Acer Nitro Blaze 11 & 8 Gaming Handhelds and Mobile Gaming Controller Unveiled at CES 2025
At CES 2025, Acer has introduced its latest gaming handhelds, the Nitro Blaze 11 and Nitro Blaze 8, which feature larger screens compared to the Acer Nitro Blaze 7. While both models retain the Ryzen 7 8840HS processor found in their predecessor but come with several upgraded configurations.
The Nitro Blaze 11 stands out as Acer's largest gaming handheld to date, sporting an impressive 11-inch display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 and a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz. With a peak brightness of 500 nits and a 98% DCI-P3 color gamut, the screen promises vibrant colors and a captivating visual experience.
On the other hand, the Nitro Blaze 8 features an 8.8-inch display, also with a resolution of 2560 x 1600, but offers a higher refresh rate of 144 Hz. While the overall specs are similar to the Nitro Blaze 11, this model is significantly lighter and comes with a non-detachable controller. The Nitro Blaze 11, however, includes detachable controllers, providing the flexibility to play with the screen resting on a desk.
Both handhelds are powered by the Ryzen 7 8840HS processor with Radeon 780M graphics. However, the increase in resolution may result in slightly lower performance than the Nitro Blaze 7. Additional specs include 16GB of LPDDR5X SDRAM (clocked at 7500 MT/s) and storage options of up to 2TB on an M.2 PCI-E Gen 4 SSD.
In terms of controls, both devices come equipped with extra macro buttons compared to their predecessor, along with enhanced audio output from dual 2W speakers. Battery capacity has also been improved, with both models featuring a 55W battery, up from 50W. Connectivity options have expanded as well, with both the Nitro Blaze 11 and 8 now offering additional USB ports, including an extra USB 3.2 Type-C port and one USB 3.2 Type-A port.
The Nitro Blaze 8 has a larger footprint than the Blaze 7, measuring 30.5 x 13.4 x 2.2 cm and weighing 720g, compared to the Blaze 7's 670g. The Blaze 11 is even bigger and heavier, with dimensions of 36.4 x 17.1 x 1.59 cm and a weight of 1050g.
The company also introduced the Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller, designed for both Android and iOS devices. This controller features a compact and foldable design, and is compatible with screens up to 8.3 inches. It connects to mobile devices via a USB Type-C port that supports 18W fast charging.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing for the Acer Nitro Blaze 8 (model GN782U) starts at $899, while the Nitro Blaze 11 (model GN7112U) begins at $1,099. In other regions, the prices are set at €999 and €1,199, respectively. Both models are expected to be available in Q2 for North America and the EMEA regions.
The Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller will be available in North America in the Q2, starting at $69.99. In the EMEA region, it will launch in the first quarter, with a starting price of €89.99.
