The Best Gaming Laptop Deals This Week*
- Dell G15 Intel i7 RTX 4060 1TB SSD 16GB RAM 15.6" Laptop — $899.99 (List Price $1,199.99)
- Alienware x16 Intel i7 RTX 4070 1TB SSD 16" Laptop — $1,259.99 With Code 10OFFCLEAR
- Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Intel i7 RTX 4060 512GB SSD 16" Laptop — $1,299.99 (List Price $1,759.99)
- Alienware m16 R2 Intel Ultra 7 RTX 4060 1TB SSD 16" Laptop — $1,399.99 (List Price $1,599.99)
- Acer Nitro V Intel i7 RTX 4060 512GB SSD 15.6" Laptop — $949.99 (List Price $1,099.99)
*Deals are selected by our commerce team
Purists will argue that you need a PC to truly play games, especially if you're a fan of pushing the levels of graphics quality beyond the capabilities of a mere gaming console. To do that, the gaming desktop is still king, particularly when it comes to stuffing in the components and horsepower needed to run 4K games smoothly and support virtual reality (VR) setups. But if you want something you can tote around the house or over to your friend's place, we're here to help you choose the right gaming laptop.
Our list of picks is ever-evolving as we test new models. We have organized our choices into our current favorites in the budget (under about $1,200), midrange (between $1,200 and $2,000), and high-end ($2,000 and up) classes. In years past, 15.6-inch and 17.3-inch laptops were the norm, but we now see 14-inch, 16-inch, and 18-inch systems, so grouping picks by specific size is too cumbersome. And so, in addition to the pricing tiers, we've selected picks for those seeking a particularly portable or an especially big-screen solution and designated a few additional favorites for narrower use cases, such as content creation and cloud gaming.
If the base model of a given laptop starts at a lower price, we may designate a model in a different price class than what we tested it at. Also note that the budget class, in particular, has seen some price inflation since the pandemic. (Before, we had a hard limit of $999 for budget gaming laptops.) So, we've lifted the price ceiling for this class of gaming machines in 2024 to $1,200.
Check out a detailed breakout of our current picks for the best gaming laptops for 2024 below, followed by our extensive buying guide to how to shop for a gaming laptop.
Table of Contents
Lenovo Legion Slim 5 Gen 8
Best Gaming Laptop for Most People
Why We Picked It
Given the Legion Slim 5 Gen 8's reasonable $1,299 starting price, wealth of configuration options, and sturdy build, we can comfortably recommend this model to the average gamer. Our configuration (at $1,549) is a little pricier than the base model, which gives you an idea of how it can scale up without coming close to high-end pricing. With an AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU for speedy midrange gaming performance—alongside a sharp 165Hz display, a comfortable keyboard, and efficient cooling—this Legion is a worthy selection.
Who It's For
While the starting price is a bit beyond budget class (we have other picks for that purpose), most of you will find the performance more than acceptable at a reasonable cost. This model has a 16-inch screen, and you can find plenty more portable laptops if that's your priority. Still, know that 16 inches is rapidly becoming the "standard" size among gaming machines. If you have money to spend, but not that kind of money, come first to the Legion Slim 5 Gen 8.
PROS
- High-TDP GPU
- Well-cooled for its thickness
- Sharp and fast display
- Excellent keyboard layout
- Sturdy build
- Cheaper than a lot of competitors
CONS
- No USB4 or Thunderbolt 4
- Still fairly long front to back
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Gaming |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS |
| Processor Speed | 3.8 GHz |
| RAM (as Tested) | 16 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 512 GB |
| Screen Size | 16 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | 2560 by 1600 |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | IPS |
| Variable Refresh Support | G-Sync |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 165 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU |
| Graphics Memory | 8 GB |
| Wireless Networking | 802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 0.92 by 14.16 by 10.25 inches |
| Weight | 5.17 lbs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 6:20 |
Acer Nitro V 15 (ANV15-51-59MT)
Best Budget Gaming Laptop
Why We Picked It
You'll find plenty of powerful and pricey systems on our list, but we're thinking of the many shoppers on tight budgets, too. The Acer Nitro V 15 (ANV15-51-59MT) starts at the low price of $699.99, and even our upgraded $849.99 review model sits comfortably under $1,000. For that, you get an Nvidia RTX 4050 GPU and an Intel 13th Gen Core i5 CPU, which posted comfortable 1080p gaming numbers in our testing. The 512GB drive is a bit restrictive for gaming, but that's normal in this price range, and crucially the battery life and port offerings are broad enough to balance out the package. The Nitro focuses on gaming performance per dollar, costing as little as possible for a smooth experience in the modern market.
