What Is the Clevo NH70 Gaming Laptop?
The Clevo NH70 is a 17.3-inch gaming laptop built by Clevo, a company that produces customizable barebone laptops. Clevo is not a household brand like Dell or HP, because it sells its machines through resellers under different names such as XoticPC, Sager, and CyberPower. That means when you buy a Clevo NH70, the name on the box might be different, but the machine inside is still the same.
What makes the Clevo NH70 stand out is that it is built with gamers and tech users in mind. It offers strong specs like a powerful Intel Core i7 processor, a dedicated NVIDIA graphics card, and a spacious Full HD display. The laptop allows users to customize and upgrade its parts easily, like adding more RAM or a bigger SSD. This flexibility is why many people who want performance on a budget look at the NH70.
This laptop is especially known for being affordable compared to other gaming laptops in its class. It’s considered a good choice for users who need a powerful laptop but don’t care much about fancy looks or having a slim design. The Clevo NH70 is all about raw performance and customization. It is often used by gamers, programmers, and even video editors who need a large screen and good power.
Also, because Clevo only provides the base design, the final features like RGB lighting, keyboard layout, and warranty terms can vary depending on which reseller you buy it from. This is both a strength and a weakness—it gives you options, but it also means you should research your reseller carefully.
In short, the Clevo NH70 is not a laptop for everyone, but for the right user, it offers excellent performance, good value for money, and the kind of hardware access that many locked-down laptops don’t offer.
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Clevo NH70 Specs & Performance Overview
The Clevo NH70 is built with solid internal hardware that focuses more on power than portability. If you’re looking for a laptop that can handle heavy applications, high-performance games, or multitasking across different programs, the NH70 brings a lot to the table—especially for its price range. While the exact configuration can vary depending on the reseller, most models come with a well-balanced combination of processor, graphics card, RAM, and storage.
Let’s start with the processor. The Clevo NH70 usually comes with an Intel Core i7-9750H, a 6-core, 12-thread CPU that can reach speeds up to 4.5 GHz. This is a 9th-generation Intel chip, known for its stability and strong multi-core performance, which makes it ideal for both gaming and creative tasks like video editing or 3D rendering. It’s not the latest chip on the market anymore, but it’s still capable of handling modern games and multitasking without lag.
Next is the GPU (graphics card). Most Clevo NH70 units are equipped with the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or GTX 1660 Ti, which are mid-range GPUs that offer good 1080p gaming performance. While they may not run the newest AAA games on ultra settings, they still perform well on medium to high settings. In some variations, users can even find the RTX 2060, which adds ray tracing and better frame rates.
The RAM typically starts at 8 GB of DDR4, but you can expand it up to 16 GB or even 32 GB, depending on your needs. For gamers and professionals, upgrading to 16 GB is a smart choice—it helps when running large games or multitasking with design software, browser tabs, and streaming apps all open at once.
As for storage, the Clevo NH70 usually supports NVMe SSDs, starting from 256 GB and going up to 1 TB. Some resellers even offer dual-drive setups with both SSD and HDD options, giving you fast boot times with SSD and extra storage space on the HDD.
The display is another major feature. The laptop has a 17.3-inch Full HD screen with a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. Some versions come with a 120 Hz refresh rate, which is helpful for smooth gameplay. The screen size is great for immersive gaming, watching movies, or multitasking with multiple windows, though the color accuracy may not be perfect for professional editing work.
Here’s a quick summary table for reference:
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 17.3″ Full HD (1920×1080), up to 120Hz |
| Processor (CPU) | Intel Core i7-9750H, 6-core, up to 4.5 GHz |
| Graphics (GPU) | NVIDIA GTX 1650 / 1660 Ti / RTX 2060 (varies) |
| RAM | 8 GB DDR4 (expandable up to 32 GB) |
| Storage | 256 GB – 1 TB SSD (with optional HDD) |
| Battery | ~3275 mAh, 3–4 hours runtime |
| Weight | Around 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) |
In terms of day-to-day usage, the Clevo NH70 can easily handle streaming, work tasks, and casual browsing without breaking a sweat. It runs well with Windows 10, and while it supports Windows 11, you may want to double-check if the reseller has updated the necessary drivers for it.
