Razer surprised the tech industry when it unveiled its first full computer, the 17-inch Blade. At the time, the form was the true standout, as the internals were comparatively mid-range. Today at PAX Prime in Seattle, Razer has unveiled its second revision to the Blade laptop. The form and design on the outside is as good as before, but the insides are all-new.
The graphics have been upgraded from an Nvidia GT-class to a GTX 660M. The CPU powering the next Blade hasn't even been officially announced by Intel yet, so we're calling it "future platform with 3rd Generation Intel Core Processor."
Other specs include:
- 2GB Dedicated GDDR5 Video Memory
- 8GB 1600 MHz DDR3 Memory
- 17.3-in. LED Backlit Display (1920x1080)
- Three USB 3.0 ports with charging capabilities even when the system is switched off
- Built-in HD Webcam
- Integrated 60Wh Battery
- 500GB 7200RPM HDD (Primary Storage)
- 64GB SATA III SSD with NVELO Dataplex Software (Cache Acceleration)
- Wireless Network 802.11 A/G/N + BT4.0
- 16.81" (Width) x 10.9" (Depth) x 0.88" (Height); 6.6lbs (Weight)
Razer says that the new Blade's thermal system was completely re-engineered and built from custom-crafted parts with larger vents and specially designed heat pipes that allow more airflow. Thermal design is especially important when considering the machine is only 0.88 inches thick.
The most striking and innovative feature of the Razer Blade remains its multi-award-winning Switchblade User Interface (UI). The unique integrated LCD display/multi-touch panel and 10 dynamic adaptive tactile keys put commands and control functions within fingertip reach. The Switchblade UI features a growing list of applications designed specifically for gaming by Razer’s in-house software engineers as well as by the Razer community of users. These apps allow users to browse the web for in-game guides, watch online videos, stay connected within their social networks, and take advantage of an expanding list of dedicated gaming apps without ever having to leave a game.
While the previous Blade broke the bank at $2,800, the new one is a little more affordable at $2,499. Pre-orders start on Sept. 2 and begin shipping to consumers in North America on Sept. 30, 2012.
