MAINGEAR ML-16 Gaming Laptop Review

Highlights

MAINGEAR’s ML-16 offers top-notch gaming performance and stunning visuals right out of the gate.
The user-friendly design, impressive display, and durable build make the ML-16 a solid choice.
Despite high temps and short battery life while gaming, the ML-16 is a reliable powerhouse for everyday tasks.

As a tech enthusiast and avid gamer who has spent countless hours hunched over various devices, I can confidently say that the MAINGEAR ML-16 is a dream come true for those seeking both elegance and power in their gaming rig. With its sleek design, top-tier components, and impressive display, this laptop delivers an unparalleled gaming experience – at least until you start to notice the heat it generates and the battery draining faster than a superhero’s powers during a marathon session.

Navigating the vast array of gaming laptops out there might seem like an overwhelming task, especially when it comes to finding the ideal one that suits your unique requirements, budget, and technical specifications. It’s like embarking on an epic quest to discover the perfect companion for your gaming adventures. In moments like these, Game Rant can be your trusted guide, helping you understand which laptops and laptop brands stand out, empowering you to make a decision you feel good about.

Game Rant is always on the lookout for the newest laptops, seeking one that demonstrates potential and consumer-focused innovation. One laptop that deserves a closer look is the ML-16, a high-end gaming laptop from MAINGEAR which was recently launched. This laptop offers impressive graphics, strong durability, and reliable gaming performance. Known for its popularity in the gaming community, MAINGEAR has earned a positive reputation as a system integrator backed by dedicated enthusiasts.

Once more, our heartfelt appreciation to MAINGEAR for granting us the ML-16 model for evaluation. The specific system reviewed here is the ML-16 | RTX 4070 edition, equipped with an Intel Ultra 7 155H processor, 64GB of memory, Windows 11 Pro operating system, and a whopping 4TB SSD.

First Impressions & What’s Included

The ML-16 model from MAINGEAR offers multiple pricing tiers, ranging from $1799 to $2499. Each model comes equipped with various component enhancements for storage, RAM, and GPU. These prices are comparable to other laptop manufacturers’ offerings with similar hardware. Although there are four versions of the ML-16, they all share a consistent design. MAINGEAR also provides an optional custom artwork upgrade for $70, allowing you to personalize the laptop’s lid with your unique design.

Without a doubt, the ML-16 by MAINGEAR is stunningly attractive. It artfully combines elegance, style, and functionality, creating a high-end laptop suitable for both formal and informal settings. The lid and exterior of the ML-16 are adorned with textured aluminum, providing a striking contrast to the matte black interior panels that line its chassis.

The feeling of the chassis’ quality is evident, even at a glance. The ML-16 feels sturdy, but not bulky, and can be carried around easily. Plus, the display feels surprisingly strong and well-made, which may be partial proof of the Military Grade MIL-STD810 H durability tests that the ML-16 has proudly passed. The hinge connected to the 16-inch display also feels smooth to open, with no hint of resistance or weakness in the hinges. Although the exterior and interior of the ML-16 aren’t entirely immune to fingerprints and smudging, it does not smudge easily.

The unboxing experience for the ML-16 is relatively standard for a gaming laptop.

Within the box, you’ll discover the ML-16 gaming laptop along with its charging cables, a Quick Start Guide, and some additional items like stickers and a microfiber cloth provided by MAINGEAR.

Design & Special Features

The ML-16 boasts a versatile size that strikes an ideal balance, neither overly compact nor excessively spacious for everyday tasks. This dimension makes it an excellent choice for frequent travelers or individuals who commute with their laptops to work or school. Weighing approximately 4.1 pounds and measuring 14.1 x 10.18 x 0.78 inches, the ML-16 is compact enough to carry conveniently yet large enough to accommodate daily use comfortably.

Looking at the ML-16’s surrounding ports, MAINGEAR has adopted a distinctive yet practical method for their placement. Instead of placing them on the sides, they opted to position a 2.1 HDMI Out and a 1GB RJ45 LAN port at the back of the chassis. This setup helps reduce cable clutter near the laptop, creating more space for an external mouse or additional accessories.

On the ML-16’s left side, you’ll find a Kensington Security slot. This enables additional security measures using Kensington locks (which are sold separately from the ML-16). Besides that, there’s a MicroSD card reader, a USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A port, and a combined 3.5mm jack for headphones and microphone on the same side.

On the ML-16’s right side, you’ll find a barrel jack for charging your laptop, along with a USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A port, a Thunderbolt 4 port, and a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port. The design of this device includes speakers on all three sides, offering users an immersive surround sound experience.

The ML-16’s vents are primarily found at its base. This placement implies that users should exercise caution about what lies beneath their laptop, as items like blankets or pillows might obstruct the vents, potentially causing overheating – a risk particularly pronounced during gaming. Yet, the positioning of these vents makes it clear that the ML-16 would greatly advantage from a cooling pad for laptops, such as this one available on Amazon, to maintain temperatures at safe levels while gaming.

