When it comes to affordable laptops, the market is flooded with options that promise performance but often cut corners in critical areas. Enter the MALLRACE AX17, a 17.3-inch FHD laptop that aims to balance price, screen real estate, and everyday usability. But does it deliver? After weeks of testing, here’s my honest take.
Design & Build Quality: Big Screen, Practical Build
The MALLRACE AX17’s most striking feature is its 17.3-inch display, which immediately sets it apart from smaller, more portable 13- or 15-inch rivals. While the plastic chassis isn’t winning any awards for premium aesthetics, it feels sturdy enough for daily use. The matte finish resists fingerprints, and the laptop’s weight (5.3 lbs) makes it a “desktop replacement” rather than a travel companion.
The hinge mechanism is smooth, supporting the large screen without wobbling, and the keyboard deck offers ample space for comfortable typing. Portability isn’t its strength, but for home or office use, the size feels justified.
Display: FHD Clarity with Room for Improvement
The 17.3-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) display is a highlight, offering crisp text and decent color reproduction for streaming, browsing, or light photo editing. Brightness peaks at around 250 nits, which is adequate indoors but struggles under direct sunlight. Viewing angles are average—typical for budget IPS panels—with slight color shifting when viewed off-center.
Gamers and creatives might crave higher refresh rates or color accuracy, but for everyday users, this screen hits the sweet spot between quality and affordability.
Performance: Surprisingly Capable for the Price
Under the hood, the MALLRACE AX17 packs an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, 8GB of DDR4 RAM, and a 512GB NVMe SSD. This setup handles multitasking smoothly, whether you’re juggling 15 Chrome tabs, streaming 4K video, or running office suites. The integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics won’t rival a gaming rig, but it manages casual titles like Minecraft or Among Us at medium settings.
Compared to other budget laptops, like the SGIN M15 with its Intel N4120 and 4GB RAM, the AX17 feels like a generational leap. The SGIN M15’s Celeron processor and limited RAM struggle with basic tasks, while the AX17 breezes through them. Storage is another win: the 512GB SSD offers ample space for apps and files, a stark contrast to the M15’s cramped 128GB drive.
Keyboard & Trackpad: Comfort Meets Function
The full-sized keyboard is a joy to type on, with 1.5mm key travel and a responsive feel. The numeric keypad is a bonus for spreadsheet warriors, though the arrow keys are slightly cramped. The trackpad, while plasticky, supports Windows Precision drivers for reliable gestures and smooth scrolling. It won’t replace a mouse for precision work, but it gets the job done.
Ports & Connectivity: No Adapters Needed
MALLRACE didn’t skimp on ports:
- 1x USB-C 3.2
- 2x USB-A 3.0
- 1x HDMI 2.0
- 1x SD card reader
- 1x 3.5mm headphone jack
Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 ensure fast wireless connectivity, though the lack of an Ethernet port might disappoint some users.
Battery Life: Manage Expectations
With a 48Wh battery, the AX17 lasts about 5–6 hours on mixed use (browsing, video calls, document editing). That’s underwhelming compared to ultraportables, but understandable given the large screen and mid-tier specs. Keep the charger handy for all-day use.
Software & Upgradability
The laptop ships with Windows 11 Home, free of bloatware—a rarity in budget devices. The RAM is soldered, so 8GB is your ceiling, but the SSD is user-replaceable if you need more storage down the line.
Drawbacks to Consider
- Weight: At 5.3 lbs, it’s not meant for frequent travel.
- Display Brightness: Subpar for outdoor use.
- Battery Life: Falls short of competitors.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The MALLRACE AX17 isn’t perfect, but it’s a solid choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize screen size and reliable performance. Students, home users, and remote workers will appreciate its versatility, while gamers and power users should look elsewhere.
If you’re eyeing a smaller, ultra-cheap alternative, the SGIN M15 (reviewed here) might suffice for basic tasks, but the AX17’s upgrades are worth the splurge.
Ready to take the plunge? Check the MALLRACE AX17 on Amazon for the latest deals.
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