Acer brings Intel Core Ultra Series 3 and RTX 50 Series GPUs to its refreshed Predator and Nitro gaming laptops, plus new peripherals with competitive specs
Acer unveiled its 2026 gaming laptop refresh at CES, bringing Intel's Core Ultra Series 3 processors and NVIDIA's RTX 50 Series GPUs to the Predator and Nitro lineups. The announcement covers three laptops spanning premium to budget segments, plus two peripherals that fill gaps in Acer's gaming ecosystem.
The Predator Helios Neo 16S AI headlines the lineup with an OLED display and slim metal chassis. Two Nitro V 16 AI variants target the mid-range and budget crowds with 1080p displays at aggressive price points. All three laptops qualify as Copilot+ PCs with NPUs exceeding 45 TOPS, positioning them for Windows 11's AI features beyond pure gaming performance.
Acer's approach differs from competitors like ASUS ROG and MSI, who focused CES announcements on flagship-only reveals. By refreshing three price tiers simultaneously, Acer signals intent to capture market share across the gaming laptop spectrum rather than chasing headlines with a single hero product.
Predator Helios Neo 16S AI: OLED in a Slim Metal Chassis
The Predator Helios Neo 16S AI (PHN16S-I51) represents Acer's answer to thin-and-light gaming laptops from Razer and ASUS. At 18.9mm thick and 2.3kg, it undercuts the Razer Blade 16 (0.87 inches / 22.1mm) while packing similar hardware.
Hardware Configuration
Acer equipped the Helios Neo 16S AI with Intel's newest mobile silicon and NVIDIA's Blackwell architecture:
- Processor: Up to Intel Core Ultra 9 386H
- Graphics: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU
- Memory: Up to 64GB DDR5-6400
- Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Display: 16-inch OLED, 2560×1600 (WQXGA), 165Hz, 1ms response, DCI-P3 100%
The Core Ultra 9 386H belongs to Intel's Arrow Lake-H family, featuring a hybrid architecture with Performance cores, Efficient cores, and a dedicated NPU for AI workloads. Paired with the RTX 5070 Laptop GPU, this configuration should handle modern titles at high settings while maintaining playable frame rates at the native 1600p resolution.
OLED Display Assessment
Acer's decision to pair an OLED panel with a 165Hz refresh rate represents a practical compromise. Competing gaming OLEDs push 240Hz (like the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16), but the 165Hz ceiling likely reflects thermal and power constraints within the slim chassis. For most players, 165fps exceeds the threshold where additional frames provide perceptible improvement.
The DCI-P3 100% coverage and HDR support position the Helios Neo 16S AI for content creation alongside gaming. OLED's pixel-level dimming delivers perfect blacks that IPS panels cannot match, making this panel attractive for video editing and photo work where contrast accuracy matters.
Thermal Design
Slim gaming laptops live or die by their cooling solutions. Acer addressed thermal management with the 5th Gen AeroBlade 3D fan and liquid metal thermal compound. The company claims this combination maintains performance under sustained loads, though independent testing will determine whether the 18.9mm chassis constrains GPU power limits.
The liquid metal application suggests Acer learned from competitors who shipped gaming laptops with inadequate thermal paste. Liquid metal transfers heat more efficiently than traditional compounds, allowing higher sustained clocks within the same thermal envelope.
Connectivity and Features
Port selection covers essential gaming and productivity needs:
- Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C)
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
- Two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
- HDMI 2.1
- MicroSD card reader
- 3.5mm audio combo jack
- RJ-45 Ethernet
The Thunderbolt 4 port enables external GPU enclosures and high-speed storage, while HDMI 2.1 supports 4K 120Hz output to external displays. Intel Killer DoubleShot Pro handles wireless connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E and automatic traffic prioritization between wired and wireless connections.
The FHD IR webcam supports Windows Hello facial recognition, and DTS:X Ultra powers the dual speakers. A triple-mic array with Acer PurifiedVoice handles noise cancellation for streaming and video calls.
Availability: Q1 2026 (Australia), Q2 2026 (EMEA), Q3 2026 (North America). Pricing not announced.
