Acer - Predator Helios 18 Gaming Laptop - 18" 2560 x 1600 IPS 240Hz – Intel i9-14900HX – GeForce RTX 4090 - 32GB DDR5 – 1TB SSD - Abyssal Black
Trade-In and Save
Save when you trade-in a similar device.
Check your trade-in value.
Shipping
Highlights
Key Specs
Screen TypeIPSScreen Size18 inchesScreen Resolution2560 x 1600Touch ScreenNoBrightness1000 nitsProcessor ModelIntel Core i9 14th GenerationCPU Base Clock Frequency2.2 gigahertzStorage TypeSSDTotal Storage Capacity1000 gigabytesSystem Memory (RAM)32 gigabytesGraphicsNVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090Display Connector(s)2 x Thunderbolt 4, 1 x HDMI 2.1Battery TypeLithium-ionBacklit KeyboardYes
General
Product NamePredator Helios 18 Gaming Laptop - 18" 2560 x 1600 IPS 240Hz – Intel i9-14900HX – GeForce RTX 4090 - 32GB DDR5 – 1TB SSDBrandAcerModel NumberPH18-72-924CYear of Release2024ColorAbyssal Black
Display
Display TypeLCDScreen TypeIPSScreen Size18 inchesScreen Resolution2560 x 1600Touch ScreenNoBrightness1000 nits
Processor
Processor BrandIntelProcessor ModelIntel Core i9 14th GenerationProcessor Model NumberIntel Core i9-14900HX 24-Core ProcessorCPU Base Clock Frequency2.2 gigahertzCPU Boost Clock Frequency5.8 gigahertzNumber of CPU Cores24-coreNumber of CPU Threads32Neural Processing Unit (NPU)Yes
Storage
Storage TypeSSDTotal Storage Capacity1000 gigabytesSolid State Drive Capacity1000 gigabytes
Memory
System Memory (RAM)32 gigabytesType of Memory (RAM)DDR5
Graphics
Graphics TypeDedicatedGPU BrandNVIDIAGraphicsNVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090Advanced Graphics Rendering Technique(s)Ray tracing
Compatibility
Operating SystemWindows 11 Home
Connectivity
Display Connector(s)2 x Thunderbolt 4, 1 x HDMI 2.1Number of HDMI Outputs (Total)1Number of Thunderbolt Ports (Total)2USB Ports3 x USB-A 3.2Number of USB Ports (Total)3Headphone JackYesMicrophone InputYesWireless ConnectivityWi-Fi, BluetoothWireless Networking StandardWi-Fi 7Ethernet Card10/100/1000/2500Number Of Ethernet Ports1
Cooling
CPU Cooling SystemAir
Power
Power Supply Maximum Wattage90 wattsBattery TypeLithium-ion
Expansion
Number of M.2 Slots2
Camera
Front-Facing CameraYesFront Facing Camera Video Resolution1080pBuilt-In MicrophoneYes
Features
Backlit KeyboardYesSecurity FeaturesCable lock slotCable Lock SlotKensington Security Slot (K-Slot)
Dimensions
Product Width12.27 inchesProduct Depth15.91 inchesProduct Weight7.17 pounds
Certifications & Listings
ENERGY STAR CertifiedNoEPEAT QualifiedNo
Warranty
Manufacturer's Warranty - Parts1 yearManufacturer's Warranty - Labor1 year
Other
UPC195133239752
Dive into the future of gaming with the AI-ready Helios 18, backed by DLSS 3.5 technology. Experience unmatched efficiency with innovative cooling solutions, a captivating 18-inch Mini-LED display, and the superior touch of MagKey 3.0 swappable keycaps: MagClick and MagSpeed. Do more, quicker than ever across multiple applications with the centralized generative AI assistance of Copilot in Windows. Accessible with a single touch of the Copilot Key.
Windows 11 Home
Windows 11 was designed with you at the center - to make life easier, more creative, secure, connected and fun! It's also faster with new features to help you get more done. Copilot in Windows (in preview) complements your capabilities and creativity with intelligent assistance and relevant answers.
18.0" WQXGA 250Hz Refresh Rate
Explore a vast illuminated panorama with an 16:10 aspect ratio. The 18" WQXGA Mini LED, screen operates at a rapid 250Hz refresh, shining with a brilliant 1000 nits luminosity and DCI-P3 100% color gamut. 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.
