Acer’s January 2025 Predator announcement introduced two flagship gaming laptops built around Intel Core Ultra 200HX-series processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPUs: the 16-inch Predator Helios 16 AI (PH16-73) and 18-inch Predator Helios 18 AI (PH18-73). Both can be configured with up to a GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU and Core Ultra 9 275HX, but those are maximum options—not standard specifications on every model or in every region.
Which Predator laptops have RTX 50 GPUs and Arrow Lake-HX processors?
The models that match the headline are the Predator Helios 16 AI (PH16-73) and Predator Helios 18 AI (PH18-73). Acer announced them on January 6, 2025, with a press page dated January 7. The company’s product name for the processor is Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX; “Arrow Lake-HX” refers to its processor generation. Acer’s announcement identifies the broader family as Intel Core Ultra 200HX-series processors. Acer’s announcement and US Helios 16 AI product page identify the processor and graphics options.
In February 2025, Acer also announced the separate Helios Neo 16 AI and Neo 18 AI models, with options up to Core Ultra 9 275HX and RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU. The Neo models are a different product tier, not alternate names for the flagship Helios 16 AI and 18 AI. Acer’s Helios Neo announcement gives their listed maximums.
How do the Helios 16 AI and Helios 18 AI compare?
Acer’s CES 2025 specification sheet lists configuration ceilings, rather than specs guaranteed on every SKU. The weight figures are the listed chassis weights. The table summarizes Acer’s stated maximums and options for the PH16-73 and PH18-73.
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- Get legendary gaming performance with the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor featuring 8 performance cores and 16 efficient cores, delivering ultra-smooth gameplay and future-ready AI (up to 13 NPU TOPS). Offload tasks like background removal and audio optimization to the NPU for seamless streaming and gaming, while Intel Application Optimization enhances performance on classic titles.
- 16.0" WQXGA (2560 x 1600) matte IPS display @ 240Hz refresh rate, 500-nits brightness with NVIDIA G-SYNC & NVIDIA Advanced Optimus,16:10 aspect ratio, DCI-P3 100%
- Powered by NVIDIA Blackwell architecture, GeForce RTX 5060 Laptop GPU unlocks the game-changing realism of full ray tracing. Equipped with a massive level of 572 AI TOPS horsepower, the RTX 50 Series enables new experiences and next-level graphics fidelity. Experience cinematic quality visuals at unprecedented speed with fourth-gen RT cores and breakthrough neural rendering technologies accelerated with fifth-gen Tensor cores.
- 32GB DDR5 Memory, 1 TB SSD Storage, Dynamic 4-Zone RGB Lighting,Killer Wireless Wi-Fi 6E
| Specification | Predator Helios 16 AI (PH16-73) | Predator Helios 18 AI (PH18-73) |
|---|---|---|
| Display size and format | 16-inch, 16:10 | 18-inch, 16:10 |
| Display option | OLED WQXGA (2560 × 1600), up to 240Hz | Mini LED; 4K is listed in Acer’s specification sheet |
| Maximum processor | Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX | Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX |
| Maximum graphics | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU |
| Maximum memory | 64GB DDR5-6400 | 192GB DDR5-6400 |
| Maximum storage | 4TB PCIe Gen5 NVMe | 6TB PCIe Gen5 NVMe |
| Battery capacity | 90Wh | 99Wh |
| Included power adapter | 330W | 400W |
| Listed chassis weight | About 2.7kg (6lb) | About 3.2kg (7.1lb) |
| Wireless networking | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
These are Acer-published specifications from its specification sheet, dated January 6, 2025. Acer cautions that specifications may vary by model and region and that availability is subject to market. Confirm the complete part number and local listing before buying; a headline maximum does not establish that a particular configuration is sold where you live.
Which size makes more sense?
Choose the Helios 16 AI for a more portable setup
The 16-inch chassis is listed at about 2.7kg and has OLED WQXGA up to 240Hz as its headline display option. It has lower published memory and storage ceilings than the 18-inch model, plus a 90Wh battery and 330W adapter. Acer positions it as the more portable, mid-sized option; that is the company’s positioning, not a measured comparison of battery life or performance.
Rank #2
- Desktop-Level Performance, Anywhere: Get legendary gaming performance with the Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 255H, delivering ultra-smooth gameplay and future-ready AI. Offload tasks like background removal and audio optimization to the NPU for seamless streaming and gaming, while Intel Application Optimization enhances performance on classic titles.
- Game-Changing Realism: Powered by NVIDIA Blackwell architecture, GeForce RTX 5060 Laptop GPU unlocks the game changing realism of full ray tracing. Equipped with a massive level of 572 AI TOPS horsepower, the RTX 50 Series enables new experiences and next-level graphics fidelity. Experience cinematic quality visuals at unprecedented speed with fourth-gen RT Cores and breakthrough neural rendering technologies accelerated with fifth-gen Tensor Cores.
