1012 (995.35-1103.17)
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti Intel Core i7-9750H, Intel Core i7-9750H: Ø925 (918.74-983.02)
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74 Intel Core i7-9750H, Intel Core i7-9750H: Ø1248 (1233.43-1260.16)
Aorus 15-SA Intel Core i7-9750H, Intel Core i7-9750H: Ø1093 (1085.04-1129.94)
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE Intel Core i7-9750H, Intel Core i7-9750H: Ø1157 (1151.34-1211.72)
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY Intel Core i7-9750H, Intel Core i7-9750H: Ø1113 (1102.29-1169.32)

With this clock speed behavior, the Core 15 positioned second to last in our comparison field during the Cinebench loop. Only the Razer Blade 15 uses its Turbo even less. In computer games, the limited Turbo hardly has any effect due to the GPU-heavy load. If needed, you can also change the power profile in the Control Center to Enthusiast or Overboost, which potentially promises more performance (naturally to the detriment of the noise levels).

Cinebench R20
CPU (Single Core)
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
Intel Core i7-9750H
468 Points +5%
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
Intel Core i7-9750H
459 Points +3%
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
Intel Core i7-9750H
458 Points +2%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
Intel Core i7-9750H
447 Points
Aorus 15-SA
Intel Core i7-9750H
420 Points -6%
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
Intel Core i7-9750H
419 Points -6%
CPU (Multi Core)
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
Intel Core i7-9750H
3015 Points +41%
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
Intel Core i7-9750H
2599 Points +21%
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
Intel Core i7-9750H
2595 Points +21%
Aorus 15-SA
Intel Core i7-9750H
2419 Points +13%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
Intel Core i7-9750H
2140 Points
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
Intel Core i7-9750H
2074 Points -3%
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
Intel Core i7-9750H
193 Points +1%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
Intel Core i7-9750H
191 Points
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
Intel Core i7-9750H
190 Points -1%
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
Intel Core i7-9750H
187 Points -2%
Aorus 15-SA
Intel Core i7-9750H
173 Points -9%
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
Intel Core i7-9750H
170 Points -11%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
Intel Core i7-9750H
1268 Points +15%
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
Intel Core i7-9750H
1170 Points +6%
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
Intel Core i7-9750H
1155 (899.54min - 1211.72max) Points +5%
Aorus 15-SA
Intel Core i7-9750H
1130 Points +2%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
Intel Core i7-9750H
1103 (995.35min - 1103.17max) Points
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
Intel Core i7-9750H
964 Points -13%
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
1103 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
125 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
99.6 %
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
191 Points
Help

System Performance

Although the operating system could boot a little faster for our tastes, the Core 15 scores with a high system performance. This is mainly due to the fast Solid-State Drive, which ensures quick installations, load times, and program starts, among other benefits.

PCMark 10 - Score
Aorus 15-SA
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H, Intel SSD 760p SSDPEKKW512G8
5761 Points +20%
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H, WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-512G
5716 Points +19%
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB256HAHQ
5301 Points +10%
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H, WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-512G
5279 Points +10%
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H, Intel SSD 660p SSDPEKNW512G8
5273 Points +10%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 500GB
4807 Points

Storage Solution

Our test unit was driven by a 500-GB SSD from Samsung. As confirmed by our benchmarks, the 970 Evo Plus NVMe model is easily able to compete with the models from Intel and WDC. Whether during reading or writing, the M.2 drive always delivers a first-rate performance. Thanks to the three slots for storage drives (1x 2.5 inch, 2x M.2), there generally is sufficient space for expansion and a high total storage capacity.

SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 500GB
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB256HAHQ
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
Intel SSD 660p SSDPEKNW512G8
Aorus 15-SA
Intel SSD 760p SSDPEKKW512G8
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-512G
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
WDC PC SN720 SDAPNTW-512G
CrystalDiskMark 5.2 / 6
5%
-4%
4%
7%
11%
Write 4K
102
135
32%
156
53%
104
2%
158.8
56%
108.7
7%
Read 4K
41.39
41.1
-1%
60.7
47%
55.1
33%
29.11
-30%
44.91
9%
Write Seq
1649
1427
-13%
968
-41%
1519
-8%
1584
-4%
2424
47%
Read Seq
1367
1494
9%
1619
18%
2486
82%
1694
24%
1617
18%
Write 4K Q32T1
379
494.9
31%
485
28%
320.5
-15%
536
41%
356.9
-6%
Read 4K Q32T1
401.2
578
44%
337.3
-16%
431.8
8%
363.9
-9%
557
39%
Write Seq Q32T1
3276
1417
-57%
969
-70%
1498
-54%
2536
-23%
2542
-22%
Read Seq Q32T1
3417
3251
-5%
1825
-47%
2868
-16%
3458
1%
3218
-6%
Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 500GB
CDM 5/6 Read Seq Q32T1: 3417 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write Seq Q32T1: 3276 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Read 4K Q32T1: 401.2 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write 4K Q32T1: 379 MB/s
CDM 5 Read Seq: 1367 MB/s
CDM 5 Write Seq: 1649 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Read 4K: 41.39 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write 4K: 102 MB/s

Graphics Card

The graphics card comes from Nvidia's Turing generation. Those who also want to play newer games at a (very) high detail level should choose the GeForce GTX 1660 Ti. While the GTX 1650 should also not be underestimated, during computing-intensive games such as "Control," it only offers sufficient performance for medium settings. Some of the coming games should make the situation more difficult. On the other hand, with the GTX 1660 Ti you should be well armed for the future – aside from ray tracing. The DirectX-12 model offers 1536 Shaders and 6 GB of GDDR6 video storage connected via 192-bit.

3DMark 11 Performance
17351 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
35204 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
13267 points
3DMark Time Spy Score
5724 points
Help

Like the Intel processor, the Nvidia GPU also has automatic overclocking abilities. Under load, the core climbs from its standard 1455 MHz up to 1920 MHz. According to our measurements, you can expect around 1600 MHz during everyday gaming, which is still a good result. It is also good that the clock speed and GPU performance remain constant over longer time periods as well. The 60-minute test with "The Witcher 3" (1920x1080, Ultra) showed very even frame rates over time.

051015202530354045505560Tooltip
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H, Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 500GB: Ø55.8 (51-61)

The benchmark tests also did not show any bad surprises. In 3DMark 13 as well as 3DMark 11, the Core 15 placed in the middle of the field of comparison devices.

3DMark
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Aorus 15-SA
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
15164 Points +2%
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
15054 Points +1%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
14922 Points
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
14753 Points -1%
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
14358 Points -4%
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
14288 Points -4%
2560x1440 Time Spy Graphics
Aorus 15-SA
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
5931 Points +6%
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
5661 Points +1%
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
5616 Points 0%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
5607 Points
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
5335 Points -5%
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Aorus 15-SA
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
20862 Points +5%
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
20311 Points +2%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
19924 Points
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
19553 Points -2%
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
19435 Points -2%
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
19329 Points -3%

Gaming Performance

As already mentioned, the GTX 1660 Ti is fast enough to bring all the current games at maximum settings to the Full-HD screen. With the exception of "Red Dead Redemption 2," all the games we tested ran at more than 40 FPS.

The Witcher 3
1920x1080 High Graphics & Postprocessing (Nvidia HairWorks Off)
Aorus 15-SA
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
104.3 fps +3%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
101 (84min) fps
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
97.5 fps -3%
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
95.9 fps -5%
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
93 (84min - 103max) fps -8%
1920x1080 Ultra Graphics & Postprocessing (HBAO+)
Aorus 15-SA
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
57.1 (46min) fps +5%
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
55.2 fps +2%
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
54.6 (48min - 62max) fps +1%
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
54.2 (42min) fps
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
53.1 (50min, 51P1 - 58max) fps -2%
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, i7-9750H
51.6 fps -5%