Intel Core i9-14900HX Processor
The Intel Core i9-14900HX processor features newly optimized hybrid architecture and industry-leading technology that enables you to go beyond gaming and creation. With Intel, you can do it all. From progressing in the game to advancing in real life, Intel empowers you to be your best self.
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090
Discover peak gaming visuals with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 graphics. Immerse yourself in vivid detail and unmatched efficiency, boosted by DLSS 3.5 technology. Tap into AI-enhanced breakthroughs for a seamless, captivating gaming journey that commands your full attention.
32GB DDR5 Dual Channel Memory
32GB DDR5 Dual Channel Memory (Up to 5600 MT/s) Used Slots: 2 x 16GB | 0 Slots (Available) 2 DDR5 Slots (Total) -Maximum 32GB
Magkey 3.0 Keycaps
Discover tactile finesse with our advanced swappable MagKey 3.0, providing effortless customization for your WASD keys. MagClick delivers distinctive tactile feedback, and MagSpeed combines rapid imagery with brilliant LED glow from below. Enhance your WASD realm, fusing sophistication and dynamism.
Peak Performance Assured
Our advanced thermal solutions, driven by dual 5th Gen AeroBlade 3D fans combined with precision-applied liquid metal thermal grease and vector heat pipes, guarantee that your gaming or editing session remains at peak performance.
Wi-Fi 7: Lightspeed Connections
Engage in fluid gaming with Wi-Fi 7, boasting rapid channels in both 6 GHz and 5 GHz spectra, over 5 Gbps transfer rates, and significantly reduced latencies. Dive deep into AR, VR, and 8K playback, backed by state-of-the-art encryption and minimized interference.
AI-Assisted Noise Reduction
Elevate your team coordination using Purified.Voice 2.0. This revolutionary tech leverages AI capabilities to eliminate unwanted background disturbances, delivering impeccable voice clarity. With the three microphone setup and beamforming, your commands stand out, free from other ambient noises.
Personalize With PredatorSense 5.0
Monitor and personalize your laptop with the PredatorSense 5.0 utility app. Get creative and mix and match colors to your heart's content. The app gives you full control to adjust RGB lighting with Pulsar Lighting to match your desired theme, manage overclocking, and set fan speeds to their maximum. All of these features are conveniently located in one accessible app
RGB Extravaganza
Dive into the neon landscape with the mesmerizing Predator logo and infinity mirror lighting bar showcasing dynamic RGB lighteffects. This laptop is a performance powerhouse and visual masterpiece, paired with per-key RGB customization and a separate zone for the MagKey 3.0 WASD keys.
What's Included
Laptop
User Swappable Mechanical Switch WASD keys
330W AC Adapter
Power Cord
Protective Sleeve
Search
Q: QuestionWhat is the max ram and storage supported ?(1 answer)
A: Answer64gb ram 5600 has 2 slots and up to 8tb storage space. 4tb in each slot has 2 m.2 slotsAnswered by Beastmodepika
- A: AnswerYes, this model has a Mini-LED IPS Display. When you buy it from Best Buy, the sticker on the outer box says "LCD: 18"WQXGA IPS 250Hz DDS Mini LED".
Answered by Cameron
- A: AnswerThe LCD screen of this model is a Mini-LED IPS Display. When you buy it from Best Buy, the sticker on the outer box says "LCD: 18"WQXGA IPS 250Hz DDS Mini LED". The screen looks great.
Answered by Cameron
- A: AnswerI tried today. I have 2 fury 32GB at 5600. It works fine without any problem with PH18-72-924C
Answered by Anonymous
Q: QuestionWhat TDP is the 4090 running at?(1 answer)
A: AnswerGreetings from the Intel team. Thank you for your question. Based on the system specifications on the manufacturer's website, the Acer - Predator Helios 18 PH18-72-924C comes with the NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4090 graphics card, which has a maximum graphics power of up to 175 W; for further details, check the product support: https://www.acer.com/us-en/support/product-support/PH18-72/NH.QP4AA.001/details For detailed information about the Intel® Core™ i9 processor 14900HX, visit: https://ark.intel.com/content/www/us/en/ark/products/235995/intel-core-i9-processor-14900hx-36m-cache-up-to-5-80-ghz.html Thank you for choosing Intel! Emilio_IntelAnswered by Intel team
- A: AnswerThe Model Part number for the 330 W adapter is PA-1331-99. There are 2 16gb sticks of ram inside, theyre hidden underneath a shroud so you'll have to peel that off to upgrade or to add your own.
