- Deep Dive
In this post, you will find continuously updated information on the pre-order status of our flagship model XMG NEO 16 (A25/E25) and its sister model XMG PRO 16 (E25). Important updates are marked with the date.
Delivery situation
Current status
26 May 2025: Table has been updated.
Below, we summarise the most important changes and time frames for the various configurations.
| Configuration | Information |
|---|---|
| XMG NEO 16 (E25) with Intel and standard display | Production and shipping is on-going. |
| XMG NEO 16 (E25) with Intel and Mini LED display | Production and shipping is on-going. |
| XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD Ryzen and RTX 5070 Ti | Production and shipping is on-going. |
| XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD Ryzen and RTX 5080 | Production and shipping is on-going. |
| XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD Ryzen and RTX 5090 | Production and shipping is on-going. |
| XMG PRO 16 (E25) with Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX | Production and shipping is on-going. |
| XMG PRO 16 (E25) with Intel Core i9-13900HX | Production and shipping is on-going. |
Remarks:
- Variants with AMD in this table include both Ryzen 9 9955HX and 9955HX3D.
- If a software bundle is included in the order, it will be sent proactively by email a few days after the corresponding laptop has been shipped.
Distribution of pre-orders: GPU and CPU configurations
10 April 2025: The following graphic illustrates the approximate quantity ratio of our current pre-orders for XMG NEO 16 (2025) in two pie charts. These values represent a snapshot in time and will likely shift in the coming weeks and months.
On the left side, you can see how the orders are distributed across the available GPU options. Currently, the RTX 5090 is in the lead – a typical picture at the start of a new generation. Many early adopters had been specifically waiting for the top-tier model and planned their purchase accordingly. As the product cycle progresses, the ratio often shifts in favour of the ‘mid-range’ models.
The diagram on the right shows the share of the various CPU variants in the pre-orders to date. If you add both AMD options together, AMD is currently in the lead overall. However, since the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D is not yet shipping, Intel has a slight lead in the current production batch. The quantity ratios also have a corresponding effect on the production planning at our ODM partner. We expect the ratio to shift further once all variants are consistently available. A more detailed breakdown of the combinations of CPU and GPU variants is not intended for publication – we apologise for any inconvenience.
NVIDIA and display topics
Current status of G-SYNC and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus
19 June 2025: still no specific update. NVIDIA is still working on it.
6 June 2025: still no update on this matter. NVIDIA is still working on it.
26 May 2025: No change from the status on 30 April 2025. According to our information, validation at NVIDIA is still ongoing. We have not received any specific date from NVIDIA. We are checking weekly for the latest status. The process is usually not transparent from NVIDIA’s side. This prolonged delay suggests that NVIDIA may still have a technical issue to resolve. However, we have no further details at this time. We therefore ask for your continued patience.
30 April 2025: no change from the status as of 10 April 2025. Validation by NVIDIA is still ongoing for XMG NEO 16 (A25/E25).
10 April 2025: There is no fundamentally new information compared to our communication of 28 March 2025. The following still applies:
- The delivery is without G-SYNC and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus.
- The feature has been removed from the product specifications until further notice.
- However, we are still working on validating G-SYNC and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus in all variants of XMG NEO 16 (A25/E25).
- It is still possible that a validation will be successful.
- At the same time, however, we cannot give any formal guarantee.
- As soon as the validation is successful, the feature can be activated via a firmware update.
Note: These statements only apply to the display in the laptop. NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync are supported on external monitors from the outset. The MUX switch for manually switching between NVIDIA Optimus and ‘dGPU-only’ will also be available from the outset.
However, there is one small change:
- Our information from late March still painted a relatively pessimistic picture regarding G-SYNC validation with the Mini LED panel. We were more confident about the standard display.
- Meanwhile, due to technical updates, we are somewhat more optimistic that the Mini LED display could still receive G-SYNC validation. However, as I said, we still can’t make any formal guarantee.
Mini-LED: No Adaptive Sync with Intel (but FreeSync with AMD)?
Current situation
30 April 2025: At the time of the last update, it was still unclear whether VESA Adaptive Sync could be used instead of NVIDIA G-SYNC. It is now clear that
- VESA Adaptive Sync is not supported in XMG NEO 16 (E25) with Intel Core and Mini-LED. The option is disabled (greyed out) via an OEM-adjusted Intel graphics driver.
- The option is greyed out by a modified Intel graphics driver. Thanks to the ‘Extended INF’ mechanism, this modification will also be applied to subsequent WHQL driver updates.