In many games, the GTX 1660 Ti also handles 2560x1440 pixels well. Only in the 4K range (3840x2160 pixels) will it quickly hit its limits.

low med. high ultra
The Witcher 3 (2015) 101 54.2
Dota 2 Reborn (2015) 144 131 124 118
X-Plane 11.11 (2018) 107 92.7 78.6
Apex Legends (2019) 131 108 107
Anthem (2019) 75.2 73.2 71
Dirt Rally 2.0 (2019) 144 123 65.6
The Division 2 (2019) 98 78 57
Control (2019) 69.2 50.7
Borderlands 3 (2019) 91.7 61.7 46.6
FIFA 20 (2019) 192 181 179
Ghost Recon Breakpoint (2019) 79 70 51
GRID 2019 (2019) 119 90.5 61.7
Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2019 (2019) 99 88.1 71.9
Need for Speed Heat (2019) 87.9 79.7 67.4
Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order (2019) 94.7 84.9 77.7
Red Dead Redemption 2 (2019) 75.3 50.5 31.2

Emissions

Noise Emissions

The verdict on the noise development turns out to be a mixed bag. The Core 15 mostly remains comfortably quiet (31 to 33 dB) or even completely silent during idle operation, only rarely revving up (for example during smaller tasks such as Windows updates). Under load, on the other hand, the fans rev up forcefully.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2031.332.931.53232.62540.641.342.53838.5313333.431.630.733.74035.933.531.629.232.85046.541.332.628.936.96344.234.827.42636.18035.130.926.526.840.110032.932.525.724.628.812534.43326.725.129.91603534.328.825.732.420030.626.924.522.730.525031.627.123.220.931.631532.525.22320.433.540034.823.822.919.63750035.923.820.918.837.263035.622.919.617.937.880037.12219.417.438100037.221.819.117.439.7125037.62218.618.139.6160036.820.818.917.939.7200038.123.418.317.540.7250036.419.917.817.438.9315037.118.917.817.540.4400037.518.417.417.539.550003418.217.717.639.2630030.91817.717.435.4800029.218.117.617.533.41000025.518.117.817.731.21250021.718.217.717.526.21600018.918.217.917.721.3SPL4833.5313050.7N6.52.11.61.37.7median 34.8median 22median 18.9median 17.7median 37Delta3.83.82.31.54.9hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseSCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V

A noise level of 48 to 51 dB is very noticeable and annoying to many users, so that using headphones might be recommended. However, the same goes for almost all the competitors, and only the Lenovo Legion Y540 remains fairly quiet during 3D operation.

Noise Level

Idle
30 / 31 / 33 dB(A)
Load
48 / 51 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 XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Aorus 15-SA
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Noise
5%
2%
-9%
10%
5%
off / environment *
30
28.5
5%
28.2
6%
29
3%
29.3
2%
30.2
-1%
Idle Minimum *
30
30.3
-1%
28.7
4%
32
-7%
29.3
2%
31
-3%
Idle Average *
31
30.5
2%
30.5
2%
35
-13%
29.3
5%
31
-0%
Idle Maximum *
33
30.5
8%
31
6%
41
-24%
29.3
11%
31
6%
Load Average *
48
41
15%
39
19%
54
-13%
35.7
26%
41.5
14%
Witcher 3 ultra *
51
48
6%
54.2
-6%
52
-2%
44.2
13%
46.7
8%
Load Maximum *
51
51.9
-2%
59.6
-17%
56
-10%
45.6
11%
46.9
8%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

The temperature development of the components is neither good nor particularly bad. During the sixty-minute stress test with the FurMark tools and Prime95, the Core i7-9750H heated up to an average of 80 - 85 °C (176 - 185 °F), while the (slightly throttled) GeForce GTX 1660 Ti reached around 79 °C (174 °F).

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

On the surfaces of the case we were able to measure up to 48 °C (118 °F) on top and 59 °C (138 °F) on the bottom during full load operation, which is also a middling result. On the other hand, the whole case remains pleasantly cool without exceeding the 30 °C (86 °F) mark during idle operation.