The only noticeable downside is that the laptop runs a bit warm during extended gaming sessions, so it’s best used on a table with good airflow. Still, for the price you pay, it delivers stable, reliable, and upgrade-friendly performance that beats many competitors in the same budget range.
Key Features & Pros of the Clevo NH70
What makes the Clevo NH70 worth considering is how much it offers in terms of customization, power, and user control—things that are often limited in more “mainstream” laptops. It’s not just about the specs on paper; the NH70 is designed to be a user-friendly, upgradeable machine that can grow with your needs. Whether you’re a gamer, coder, student, or content creator, the features below add real-life value.
One of the biggest highlights is its upgradeability. Unlike many laptops today that solder parts to the motherboard, the Clevo NH70 gives you full access to its RAM and storage slots. You can open the back panel easily and add a second stick of RAM or install a bigger SSD. That means you don’t have to buy a new laptop every time your needs grow—you can simply upgrade what’s inside. This is especially helpful for budget buyers who want to start small and expand later.
The cooling system also deserves praise. While the machine does get warm during extended gaming or multitasking, it uses dual fans and copper heat pipes to manage temperatures. Many users report that the thermal performance is above average for this price range. The fans may be a little noisy under pressure, but they help prevent performance drops caused by overheating.
The keyboard and trackpad are also solid. The laptop usually comes with an RGB backlit keyboard, which not only looks nice but also makes it easier to type or play games in the dark. The keys have a soft but responsive feel, which is good for both gaming and typing. The trackpad is large and smooth, and it supports multi-touch gestures.
As for connectivity, the Clevo NH70 includes USB 3.1 ports, USB-C, HDMI output, Ethernet port, audio jack, and sometimes even an SD card reader depending on the version. That means you can plug in almost anything without needing adapters. It also supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, which are both fast and future-ready.
Here’s a list of the key advantages users appreciate most:
- Full hardware access for easy upgrades (RAM, SSD, dual storage)
- RGB backlit keyboard with solid tactile feedback
- Strong cooling system with dual fans and efficient thermal pipes
- Variety of ports including USB-C, HDMI, and Ethernet
- Solid GPU performance for 1080p gaming
- Large screen size perfect for games, movies, or productivity
- Competitive price for its performance level
To sum it up, the Clevo NH70 delivers a lot of power in a simple frame. It’s not about looks or branding—it’s about giving users control over their machine. This is especially valuable today when most laptops feel locked down and overpriced for the specs they offer.
Drawbacks & Limitations of the Clevo NH70
While the Clevo NH70 offers strong performance and customization, it’s not perfect. Like any device, it has some clear downsides that might affect your decision—especially if you’re expecting a lightweight, all-day laptop experience. These limitations don’t mean the NH70 is a bad choice, but it’s important to know what you’re getting into before you buy.
One of the biggest complaints users have is about the weight and portability. At around 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs), the NH70 is quite heavy compared to modern slim laptops. If you’re planning to carry it to school, work, or travel often, this weight can quickly become a hassle. It’s really designed more as a desktop replacement, not as an on-the-go machine. It fits best on a desk where it can stay plugged in and well-cooled.
Another issue is the battery life. With a battery size of around 3275 mAh, the NH70 typically lasts about 3 to 3.5 hours on a full charge under moderate use. If you’re gaming or editing videos, that number drops even further. This limited battery makes it reliant on wall power, especially during demanding tasks. In short, it’s not ideal for those who need a laptop that can run all day without charging.
Then there’s the matter of fan noise and heat. While the cooling system works effectively, it isn’t quiet. During intense gaming sessions, the fans kick in and can get loud. It’s not unbearable, but it’s noticeable—especially in quiet rooms. Also, the bottom of the laptop can become warm to the touch, so using it on your lap for long periods isn’t recommended.