Who It's For
If $1,000 is pushing your wallet too far, you'll find no better pick at retail price than this laptop. The last thing you want to concede on for a gaming laptop is graphics and gaming performance, and in that regard, the Nitro hangs with more expensive machines. This laptop can run all of the most popular games, including the more demanding big-budget games, at 1080p without issue. Only the most cutting-edge titles will require you to turn down some visual settings at that resolution, too, making for a generally plug-and-play experience. If you're a parent buying your child a first or college laptop, or a mainstream gamer on a strict budget, this is the best option for as little as possible.
PROS
- Attractive price
- Suffices for 1080p gaming
- Wide selection of ports
- Lengthy battery life
CONS
- Lagging processor performance
- Limited 512GB SSD
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Gaming |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-13420H |
| Processor Speed | |
| RAM (as Tested) | 8 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 512 GB |
| Screen Size | 15.6 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | 1920 by 1080 |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | IPS |
| Variable Refresh Support | None |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 144 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU |
| Graphics Memory | 6 GB |
| Wireless Networking | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 1.06 by 14.3 by 9.4 inches |
| Weight | 4.66 lbs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 9:51 |
MSI Cyborg 15 (2023)
A Solid Alternative to the Acer Nitro V 15
Why We Picked It
If you can extend your budget up from the Nitro, this is one of the better $1,000 deals available. The entry-level parts won't set any records, but an RTX 4050 GPU and particularly a 13th Gen Core i7 processor at this price are a reasonable package. You'll always have to make concessions (a dim display and a graphics performance are top of mind here), but it's easy to recommend this laptop to mainstream gamers on a budget. You should note, though, that despite the lower price, Acer's Nitro can push superior gaming performance to this machine. You're largely paying more for a slightly snappier processor and double the RAM, while the design is a more subjective preference.
Who It's For
If the Nitro isn't available or you find this laptop on sale, it's another smart pick for budget-bound shoppers, young gamers getting their first gaming laptop, and anyone in those groups who especially wants a quick processor. The Nitro is a better deal, punching above its weight on performance, but you may prefer the Cyborg's build, or have your eye on the superior CPU and memory for other uses. Outside of that comparison, this remains one of the best ways to spend your money in this category.
PROS
- $999 price in our Core i7/RTX 4050 test unit
- Able to play at the highest 1080p settings
- Peppy processor for the money
- Decent build for a budget gaming rig
CONS
- RTX 4050 GPU didn't wow versus RTX 3060s
- Display is dim and disappointing
- Sharp chassis edge can dig into wrists during typing
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Gaming |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-13620H |
| Processor Speed | |
| RAM (as Tested) | 16 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 512 GB |
| Screen Size | 15.6 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | 1920 by 1080 |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | IPS |
| Variable Refresh Support | None |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 144 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU |
| Graphics Memory | 6 GB |
| Wireless Networking | 802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 0.9 by 14.1 by 9.85 inches |
| Weight | 4.5 lbs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 7:16 |
Lenovo Legion Slim 5 Gen 8 (14.5-Inch)
Best Midrange Gaming Laptop
Why We Picked It
While relatively new sizes such as 16-inch and 18-inch machines are becoming the norm for midrange and high-end laptops, the Lenovo Legion Slim 5 Gen 8 bucks the norm at 14.5 inches. It does so without dropping the ball on the performance side: Our AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS- and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060-equipped review unit can keep up with larger, similarly outfitted systems. It's got more tricks up its sleeve beyond the performance and portable size, too, chiefly a brilliant OLED screen and a long battery life. It's well made, long lasting, and a good performer, all at a very reasonable price.
Who It's For
Aspirational gamers are the heart of the target market for this unit. True high-end systems cost $2,000 and up, out of reach for many budgets, but the starting price here is more reasonable for those who can spend a bit above entry-level. The size and portability are also uncommon advantages. There are some 14-inch machines that really specialize in mobility, but this is a nice middle ground, and there are plenty of larger machines if you prefer a bigger screen.
