Acer has expanded its presence in the handheld gaming market with the launch of the Nitro Blaze 8 and Nitro Blaze 11, two new devices aimed at delivering top-tier mobile gaming experiences. Both models build on the success of the Nitro Blaze 7, offering significant upgrades in display, performance, and features to appeal to gaming enthusiasts.
The Acer Nitro Blaze 8 and Nitro Blaze 11 are powered by AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processors with Ryzen AI, promising smooth gameplay with up to 39 TOPS of AI performance. They come equipped with 16GB of LPDDR5X memory, running at 7500 MT/s, and up to 2TB of PCIe Gen 4 NVMe storage, ensuring fast data access and minimal load times. Graphics performance is handled by AMD Radeon 780M with advanced upscaling technologies like Radeon Super Resolution and AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution, delivering tear-free visuals.
The Blaze 8 features an 8.8-inch WQXGA touch display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 500 nits of brightness, while the Blaze 11 offers a larger 10.95-inch version with similar specifications. Both displays boast vivid image quality, enhancing immersion for AAA games. The devices also include DTS:X Ultra Audio for richer soundscapes, while Hall Effect triggers and sticks provide precise control.
Acer has introduced versatility with the Blaze 11, which includes detachable controllers for solo or connected play, a built-in stand, and a front-facing camera for video calls and streaming. Connectivity options include USB 4 Type-C, USB 3.2 Type-C, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3. Additionally, Acer Game Space simplifies managing game libraries and accessing popular titles. Buyers also receive three months of PC Game Pass, granting access to a range of high-profile games.
These new handhelds represent a notable leap from the Nitro Blaze 7, Acer’s inaugural handheld gaming device. While the Blaze 7 featured a smaller 7-inch IPS display with a 1080p resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate, the Blaze 8 and Blaze 11 boast larger, higher-resolution WQXGA panels with Radeon-powered upscaling for superior visuals. Its dual 1W speakers and simplified controls are also outclassed by the improved audio and control options in the newer models.
The Nitro Blaze 7’s AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processor is retained across the lineup, ensuring consistent high performance, but the newer devices expand storage options and improve cooling for sustained gaming sessions. Connectivity has also seen an upgrade, with the Blaze 8 and Blaze 11 adopting USB 4 and Bluetooth 5.3 for faster connections.
Acer has also introduced the Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller, a foldable accessory designed for Android and iOS devices. It supports adjustable screens up to 8.3 inches, connects via USB Type-C, and offers pass-through 18W fast charging for extended gaming sessions.
The Nitro Blaze 8 and Blaze 11 will launch in North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa starting in Q2, with prices beginning at $899 (~RM4,042) and $1,099 (~RM4,942), respectively. Unfortunately, Acer has yet to confirm whether any of the Nitro Blaze models (including the Blaze 7) are coming to Malaysia.
