Asus has updated the ROG Strix G18 for 2026, introducing a design refresh with chamfered edges while maintaining a 90 Wh battery and a weight exceeding 3 kg. The machine arrives with a starting price of 3,099 CAD or 2,699 € for the base model, which features an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 and a single Thunderbolt 4 port.
Design Evolution and Hardware Specifications
The 2026 iteration of the ROG Strix G18 prioritizes aesthetic refinement through chamfered edges. Despite these visual adjustments, the chassis remains substantial, weighing in at over 3 kg. Asus has opted to retain the 90 Wh battery capacity seen in previous generations rather than increasing cell density. Functional elements favored by power users remain present, including a dedicated number pad, a mechanical touchpad, and per-key RGB backlit keyboard lighting.
Performance Tiers and Pricing Strategy
Asus has segmented the 2026 ROG Strix G18 lineup by GPU performance and I/O capabilities. While the entry-level model relies on the RTX 5060, the mid-to-high range steps up to the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti. Pricing for the RTX 5070 Ti variants starts at 4,399 CAD, 3,099 €, 27,998 HKD, 2,899 £, or 3,299 $ depending on the region.
For users seeking premium display technology, Asus offers a GeForce RTX 5080 model equipped with a Mini LED panel. This top-tier configuration commands a price premium of more than 25 % over the RTX 5070 Ti equivalent. For instance, in the United Kingdom, the RTX 5080 model—configured with 32 GB of RAM and a 2 TB SSD—is currently listed at 3,699 £ (approximately 4,795 $).
Comparison of Connectivity and Processing Power
A notable technical divide exists between the base and performance models. Every 2026 ROG Strix G18 utilizes the Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor; however, the connectivity options differ significantly.
Did you know?
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2026 ROG Strix G18 support Thunderbolt 5?
The entry-level RTX 5060 model is limited to a single Thunderbolt 4 port.
What is the starting price for the base model?
The base model, featuring an RTX 5060, starts at 3,099 CAD or 2,699 €.
Is a Mini LED display available?
What processor does the 2026 series use?
All models in this specific 2026 lineup are powered by the Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor.
Are you planning to upgrade to the new 2026 ROG Strix G18? Let us know in the comments below which GPU configuration fits your workflow, or visit the official Asus website for the latest regional availability and technical documentation.