Acer Nitro V 16 AI: Mid-Range Without Major Sacrifices
The Nitro V 16 AI (ANV16-I51) targets gamers who prioritize performance over premium build materials. Acer positioned this model as the volume leader, launching in Q2 2026 across all major markets.
Specifications Overview
- Processor: Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 355
- Graphics: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU
- Memory: Up to 32GB DDR5
- Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Display: 16-inch WUXGA (1920×1200), 180Hz, 100% sRGB, MUX Switch
- Dimensions: 356.5 x 260 x 19.9mm, 2.1kg
Where Acer Cut Costs (And Where It Didn't)
The Nitro V 16 AI shares its RTX 5070 GPU with the premium Helios Neo 16S AI, meaning gaming performance should remain comparable despite the price difference. The Core Ultra 7 355 sits one tier below the Core Ultra 9 386H, but real-world gaming differences between these chips typically measure in single-digit percentages.
Acer saved money on the display. The 1920×1200 IPS panel lacks the contrast and color accuracy of OLED, though the 180Hz refresh rate actually exceeds the Helios Neo's 165Hz. The higher refresh rate benefits competitive gaming where frame rates consistently exceed 165fps at 1080p settings.
The MUX switch deserves attention. This hardware toggle bypasses the integrated graphics when running on AC power, sending GPU frames directly to the display without latency-inducing handoffs. Budget gaming laptops often omit MUX switches to cut costs, so its inclusion here adds value for competitive players.
Build quality shifts from the Helios Neo's metal chassis to plastic construction. The Nitro V 16 AI weighs 2.1kg versus 2.3kg for the premium model, suggesting thinner materials rather than compact dimensions. Thermal management relies on dual fans with dual-intake and dual-exhaust airflow rather than the Helios Neo's advanced AeroBlade design.
Practical Considerations
For buyers choosing between the Helios Neo 16S AI and Nitro V 16 AI, the decision hinges on display preference and build quality expectations. If you game primarily on external monitors or prioritize high refresh rates over OLED contrast, the Nitro V 16 AI delivers comparable GPU performance at a lower price.
Content creators should favor the Helios Neo's OLED panel for color-critical work. Gamers who value portability and aesthetics will appreciate the metal chassis and slimmer profile. Everyone else can pocket the savings.
Availability: Q2 2026 (North America, EMEA, Australia). Pricing not announced.
Acer Nitro V 16S AI: Thin Gaming on a Budget
The Nitro V 16S AI (ANV16S-I51) squeezes into the thinnest chassis of Acer's CES lineup at 17.9mm. This model targets students and casual gamers who need portability without sacrificing modern features.
Slim Design Trade-offs
At 17.9mm versus the standard Nitro V 16 AI's 19.9mm, Acer trimmed 2mm from the chassis height. The Nitro V 16S AI weighs 2.3kg (matching the metal Helios Neo), suggesting denser internal packaging rather than material savings.
Thermal constraints likely limit sustained performance compared to thicker alternatives. Both Nitro V models share the same dual-fan cooling design, but less internal volume means less airflow. Expect the 16S AI to throttle earlier during extended gaming sessions or maintain lower power limits on the RTX 5070.
Shared Specifications
The Nitro V 16S AI mirrors its thicker sibling in most respects:
- Processor: Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 355
- Graphics: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU
- Memory: Up to 32GB DDR5
- Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Display: 16-inch WUXGA (1920×1200), 180Hz, 100% sRGB, MUX Switch
Connectivity remains identical, with Thunderbolt 4, multiple USB ports, HDMI 2.1, and Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6E. The IR webcam includes a physical privacy shutter, and DTS:X Ultra handles spatial audio.
Who Should Consider the 16S AI
The Nitro V 16S AI makes sense for users who carry their laptop daily. A 2mm reduction sounds minor, but thinner laptops fit more easily into backpacks and feel less cumbersome during commutes. If you game primarily at home with an external monitor and cooling pad, the standard Nitro V 16 AI likely offers better sustained performance.
Acer hasn't announced pricing for either Nitro variant. The 16S AI's slim design typically commands a premium over standard models, though both share identical internal specifications. Wait for retail pricing before assuming the thinner model costs more.
Availability: Q2 2026 (EMEA), Q3 2026 (North America). Not announced for Australia.
