XMG Neo 16: modular gaming notebook

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With its new XMG Neo 16, Schenker is alleviating a problem of modern notebooks: important components such as CPU and GPU are typically only soldered on. This poses a dilemma for small suppliers such as Schenker, whose customers can traditionally click together their notebook configuration individually: mainboards with all conceivable combinations have to be forecast in advance with the correct quantities and placed in stock, because only then will the delivery times be correct.

The internal structure of the XMG Neo 16 is therefore modular: The motherboard is split in two so that the processor (from Intel's new Core Ultra 200HX series) and graphics chip (from Nvidia's fresh GeForce RTX 5000 chip family) sit on separate sub-boards. There is a bridge between the two boards that transfers eight PCIe 5.0 lanes and power. The round socket for the power supply is located on the GPU module, as are the HDMI and MiniDP outputs, while all other interfaces (USB-C with USB4/Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, RJ45 with 2.5 Gbit/s) are connected to the CPU module.

No competition for Framework

Anyone thinking that the modularized interior with separate circuit boards for the CPU and GPU could be a counterpart to Framework's Laptop 16 will unfortunately be disappointed. It will not be possible to retrofit a Neo 16 without a GPU with one, nor will it be possible to replace the GPU with another model or upgrade to the next generation. Schenker does not want to offer the modules for sale individually; the notebook will not even start without a GPU module. It is also not clear whether a successor will continue to use similar modules or have identical dimensions – not to mention (v)BIOS compatibility.

The modularity is only intended to make life easier for Schenker. The advantages for customers are initially limited to more options when ordering, as mentioned above. In addition, there are lower costs for any subsequent repairs if the notebook is sent in out of warranty: If a chip is defective, only the granular module needs to be replaced instead of a large motherboard comprising CPU plus GPU.

(C)SO-DIMMs

In general, Schenker remains true to the motto of soldering on as little as possible. The RAM is plugged in, with the two DDR5 slots accepting not only SO-DIMMs but also CSO-DIMMs – the mobile counterpart to CU-DIMMs. The WLAN card is also plugged in. Up to two M.2 2280 cards fit as SSDs, but only one of the two slots speaks PCIe 5.0.

The display is also unusual: in addition to a normal IPS panel, there will also be an option with full DCI-P3 coverage and mini-LED lighting – for brightness levels of up to 1000 cd/m². Both screens have matte surfaces, G-Sync-compatible 300 Hertz and 2560 resolution in a 16:10 aspect ratio. However, the mini LED version increases the total weight from 2.4 to 2.6 kilograms.

Optional water cooling

On the back of the notebook there are valves for the optional Oasis water cooling system, which is sold separately as usual. Existing models cannot be reused because the valves on the notebook have a new format: They have moved closer together, as mechanical retaining lugs now engage to the left and right of them, which hold the connector with the hoses in place indispensably until a targeted release. The older magnetic holder, which breaks off in the event of a sudden pull, is only found on the external unit, where even a large gush of escaping water does not have too serious consequences.

The notebook's internal water circuit is integrated into the large copper plate, via which the heat pipes of the air cooling system (two large and one small fan) absorb the waste heat from the CPU and GPU. The water cooling is only supportive, although Schenker enables higher energy profiles when the additional cooling capacity is available.

Schenker has not yet provided any information on prices for the new Neo 16. They should follow closer to the sales launch, which will be in March, as with most new notebooks with Nvidia's GeForce RTX 50 GPUs. (mue)