A Closer Look

First impressions of the physicality of the NEO 17 are outstanding, thanks to the light-weight aluminium frame. Weighing in at just 2.8 kilograms, the full-size NEO 17 is just barely heavier than some thin and light laptops, which can reach 2.5 kilograms. Although the NEO 17 is quite the feather-weight, the overall feel is solid, with no twist in the screen while opening it. It features a fair amount of protective packaging that really helps with first impressions. I mean... EVERYONE loves pulling off that protective plastic.


I like what I see underneath the NEO 17. The bottom is contoured to aid airflow, and that valley in middle goes right over the fans, too. It might seem like a simple thing, but sometimes simple is the best way to do things, and it certainly pays off when it comes to the provided cooling capabilities of the NEO 17.


On the left edge we find a single USB Type-A plug, along with both a 3.5 mm mic plug and a headphone jack. There is also a Kensington port. On the right edge there is dual USB Type-A ports and one of my favorite things to find; a SDXC slot.


The rear holds both Ethernet and HDMI ports, along with a USB Type-C port. The power plug is also here on the rear, along with the connection for the OASIS watercooling.


The XMG NEO 17 is outfitted with Cherry MX key switches, of the RGB variety. These keys are some of my favorite options for laptops these days, with decent actuation and feel. The oversized trackpad is definitely well suited to match the expansive 17-inch 2560x1600 screen. Like other large trackpads I've played with, you can disable the right half or the whole thing, depending on which suits you best.