Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Laptops For Machine Learning

Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 vs HP Victus

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.3 vs 4.0). The gap is mostly about Enthusiasts seeking maximum stationary power who can accommodate bulk — read the strengths below before deciding.

Asus ROG Strix Scar 18
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Laptops For Machine Learning
Asus ROG Strix Scar 18
9 sources

The Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 delivers desktop-class performance through its Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 GPU, supported by an advanced liquid metal cooling system. Ultrabookreview found that the 18-inch Nebula HDR Mini-LED display offers stunning visual fidelity with over 2,000 dimming zones, though enabling ELMB technology introduces PWM flicker for sensitive users. However, the device is extremely heavy at approximately 3.7kg and suffers from significantly limited battery life during gaming, typically lasting only one to two hours. Additionally, the integrated 720p webcam feels like an afterthought on such a flagship machine. This laptop fits enthusiasts seeking maximum stationary power who can accommodate its bulk, while those needing portability or all-day unplugged use should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Equipped with top-tier Intel Core Ultra 9 processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 GPUs, delivering desktop-class performance for gaming and content creation.
  • — Features a stunning 18-inch Nebula HDR Mini-LED display available in up to 4K resolution at 240Hz with over 2,000 dimming zones.
  • — Includes an advanced cooling system with liquid metal thermal compound that sustains high performance under heavy loads.
Watch-outs
  • — Extremely heavy at approximately 3.7kg (8 lbs) and thick, making it impractical for frequent portability.
  • — Battery life is significantly limited during gaming or intensive tasks, typically lasting only one to two hours.
  • — The webcam resolution is low (720p), which reviewers consider an afterthought on a flagship device.
HP Victus
Ranked #4 in Best Laptops For Machine Learning
HP Victus
7 sourcesall derived

Laptop Mag found the HP Victus 16 to be a stellar gaming laptop for the price that delivers impressive performance alongside above-average battery life. PCMag noted its budget-friendly nature allows it to offer desktop-like power without breaking the bank, while PCWorld highlighted its attractive design and high refresh rate display as key selling points. However, reviewers consistently pointed out that the dim screen and flimsy plastic build quality are significant drawbacks for daily use. This laptop fits best for gamers prioritizing raw performance and portability on a budget who do not mind compromising on display brightness or premium materials.

Strengths
  • — Strong gaming performance with modern GPUs like the RTX 4070 and RTX 5060 handling AAA titles at 1080p.
  • — Above-average battery life for a gaming laptop, lasting up to 9 hours and 40 minutes in web browsing tests.
  • — Snappy full-size keyboard with long key travel and clicky feedback suitable for both typing and gaming.
Watch-outs
  • — Low-quality display with dim brightness (around 258-300 nits) causing poor visibility in sunlight.
  • — All-plastic chassis feels flimsy, particularly the lid which wobbles and bends easily under pressure.

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Asus ROG Strix Scar 18

This laptop delivers desktop-class performance with an RTX 5090 GPU, surpassing the integrated Radeon graphics in the Asus ROG Flow Z13 for raw gaming power. However, its 8.16 lb weight makes it impractical for portability compared to the much lighter Razer Blade 16 with RTX 5090 at 4.63 lb.

HP Victus

The HP Victus offers above-average battery life lasting up to 9 hours and 40 minutes, which is a stark contrast to the limited one-to-two-hour gaming endurance of the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAsus ROG Strix Scar 18HP Victus
ProcessorIntel Core Ultra 9 290HX PlusAMD Ryzen 7 8845HS
GraphicsNVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 (175W TGP)Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070
Display18-inch Mini-LED, up to 4K @ 240Hz16.1-inch, 1920x1080, 144Hz
Memory128 GB DDR5-6400 RAM (2x DIMMs)16GB DDR4/DDR5
Storage2 TB SSD (SK Hynix PC801, gen4)512GB SSD
Weight8.16 lb5.2 lb
Battery90Wh70Whr
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