- Supreme Speed. Superior Visuals. Powered by AI: DLSS is a revolutionary suite of neural rendering technologies that uses AI to boost FPS, reduce latency, and improve image quality. DLSS 4 brings a new Multi Frame Generation and enhanced Ray Reconstruction and Super Resolution, powered by GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs and fifth-generation Tensor Cores.
- The Ultimate in Ray Tracing and AI: NVIDIA RTX is the most advanced platform for full ray tracing and neural rendering technologies that are revolutionizing the ways we play and create. Over 700 games and applications use RTX to deliver realistic graphics and incredibly fast performance with cutting-edge AI features like DLSS Multi Frame Generation.
- Unmatched Clarity and Speed: Plunge into a vast 14.5-inch matte display, illuminated with brilliant colors, and framed in a 16:10 aspect ratio. The pristine WQXGA boasts a fast 165Hz refresh rate, and with 100% sRGB color gamut, you're assured lifelike hues. Enhanced by NVIDIA G-SYNC and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus, enjoy seamless tear-free gaming.
Consider the Helios 18 AI for a larger screen and higher capacity ceilings
The 18-inch model is listed at about 3.2kg, with a Mini LED display option and 4K listed in Acer’s sheet. Its published maxima include 192GB of memory and 6TB of storage, compared with 64GB and 4TB for the 16-inch model. It also has a 99Wh battery and a larger 400W adapter. Acer positions it as a larger-screen system for desktop-style performance, but its specification sheet does not establish real-world gaming performance or battery runtime.
Does every configuration include an RTX 5090?
No. “Up to GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU” means RTX 5090 is the highest option Acer lists for these model families. It does not mean every Helios 16 AI or Helios 18 AI comes with one. The exact GPU, processor, display, memory and storage depend on the configuration sold in a given market. Check those details against the full SKU on Acer’s local product page or the retailer listing rather than relying on the family name.
Rank #3
- Desktop-Level Performance, Anywhere: Get legendary gaming performance with the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, delivering ultra-smooth gameplay and future-ready AI (Up to 13 NPU TOPS). Offload tasks like background removal and audio optimization to the NPU for seamless streaming and gaming, while Intel Application Optimization enhances performance on classic titles.
- Game-Changing Realism: Powered by NVIDIA Blackwell architecture, GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU unlocks the game changing realism of full ray tracing. Equipped with a massive level of 992 AI TOPS horsepower, the RTX 50 Series enables new experiences and next-level graphics fidelity. Experience cinematic quality visuals at unprecedented speed with fourth-gen RT Cores and breakthrough neural rendering technologies accelerated with fifth-gen Tensor Cores.
- Supreme Speed. Superior Visuals. Powered by AI: DLSS is a revolutionary suite of neural rendering technologies that uses AI to boost FPS, reduce latency, and improve image quality. DLSS 4 brings a new Multi Frame Generation and enhanced Ray Reconstruction and Super Resolution, powered by GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs and fifth-generation Tensor Cores.
- The Ultimate in Ray Tracing and AI: NVIDIA RTX is the most advanced platform for full ray tracing and neural rendering technologies that are revolutionizing the ways we play and create. Over 700 games and applications use RTX to deliver realistic graphics and incredibly fast performance with cutting-edge AI features like DLSS Multi Frame Generation.
- Immersive Depth and Detail: At 18 inches with a 16:10 aspect ratio, the pristine WQXGA screen offering vibrant colors with up to 100% DCI-P3 operates at a fast 240Hz refresh and 3ms overdrive response time. Alongside the suite of features from NVIDIA G-SYNC and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus, you're guaranteed that whatever's on-screen is a distinct viewing delight.
Acer’s US product page for the Helios 16 AI also describes up to Core Ultra 9 275HX, up to RTX 5090 Laptop GPU and an OLED option with refresh rates up to 240Hz. That current marketing page may not represent every 2025 SKU or other markets. See Acer’s US Helios 16 AI page.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the specifications do—and do not—tell you
The announcement and specification sheet establish the available headline hardware options, not how a particular configuration performs in a game. They provide no independent frame-rate benchmarks or measured comparisons of sustained performance, fan noise, thermals, battery runtime or value at current street prices. Acer’s CES release also describes sixth-generation AeroBlade 3D fan blades as 0.05mm thick; that is a manufacturer specification, not evidence by itself of quieter operation or better gaming results.
Acer said in its January 2025 announcement that Windows 11 Predator gaming laptops would include three months of PC Game Pass. That announcement does not confirm current regional eligibility or redemption terms, so check those before treating the bundle as part of a purchase.
Quick Recap
Check these details before choosing a SKU
- Confirm the exact processor and GPU; the family’s maximum RTX 5090 configuration may not be the one on sale.
- Verify panel type, resolution and refresh rate. The listed OLED and Mini LED options do not establish that every SKU has those panels.
- Match the available memory and storage to your needs; Acer’s figures are model-family ceilings.
- Check the weight, adapter and local availability for the exact part number, particularly if portability matters.
- Look for independent testing of the specific configuration if gaming frame rates, noise, thermals or battery life will determine your choice.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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