PROS
- Outstanding performance
- Well-priced
- Vivid OLED screen
- Long battery life
- Classy aluminum design
CONS
- RAM isn't upgradeable
- Average speakers
- Audible fans
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Gaming |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS |
| Processor Speed | 3.8 GHz |
| RAM (as Tested) | 16 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 1 TB |
| Screen Size | 14.5 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | 2880 by 1800 |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | OLED |
| Variable Refresh Support | None |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 120 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 |
| Graphics Memory | 8 GB |
| Wireless Networking | 802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 0.84 by 12.9 by 9.9 inches |
| Weight | 3.85 lbs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 8:09 |
Alienware m16 R2
A Bigger-Screen Alternative to the Lenovo Legion Slim 5 Gen 8 (14.5-Inch)
Why We Picked It
The Lenovo Legion Slim 5 Gen 8 is a pretty tough value to top, but not every gamer prioritizes portability or wants to play on a 14.5-inch screen. The Alienware m16 R2 sits toward the upper end of midrange pricing, but it's still a compelling deal given the performance and design. An Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU drive steady high-end gaming and productivity performance in our $1,849.99 test model. The QHD+ screen resolution strains the system in the most cutting-edge games, but only super-expensive laptops can handle it better, and you can always tune down the settings. The build is trim for the power, the keyboard feels comfortable, and the battery lasts long for a gaming laptop, making this a smart buy overall.
Who It's For
Aspirational gamers are the heart of the target market for this unit. True high-end systems cost $2,000 and up, out of reach for many budgets, but the starting price here is more reasonable for those who can spend a bit above entry-level. While it may not be a 14.5-inch machine, it's pretty slim for the power profile, leaving a place for it as a travel companion. Mainstream and hardcore gamers who want a quality-made laptop and higher-end performance will be satisfied with the Alienware m16 R2.
PROS
- Strong gaming, productivity performance, thanks to RTX 4070 and Core Ultra 7
- Reasonable starting price and good value as configured
- Sleek metal build is trim for a 16-incher
- Superior keyboard, plenty of ports
- Long battery life
CONS
- QHD+ screen resolution strains hardware in demanding titles
- Only two configurations, though they're well priced
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Gaming |
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 155H |
| Processor Speed | |
| RAM (as Tested) | 16 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 1 TB |
| Screen Size | 16 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | 2560 by 1600 |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | IPS |
| Variable Refresh Support | G-Sync |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 240 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU |
| Graphics Memory | 8 GB |
| Wireless Networking | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 0.93 by 14.33 by 9.81 inches |
| Weight | 5.75 lbs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 10:14 |
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8
Best High-End Gaming Laptop
Why We Picked It
Simply put, this laptop is the best of both worlds in performance and price. Bargains aren't the primary consideration once you're in this price tier, but it doesn't hurt that the Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 delivers top-end performance for less than its competition. The build lacks the flash of some rivals, but the subtle design may also be preferable for many shoppers.
Its $2,299 starting price is appealing, and our $2,749 test model includes an Intel Core i9-13900HX and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080, which delivered performance in line with more expensive laptops.
Who It's For
You'll find much to love here if you are shopping in this laptop's mid-$2K price range. This Legion Pro's performance rivals pricier and heavier systems, which is alone reason enough to give it a glance; anyone seeking the best deal in the high-end range should look no further.
PROS
- Bright and colorful 240Hz display
- Comfortable keyboard with RGB extras
- Generous port selection
- Full HD webcam with extra features
- Relatively affordable in its category
- Subtle design avoids gamer stereotypes
CONS
- Noisy fans under heavy load
- Lacking in battery life
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Gaming |
| Processor | Intel Core i9-13900HX |
| Processor Speed | |
| RAM (as Tested) | 32 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 1 TB |
| Screen Size | 16 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | 2560 by 1600 |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | IPS |
| Variable Refresh Support | G-Sync |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 240 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Laptop GPU |
| Graphics Memory | 12 GB |
| Wireless Networking | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 1 by 14.3 by 10.3 inches |
| Weight | 6.1 pounds |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 6:13 |
Alienware m18 R2
Best High-End Big-Screen Gaming Laptop
Why We Picked It
The relatively new 18-inch laptop market is home to some of the most powerful gaming laptops available, allowing manufacturers to pack the best parts and robust thermal hardware into larger frames. This is the second edition of Dell's Alienware m18, carrying over a lot of what we liked from the first. Namely, this machine goes right to the top end of the power stack, complemented by high-end style and premium features like an advanced display. You can pick from a 1600p 165Hz or 1080p 480Hz panel, and our review unit was loaded with an Intel Core i9-14900HX CPU and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 GPU. Unsurprisingly, this meant extreme performance as configured, and extra options like a Cherry MX mechanical keyboard elevated the experience even further.