If Intel Adaptive Sync is forced (e.g. by reinstalling with an unsupported Intel graphics driver), this may cause temporary image artefacts on the Mini LED panel, which can persist even after Adaptive Sync has been disabled and even after restarting the device. We therefore strongly recommend against forcing Intel Adaptive Sync.
This limitation only affects the Mini LED panel in XMG NEO 16 (E25). The limitation only applies to Intel. AMD FreeSync is supported in XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD Ryzen on both panels offered. We are currently quite confident that the upgrade to NVIDIA G-SYNC will be available soon. Once the upgrade is available, there will be no need for Adaptive Sync with Intel.
Previous statement (archive)
Editorial note: Statements that are now obsolete have been crossed out.
10 April 2025: VESA Adaptive Sync (also known as ‘VRR’) is not directly supported by NVIDIA on laptop displays. Adaptive Sync can only be used when the laptop display is connected to the iGPU (AMD/Intel) via NVIDIA Optimus (MSHybrid). In this case, the NVIDIA graphics card can also be used for tearing-free rendering, but the images are output via iGPU.
At present, it has not yet been conclusively clarified whether Adaptive Sync can be supported. Support is not limited to the question of whether Adaptive Sync can be activated, but whether we can guarantee smooth operation. We are working with our technology partners to resolve this issue with utmost priority. As soon as we have more information, we will communicate it immediately.
PCIe interface to the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50-series Laptop GPU
19 June 2025: The BIOS update has been released. The section has been updated with new information. Comments on PCIe Gen4 have been reworded from the present tense to the past tense.
6 June 2025: a BIOS update for XMG NEO 16 (A25) with PCIe Gen5 x8 support is currently in pre-release state. The update has been shared with review media and users on our Discord server. A wider release is expected within the next 1-2 weeks.
29 May 2025: initial publication.
Introduction
We originally announced PCIe Gen5 x8 as the interface for the dedicated graphics card in XMG NEO (2025). XMG NEO 16 (E25) with Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX did indeed offer this PCIe speed for the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50-series Laptop GPUs since initial shipment.
The situation was different for XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX/3D: At the start of initial delivery, operation with Gen5 x8 was still in the validation phase, so the model was initially limited to Gen4 x8 via BIOS.
BIOS update for XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD
This validation has since been successfully completed. The upgrade to PCIe Gen5 x8 for XMG NEO 16 (A25) is now available in the form of a BIOS update.
This BIOS update also brings additional CPU and RAM tuning options, which are described in more detail here. The ZIP file of the BIOS update contains a README.TXT file with update instructions and further information.
We recommend that all owners of the XMG NEO 16 (A25) install this BIOS update. Newly shipped units will come with this update pre-installed from around the end of June 2025.
With the installation of BIOS N.1.12A10, the following sections become obsolete.
What were the practical implications of Gen4 speed for GPU performance?
To illustrate whether the PCIe Gen4 x8 connection in the AMD-based XMG NEO created a performance bottleneck, we show a series of worst-case benchmarks and comparisons in the following table:
The table shows:
- The PCIe throughput in the ‘3DMark PCI-Express Feature Test’ was within the expected range for Gen4 x8.
- In Counter-Strike 2 with the lowest preset, the system achieved remarkably high frame rates – especially with NVIDIA Optimus disabled. The high FPS implicates a high throughput of CPU/GPU communication, which represents a worst-case scenario for PCIe utilisation.
- With NVIDIA Optimus enabled, the FPS drops to around 460 – still a very high value, with the primary bottleneck being NVIDIA Optimus.
- In the ‘Very High’ preset with lower PCIe utilisation, CS2 ran at over 200 FPS. The difference between NVIDIA Optimus enabled and disabled was still measurable here, but relatively small.
To put these figures into context, we would like to point out the following:
- For e-sports titles where you want the highest possible FPS, disabling NVIDIA Optimus is recommended anyway, as this also measurably reduces potential input lag. This also reduces PCIe utilisation. See this analysis by Jarrod’s Tech.
- XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D achieved higher average FPS despite the Gen4-limited GPU interface – in particular, it achieved higher ‘1% lows’ than a comparable device with Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX and Gen5 GPU connection, as this video from GizmoSlipTech shows.
Addendum: PCI Express bandwidth had no effect on the number, maximum resolution, or refresh rate of external monitors. Monitor bandwidths are defined solely by the GPU interfaces, not by the communication between the CPU and GPU.
General background about PCI Express utilisation
The PCI Express interface is primarily used in graphics cards to exchange data between the CPU and GPU – primarily so-called ‘draw calls’, i.e., instructions for displaying objects, textures and effects in a 3D scene. These instructions are regenerated every frame and sent to the GPU. Therefore, the utilisation of the PCIe interface increases primarily with the number of real images per second (FPS), not with the pure image quality or rendering complexity.