Answered by ChristopherT
Q: QuestionDoes this laptop’s motherboard have PCIe 5.0 NVMe slot(s) or are they 4.0?(2 answers)
A: AnswerThis laptop has PCIe 4.0.Answered by TeamAcer
Q: QuestionWhy does Acer's website say that this model's screen is LCD and not mini-LED?(2 answers)
A: AnswerThe information in our documentation shows the specifications of the display are: 18.0" display with IPS (In-Plane Switching) technology, WQXGA 2560 x 1600, high-brightness (SDR mode 600 nits / HDR mode 1000 nits), high color gamut (DCI-P3 100%), Acer ComfyView™ LED-backlit TFT LCD, integrated Mini LED technology. We will forward this to the appropriate team to review those specs and make any necessary corrections.Answered by TeamAcer
Reviews
Rating 4 out of 5 stars with 45 reviews
4.0Rating by feature
- 3.0Battery Life
Rating 3.0 out of 5 stars
- 4.5Speed
Rating 4.5 out of 5 stars
- 4.7Display
Rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
7 expert reviews
Customers are saying
Customers consistently note the Predator Helios 18's impressive display, with many praising its brightness, color accuracy, and high refresh rate. They also commend its powerful performance, with some saying it handles even the most demanding games and applications with ease. The keyboard is another highlight, with users appreciating its clicky keys and comfortable typing experience. However, some customers express concerns about the laptop's cooling system, as it tends to run hot, especially in turbo mode.
This summary was generated by AI based on customer reviews.
The vast majority of our reviews come from verified purchases. Reviews from customers may include My Best Buy members, employees, and Tech Insider Network members (as tagged). Select reviewers may receive discounted products, promotional considerations or entries into drawings for honest, helpful reviews.
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
A Beast of a Gaming Laptop!
I recently snagged the **Acer Predator Helios 18** during a fantastic sale and grabbed the RTX 4090 version for $2,400 (down from $3,000!)—an absolute steal, especially since it was cheaper than the RTX 4080 version at the time. Here's my review of this powerhouse: **Overall Score:** 8.5/10 **Would Recommend (especially on sale)** --- **Pros** 1. **Stunning Mini LED Display** The screen is jaw-droppingly bright and vivid. I find myself using it at only 50–70% brightness because anything more feels like overkill. It's sharp enough to challenge the sun—not that I plan on gaming outside, but you probably *could* with this display. 2. **Top-notch Performance** This machine runs like a dream. In Performance mode, I hit consistent **55–60 FPS on demanding games** like *Horizon Forbidden West* and over **120 FPS with frame generation enabled**. While Turbo mode adds marginal improvements, the fan noise becomes a bit much, so Performance mode strikes the perfect balance. Temps are manageable, and I recommend propping up the back for better cooling. 3. **Great Keyboard & Trackpad** - The original keyboard feels excellent, though I don’t recommend swapping the “mag keys” for the included caps—they’re awkward and slowed my typing down. Stick with the original setup! - The trackpad is sturdy and oversized. The deep “clunk” when pressed is oddly satisfying. It's perfect for everyday use outside of gaming. --- **Mids** 1. **Software Woes** The bundled software is a mixed bag. It comes with some bloat (e.g., McAfee) that’s easy to remove, but **Acer's PredatorSense** software can be hit-or-miss. I encountered issues after installing updates—eventually requiring a system rollback to fix it. When it works, the RGB controls and system monitoring are excellent, but troubleshooting can be frustrating. 2. **Stock RAM/Storage** 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD are decent, but for the price and the amount of pre-installed software, I'd expected more. Upgrades are on my to-do list. --- **Cons** 1. **USB-C Charging Issues** The laptop struggles to perform when powered via USB-C. With a 100W USB-C charger, it lagged badly—almost as if it were on the verge of shutting down. Stick to the original charger for optimal performance. 2. **Heavy & Bulky** At 7 lbs (plus 3 lbs for the charger), this isn’t a laptop you'll casually toss in a bag. It's a tank, and investing in a heavy-duty backpack is a must for portability. 3. **Abysmal Battery Life** With just 2 hours of web browsing or light tasks, this isn't a device for extended on-the-go use. The powerful CPU drains the battery at lightning speed, even in Eco Mode. --- **Final Thoughts** The **Acer Predator Helios 18** is a behemoth—a true mobile desktop replacement that delivers insane gaming performance. For its price, especially on sale, it outperforms many competitors in its class. However, it's not for everyone. If you need something lightweight and portable, consider alternatives like the Asus G14 or G16. If you crave **maximum power, an incredible screen, and high FPS in demanding games**, this laptop won't disappoint. For me, it’s a great balance of performance and value—a no-brainer at $2,400. Sure, it's not perfect, but it’s a beast where it counts, and I’d absolutely recommend it on sale.