Who It's For
This is undoubtedly a big and bulky system, but if you're considering an 18-inch laptop, you're looking at a powerful desktop replacement first and foremost—not a super-mobile option. And it's not just size: We mean it when we say this is our "high-end" option in terms of cost. Its $1,899.99 starting price is rather reasonable for the category, but our $3,599.99 review configuration requires deep pockets.
PROS
- Blistering processing and gaming performance
- Relatively approachable starting price
- QHD+ 165Hz display with FHD+ 480Hz option
- Optional mechanical Cherry MX keyboard
CONS
- Expensive as tested
- Heavy, even for its size
- Screen could be brighter
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Gaming |
| Processor | Intel Core i9-14900HX |
| Processor Speed | |
| RAM (as Tested) | 32 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 2 TB |
| Screen Size | 18 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | 2560 by 1600 |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | IPS |
| Variable Refresh Support | G-Sync |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 165 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop GPU |
| Graphics Memory | 16 GB |
| Wireless Networking | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 1.05 by 16.2 by 12.6 inches |
| Weight | 8.9 lbs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 6:45 |
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024)
Best Ultraportable Gaming Laptop
Why We Picked It
The G14 is our current favorite 14-inch option for its combination of performance, style, and price. Our $1,999.99 review configuration is not cheap, but compact gaming laptops are an inherently expensive category, and this is a fine deal for what you get. Its $1,599.99 base model can get you in the door for less. Our model packs an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor, 32GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU into its compact frame, delivering all you need and then some.
Frame rates easily cruised into the hundreds at 1080p and stayed well over 60fps even at native "3K" resolution. This performance comes in a stylish, high-quality chassis that weighs only 3.3 pounds, and it's realized through a 120Hz OLED panel with G-Sync support. Battery life is long, and you'll find plenty of ports despite its small frame. It's difficult to find much fault with the system, adding up to a capable, chic, and portable gaming machine.
Who It's For
PC gamers seeking a portable travel companion should look no further. You'll see some worthy alternatives, especially the Blade 14 (for those with even bigger budgets), but this ROG Zephyrus is the best mix of the most critical factors. The less-expensive base model can give you a lot of design advantages for hundreds less if our review configuration stretches your budget too far. If you are looking for a primary gaming PC that you can travel with over short or long distances, or if you want a mobile partner for your home desktop, the Zephyrus is your best bet.
PROS
- Elegant, compact redesign with metal chassis
- Powerful all-around performance and gaming speed
- Brilliant 1800p 120Hz OLED panel with G-Sync support
- Wide selection of ports
- Long battery life
CONS
- Limited configurations
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Gaming |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS |
| Processor Speed | |
| RAM (as Tested) | 32 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 1 TB |
| Screen Size | 14 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | OLED |
| Variable Refresh Support | G-Sync |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 120 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU |
| Graphics Memory | 8 GB |
| Wireless Networking | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 0.64 by 12.2 by 8.7 inches |
| Weight | 3.3 lbs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 11:52 |
Razer Blade 14 (2023)
A Solid Alternative to the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
Why We Picked It
Making high-performance gaming systems compact and portable is never cheap, but Razer's Blade 14 goes for an especially premium package. This machine starts at $2,399, and our review unit rang up at $2,699, making it a luxury alternative to the Asus model above. A mix of portability, performance, and build quality emerges for that Razer money. The all-metal Blade line always impresses with a premium look and feel, which is even easier to appreciate at this size. Being a high-end machine, our review model works in an AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS CPU and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU (which delivers plenty of wattage despite the system size), ensuring top-notch gaming performance from a tiny package.
Who It's For
Prioritizing portability over power is part of the deal if you're considering a 14-inch gaming laptop. That's not to say the Blade 14 isn't a capable gaming machine. (It is!) But you can get superior performance out of a larger system (and often for less money) if you don't plan to travel with your laptop frequently. That's especially true for the extra-pricey Blade 14, but if you do want the sleekest, most luxe 14-inch laptop around and have a big budget, this will check all the boxes.