Important to understand: The actual calculation and output of the images takes place in the GPU itself. When NVIDIA Optimus is disabled or an external monitor is connected (see HDMI and Mini DisplayPort in XMG NEO 2025), the finished images are output directly from the GPU to the monitor – not sent back to the CPU or iGPU via PCIe.
The PCIe interface is therefore not primarily responsible for transferring finished frames, but for controlling the GPU via the CPU.
Image quality improvements – such as higher resolution, more complex shaders, anti-aliasing or ray tracing – do not usually significantly increase the utilisation of the PCIe interface, as these effects are calculated internally by the GPU.
Accordingly, the actual PCIe bandwidth used grows significantly slower with each GPU generation than the raw performance of the GPU itself.
Conclusion
The GPU connection via PCIe Gen4 x8 in XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD Ryzen did not pose a significant disadvantage in real-world usage. Gaming performance remained at an extremely high level even in e-sports titles with high PCIe utilisation. Typical single-player scenarios were generally not affected by this limitation either, as PCIe utilisation tends to decrease rather than increase at high resolutions or high image quality due to the reduced number of draw calls.
On-going GPU performance discussion
19 June 2025: NVIDIA has released GeForce Game Ready Driver – WHQL Driver Version 576.80. We do not yet know whether this driver brings significant performance improvements. However, we still recommend that all customers install this driver.
26 May 2025: NVIDIA driver version 576.52 from 19 May appears to have improved GPU utilisation in games. We expect further detailed reviews and comparisons. NVIDIA currently releases a new graphics driver about every two weeks, so further selective improvements can be expected.
13 May 2025: After a review by Jarrod’s Tech, titled “Is This a Joke? 5090 vs 4090 Laptop Comparison in 25 Games“, we have posted a commentary statement in this thread:
Please refer to that statement and do not hesitate to join the discussion either on Reddit or in the “XMG NEO – A25 & E25” channel on our Discord server. We are looking forward to your feedback!
NVIDIA GPU remains active after load (issue with Optimus sleep mode)
19 June 2025: paragraph updated with now better working iGPU Power Saving Mode.
30 April 2025: initial publication.
With recent drivers, NVIDIA Optimus’ power-saving mode may not fully work properly:
- After a cold start, the dedicated NVIDIA GPU is initially switched off correctly (GPU power: zero watts).
- As soon as a game or benchmark is started, the GPU activates itself – so far, so good.
- Problem: After exiting the game, the GPU remains active and continues to consume power – even when idle. This also has a negative impact on the CPU package power, as the PCIe lanes remain active.
Workaround: To measure power consumption correctly when idle or during battery testing, we currently recommend to enable the “iGPU Power Saving” mode in Control Center and perform a reboot.
Behaviour:
- “On”: The NVIDIA GPU is consistently put into sleep mode as long as no external monitor is connected, regardless of which software is running.
- “Off”: Standard behaviour of NVIDIA Optimus – any application can activate the dGPU.
- “Auto”: Same as ‘On’, but only in battery mode.
Please note:
- For best experience, please update to the latest BIOS version and Control Center version from our download portal. Also, install the latest NVIDIA driver from NVIDIA’s website.
- Control Center does not explicitly state that enabling this mode requires a reboot. However, in our testing, we found that a reboot will yield in lower overall power consumption after enabling this mode.
Other NVIDIA driver issues
NVIDIA graphics card sometimes remains at lowest possible power stage
26 May 2025: Driver version 576.52 from 19 May appears to have improved this issue but has not completely resolved it yet. However, it seems to occur very rarely outside of our synthetic benchmark scenarios.
5 May 2025: Paragraph has been rephrased with some additional clarifications.
13 May 2025: Title of paragraph has been modified from “does not reach maximum power consumption” to “remains at lowest possible power stage”
A bug in the latest NVIDIA GPU driver affects all current RTX 50-series models, including RTX 5070 Ti, 5080, and 5090. The issue prevents the GPU from reaching full power in some cases. This leads to a major drop in performance (roughly 40%, perhaps more) compared to expected results.
This issue is not limited to XMG laptops, it also affects other brands and vendors.
You don’t need to guess whether your system is affected. The difference is obvious. Either the GPU runs at full performance, or it runs at roughly half power. There’s no in-between.
If the bug happens, it always happens at the very start of a game or benchmark. If your game launches and performs well, it will stay that way until you close it. It won’t start throttling mid-session. That makes it easy to spot and test. You don’t need to keep checking during gameplay.
