The Razer Blade hasn't set the gaming world on fire as the computer peripheral manufacturer turned laptop manufacturer would have hoped. But less than a year since introducing the first iteration of what it claimed was the world's first true gaming laptop, Razer has announced a refresh for its unique gaming system.
The new Razer Blade replaces the 2.8GHz dual-core Intel Core i7 processor with an as of yet unnamed quad-core Intel Ivy Bridge variant. Instead of the original Razer's single 256GB SSD, there's now a a 64GB SSD alongside a 500 GB hard drive, while the graphics have been bumped to an Nvidia GTX 660M.
As part of the refresh the Blade is also getting quieter fans, optimized speakers, HDMI-out, and three USB 3.0 ports with charging capabilities even when the system is switched off. Otherwise you'll get the same 17.3-inch display with 1920x1080 resolution, 8GB of RAM, the touch panel that doubles as a secondary LCD screen to display in-game information, and a thin profile (for a gaming laptop) at 0.88 inches and weighing 6.6 pounds.
By comparison, the MSI GT70 gaming laptop released earlier this year tips the scales around 8.4 pounds and is more than 2 inches thick. The Alienware M17x is 1.75 inches think and weighs a massive 9.39 pounds. Both are cheaper and in some configurations offer better core specs for your money, however.
The Razer Blade can be pre-ordered now for $2,499 with shipping set to commence in the US from September 30. You're still paying a handsome premium but that's $300 less than the original Blade.