PROS
- Exemplary 14-inch gaming performance
- QHD+ 240Hz display
- Long battery life
- Quiet fans
- All-aluminum build
CONS
- Shallow keyboard
- Much higher starting price than the original
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Gaming |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS |
| Processor Speed | 4 GHz |
| RAM (as Tested) | 16 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 1 TB |
| Screen Size | 14 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | 2560 by 1600 |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | IPS |
| Variable Refresh Support | FreeSync |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 240 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU |
| Graphics Memory | 8 GB |
| Wireless Networking | 802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 0.7 by 12.2 by 9 inches |
| Weight | 4 lbs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 10:35 |
MSI Titan 18 HX
Best Cost-Is-No-Object Gaming Laptop
Why We Picked It
If money is no object, your best bet is the MSI Titan 18 HX, which goes all-in for power. As the name suggests, this is a sizable 18-inch laptop, with virtually no concern for portability at 7.93 pounds. The latest Intel and Nvidia components are a chart-topping combination for gaming performance, with a supporting feature set that will make any shopper with a big budget happy. Its 4K mini LED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate is a major highlight, as well, but the performance is the obvious draw: The Intel Core i9-14900HX CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 GPU in our review configuration made mincemeat of our benchmark tests, posting some unmatched raw 3D and gaming results.
Who It's For
Deep-pocketed gamers who are all about speed and want the latest parts with the most power should consider this beast. This is just about the best-performing gaming laptop you can buy, especially if frame rates and performance in the latest titles are your primary concern. It isn't travel-friendly, so shoppers should know this is a desktop replacement in the purest sense, luggable along with its adapter only when you need it to be. But for that sacrifice, you'll be rewarded with desktop-like performance.
PROS
- Unmatched gaming performance
- Plenty of power (and memory) for professional workloads
- 18-inch 4K 120Hz mini LED display
- Haptic glass touchpad with customizable lighting
- Mechanical Cherry MX keyboard
CONS
- Prohibitively expensive
- Big and heavy
- Short battery life
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Gaming, Desktop Replacement |
| Processor | Intel Core i9-14900HX |
| Processor Speed | |
| RAM (as Tested) | 128 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 4 TB |
| Screen Size | 18 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | 3840 by 2400 |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | Mini LED |
| Variable Refresh Support | None |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 120 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop GPU |
| Graphics Memory | 16 GB |
| Wireless Networking | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 1.25 by 15.9 by 12 inches |
| Weight | 7.93 lbs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 2:53 |
Gigabyte Aero 16 OLED (2023)
Best Gaming/Content Creation Laptop Crossover
Why We Picked It
As you shop, you'll see clearly defined gaming laptops alongside obvious content-creation machines (see Acer's ConceptD or Asus' ProArt notebooks). Then the crossovers arrived, much like those automobiles of the same name. The 2023 Gigabyte Aero 16 is one of the best such hybrids, amping the power up even further from past iterations, with options for a 4K OLED screen, a high-powered Nvidia RTX 4070 GPU, and the latest Intel Core i9 CPU—in a slim package. It's meant as a content-creation machine, able to muscle through everything from graphic design to video editing and animation, but its GPU is ready for high-end gaming, too. The stellar OLED panel is what really sets it apart from most bulked-up builds, though the 60Hz refresh rate is a miss for gaming purposes.
Who It's For
Video editors and graphic designers will come for the panel, wrap up their workday, and stay for the gaming-ready GPU (just probably not many esports games). It’s not a perfect answer for every creator or gamer, but if you want one of the best laptops for video editing or media work with gaming on the side, it’s a powerful (if pricey) option. Few media makers wouldn't lust after one.
PROS
- Impressive OLED screen returns
- Satisfying TKL keyboard
- Sturdy aluminum body
- MicroSD card slot
- Decently priced
CONS
- Short battery life
- Single, rear-mounted USB-A port
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Desktop Replacement |
| Processor | Intel Core i9-13900H |
| Processor Speed | |
| RAM (as Tested) | 32 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 1 TB |
| Screen Size | 16 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | 3840 by 2400 |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | OLED |
| Variable Refresh Support | None |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU |
| Graphics Memory | 8 GB |
| Wireless Networking | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 0.87 by 13.9 by 10.1 inches |
| Weight | 4.6 lbs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 8:09 |
Acer Chromebook 516 GE
Best Cloud Streaming Gaming Laptop
Why We Picked It
This is a new category of gaming laptop, but the trend is only just beginning. Many companies have tried to capitalize on the concept of cloud gaming, and now the hardware and infrastructure are coming together in a wave of cloud-streaming Chromebook machines with gamer-friendly details that set them apart from "ordinary" Chromebooks. The Acer Chromebook 516 GE is among the first of these, and it's our top pick so far. The performance is consistent across the board for gaming and general use; the build is top-quality for its price; the screen is sharp and peaks at a 120Hz refresh rate; and the keys even have RGB lighting. Perhaps this trend won't last, but if this machine is any indication, there's a lot of promise here.
