HP has launched its latest high-end laptop, the ZBook Fury G1i 18, and early tests show it handles heat better than its main rival, the Dell Pro Max 18 Plus. This big 18-inch machine is built for tough jobs like video editing, 3D modeling, and data crunching, where keeping things cool means less slowdown during long work sessions. But there’s a downside: it trades some raw power for that calmer running, which might not suit everyone.
Features and Specs
The ZBook Fury G1i 18 is part of HP’s pro lineup for creators and engineers. It packs a strong Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX processor and an NVIDIA RTX Pro 5000 graphics card, the same setup as the Dell Pro Max 18 Plus.
In side-by-side tests, the HP stayed cooler overall, with lower fan noise and surface temperatures that don’t burn your lap during heavy use. Its vents and fans pull in more air to spread heat evenly, making it feel more comfortable for hours of work.
One reviewer noted the HP is “slightly thinner and lighter” too, at about 7.7 pounds and 1.1 inches thick, compared to the Dell’s bulkier build.
It also comes with extras like per-key RGB keyboard lights for dim rooms, real mouse buttons on the trackpad, and a sharper 165Hz screen that shows motion smoother without blurry trails. Battery life holds up decently for a power-hungry beast, lasting around 6-8 hours on light tasks.
But here’s the catch: the HP doesn’t push its parts as hard as the Dell. In speed tests like Cinebench, the Dell scored higher – about 5% faster on average for multi-core work. That’s because HP tunes the laptop for steady, cool performance over short bursts of top speed. If you’re doing quick renders or AI tasks, the Dell might finish jobs sooner. The Dell also edges out in AI-focused work thanks to its swappable add-on chip for smarter computing and faster memory slots.
Price and Availability
Both laptops start around $5,660 for basic setups, climbing past $10,000 for maxed-out versions with lots of memory and storage. They share a 2560×1600 IPS screen that’s bright but not touch-enabled. HP says the ZBook is great for teams that value quiet operation and easy upgrades – you can swap batteries or drives without tools.
If you’re picking between these two, think about your needs: Go HP for comfort during marathons, Dell for faster finishes. Both are beasts, but the HP’s chill vibe might win for long-haul users. Check HP’s site for configs – deliveries start now.