Another point to consider is driver and software support. Since the Clevo NH70 is sold through various resellers, some users have experienced inconsistent driver updates, especially when upgrading to Windows 11. You may need to manually search for updates or install drivers from Clevo’s generic support site. This can be a bit technical, which might not suit non-tech-savvy users.
Lastly, the display quality—while sharp and large—is not always consistent. Some NH70 units come with average brightness and mediocre color accuracy. For gamers or general users, it’s usually fine, but professionals working in color-sensitive fields like photo editing or design may find it lacking.
Here’s a brief table summarizing the key drawbacks:
| Drawback | Details |
|---|---|
| Heavy build | Weighs ~2.5 kg; not ideal for daily travel |
| Short battery life | ~3 hours on moderate use; less for gaming |
| Fan noise | Fans get loud during high performance tasks |
| Warm under load | Gets hot at bottom, not ideal for lap use |
| Driver support varies | Windows 11 may need manual driver updates |
| Display inconsistency | Not all units have high brightness or color range |
So, while the Clevo NH70 gaming laptop excels in raw power and upgrade options, it’s not for everyone. It’s a machine built for performance—not mobility. If you know what to expect and plan to use it mostly while plugged in, these issues might not be deal-breakers. But if you want quiet operation, long battery life, and ultra-thin design, this might not be the best fit.
Real‑World Performance: Gaming, Benchmark & Use Cases
When it comes to real-world performance, the Clevo NH70 holds its ground quite well—especially for gamers, casual streamers, and multitaskers. On paper, its specs are strong, but what really matters is how it performs in everyday use. Whether you’re launching a heavy game, editing a large video file, or running multiple apps at once, the NH70 is designed to handle demanding tasks without slowing down.
In gaming, the Clevo NH70 can comfortably run many modern games at 1080p resolution on medium to high settings. For example, popular titles like GTA V, Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Valorant run smoothly with stable frame rates. If you get the version with the GTX 1660 Ti or RTX 2060, you’ll see even better results. The 17.3-inch Full HD display with up to 120Hz refresh rate makes gameplay feel responsive and smooth. This is especially important for fast-paced shooters and competitive games where every frame counts.
Here’s a table showing estimated frame rates for some common titles (at 1080p resolution):
| Game | Settings | Average FPS (GTX 1650) | Average FPS (GTX 1660 Ti) |
|---|---|---|---|
| GTA V | High | 55–60 FPS | 75–80 FPS |
| Apex Legends | Medium | 50–60 FPS | 70–80 FPS |
| Fortnite | Epic | 45–55 FPS | 65–75 FPS |
| Valorant | High | 90–100 FPS | 120+ FPS |
| Cyberpunk 2077 | Medium | 30–35 FPS | 50–55 FPS |
The Clevo NH70 is also a good fit for productivity tasks. It can run tools like Photoshop, Premiere Pro, Blender, or even AutoCAD without any serious lag. The multi-core Intel i7 processor handles heavy workloads well, especially if paired with 16 GB of RAM. You can edit videos, render short animations, or run virtual machines smoothly if the laptop is well-configured.
For streaming or casual content creation, the NH70 performs impressively. You can stream games to platforms like Twitch or YouTube while keeping browser tabs, music, and chat apps running in the background. Just be mindful that fan noise may increase during such loads, and using a cooling pad could help keep temperatures down.
In regular daily use—browsing, Netflix, Zoom calls, Microsoft Office, etc.—the laptop feels snappy and responsive. Boot times are fast thanks to the SSD, and apps open quickly. However, the bulkier size and short battery life still mean it’s best used at a desk.
From gaming to multitasking, the Clevo NH70 delivers a balanced performance at a mid-range price point. It won’t beat high-end machines with RTX 40 series GPUs or i9 processors, but it gets the job done for most users who want reliable power without the premium price tag.
