Asus Zephyrus offers various memory setups to suit different needs.
Asus Zephyrus offers various memory setups to suit different needs.
It seems like you're trying to figure out the RAM options. It looks like the laptop has a maximum of 32GB or 16GB SODIMMs, so you're likely looking at a 24GB limit on the standard model and 32GB on the premium one. If you really need 32GB, you might have to go with the more expensive version, but if you prefer the 16GB model, upgrading to 24GB should be fine for your virtual machines.
I also looked into other options. The Strix edition seemed more affordable thanks to its cooling features, though the 1440 display was only offered in the unattractive "scar edition." I’d have been willing to give up the premium build of the Zephyrus and its portability for the improved performance and easier upgrades of the Strix if Asus hadn’t released the scar version. MSI didn’t offer any AMD models (something I won’t settle for, since Intel laptops struggle with battery life), Lenovo isn’t reliable—I’ve seen them selling devices with adware built in—and Dell and Alienware are definitely off my list. The HP Omen feels like a bargain but just plain low quality; it’s not about plastic, it’s about being average. In the end, the Zephyrus was the only laptop I felt confident using at school or work without drawing attention.