Who It's For
Gamers who can't afford a pricey dedicated laptop have a relatively easy out with this system. It doesn't need a discrete GPU of its own, cutting down on the cost of the laptop itself significantly. It's much more affordable than the average gaming laptop because this Chromebook relies on cloud streaming services to play games. Of course, that requires at least a stable (if not outright fast) internet connection, and a subscription to a cloud gaming service, each a possible no-go if you're on a tight budget. But if you can get by with a Chromebook for your everyday computing life outside of your gaming, and an under-$700 price is right, this is a fine solution.
PROS
- Superb performance in gaming (and everything else)
- Powerful hardware for a Chromebook, from processing to storage
- Rich port selection
- RGB keyboard with anti-ghosting tech
- Gorgeous 120Hz display
CONS
- No touch screen
- USB-C ports aren't Thunderbolt 4
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Laptop Class | Chromebook |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-1240P |
| Processor Speed | |
| RAM (as Tested) | 8 GB |
| Boot Drive Type | SSD |
| Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 256 GB |
| Screen Size | 16 inches |
| Native Display Resolution | 2560 by 1600 |
| Touch Screen | |
| Panel Technology | IPS |
| Variable Refresh Support | None |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 120 Hz |
| Graphics Processor | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| Graphics Memory | |
| Wireless Networking | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 0.84 by 14 by 9.8 inches |
| Weight | 3.75 lbs |
| Operating System | Chrome OS |
| Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 9:41 |
Gaming systems have higher-end components than run-of-the-mill consumer laptops, so their prices will be higher, but the range across the category is huge: from under a grand to $4,000 and up. Budget gaming laptops start at around $800 and can go up to about $1,250. For that, you get a system that can play games at full HD resolution (1080p) with the settings turned down in most titles, or at maximum quality settings in simpler games. Storage will likely be a modest-capacity solid-state drive (SSD); a hard drive indicates an older model best avoided. An SSD as the boot drive is always preferable.
Want something better? Midrange systems give you smoother gameplay at high or maximum settings on a better-quality 1080p screen (which will support high refresh rates; more on that in a moment), and they should add support for VR headsets. These models will range in price from around $1,250 to $2,000.
High-end systems, meanwhile, should guarantee you smooth gameplay at 1080p with graphics details maxed out, invariably on a high-refresh screen. They may even let you play at 4K resolution if the screen supports it. A high-end model should also be able to power a VR headset and support additional external monitors. These machines tend to come with capacious PCI Express SSDs, and they are priced above $2,000, often closer to $3,000.
Some laptops in this class support QHD (2,560-by-1,440-pixel) or 4K screens, a hard drive to supplement the SSD, and ultra-efficient cooling fans as optional extras. Thanks to modern advancements, an increasing number of these are even relatively thin and portable. With laptops in this tier, you'll either pay a premium for high-end performance in a thin chassis or pay for the most possible power in a chunkier build.
Put the GPU First: Which Gaming Laptop Graphics to Get?
The main attribute that makes or breaks a gaming laptop is its graphics processing unit (GPU). We only consider a laptop to be a gaming laptop if it has a discrete graphics chip from Nvidia or (less commonly) AMD.
A quick crash course for the uninitiated: In general, the higher the suffix number in a GPU series, the more powerful it is. For example, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 will generally produce faster frame rates and higher-quality graphics than an RTX 3070, and so on down the stack. The "30" denotes the generation, so the latest GeForce 40 series is preferable to the 30 series; the GeForce RTX 4080 is the successor to the RTX 3080. Nvidia is the dominant player in the field right now, currently producing discrete mobile GPUs based on its "Ada Lovelace" microarchitecture, though some older "Ampere"-based (2021) GPUs are still available.
Ampere GPUs sell under the GeForce RTX 30-series name (i.e., the RTX 3070 or RTX 3080), though they have been largely phased out by the newer GeForce RTX 40-series "Ada Lovelace" GPUs. The latter launched on desktops in 2022, and laptops with RTX 40 series GPUs started to hit shelves early last year. Virtually any new laptop released this year will run 40-series GPUs, but some base-model configurations (and non-gaming laptops) may still feature a GeForce RTX 3050 or 3060 to keep the price down.
And so, we'll touch on both generations. Unlike past generations, the top-end 30-series and 40-series GPUs available on new laptops carry an "RTX" designation rather than "GTX," a nod to the ray-tracing technology that the platform offers for enhanced in-game visuals (with games that support it). This fancy real-time lighting effect looks impressive but is very demanding to run.