Max. Load
 46 °C
115 F
48 °C
118 F
42 °C
108 F
 
 44 °C
111 F
45 °C
113 F
40 °C
104 F
 
 28 °C
82 F
33 °C
91 F
31 °C
88 F
 
Maximum: 48 °C = 118 F
Average: 39.7 °C = 103 F
56 °C
133 F
59 °C
138 F
45 °C
113 F
53 °C
127 F
50 °C
122 F
32 °C
90 F
27 °C
81 F
26 °C
79 F
24 °C
75 F
Maximum: 59 °C = 138 F
Average: 41.3 °C = 106 F
Power Supply (max.)  48 °C = 118 F | Room Temperature 20 °C = 68 F | Voltcraft IR-900
(-) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 39.7 °C / 103 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 48 °C / 118 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 25.7 °C / 78 F, compared to the device average of 33.8 °C / 93 F.
(-) Playing The Witcher 3, the average temperature for the upper side is 39.6 °C / 103 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 37 °C / 98.6 F.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.9 °C / 84 F (-8.1 °C / -14.6 F).
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Aorus 15-SA
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Heat
-20%
-15%
-6%
-12%
8%
Maximum Upper Side *
48
52
-8%
49.8
-4%
44
8%
42.7
11%
52
-8%
Maximum Bottom *
59
52.2
12%
63.2
-7%
58
2%
52.7
11%
46.3
22%
Idle Upper Side *
27
38
-41%
32
-19%
30
-11%
33.1
-23%
24.8
8%
Idle Bottom *
28
40.4
-44%
36.2
-29%
34
-21%
41
-46%
25.4
9%

* ... smaller is better

Speakers

The speakers of the XMG Core 15 should be considered more as a stopgap solution. As typical for notebooks, the 2.0 system built into the front area lacks bass, and at 76 dB, the maximum volume is not very high. More than 70% of all the gaming laptops we have tested scored better in our audio analysis.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs203234.5253839.43130.7354029.229.65028.932.7632628.98026.827.810024.626.212525.130.616025.732.120022.732.425020.945.331520.453.540019.658.250018.860.363017.965.180017.472100017.469.9125018.161.6160017.962.1200017.563.1250017.460.1315017.559.8400017.559.7500017.662.2630017.461.1800017.559.31000017.754.31250017.554.81600017.748.5SPL3076.1N1.335.9median 17.7median 59.7Delta1.57.140.74438.340.540.838.837.938.538.63938.540.135.436.634.338.835.142.233.649.532.952.732.359.131.964.730.867.93168.330.170.330.171.130.872.729.170.228.770.828.668.528.56828.365.92867.527.96127.858.527.856.927.753.927.549.827.447.441.180.14.247.3median 29.1median 64.71.58.3hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseSCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6VRazer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (76 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 23.1% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (11.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4.7% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (9% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 1.5% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (23.1% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 81% of all tested devices in this class were better, 5% similar, 13% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 18%, worst was 132%
Compared to all devices tested
» 64% of all tested devices were better, 6% similar, 30% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (80.1 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 13.5% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (13.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 5.3% higher than median
(+) | mids are linear (4.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | reduced highs - on average 5.1% lower than median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (7.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (25.2% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 88% of all tested devices in this class were better, 3% similar, 8% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 18%, worst was 132%
Compared to all devices tested
» 73% of all tested devices were better, 6% similar, 21% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Power Management

