ASUS Republic of Gamers GR6 desktop offers big gaming performance in a small package
Nowadays, computers seems to be trending towards more diminutive packages. It's not hard to see why -- people value having as much workspace as possible; an enormous tower taking up a desk can be an inconvenience. Just look at Apple's new MacBook; people are willing to trade performance for size while also paying a premium.
Unfortunately, this just won't do for gamers. This particular segment of consumers does not like compromise when it comes to performance. With that said, plenty of gamers also value style and size. Luckily, we are beginning to see more and more svelte gaming machines. Today, ASUS Republic of Gamers announces the GR6 desktop. If you are like me, the design alone will have you salivating. Beauty is more than skin deep here, however, as the specs are impressive too.
"Powered by a 5th-generation Intel Core i5 (Broadwell) processor, 8GB of DDR3L memory (upgradeable to 16GB), an updated Nvidia GeForce GTX 960M graphics card and an optional solid-state-drive (SSD), ROG mouse and keyboard is also available. Gamers are ready for Full HD gaming in the bedroom, or throw it in a bag and head to a LAN party or simply go hog the big-screen in the living room", says Republic of Gamers, the gaming enthusiast-focused division of ASUS.
The company further explains, "ROG GR6 comes pre-installed with Windows 8.1 and Steam Big Picture Launcher so you can navigate and get into games in no time, even using just your game-pad if you choose. The full-windows experience is available and SteamOS can be added without any added hardware after the official launch. ASUS exclusive features include AI Suite III to customizing system settings, 100GB of free ASUS WebStorage cloud storage for a year, and HomeCloud so you can access your ROG GR6 remotely. A one-year full Kaspersky Anti-Virus license is also included for real-time protection against virus and malware attacks".
Gamers will appreciate that the machine comes with both a wired ROG Gladius mouse and an M801 mechanical keyboard. The mouse has enthusiast-grade features, such as DPI switching and a 6400DPI optical sensor. These gaming-focused peripherals highlight ASUS' commitment to making this a quality gaming experience.
While pricing and availability are unknown, the following specs are a lock.
| Processor | Intel Core i5-5200U Processor |
| Operating system | Windows 8.1Windows 8.1 Pro |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960M Graphics with 2GB GDDR5 VRAM |
| Memory & storage |
8GB 1600MHz DDR3L memory (up to 16GB)2 x SO-DIMMSATA 6.0Gbit/s;1 x 2.5in 1TB 7200rpm HDD,1 x 2.5in 500GB 7200rpm HDD,1 x 2.5in 128GB SSD, or1 x 2.5in 256GB SSD1 x 2.5in extension bay for HDD/SSDor1 x 2.5in 128GB SSD and 1 x 2.5″ 1TB 7200rpm HDD |
| Networks | Intel Gigabit Ethernet LAN802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi |
| Wireless | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
| Connectivity | Front I/O 1 x Headphone1 x MIC-in2 x USB 2.0 (1 with USB Charger)Rear I/O3 x Audio jacks (LINE_IN/LINE_OUT/MIC)1 x S/PDIF optical out1 x HDMI1 x DisplayPort1 x LAN(RJ45)4 x USB 3.01 x 19V DC-in 1 x Kensington lock |
| ROG-exclusive features | SupremeFX AudioSonic SoundStageSonic SenseAmpSonic StudioSonic Radar IIGameFirst IIISteam Big Picture Launcher |
| Other features/bundled software | Kaspersky Anti-Virus (1-year full license)Intel Smart Connect TechnologyIntel Rapid Start TechnologyASUS EZ Update ASUS WebStorage (100GB for one year for new users)AI Suite III ASUS HomeCloud with Wi-Fi GO!/Media StreamerDTS Connect |
| Accessory bundles | ROG Sica gaming mouse and RA01 gaming keyboard (optional)ROG Gladius gaming mouse and M801 gaming mechanical keyboard (optional) |
| Colors | ROG black and red |
| Size | Max. 238 x 245 x 60mm, 2.5-liter chassis |
| Weight | 1.28kg |
Will you be buying this svelte beast? Tell me in the comments.