As a seasoned professional who has relied heavily on technology for both work and leisure, I can attest to the importance of having a reliable and secure device, especially when it comes to my gaming laptop. The ML-16, with its Windows Hello camera, has proven to be an invaluable addition to my tech arsenal, providing me with the peace of mind that comes from knowing my data is protected through advanced biometric security features like facial recognition.

One notable feature of the ML-16 model is its integrated keyboard and trackpad. While some gamers might favor wireless gaming mice over touchpads, the touchpad on the ML-16 boasts a sleek, glass-like surface that offers an unexpectedly premium feel.

Although the touchpad works in a pinch, especially for standard browsing, gaming on the touchpad can be difficult. Luckily, one of the function features of the ML-16 locks the touchpad, so you can instead use your mouse while gaming, without accidentally bumping into the touchpad.

On the ML-16 model, you’ll find a complete-sized RGB chiclet keyboard equipped with a Numpad, function keys, and an innovative Windows Copilot button. This button allows easy access to Microsoft’s newest AI assistant, taking advantage of the ML-16’s Neural Processing Unit (NPU). At this stage, the AI assistant’s capabilities are more like a fun novelty, but only time will tell if AI-integrated laptops become the norm.

On the ML-16 keyboard, function keys are similar to those found on contemporary gaming laptops, offering predefined shortcuts for media player controls, volume adjustment, brightness adjustments, and other basic settings. Each key features a miniature symbol indicating its additional functions.

In summary, although seemingly minor, the LED indicators on the ML-16 device significantly enhanced user experience. These lights are easily comprehensible and never intrusive, offering just the right amount of assistance without being a distraction.

Despite their seemingly small role, the strategic positioning and intuitive LED indicators on the ML-16 prove surprisingly helpful. This device includes two status lights, offering a straightforward view of your PC’s power and battery conditions. For instance, the initial light might flash green to signal that the system is in sleep mode, while the second one could blink yellow to notify you when the battery level is running low.

Display

The ML-16 boasts a remarkable 240Hz, 16-inch QHD+ screen that’s been fine-tuned with Pantone Color Calibration and backed by X-Rite Color Assistant software. This makes it ideal for content creation, particularly in creative fields such as video or photo editing, where precise color representation is crucial.

For individuals who prioritize performance over color precision, the ML-16 display offers High Dynamic Range (HDR) capabilities and a swift refresh rate. This results in a more fluid gaming experience and improved reaction speed, essential for high-intensity racing and shooting games.

In summary, MAINGEAR made an excellent decision with the ML-16’s display, as it excels in gaming, viewing, and creative work.

Software

MAINGEAR distinguishes itself from other firms by guaranteeing no pre-installed junk software (bloatware). Every system they provide comes with a pristine setup of Windows, devoid of unwanted applications or antivirus software.

Despite its drawbacks, the ML-16 offers several unique programs designed to enhance user experience. For instance, MAINGEAR’s Control Center software provides access to a wide range of laptop specifications and internal status, offering flexibility. This software features three primary modes that users can switch between to adjust fan speeds, power consumption, and noise levels. Gamers can easily transition to the Performance mode, while those seeking silence can opt for the Quiet mode.

Using this software, not only do you get to create keyboard shortcuts (macros), but it also allows for some personalization with the keyboard’s RGB settings. While the color options might seem limited, they are quite appealing. Moreover, you can set timers that automatically dim the keyboard’s RGB lighting when your laptop is running on battery power to conserve resources.

The ML-16 model includes Sound Blaster Studio+, a powerful tool for content creators or frequent online gamers/communicators. With Sound Blaster Studio+, you can customize the audio settings for your microphone, headphones, and speakers using various virtual mixers and adjustments.

Battery Life

The ML-16’s battery takes around an hour to fully charge, but its overall lifespan depends on several factors. If you set it to power-saving mode, the battery should last between six and seven hours. However, if you opt for performance settings to play games without charging, the battery life will be reduced significantly, lasting only about an hour at a time.

Despite the ML-16’s short battery life being a potential disadvantage, it’s important to note that this is common among gaming laptops due to their powerful components. If you intend to use the ML-16 for extended periods during school or work, the Control Center software offers a convenient solution. By switching to an energy-saving profile within this software, you can extend the battery life by conserving its current charge.

As a gamer, I appreciate the thoughtful touch of the Control Center software, which keeps an eye on my gaming laptop’s battery health. The flexibility offered by the FlexiCharger in the ML-16 model from MAINGEAR allows me to control charging options to suit my needs perfectly.

Regularly fully charging a battery may shorten its overall life, however, the ML-16 boasts an intelligent charging mode that stops at 80% charge, significantly reducing the stress on the battery compared to regular charging.

Performance & Gaming on the ML-16

The MAINGEAR ML-16 computer is remarkably potent for its dimensions. While the specific hardware may differ among different versions, this particular ML-16 model features a RTX 4070 graphics card, an Intel Ultra 7 processor with 16 cores and 22 threads, and 64 GB of RAM.

As a seasoned gamer with years of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that this setup is a dream come true for gamers like myself who demand high-quality graphics and smooth performance. The mid-range to high-end gaming capabilities of this rig, bordering on ultra graphics depending on the game and settings, is simply stunning.

