Acer Nitro Blaze 7 Review: A Detailed Look at Acer’s Latest Handheld Console
Acer has entered the handheld gaming market with its latest offering, the Nitro Blaze 7. With a sleek race car aesthetic, this small-form gaming PC aims to compete with the likes of the Steam Deck OLED and Asus ROG Ally X. As I spent some hands-on time with the device, I found both strengths and weaknesses that set it apart from its competitors.
Design and Ergonomics
At first glance, the Acer Nitro Blaze 7 may seem like just another handheld console in a crowded market. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that Acer has put thought into the design and ergonomics of the device. The grips are comfortable and conform well to the hand, with no hot spots on the rounded corners. The joysticks feel sturdy and have a good weight to them, similar to those found on higher-end devices like the Steam Deck OLED. The triggers are smooth and hall effect, providing a satisfying gaming experience.
One notable omission from the design of the Nitro Blaze 7 is the lack of back buttons. While I personally do not use them, many gamers rely on back buttons for enhanced gameplay. When asked about this design choice, Acer representatives were unable to provide a clear explanation. This oversight may be a drawback for some users who require back buttons for their gaming preferences.
Software and Performance
The built-in Acer Game Space software on the Nitro Blaze 7 leaves much to be desired. While it allows users to adjust certain settings like VRR and AMD FSR, options for controlling TDP or fan speeds are noticeably absent. The launcher menu is also limited, with only two tabs for games and launchers. Acer has stated that they are working on improving the software before the device’s release, but details on pricing and different specs options remain unclear.
Performance-wise, the Nitro Blaze 7 uses the AMD Ryzen 8840HS processor, which is comparable to the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme mobile processor used in other handheld consoles. However, during gameplay demos of intensive games like Horizon Forbidden West and Shadow of the Tomb Raider, the device struggled to maintain consistent frame rates on low settings. While it’s important to note that these demos were run continuously for hours, the performance of the Nitro Blaze 7 may not be on par with its high-end competitors.
Display and Battery Life
The display on the Nitro Blaze 7 is adequate but not exceptional. With a maximum brightness that is sufficient for a dim room, the IPS LCD screen falls short when compared to devices with OLED displays like the Steam Deck OLED. Additionally, the 50 Whr battery on the Nitro Blaze 7 is average in capacity, especially when compared to the 80 Whr battery found in the Asus ROG Ally X. This may result in shorter battery life for the Nitro Blaze 7 compared to its competitors.
Room for Improvement
While the Acer Nitro Blaze 7 has its strengths, such as a comfortable design and solid build quality, there are areas where it falls short. The lack of back buttons, limited software options, and performance issues are all factors that may impact the device’s appeal to gamers looking for a high-end handheld gaming experience. Acer will need to address these shortcomings before the Nitro Blaze 7 can truly compete with other devices in its price range.
Overall, the Acer Nitro Blaze 7 shows promise as a handheld gaming console, but there is room for improvement. With a focus on addressing issues related to design, software, and performance, Acer has the potential to create a compelling device that can stand out in a competitive market. As the release date and pricing details for the Nitro Blaze 7 remain uncertain, it will be interesting to see how Acer responds to feedback and refines the device to meet the expectations of gamers seeking a premium handheld gaming experience.