Combined with a rendering technique called DLSS, higher-end GPUs can even push ray-tracing at higher resolutions in some titles. Nvidia is continuously working on this technology, and the improvements in the latest edition, DLSS 3, are a big part of the effectiveness of its RTX 40-series GPUs. Depending on the laptop, demanding games may not hit 60 frames per second (fps) at 4K, especially with ray-tracing active. But it's much more feasible for a laptop to do either on its own with a top-end RTX 40-series GPU. DLSS 3 and the "frame generation" feature work wonders for the 40-series GPUs.
Ampere and Ada Lovelace laptop GPUs are not 1:1 performers in line with their desktop counterparts, but performance is still solid, and they're more capable of ray-tracing than the 20 series was. We've found some sizable performance variance between the same GPU in one laptop versus that same GPU in another, depending on the power that laptop makers deliver to the GPU. To see our findings on why this is, read our mobile Ampere testing article. This makes laptop shopping a bit more complicated than going by just the GPU name on paper. Our testing of each system is more important than ever.
Now, let's move down the power hierarchy a bit. The midrange RTX 3060 occupies space just under the RTX 3070 and 3080. At the bottom of the 30-series stack are the GeForce RTX 3050 and RTX 3050 Ti, which launched in spring 2021. Compared with the premium RTX 3070 and RTX 3080 (and their souped-up RTX 3070 Ti and RTX 3080 Ti counterparts), these GPUs are available in budget-friendlier gaming laptops, or the base configurations of more premium machines, bringing ray-tracing to entry-level machines. (See our primer on ray-tracing on the PC.)
Below the RTX 3050 are the GeForce GTX GPUs mentioned earlier, but these have become virtually irrelevant. If you're seeing a system with GTX GPUs, it's dated. RTX 3050, RTX 3050 Ti, and RTX 4050 GPUs are the new budget class.
The same relative hierarchy applies to the RTX 40 series. Laptops with an RTX 4080 or RTX 4090 (used in the most expensive laptops) are exceptional performers at all resolutions, and the RTX 4070 is impressive in its own right, even above 1080p gaming. As mentioned, DLSS is a must for running ray tracing at higher resolutions, but the 40 series is much more capable in these scenarios than the 30 series. Raw performance increases outside of these scenarios are more modest. The RTX 4060 is a reliable, steady pick for 1080p laptops that won't break the bank, and it appears in machines at either the high end of budget pricing or the low end of midrange pricing.
Nvidia is still the leading player in graphics, but chief rival AMD is seeing an increase in adoption. A rising number of gaming laptops include Radeon RX GPUs, though far less than Nvidia still; AMD announced its next generation of mobile GPUs (Radeon RX 7000) early last year, but we saw only a few of them throughout the year.
AMD GPUs are sometimes paired with an Intel processor, though we're also seeing more frequent examples of AMD graphics combined with AMD processors than before. (For example, Dell and MSI sold a few AMD-on-AMD CPU/GPU machines.)
Even with all the above complexity, we can still draw some basic conclusions about graphics performance. Today, a single midrange or high-end discrete GPU will let you play the latest AAA gaming titles on a 1080p screen with high-quality settings turned on, and be fine for powering VR play. The RTX 3070 and 3080 made smooth 1440p gaming the norm, and the latter GPU especially has made even 4K gaming on laptops much more plausible than before. Their parallel models in the RTX 40 series (and DLSS where the game supports it) have furthered those high-res-gaming trends.
The Panel: How High a Refresh Rate to Get in a Gaming Laptop?
In the past, the power of a GPU like the RTX 4070 would look like overkill for gaming at "just" 1080p, but several new factors can absorb that extra potential. A high-refresh-rate screen is now the norm in any new gaming laptop, allowing for full display of lofty frame rates to smooth out the perceived gameplay. You'll need a powerful graphics chip to leverage the benefits of a high-refresh panel with demanding games. You can identify machines like these by marketing lingo about, say, a 144Hz, 240Hz, or even 300Hz-plus screen. (A typical display on a laptop is a 60Hz panel, but new gaming models all have 144Hz-plus screens now.)
A 144Hz panel is emerging as the most common, but we're also seeing some 240Hz and even 360Hz options in pricey models, all capable of displaying more than 60 frames per second (for example, up to 144fps in the case of 144Hz screens). This makes gameplay look smoother, but in many cases, only high-end GPUs can push those limits. Additionally, the aforementioned ray-tracing techniques (think real-time lighting and reflection effects) are demanding to run, and as more video games implement the technology, the more you will want to flip them on.