Copilot+ PC: What It Actually Means for Gaming
All three laptops qualify as Copilot+ PCs, meeting Microsoft's requirements for on-device AI acceleration. Each includes an NPU (Neural Processing Unit) capable of exceeding 45 TOPS (trillion operations per second), enabling Windows 11 features that previously required cloud processing.
Relevant Features for Gamers
Microsoft designed Copilot+ primarily for productivity, but several features benefit gaming scenarios:
- Live Captions: Real-time translation of in-game voice chat and streaming audio. Useful for international multiplayer sessions or watching foreign-language content.
- Image Creator: AI-powered image generation for creating custom avatars, stream graphics, or social media content.
- Acer Intelligence Space: Acer's proprietary AI suite for creativity, productivity, and gaming optimization through PredatorSense and NitroSense apps.
The NPU handles these tasks locally, freeing the CPU and GPU for gaming workloads. Whether Copilot+ features justify purchasing decisions remains debatable. Most gamers buy laptops for raw performance, and the AI capabilities function as bonus features rather than primary selling points.
AI TOPS Context
Acer's spec sheet lists the Nitro V 16S AI at “798 AI TOPS” for the RTX 5070 GPU. This refers to tensor core performance for AI inference, not gaming capability. The number sounds impressive but has limited relevance for frame rate benchmarks or real-world gaming performance.
Predator Galea 570: Wireless Headset with Competitive Specs
Acer expanded its peripheral lineup with the Predator Galea 570, a wireless gaming headset priced at $149 (USD) or €149 (EUR). The headset competes directly with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 ($179) and HyperX Cloud III Wireless ($169).
Key Specifications
- Drivers: 50mm
- Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Connectivity: 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.4, wired
- Battery Life: 30 hours (Bluetooth), 23 hours (2.4GHz)
- Microphone: Detachable boom with ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation)
- Weight: 310g
- Software: Predator QuarterMaster
The triple connectivity options (2.4GHz, Bluetooth, wired) match premium competitors, and the 30-hour Bluetooth battery life exceeds most alternatives. ENC on the microphone promises clearer voice pickup in noisy environments, though real-world performance varies between implementations.
At $149, the Galea 570 undercuts established competitors while offering similar feature sets. The Predator QuarterMaster software handles EQ customization, mic settings, and RGB control. Cross-platform compatibility covers Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.
Availability: Q1 2026 (North America and EMEA). Starting at $149 USD / €149 EUR.
Predator Cestus 530: 8000Hz Polling for Competitive Play
The Predator Cestus 530 gaming mouse targets competitive players with an 8000Hz polling rate and PixArt PAW3395 sensor. Priced at $109 USD (€99 EUR), it competes with the Razer DeathAdder V3 ($89) and Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 ($159).
Technical Breakdown
- Sensor: PixArt PAW3395
- DPI: Up to 26,000
- Tracking Speed: 650 IPS
- Polling Rate: 8000Hz (wired and 2.4GHz), 1000Hz (Bluetooth)
- Switches: 80 million click lifespan
- Connectivity: Wired, 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth
- Weight: 105g
- Battery: 500mAh lithium
The PAW3395 sensor represents the current performance ceiling for optical tracking, matching sensors in premium mice from Logitech and Razer. The 8000Hz polling rate reduces input latency to 0.125ms in wired and 2.4GHz modes, providing a measurable advantage in competitive scenarios where milliseconds matter.
Acer opted for an ergonomic right-handed shape rather than ambidextrous design. The 105g weight sits on the heavier side compared to ultralight alternatives like the Finalmouse UltralightX (40g) or Pulsar X2 (52g), but remains reasonable for users who prefer some heft.
Triple connectivity mirrors the Galea 570 headset, allowing seamless switching between gaming PC, work laptop, and mobile devices. Windows Dynamic Lighting support means the RGB integrates with system-wide lighting control without additional software.
Availability: Q1 2026 (North America and EMEA). Starting at $109 USD / €99 EUR.