Power Consumption

During idle operation, the graphics switching ensures fairly low power needs. Between 9 and 18 watts is lower than the values of the competitors (some of which make do without Optimus) and could also come from a multimedia notebook. Under load, the consumption is also mostly lower than that of the competitors, even though the differences are significantly smaller here.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.4 / 0.9 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 9 / 12 / 18 Watt
Load midlight 86 / 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.
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Aorus 15-SA
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile
Power Consumption
-67%
-77%
-47%
-24%
-45%
Idle Minimum *
9
18.7
-108%
17.6
-96%
20
-122%
14.5
-61%
17.2
-91%
Idle Average *
12
30.7
-156%
24.7
-106%
23
-92%
18.5
-54%
22.6
-88%
Idle Maximum *
18
33.9
-88%
56.3
-213%
29
-61%
20
-11%
25.5
-42%
Load Average *
86
93.4
-9%
111.1
-29%
87
-1%
81.6
5%
88
-2%
Witcher 3 ultra *
126
158.9
-26%
149
-18%
136
-8%
132
-5%
Load Maximum *
173
195.3
-13%
170
2%
173
-0%
208.1
-20%
177
-2%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

Despite the moderate power consumption, the Core 15 does not achieve a good battery life. With a capacity of 46 Wh, the battery is rather small. For comparison, the competitors offer between 57 and 76 Wh. In our opinion, the 2.5-inch slot, which takes up a lot of space in the case, should have been replaced by a larger battery instead. 

Barely 3.5 hours of surfing the Internet at medium display brightness are also unlikely to get anyone excited. Under perfect conditions (no load, minimum brightness), the 15-incher can last up to 6 hours. But be careful: the 3D performance drops by almost 90% in battery operation!

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
6h 04min
WiFi Websurfing
3h 36min
Load (maximum brightness)
0h 44min
SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, 46 Wh
Razer Blade 15 GTX 1660 Ti
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, 65 Wh
Asus ROG Zephyrus M15 GU502GU-XB74
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, 76 Wh
Aorus 15-SA
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, 62 Wh
Lenovo Legion Y540-15IRH-81SX00B2GE
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, 57 Wh
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-52-79TY
i7-9750H, GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile, 58.75 Wh
Battery Runtime
53%
57%
37%
2%
15%
Reader / Idle
364
424
16%
208
-43%
240
-34%
298
-18%
WiFi v1.3
216
330
53%
268
24%
169
-22%
145
-33%
210
-3%
Load
44
101
130%
122
177%
76
73%
73
66%
H.264
166
202

Pros

+ individually configurable
+ moderate weight
+ good IPS panel
+ slim bezels
+ 144 Hz

Cons

- high noise development under load
- no Thunderbolt 3 or USB 3.1 Gen2
- sound could be better
- meager battery life

Verdict

Schenker XMG Core 15, test unit provided by bestware.com
Schenker XMG Core 15, test unit provided by bestware.com

In our test, the XMG Core 15 has proven itself as a real alternative to the products from larger manufacturers (Acer, Asus, Lenovo, etc.).

At a budget price, Schenker Technologies delivers a 15-inch notebook suitable for gaming that also offers a good, responsive IPS panel. The RGB illumination of the keyboard will also please gamers. Thanks to its low weight and compact dimensions, the Core 15 is also surprisingly mobile, if you disregard the mediocre battery life.

The Barebone producer Tongfang could make some improvements on the connection equipment (since there are neither Thunderbolt 3, nor USB-3.1 Gen2), and – as often in the gaming segment – the noise development under load could also use some improvements. 

SCHENKER XMG Core 15 GK5CP6V - 02/09/2020 v7
Florian Glaser

Chassis
72 / 98 → 73%
Keyboard
83%
Pointing Device
78%
Connectivity
59 / 80 → 74%
Weight
63 / 10-66 → 95%
Battery
55 / 95 → 58%
Display
85%
Games Performance
89%
Application Performance
91%
Temperature
83 / 95 → 88%
Noise
75 / 90 → 83%
Audio
69%
Camera
27 / 85 → 31%
Average
71%
81%
Gaming - Weighted Average

Pricecompare

Read all 5 comments / answer
static version load dynamic
Loading Comments
Comment on this article
Please share our article, every link counts!
> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Schenker XMG Core 15 (Tongfang GK5CP6V) Laptop Review: Budget Gamer
Florian Glaser, 2020-02-12 (Update: 2020-02-13)