We’ve reported the issue to NVIDIA and are waiting on a fix. In the meantime, the known workaround still helps: while the game or benchmark is running, use our hotkey button to switch once through all three performance profiles (Balanced → Enthusiast → Overboost). This should restore normal power levels during the same gameplay session.
Despite this bug, we continue to ship systems with the latest NVIDIA WHQL driver for broader stability and compatibility.
Generally shipping with the latest NVIDIA graphics driver
Despite the above-mentioned problems, we are generally shipping with the latest WHQL driver, as these generally offer greater stability in games. The generally somewhat unfortunate situation with NVIDIA graphics drivers is reported in many places in the press.
Important information about DDR5 memory
Caution with DDR5-5600 Kingston FURY Impact for AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX/3D
6 June 2025: added new picture link.
26 May 2025: initial publication.
We normally offer Kingston FURY Impact with 5600 MT/s CL40. However, it has since become apparent that Kingston uses different DRAM ICs on these modules without changing the primary part number.
Explanation of terms:
- IC = Integrated Circuit: This refers to the square components on the RAM modules.
- DRAM = Dynamic Random Access Memory: a general term for the architecture of these components.
Visual difference:
The modules with Kingston ICs can often be identified before unpacking by a logo on the DRAM components. See picture:
The following part numbers are affected, among others:
- 16 GB / KF556S40IB-16
- 32 GB / KF556S40IB-32
Compatibility:
- If these modules are equipped with DRAM ICs from SK Hynix, they will work perfectly in all tested models.
- However, if they are equipped with DRAM ICs from Kingston, they will not work in XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX/3D. With these modules, the laptop cannot start at all (screen remains black).
- They will still work with Intel or other AMD platforms (e.g. the Ryzen 9 8845HS in XMG CORE 15), but not with AMD Fire Range.
Since the modules with Kingston ICs use the same part number, it is not easy for distributors and suppliers to store these modules separately.
We have reported this incompatibility to both Kingston and AMD. However, we cannot predict whether there will be a solution, such as through an AGESA/BIOS update. This incompatibility will likely need to be resolved between Kingston and AMD first.
In practice, this means:
- For all orders of XMG NEO 16 (A25) with Kingston FURY Impact memory, we ensure that only modules with SK Hynix ICs are installed.
- Due to current difficulties in obtaining sufficient supplies of Kingston FURY Impact with SK Hynix ICs, we have removed out-of-stock capacities from XMG NEO 16 (A25/AMD) configurator.
- Customers who wish to upgrade the RAM in their XMG NEO 16 (A25/AMD) themselves should exercise caution. Before installation, check whether Kingston ICs are installed on the modules. If this is the case, we recommend returning the memory.
For clarification: Kingston FURY Impact modules with Kingston ICs are not defective. According to our tests, they are currently simply not compatible with the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX/3D series. They are still perfectly suitable for models with other CPUs, regardless of whether they have ICs from SK Hynix or Kingston. We also assume that the performance will be identical with established compatibility, as both DRAM IC types follow the same specifications.
Availability of DDR5-6400 CSO-DIMM for Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX
Sometimes we have minor bottlenecks in the CSO-DIMM supply for Intel Core Ultra 275HX. But RAM supply is generally a moving target and not related to the general availability of XMG PRO and XMG NEO. In other words: RAM shipments are small and frequent, usually arriving just-in-time. If you see any notice in our only ship regarding DDR5 CSO-DIMM availability, these notices most likely apply only to new orders, not to previously placed pre-orders. In the unlikely case that a DRAM bottleneck affects a previous order, we would inform individual customers by e-mail.
Memory upgrade to 128 GB with Intel Core Ultra
10 April 2025: For XMG NEO 16 (E25) with Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, we now offer the option of expanding the memory to up to 128 GB DDR5-5600.
As we currently only have a limited number of these memory modules available, allocation will be in the order in which upgrade requests are received. Customers are kindly requested to inform us of their upgrade request by email – simply reply to our last email or to your order confirmation. The difference in price can be found in the configurator in the shop.
| Possible upgrade | Current status |
|---|---|
| 2 × 64 GB DDR5-5600 with Crucial CT64G56C46S5 | Validation in XMG NEO 16 (E25) with Intel is complete. Upgrades can be ordered immediately. The availability of the modules is still limited, but we will be able to serve the first customers with these modules. |
| 2 × 64 GB DDR5-6400 with Crucial CT64G64C52CS5 | We have requested samples from Crucial but do not yet have a timeline for when they will arrive. From a technical standpoint, there are currently no known issues that would prevent future compatibility. However, we will only be able to give a specific outlook as soon as we have sufficient samples. We do not offer this configuration at the moment. |
Are RAM configuration higher than 96 GB foreseeable with AMD Ryzen?
