PC Specialist Defiance IV (w/ Core i7 & GTX 1070)

1. Introduction2. First Look3. Components4. Keyboard, Screen and Speakers5. Testing Methodology 6. Cinebench R157. SSD Performance8. 3D Mark (Time Spy & Fire Strike)9. Gaming Tests (1080p)10. Thermal Dynamics & Acoustics11. Power Consumption & Battery Life12. Closing Thoughts13. View All Pages

The PC Specialist Defiance IV system may look blander than most of its gaming rivals, but there’s a lot to like beyond the subtle exterior design.

The GTX 1070 graphics core is a great chip that’ll handle anything at this machine’s 1080p resolution, and it’s a clear step ahead of the GTX 1060 installed in the Asus ROG Strix Scar.

The Core i7 processor is great and the storage is solid, too. We’re a little disappointed to see slow single-channel memory in this machine, although we’re relieved that it can be easily changed for little extra cash in PC Specialist’s configurator.

In fact, that’s one of this machine’s main strengths: most of the main components can be changed to save money or beef up the Defiance. That’s something you won’t get with the Asus or any other big-brand rival.

Elsewhere, the PC Specialist has a screen that has good contrast and response times, even if its colours aren’t great, and the speakers are similarly fine. Ergonomically, it’s solid too – the keyboard has good consistency and travel, and the trackpad is responsive enough for casual gaming. Anyone who’s serious will use a USB mouse anyway.

The PC Specialist isn’t the slimmest, lightest or best-looking gaming notebook around, but few other machines offer this much power for £1,399 – the Asus machine had a weaker graphics chip for more cash, for instance. If you’re not fussed about frippery and want to spend your cash on power instead, it’s well worth consideration.

The model we’ve reviewed here is available from PC Specialist for £1,399 HERE.

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Pros

• GTX 1070 is consistently fast in games
• Core i7 processor is fast and versatile
• Fast SSD and large hard disk
• 120Hz Screen offers good response times and contrast
• Decent chiclet keyboard with RGB backlighting

Cons

• Underwhelming aesthetic design
• Speakers are a little tinny
• Not much on-board software
• Single-channel memory
• A tad noisy and hot during tougher stress-tests

KitGuru Says: The PC Specialist Defiance IV isn’t a great-looking machine, but it has loads of gaming power, a solid screen and decent ergonomics. It’s got more customisation options than many of its rivals – and a lower price. It’s a great option if you want a no-nonsense gaming notebook.

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