Posted by Andrew
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Amazing Screen and great price for the specs
I own a desktop with a 4090 and 5800x3d, hooked up to an LG C2 42 inch TV, but sitting too long in my chair at my desk hurts back my after sitting for long and I wanted something more portable. This is my first time using a Mini-LED screen and I'm pretty impressed, coming from OLED the blacks obviously aren't as good, but they're still really good. I would say the brightness and no risk of burn-in is a positive that mini-LED has over OLED. I really love the Panel, it looks amazing. I'm a big fan of the touchpad and keyboard. The touchpad is really big and smooth. It hasn't taken me long to get used to and it's pretty comfortable playing Paradox games like CK3 and Victoria 3 with it. The Keyboard is also a good size. The swappable WASD keys are pretty neat and I like the full size arrow keys. I haven't played too many games yet, but I've tried Crusader Kings 3, Victoria 3, and Yakuza 0, all of them have been perfectly smooth and I can almost get to steady 200 fps in Yakuza 0 at ultra settings. I've added a 2TB SN850X SSD and upgraded the RAM to 64GB, it was a very easy process, just make sure you get a hex screwdriver if you don't already have one. The only downside, and the reason I'm giving it four stars instead of five, is that the cooling in turbo mode isn't the best. The 14900HX constantly throttles when playing games in turbo mode. I ended up buying a IETS GT600 cooling pad and that solved the issue completely. No more thermal throttling and the temps have dropped by more than 20 degrees Celsius when running the GT600 at full speed. The fans of the laptop and cooler are both pretty loud at high speed, but I don't care about the noise. I play games with headphones on and I always have a fan and an air purifier running in my room so it doesn't bother me. I bought this laptop on sale for $350 off, it's a great deal for having such a nice screen, a 4090, and a 14900hx, other laptops with the same specs and often worst screens are 1000-2000 dollars more. I would definitely recommend this laptop, as long as you don't mind buying a cooling pad and don't care about loud fan noises it's been perfect so far.
Posted by AndrewR
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Decent if on sale.
I've been playing around with this laptop for a while now. Overall, it's been good. I've been able to play games I wouldn't have dreamed of with my old PC. The screen is large enough, and it is great for playing games. Pros: 1) Large screen, nice for gaming. 2) Performance is good enough for most desktop replacements. 3) I like the keyboard lights and the replaceable keys. 4) It is a nice looking laptop and feels sturdy. Would I drop it open, no. If I dropped it closed I feel like it would live to see another day. The main cons and the reason this didn't get 5 stars: 1) I read the reviews saying the fans were loud. I thought people were exaggerating a bit. They weren't. It's basically a Boeing 747 taking off constantly. I've had people leave the room due to the noise it makes. I'm planning on getting a good cooling pad because it's basically wear a headset and F everyone else if you want to hear and enjoy your game. 2) Battery life. Again I read the reviews and didn't expect much. Gaming laptops have a bad battery life, I get it. I guess I just expected more than an hour on the higher performance modes. It has to be plugged in or it's done. In summary, if you don't care about the noise or battery life, it's good. Would I pay the full $2999 price? No. On sale for $2399, I don't think you'll be disappointed.
Posted by WilliamB