30 April 2025: AMD has now responded to our enquiry. We have provided AMD’s development partners with 2 × 64 GB module samples. However, it is currently unclear whether these efforts will lead to official 128 GB support in the future.
28 March 2025: These upgrades are not foreseeable with AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX(3D) because AMD specifies the maximum memory capacity of the CPU as 96 GB. Source: spec sheet (open link, click ‘Expand all’, Ctrl+F: 96). An attempt to install our 2 × 64 GB modules resulted in the system failing to boot (‘no boot’ situation). A request to AMD as to whether the previously validated 96 GB configuration really represents the actual maximum for this CPU generation Ryzen 9055 series (‘Fire Range’) has so far remained unanswered.
Deep dive product information
13 June 2025: brand new deep dive article section published.
Comparison: XMG NEO with AMD vs. Intel
XMG NEO 16 (A25/E25) stands out by offering a choice between Intel and AMD platforms with largely identical configuration options. While there are some platform-specific differences – such as RAM support and Thunderbolt functionality – we strive for parity wherever we have direct influence (CPU, GPU, display, battery, SSD, etc.), ensuring that neither platform is artificially constrained.
The following table outlines the similarities and differences between these two versions of XMG NEO 16 (2025):
For more details, we recommend reviewing the spec sheets and the configuration options in our shop:
Performance profiles
The comparison table above includes information on the maximum possible power consumption of the CPU and GPU under full load. However, XMG laptops also support alternative performance profiles. Profiles with reduced power limits allow for more efficient operation (keyword: diminishing returns), which in turn leads to noticeably quieter acoustics.
The following table provides an overview of the preconfigured performance profiles and their impact on CPU and GPU power limits:
Differences between XMG PRO and XMG NEO
Both XMG PRO and XMG NEO are available with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti, supporting a maximum GPU power draw of 140 watts. Given additional similarities in chassis design, keyboard matrix, and I/O port layout, the question naturally arises: what distinguishes these two flagship product lines?
The table below summarizes the key similarities and differences:
For further insight, please refer to the spec sheets and configurators:
SSD cooling with PCI Express 5.0
XMG NEO and XMG PRO are the first XMG models to support ultra-fast Gen5 SSDs, offering read speeds of over 14 Gigabytes per second (GB/s). For comparison: a DVD holds 4.7 GB, and a Blu-ray disc starts at 25 GB.
To ensure sustained performance without throttling under continuous read/write workloads, the Gen5 SSDs we offer are coupled to the metal bottom case with thermal pads. This setup allows effective heat dissipation, preventing localized hot spots on the SSD (especially on the controller).
Thanks to this direct thermal coupling, maximum read and write speeds are maintained consistently.
Using the Samsung SSD 9100 PRO as an example, we also compared our thermal implementation to Samsung’s original desktop-oriented heatsink:
The result: our solution performs on par with the manufacturer’s own cooling design. Both approaches maintain stable write speeds within PCIe Gen5 specifications without any throttling. Temperature curves stabilize after just a few minutes at approximately 64 °C.
Since the CPU load in this scenario is minimal, the system fans remain relatively quiet. More details can be found in our FAQ article: Is there any space for additional RAM and SSD heatsinks?
Look inside
The internal layout of XMG NEO 16 is virtually identical between the AMD and Intel versions, so a single image suffices:
An additional photo showing the system with RAM and SSD heat shields removed is available here. Instructions for removing these shields can be found on the respective product pages in our download portal.
The integrated channel for the optional XMG OASIS liquid cooling system can be seen here:
By contrast, XMG PRO 16 uses a different thermal module – without water canal:
The fans and heatsinks in the XMG NEO 16 are 12 mm tall, while the XMG PRO 16 – which is slightly slimmer overall – uses 10 mm components. This results in slightly different power limits for CPU-only and combined CPU+GPU scenarios.
Split motherboard layout
Barely visible in the images but well established since our CES 2025 launch: the GPU sits on a separate board, connected via PCIe bridge to the main motherboard. This semi-modular architecture supports our product development efforts and is one of the key reasons why we can offer so many XMG PRO and NEO variants – with more variants in the pipeline for the PRO series.
An editorial overview of this design can be found here: Clarification on separate mainboard design in XMG NEO 16 (2025)
Tuning options
19 Juni 2025: Update for XMG NEO 16 (A25) is now fully released. See download portal and announcement on Reddit.
6 June 2025: Update with Curve Optimizer and Memory Tuning is in pre-release stage. Expect release within 1-2 weeks.
26 May 2025: We are working on implementing Curve Optimizer and manual adjustment of memory clock speeds and latencies via a BIOS update. Further details will be announced shortly.