In trials comparing the ML-16 to a similar system, performances are generally comparable or slightly lower, but sometimes the ML-16 outperforms its counterpart.

It’s possible that one reason for this performance issue is because it became apparent after prolonged testing. While many gaming laptops are infamous for overheating due to insufficient space for efficient cooling, the ML-16 heated up unusually quickly. This rapid heating is particularly noticeable when examining in-game data, which demonstrates that the ML-16 reached CPU temperatures as high as 101 °C within just a few minutes of launching a game.

Fortunately, the Intel processor’s maximum operating temperature is set at 110 °C, but during prolonged gaming sessions, the ML-16 rarely approaches this level. However, observing temperatures above 99 °C can still be worrisome for hardware, particularly when considering the long-term wellbeing and durability of the system. Consequently, a cooling pad for laptops might prove to be an essential accessory when buying this gaming laptop.

With soaring temperatures outside, playing on the ML-16 remains an enjoyable gaming adventure. Its screen glides smoothly and boasts remarkable visuals, while its speakers can pump up surprisingly loud for a notebook. Most games ran smoothly at top settings, though they did slow down slightly when ray tracing was enabled or during scenes heavy with particle effects. Even in expansive open-world games like Elden Ring, the frame rate remained stable and rarely dropped below 60. The heat did make the keyboard a tad uncomfortable after prolonged use, but that’s typically the case for gaming laptops.

As a devoted enthusiast, I can confidently say that the MAINGEAR ML-16 is an outstanding system that delivers a powerful punch in the realm of compact gaming performance.

Should You Buy the MAINGEAR ML-16?

In essence, MAINGEAR’s ML-16 stands out as an affordable, top-quality machine that’s more than just a gaming laptop. Under its unassuming exterior, it’s a powerhouse ready to handle daily tasks and run demanding games with ease. If you’re seeking a quiet yet robust device capable of both hard work and intense play, the ML-16 could be an excellent choice for you.

As a gamer, I appreciate the timeless elegance and versatility of this chassis design, making it a perfect fit for any setting, unlike some flashy red and black gaming laptops that might seem too casual in professional environments. What truly sets the ML-16 apart is its exceptional durability, tested under military conditions, ensuring it can withstand life’s unexpected bumps and knocks. The premium build quality of this laptop feels luxurious to touch and every detail shows thoughtful care. Knowing that fellow gaming enthusiasts stand behind the design and support of my ML-16 is a comforting feeling, as MAINGEAR consistently puts gamers first in their philosophies.

As a seasoned tech enthusiast with over two decades of experience under my belt, I have come across numerous gaming laptops that promise to deliver top-notch performance and an immersive gaming experience. However, not many live up to the hype like the ML-16. While it boasts impressive features such as a powerful CPU and GPU, it falls short in some areas that should be considered before making a purchase.

In summary, if you’re looking for a device that combines elegance with powerful performance to handle daily tasks and intense gaming, the ML-16 might just be what you need. Despite its higher price point, the value it offers in terms of display quality, keyboard functionality, and overall build makes it a worthwhile investment.

Related Products

Alternative Laptop Options	Best Choice For	Price
MAINGEAR ML-16 \| RTX 4060	Best Budget MAINGEAR Gaming Laptop	$1800
MAINGEAR ML-17 \| RTX 4090	Best High-End MAINGEAR Gaming Laptop	$4300

In MAINGEAR’s new laptop collection, there are two primary models: the ML-16 and the ML-17. This article focuses on the high-end ML-16 model with the RTX 4060 graphics card, but it’s worth noting that the ML-16 with an RTX 4060 offers a budget-friendly option, given its lower price point by approximately $700. Despite this difference in cost, the MAINGEAR ML-16 | RTX 4060 shares many of the same features as the model discussed in this review. While it may not deliver top-tier gaming performance, the ML-16’s RTX 4060 version still offers impressive specifications well-suited for mid-range gaming.

Instead, the MAINGEAR ML-17 is a premium choice for dedicated gamers and tech aficionados desiring top-tier performance. Equipped with an RTX 4090 graphics card, 64 GB RAM, an Intel Core i9-14900HX processor, and a larger battery, this gaming laptop holds its ground against the elite. While there may be design variations to cater to the cooling requirements of these high-end components, the ML-17 embodies the spirit of its less expensive counterpart.

FAQ

Q: Is a 16-inch gaming laptop good?

Absolutely! For me, 16-inch laptops strike an excellent balance, particularly in the realm of gaming machines. The extra space allows for accommodating more (or larger) components, all while maintaining a decent level of portability.

Q: Is it worth it to get a gaming laptop?

The discussion around this topic varies significantly based on individual preferences. If you’re after the optimal balance between cost and performance, desktop computers often offer a slightly superior value. However, gaming laptops have significantly improved over the past decade, narrowing the performance gap considerably. In fact, many contemporary gaming laptops can match or even surpass desktop PCs in terms of power, while also providing the advantage of portability.

2024-08-13 04:06