Clevo NH70 Upgrade & Maintenance Tips
One of the biggest reasons people choose the Clevo NH70 is because it’s easy to upgrade and maintain. Unlike many laptops today that lock you out of the hardware, this machine gives you full access to its internal components. That means you can extend its life, boost its performance, or fix problems yourself without needing a repair shop—especially helpful for students, gamers, and professionals who want more control over their devices.
Upgrading RAM and Storage is the most common and useful improvement you can make. The NH70 comes with at least 8 GB of DDR4 RAM, but upgrading to 16 GB or 32 GB is straightforward. There are usually two RAM slots, and accessing them is as easy as unscrewing the back panel. This upgrade can dramatically improve multitasking, game load times, and overall system speed.
As for storage, the Clevo NH70 supports NVMe SSDs, which are very fast and help with fast boot-ups and quick file transfers. Some models also allow you to install a second SSD or a traditional 2.5-inch hard drive, so you can have one for speed and another for storage. If your laptop came with only 256 GB or 512 GB, upgrading to 1 TB or adding a second drive is a great way to avoid running out of space.
Here’s a helpful upgrade reference:
| Component | Upgrade Type | Tools Needed | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAM | Up to 32 GB DDR4 | Small Phillips screwdriver | Easy |
| Storage | Add/replace SSD or HDD | Small screwdriver, thermal pad (optional) | Easy to Medium |
| Battery | Replaceable (~3275 mAh) | Screwdriver + caution | Medium |
| Thermal Paste | Improve cooling performance | Screwdriver, paste | Advanced (optional) |
Maintaining the Clevo NH70 is also quite simple. Over time, dust can build up inside the laptop and block airflow, which makes it overheat more easily. Cleaning the fans every 6–12 months helps keep temperatures low and performance stable. All you need is a can of compressed air, a soft brush, and maybe a cooling pad for added airflow during gaming sessions.
You might also consider replacing the thermal paste on the CPU and GPU if the machine starts running unusually hot after a year or two. This can bring down temperatures by 5–10°C, but it does require a bit more experience and care, as you’ll need to open the cooling system.
If you want to keep your Clevo NH70 running fast:
- Update drivers regularly, especially graphics and chipset drivers.
- Use CCleaner or a similar tool to clean up junk files.
- Avoid overcharging to keep battery health in good condition.
- Use a cooling pad when gaming to reduce thermal load.
What makes the Clevo NH70 so appealing is that it puts the power in your hands. You don’t need to be a tech wizard to make upgrades or basic repairs, and that can save you money and extend the life of the machine.
FAQs: Common Questions About the Clevo NH70
Many people who come across the Clevo NH70 have similar questions, especially since it’s not sold under one single brand. Below are the most frequently asked questions, answered in simple and clear terms to help you decide if this laptop is right for you.
1. What is the price of the Clevo NH70?
The price depends on the reseller and configuration. On average, you can expect to pay between $900 to $1,400 USD depending on the GPU, RAM, and storage.
2. Is the Clevo NH70 good for gaming?
Yes, it’s a strong performer for 1080p gaming. Games like GTA V, Valorant, and Apex Legends run smoothly on medium to high settings.
3. Can I upgrade the Clevo NH70?
Absolutely. You can upgrade RAM, SSD, and sometimes even the Wi-Fi card. This is one of the best features of this model.
4. Does the Clevo NH70 support Windows 11?
Yes, it can run Windows 11, but you may need to manually install some drivers depending on the reseller’s support.
5. Is Clevo a reliable brand?
Clevo builds strong, barebones laptops used by many popular custom brands. Their machines are known for durability and upgradability, though they may not be flashy.
These short answers cover most of what people want to know quickly. The Clevo NH70 is ideal for users who care more about performance and control than branding or ultra-light portability.
Alternatives to Consider Instead of the Clevo NH70
While the Clevo NH70 is a solid gaming and performance laptop, it’s not the only option out there. Depending on what you prioritize—portability, battery life, screen quality, or even brand support—there may be a better fit for your needs. In this section, let’s explore a few popular alternatives and how they stack up against the NH70.