30 April 2025: The table below has been expanded to include options now supported for SMT and CCD control for AMD.
XMG NEO 16 (2025) supports the following features with both AMD and Intel:
- Preconfigured performance profiles from Balanced to Overboost
- Creation of a manual performance profile with user-defined CPU and GPU power limits, including customization of PL1, PL2, and PL4 (Intel) or SPL, sPPT, and fPPT (AMD)
- Manual control of the MUX switch (switching between MSHybrid, iGPU-only, and dGPU-only)
- Option to disable TPM 2.0
- Option to disable Secure Boot
- Automatically enabled support for virtualization technologies
- Setup of hardware encryption with compatible SSDs
- Setup of RAID arrays, especially RAID 1
The same functions also apply to XMG PRO 16 (E25).
The following table outlines options that differ between AMD and Intel in XMG NEO:
| XMG NEO (A25) with AMD | XMG PRO and XMG NEO (E25) with Intel |
|---|---|
| Supported: ✅ Factory-level optimization of PBO (Precision Boost Overdrive) in cooperation with AMD, including tuning of TDC and EDC. ✅ Standard frequency/voltage curve in compliance with AMD guidance. ✅ Automatic support for DDR5-5600 CL46 (SO-DIMM). ✅ Options to disable the second CCD (Core Chiplet Die). ✅ Options to disable SMT (Simultaneous Multithreading). ✅ Manual adjustment of the CPU Curve Optimizer (undervolting).* ✅ Options to adjust memory clock speeds and latencies* *marked options are only available since BIOS N.1.12A10 with AMD. Not available: ❌ Options to to load XMP/EXPO profiles. ❌ Manual tuning of PBO, TDC, or EDC. | Supported: ✅ Manual undervolting via BIOS setup. ✅ Option to disable Undervolt Protection to allow undervolting via Windows software. ✅ Manual tuning of memory clock speeds and latencies. ✅ Manual loading of XMP profiles. ✅ Individual core configurations, e.g., disabling specific E/P cores or all E cores. ✅ Predefined profiles with AC Loadline tuning. ✅ Automatic support for DDR5-5600 CL46 (SO-DIMM). ✅ Automatic support for DDR5-6400 CL52 (CSO-DIMM).* *marked options only apply to variants with Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, i.e. not to the i9-13900HX in XMG PRO 16 (E25). |
Other tech topics
Local dimming toggle in Control Center
29 May 2025: Local dimming uses a large number of Mini-LED zones to precisely adjust brightness based on image content. This improves contrast and black levels – ideal for movies and games.
When local dimming is disabled, the entire panel is evenly backlit. This ensures consistent brightness and more accurate color representation, especially for photo editing or graphic design.
For maximum color accuracy, we recommend using the display without local dimming.
Switching takes effect immediately without requiring a restart.
Known issue: after “cold boot” and “wake from Hibernate”, local dimming will always be disabled by default. In order to enable it again, user must disable and re-enable it in Control Center.
Reason:
- “Disabled” is the BIOS default.
- When system performs a cold boot or wakes from Hibernate, the previously selected option will be overwritten by BIOS default.
- Control Center has no way of reading the current panel condition, as the eDP implementation is “write only”, in other words: the panel is not able to communicate its current state back to Control Center.
We are checking if we can provide any workaround for this hardware limitation.
Length of power cable
29 May 2025: XMG NEO with RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 is delivered with a 420 watts power adapter. This power level is necessary for running XMG NEO together with XMG OASIS, as liquid cooling allows for higher combined power limits.
The shorter DC cable is required to provide sufficiently stable amperage, especially when considering that the cable is supposed to be extended when used together with XMG OASIS:
- 420 watts adapter plugs into XMG OASIS.
- A DC extension cable connects XMG OASIS with XMG NEO.
- Power from the 420 watts adapter is forwarded through XMG OASIS to the laptop.
Alternatively, we offer smaller adapters with lower power limits and longer DC cables.
Here is a comparison table of all recommended and supported chargers:
| Adapter | Model Number | Dimensions | Weight (with 1.8 m AC cord) | DC cable length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 150 W USB-C | FSP150-APDBR01 (link coming soon) | 113.5 x 64.5 x 23 mm | 466 g | 1.5 m |
| 240 W | FSP240-ACBU3 FSP250-ACBU3* | 127 x 71 x 25.6 mm | 611 g | 1.2 m |
| 330 W | FSP330-ACAU3 | 165 x 75.6 x 25.8 mm | 751 g | 1.2 m |
| 420 W | FSP420-ACAU3 | 178.5 x 81.6 x 27 mm | 834 g | 80 cm |
* FSP240-ACBU3 and FSP250-ACBU3 are identical. The 250 W version is simply a renaming of the 240 W version with identical specifications. The 240 W AC adapter had sufficient headroom (overprovisioning) to allow such a renaming. We will continue to offer it under its original name with 240 W in the long term.
