ASUS Sets $7,000 Price Tag for Laptop That Runs Large AI Models Locally

The ASUS ProArt P16 costs $7,000 in its top configuration. This price point targets professionals who need to run large artificial intelligence models directly on their devices rather than relying on cloud infrastructure. The laptop is the first from ASUS to use NVIDIA's RTX Spark chip.

NVIDIA and Microsoft have positioned the RTX Spark as a major shift in personal computer design. The system-on-a-chip combines a 20-core Arm CPU, a Blackwell GPU, and up to 128GB of unified memory. This architecture resembles Apple's M-series chips and allows for high-volume data processing within a single unit. The base model starts at $2,800, but costs rise sharply as memory increases.

The review unit tested by Engadget includes 128GB of RAM. This capacity allows the laptop to run complex models like Qwen3.8 27B, which alone consumes 42GB of memory. The device also runs OpenClaw with room to spare. For gaming, the hardware handles titles like Control: Resonant and Cyberpunk 2077 at high settings. However, the fan noise is noticeable during these tasks.

Performance benchmarks show mixed results compared to other platforms. In PCMark 10 Applications, the P16 scored about 3,000 points lower than an ASUS A16 with a Snapdragon X2 Elite chip. It also trailed slightly in Geekbench 6 single-threaded CPU tests. Graphics and AI performance were stronger. The P16 beat a MacBook Pro with an M5 Max by 4,700 points in Geekbench 6 GPU. In Procyon's AI Computer Vision 2 test, it scored 3,895 against Apple's 3,267.

The physical build receives praise for its sturdy aluminum chassis and bright 16-inch OLED display. The screen reaches 1,600 nits, which is among the brightest found in laptops. The keyboard and large haptic touchpad are generously sized. At 3.9 pounds, the device is lighter than Apple's 16-inch MacBook Pro, which weighs 4.7 pounds. Ports include three USB-C connections, USB Type A, HDMI, a headphone jack, and an SD card reader, though it lacks Ethernet.

Battery life remains a weak point. The P16 lasted ten hours and 51 minutes in the PCMark 10 Applications test. This falls well below the 15-plus hours typical of many premium laptops. Performance did not drop when the laptop was unplugged. The black finish is prone to fingerprints. The display is bright, but the battery cannot sustain heavy workloads for long periods without a power source.

Compatibility issues persist for gamers. Most games rely on Microsoft's Prism emulator for the Arm CPU, which can reduce performance and cause problems. Native Arm64 builds exist for Fortnite, DOTA 2, and Marvel Rivals. NVIDIA is working with anti-cheat companies, but some multiplayer titles may still fail. Adobe has ported its main software to the platform, but support for other multimedia applications is less certain.

For general users, the price may be difficult to justify. An ASUS Zephyrus G16 with an RTX 5070 and a 240Hz OLED screen is available at Best Buy for $2,124. That model offers better gaming performance and full compatibility without the premium for AI-specific memory. The P16 is a strong machine for its intended niche, but it is not a replacement for standard x86 hardware or Qualcomm chips.

The RTX Spark platform represents a new branch of PC design. It will sit alongside existing hardware rather than replace it. Competition from NVIDIA may push AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm to improve their offerings. However, the high demand for RAM in AI workloads is unlikely to lower prices in the near term. The P16 is a specialized tool for those who need local processing power.