If you’re looking for similar power with a lighter build, the ASUS TUF Gaming A17 is a strong competitor. It also comes with a 17.3-inch display and Ryzen 7 processor, and it’s often paired with an RTX 3050 or 3060 GPU. The ASUS model typically offers better battery life and a more polished build. However, it’s usually less upgrade-friendly and a bit more expensive.
Another alternative is the MSI GF65 Thin, which is a more portable 15.6-inch laptop with a slim design and strong GPU options, including GTX 1660 Ti or RTX 2060. It’s lighter and easier to carry, but the cooling system may not be as effective under full load, and the keyboard is not as customizable.
For users who want a trusted brand with wide support, the Dell G15 series is worth checking out. These models are known for solid performance, decent thermals, and long-term reliability. The downside is that Dell tends to limit hardware upgrades, and the design is less exciting for gamers who want a bold look.
Here’s a quick comparison table:
| Laptop | CPU/GPU Options | Weight | Battery Life | Upgradeability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clevo NH70 | i7-9750H + GTX 1650/1660Ti | 2.5 kg | ~3 hours | Excellent | Gamers & DIY upgraders |
| ASUS TUF A17 | Ryzen 7 + RTX 3050/3060 | 2.6 kg | ~6 hours | Moderate | Performance & durability |
| MSI GF65 Thin | i7 + RTX 2060 | 1.9 kg | ~5 hours | Moderate | Lightweight gaming |
| Dell G15 | i5/i7 + GTX/RTX options | 2.4 kg | ~5.5 hours | Limited | Brand trust & support |
| HP Pavilion Gaming | Ryzen + GTX 1650 | 2.2 kg | ~6 hours | Limited | Casual gaming on a budget |
Each of these laptops has its strengths. If you value customization, repairability, and raw power, the Clevo NH70 still wins. But if you need better portability or longer battery life, the others might suit your lifestyle better.
So before buying, it’s important to think about what matters most to you:
- Will you upgrade it later?
- Do you need a lightweight machine?
- Is battery life important in your daily routine?
Knowing this will help you choose between the Clevo NH70 and the alternatives available on the market.
Final Verdict: Who Should Get the Clevo NH70?
The Clevo NH70 is not your everyday plug-and-play laptop. It’s built for people who value performance, customization, and long-term upgrade potential. If you’re a gamer, creative worker, or tech-savvy user who wants solid power without paying for a flashy brand name, the NH70 offers serious value for the money.
This machine shines in areas like 1080p gaming, multitasking, and heavy software usage. It runs demanding games and apps with ease, especially when equipped with a GTX 1660 Ti or RTX 2060. You also get a large 17.3-inch screen, which is perfect for immersion and productivity. And perhaps most importantly, you can open it up and upgrade nearly everything—RAM, SSD, even the cooling setup. That’s a big win in a time when many laptops are sealed shut.
But it’s not for everyone. If you want a laptop that’s slim, lightweight, and lasts all day unplugged, the Clevo NH70 will disappoint you. Its short battery life, bulkier design, and loud fans mean it’s best suited for desk use with power access. Also, because Clevo sells through third-party resellers, warranty and driver support can vary, so it’s important to buy from a trusted seller.
You should consider the Clevo NH70 if:
- You want strong gaming or editing performance at a mid-range price
- You like to upgrade and maintain your own hardware
- You prefer value and specs over brand image
- You mostly use your laptop at a desk, not on the go
You might want to skip it if:
- You travel a lot and need a portable, lightweight machine
- You require very long battery life
- You’re not comfortable managing manual driver installs or hardware upgrades
In the end, the Clevo NH70 is a powerful workhorse. It may not be pretty or portable, but it gets the job done—and for the right user, that’s more than enough. If you’re someone who wants freedom to upgrade, reliable 1080p gaming, and room to grow, the NH70 could be your next favorite laptop.