Our recommendations:
- Install the original 420 watts charger at your main desk with a sufficiently long AC cord.
- Buy a second adapter with lower power, lower weight and longer cable for mobile usage.
Power limits:
- When running purely on air cooling, the smaller 330 watts power adapter is 100% sufficient, even in “Overboost” mode with full load on CPU and GPU.
- The lighter 240 watts adapter can be used safely in “Enthusiast” mode. In Overboost mode (with full CPU and GPU load), the 240 watts adapter would be overloaded and switch off, sending the laptop to battery mode instead.
Please see this article for further guidance: Can I use a smaller/lighter power adapter or charger for travelling?
300 Hz refresh rate
29 May 2025: The 300 Hz refresh rate on the internal display of XMG PRO and XMG NEO (2025) is only available with NVIDIA Optimus disabled. When NVIDIA Optimus is enabled, the maximum is 240 Hz.
This is a hardware limitation, so there will not be any update to it. For 300 Hz, please disable NVIDIA Optimus.
This limitation does not apply to external monitors.
If and when G-SYNC and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus gets successfully validated, the system would be able to automatically switch between 240 Hz and 300 Hz when Advanced Optimus triggers an on-the-fly switch to dGPU mode.
Introduction of Wi-Fi 7 in XMG NEO 16 (E25)
26 May 2025: A few days ago, we activated the option to upgrade to Intel Wi-Fi 7 BE200 in XMG NEO 16 (E25) with Intel. The BE200 costs an additional 15 € (including 19% VAT) compared to the standard AX211 configuration.
We are still evaluating whether we will be able to offer this module for other models, such as XMG PRO 16 (E25) or XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD.
Customers who already own an XMG NEO 16 (E25) can upgrade their Wi-Fi module with the “Advanced Replacement” method. In addition to the price difference, shipping costs may apply.
Steps:
- Contact us with your upgrade request and current delivery address.
- Please also let us know which module is currently installed – alternatively, we can check this in our order system.
- We will send you a payment request for the difference between the current module and the new module.
- Once payment has been received, we will send you the new module in secure packaging.
- You will then return the old module to us using a prepaid parcel label provided by us, using the box in which we sent you the new module.
Replacing the Wi-Fi module requires a certain level of technical skill, as it involves opening the bottom cover of the laptop and reconnecting the Wi-Fi antennas. We would provide instructions by email.
The upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 only makes sense if you actually have a Wi-Fi 7 network, i.e. a modern Wi-Fi router. The upgrade does not offer any speed advantages for routers with only Wi-Fi 6E or older. Another distinguishing feature of the Intel BE200 is its support for Bluetooth 5.4, whereas the Intel AX211 only supports Bluetooth 5.3. As this research shows, the benefits of Bluetooth 5.4 are mostly relevant to IoT and industrial applications. An upgrade is therefore not essential for normal home use. Upgrading to the BE200 also has no impact on the operation of XMG OASIS with XMG NEO.
The upgrade can also be performed later in the laptop’s lifecycle, even after the warranty has expired – so there is no rush. Of course, the difference in price and shipping costs may change over time.
No upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 for XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD
XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD supports Wi-Fi 6E, including support for the 6 GHz band.
An upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 in the XMG NEO 16 (A25) is not currently planned. A DIY upgrade is also not supported.
- With ‘Intel Wi-Fi 7 BE200’, the system is unable to boot up.
- With ‘AMD Wi-Fi 7 RZ717’ and other modules based on MediaTek MT7925, the system can boot up, but Wi-Fi connectivity is limited to Wi-Fi 5.
This incompatibility is due to regulatory reasons. We do not see any possibility of further upgrades for this current model series.
Inconsistent write speed with SSD Samsung 9100 PRO on AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX/3D
19 June 2025: Issue has been fixed with BIOS N.1.12A10 for XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD, see download portal.
6 June 2025: BIOS update is currently in the testing phase. Release is planned for the next 1–2 weeks.
26 May 2025: We are working on a solution in the form of a BIOS update.
19 May 2025: Initial publication.
This issue has been fixed via BIOS N.1.12A10 for XMG NEO 16 (A25) with AMD, see download portal. XMG NEO 16 (E25) with Intel was never affected by this issue in the first place. The rest of this paragraph remains published for archival purpose.