Competitive Landscape: How Acer Stacks Up
Acer's CES 2026 lineup arrives in a crowded market. Here's how the new products compare to recently announced competitors:
Predator Helios Neo 16S AI vs. Competition
| Feature | Predator Helios Neo 16S AI | ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 (2026) | Razer Blade 16 (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 9 386H | Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX | Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX |
| GPU | RTX 5070 | RTX 5080 | RTX 5090 |
| Display | 16″ OLED 165Hz | 16″ OLED 240Hz | 16″ OLED 240Hz |
| Thickness | 18.9mm | 14.9mm | 22.1mm |
| Weight | 2.3kg | 1.85kg | 2.45kg |
The Helios Neo 16S AI occupies middle ground between ASUS's ultraportable approach and Razer's desktop-replacement philosophy. The RTX 5070 GPU trails higher-tier options, but Acer likely prices accordingly. Without confirmed MSRPs, direct value comparisons remain speculative.
Nitro V Series vs. Budget Alternatives
Budget gaming laptops from Lenovo (IdeaPad Gaming 3), HP (Victus), and Dell (G15) will receive similar Intel Core Ultra and RTX 50 Series updates throughout 2026. Acer's early announcement provides visibility, but final purchasing decisions should wait until all competitors reveal pricing and availability.
The MUX switch inclusion across both Nitro models differentiates them from budget competitors that often omit this feature. Buyers prioritizing raw gaming performance over portability should verify MUX switch availability before committing to any budget gaming laptop.
What We're Waiting to Learn
Several questions remain unanswered from Acer's CES announcement:
- Pricing: Acer announced availability windows but no MSRPs for the laptop lineup. Competitive positioning depends entirely on price-to-performance ratios.
- Thermal performance: The Helios Neo 16S AI's slim chassis raises questions about sustained GPU power limits. Independent testing will reveal whether 18.9mm provides adequate cooling headroom.
- Battery life: Gaming laptops rarely excel at battery longevity, but Intel Core Ultra's efficiency improvements could change expectations. Acer provided no runtime estimates.
- RTX 5070 Laptop GPU specifications: NVIDIA hasn't fully detailed mobile Blackwell variants. TDP ranges, memory configurations, and performance targets remain partially obscured.
- DLSS 4 implementation: Acer mentions DLSS 4 support but doesn't specify Multi Frame Generation capabilities. Confirmation awaits NVIDIA's full mobile GPU announcement.
We'll provide hands-on impressions and benchmark results as review units become available. The staggered regional availability (Australia in Q1, EMEA in Q2, North America in Q2-Q3) means early reviews from international outlets will inform North American purchasing decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I buy the Predator Helios Neo 16S AI in the United States?
Acer announced Q3 2026 availability for North America. Australia receives the laptop first in Q1 2026, followed by EMEA in Q2 2026. Pricing has not been announced.
What's the difference between the Nitro V 16 AI and Nitro V 16S AI?
The Nitro V 16S AI measures 17.9mm thick versus 19.9mm for the standard Nitro V 16 AI. Both share identical processors, GPUs, displays, and memory configurations. The slimmer model may throttle earlier under sustained loads due to reduced cooling capacity.
Do these laptops support NVIDIA DLSS 4?
Acer confirms DLSS 4 support through the RTX 50 Series GPUs. DLSS 4 introduces Multi Frame Generation, which can multiply frame rates beyond traditional DLSS Super Resolution. Specific implementation details await NVIDIA's full mobile GPU specifications.
Is the Predator Galea 570 compatible with PlayStation 5?
Yes. Acer lists PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android compatibility. The headset connects via 2.4GHz dongle (USB-A/C), Bluetooth 5.4, or wired connection.
How does the Predator Cestus 530 compare to the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2?
Both use flagship PixArt sensors with similar DPI and tracking specifications. The Cestus 530 offers 8000Hz polling (versus 4000Hz on the Superlight 2), triple connectivity (versus 2.4GHz only), and lower pricing ($109 versus $159). The Superlight 2 weighs significantly less (60g versus 105g), favoring different grip preferences.
What does Copilot+ PC mean for gaming?
Copilot+ PCs include NPUs that accelerate Windows 11 AI features like Live Captions and Image Creator. These features run locally without impacting CPU or GPU resources during gaming. The designation indicates hardware capability rather than gaming-specific benefits.
