General Analysis

The system itself certainly looks nice. With the use of off-the-shelf parts, users can get a system they truly like the looks of, while customizing it for the level of performance they need. The ATX form factor, while not as manageable as a mini-ITX or micro-ATX system, is still on the whole manageable in size here, unlike some full-tower behemoths which truly only make sense when trying to show off every possible component. It also doesn't hurt that upgrading this system is easy. Just like a DIY build, you are not limited by what you can do down the road. If the power supply has enough juice to support the components you wish to add or upgrade to, you will pretty much be in the clear. Unlike the Zotac MEK1, the larger design here makes maintenance a breeze as the size allows even those with larger hands easy access to various components.


When it comes to pretty looks and flashy RGB LEDs, the G7 Avenger comes loaded with three RGB LED fans and two RGB LED strips as configured. While everything looks quite pretty, it sadly needs both a remote and software to change the color of the LEDs. In situations like this, the RGB components need to be set up to work from one or the other for best results. As such, while it looks nice, I feel a statement or warning when components are selected should be made to make sure customers are aware of this. It essentially is the only major gripe I have, and it's more a usability issue than anything else. Most users will likely never use it again once they select the color they want to use, so it's a minor problem for sure. That said, if LED lighting is not a concern, potential buyers can save some money by opting out.

Due to the MSI motherboard being an off-the-shelf part, users will have access to a fully functional BIOS, which means you can overclock. Granted, I didn't get very far with my sample; however, I was able to push it to 4 GHz on all cores, which, while only a small 100 MHz boost over the max built-in boost, still allows the CPU to run at 4 GHz under heavy load. It is not a mind-blowing performance increase and better memory will generally yield similar if not better results for gaming, but you can also overclock the memory with this setup. Granted, the number of user who will do so is quite small, but XOTIC PC is not stopping you. Better yet, if you want maximum performance without overclocking yourself, you can have XOTIC PC custom overclock the system for you as it is an option at purchase, which is a nice inclusion if you have a set it and forget it mentality.


In terms of noise and temperatures, the system remains pretty damn quiet overall, never going above 40 dBA at 12 inches/30 cm away. Temperatures did fluctuate on the CPU. However, I never saw temperatures go above 65°C during regular testing under even heavy load. The MSI GTX 1060 6 GB Armor OC never went above 76°C during testing. Overall, in regards to temperatures and noise levels, I have nothing to complain about here. XOTIC PC provided exceptional cooling and plenty of fans for the Ryzen-based G7 Avenger. No throttling, no problems; just a nice and quiet gaming system.


Overall, the system is well equipped and backed by an awesome 5-year warranty, and it even comes with no bloatware. Those looking for a bargain, however, may want to take a look at the Zotac MEK1 which offers a mechanical keyboard and optical mouse depending on your region and better gaming performance with its GTX 1070 Ti. That said, I myself lean more toward the G7 Avenger as it offers better upgrade options and an exceptional warranty that adds to its premium feel. As tested and configured, the XOTIC PC G7 Avenger AMD Ryzen system has an MSRP of $1599.99, with the base model being $949.99; depending on how you order yours, the price can vary greatly.