Archived
Description:
In write stress tests with single files larger than 1GB, the Samsung 9100 PRO showed reduced write speeds (~2 GB/s) on Fire Range platforms. Read speeds were unaffected. Daily tasks like gaming, app installs, file browsing, and smaller file transfers performed normally. Even in the worst case scenarios, file transfers write speeds at 2 GB/s were still pretty usable.
Test Conditions:
- Samsung 9100 PRO Gen5 SSD on AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX / 9955HX3D (Fire Range)
- Windows 11 24H2
- Various AMD chipset drivers, both older and latest
- BIOS default settings, RAID off
- BitLocker on/off – no impact
Notes:
- Issue only appeared in synthetic write benchmarks and large file copies, usually starting at 1GB file size.
- No temperature issues – SSD remains cool under load.
- Performance peaked near 14 GB/s in some scenarios, confirming no hardware bottleneck.
- Reproduced across multiple units and SSDs.
- Did not occur with other Gen5 SSDs, nor on Intel platforms.
Status:
Issue has been fixed via BIOS update.
Press reports and reviews
13 June 2025: We continue to ship out review samples and we will continue to update these lists:
Pre- and overview articles:
- XMG Neo 16 2025 Preview – The fastest gaming notebook now with AMD, RTX 5000 and 300 Hz Mini-LED [Notebookcheck]
- GeForce RTX 5090 & 5080 Laptop im Test: Benchmarks mit „Max-P“ und TDP-Skalierung von 80-150 W [Computerbase]
- AMD vs. Intel im XMG Neo 16: Ryzen 9 9955HX vs. Core Ultra 9 275HX von 15 bis 180 Watt [Computerbase]
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop Analysis – Faster, but there is more to come [Notebookcheck]
- GeForce RTX 5000 Laptop GPUs: Notebook-Hersteller sollen die TDP weiterhin nennen [Computerbase]
- GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop vs. RTX 5070 Laptop – The successors to the RTX 4070 Laptop in review [Notebookcheck]
Full product reviews:
- Darauf habe ich gewartet: Die RTX 5070 Ti Laptop ist so stark wie eine 4080m und bietet einen großen Vorteil [Gamestar]
- The RTX 5070 Ti Laptop and up to 128 GB RAM inside a gaming/workstation hybrid – XMG Pro 16 (E25) laptop review [Notebookcheck]
- AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D and RTX 5090 Laptop for maximum gaming performance – XMG Neo 16 A25 review [Notebookcheck]
- The fastest gaming laptop is now even better thanks to 300 Hz mini LED – XMG Neo 16 E25 RTX 5090 laptop review [Notebookcheck]
Videos:
- “Forbidden” Disassembly: NVIDIA Laptop RTX “5090” with Water Cooling [Gamers Nexus]
- New Gaming Laptops Tested: RTX 5090, 5080 and Arrow Lake HX [Just Josh]
- The Laptop RTX 5070 Ti is … Good!? [Notebookcheck YouTube]
- AMD Fire Range + RTX 5080/5090 = pure laptop insanity! [Notebookcheck YouTube]
- Is This a Joke? 5090 vs 4090 Laptop Comparison in 25 Games [Jarrod’s Tech] (see XMG comment)
- Nvidia’s New Drivers Fix RTX 50 FPS – But it Doesn’t Matter [Jarrod’s Tech]
- 2025 XMG Neo 16 WATER COOLED RTX 5090 Unboxing Review! Is the RTX 5090 Worth Buying vs RTX 4090? [GizmoSlipTech]
- AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D (RTX 5080) vs Intel 275HX (RTX 5090) Detailed Analysis 10+ Game Benchmarks! [GizmoSlipTech]
- AMD 9955HX3D (Neo 16) VS Intel 275HX (Strix G18) RTX 5080! Intel 1% Low Results Were FIXED/WRONG! [GizmoSlipTech]
- AMD 9955HX3D vs Intel 275HX (Both RTX 5090 XMG Neo 16) – 40+ Game and System Benchmark Tests! [GizmoSlipTech]
- Ryzen 9 9955HX3D vs Ryzen 9 9955HX – 35+ Game and System Benchmark Tests LIVE! Worth the Upgrade? [GizmoSlipTech]
- RTX 5080 vs RTX 5090 – Is 5090 Gaming Laptop Worth More $$$? [Jarrod’s Tech]
- Intel vs. AMD in high-end laptops … it doesn’t matter! – XMG Neo 16 review [Notebookcheck YouTube]
Configure and buy
XMG NEO 16 (2025) with AMD and Intel can be configured and ordered at bestware:
Configure now: XMG PRO 16 (E25) mit IntelConfigure now: XMG NEO 16 (E25) mit Intel
Configure now: XMG NEO 16 (A25) mit AMD