Because of that, you have multiple reasons to opt for a high-end GPU, even if playing games at a full HD (1080p) resolution doesn't look too demanding to you on paper. On the lower end, DLSS can also help less powerful hardware like the RTX 3050 or 4050 run or enable ray-tracing with limited downsides, so you're not totally out of luck if you can't afford the top-end chips. DLSS support is far from universal, but it's appearing in more and more titles.
Nvidia's G-Sync and AMD's FreeSync technologies are more down-to-earth. They help increase the quality of the gaming experience and smooth out frame rates by letting the laptop screen rewrite the image onscreen at a variable rate that depends on the output of the GPU (rather than the fixed rate of the screen). Look for support for one of those technologies if you're a stickler for perfectly rendered visuals. These technologies, collectively known as "adaptive sync," are becoming more common, but they tend to show up in pricier machines, with G-Sync being much more common in laptops.
The Processor: Which CPU to Get in a Gaming Laptop?
Last year, we saw the launch of Intel's 13th Generation ("Raptor Lake") chips and AMD's Ryzen 7000 processors, which have taken over most of our picks through the year and into 2024. Our first performance tests of the Core i9 Raptor Lake chips and Ryzen 7000 "Dragon Range" chips were impressive.
Intel just launched its Core Ultra "Meteor Lake" chips with onboard AI processing, which will run in some gaming systems. However, Intel's new 14th Gen "Raptor Lake Refresh" H, HK, and HX processors are the CPUs more likely to appear in 2024's latest gaming laptops, and will prevail in larger, more powerful gaming machines. We first saw these at CES 2024 and reviewed our first such chip inside the 2024 edition of the Razer Blade 16.
Most laptops included here encompass Intel Core i7 processors (even most of the thin-and-light gaming laptops), while the most expensive hard-core laptops are running Core i9 CPUs. These days, many budget machines use Core i7 chips, but some affordable options may opt for Core i5 chips.
In general, more cores and higher clock speeds bring better overall efficiency and much-improved performance on multithreaded tasks like media projects, but it's less vital for gaming. Gaming usually sees less of a boost from more threads than many media tasks do. But they certainly don't hurt.
As a result, if you have to choose between a high-end CPU and a high-end GPU, go for the graphics. For example, we'd recommend getting a Core i5 CPU over a Core i7 if the money saved could go toward an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU instead of an RTX 4050. Spending the money on the GPU makes more sense than spending it on the CPU if gaming is your main concern.
Look for Intel Core i5 processors in budget gaming systems, with Core i7 H, HQ, and HK processors in midrange gaming laptops. The H-series processors are higher-power and tend to show up in more expensive gaming laptops, while lower-power Core i7 U-series chips are designed for thinner, more portable (and generally not gaming) machines. The most expensive, biggest gaming laptops for sale use Core i9 H-series processors, which are also superior for media tasks. The branch-off Core Ultra Meteor Lake processors drop the "i" structure, but still have their own Ultra 5, 7, and 9 tiers, as well as designations like H series and U series.
Then you have the AMD side, which we alluded to at the start of this discussion. AMD's chips long played second fiddle to Intel's offerings, but these days Intel and AMD tug back and forth for performance supremacy. Today, AMD's Ryzen 7000 chips go toe-to-toe with Intel's 13th and 14th Gen processors, making for fiercer competition. Any Ryzen 7000 or 13th or 14th Gen Intel H-class chips should be capable gamers under most circumstances.
Display: What Screen Size to Get in a Gaming Laptop?
Regarding display size, a 15.6-inch screen is the traditional sweet spot for a gaming laptop. You can buy models with larger displays, but this will almost certainly jack up the weight to well beyond five pounds and put portability in question.
Multiple vendors announced 18-inch laptops early last year, including Alienware, Asus, and Razer. We reviewed the first of these, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18, and several have followed since. You'll find more screen options than ever, with popular picks at 14, 15.6, 16, 17.3, and 18 inches. The 16-inch size is another up-and-comer.
In terms of resolution, a full HD (1,920-by-1,080-pixel in 16:9 aspect ratio) native-resolution screen is the default minimum at this point, whatever the screen size. One thing to note: Laptop makers have increasingly moved to 16:10 panels, which provide a little more vertical real estate without changing the footprint much.
Also note that 14-inch panel sizes, as well as 16-inch ones that are slightly bigger than the 15-inch class, are now consistent members of the market. Major makers such as Acer, Alienware, Asus, and Razer have produced 14-inch gamers, and 16-inchers are everywhere, on the way to supplanting the long-standard 15.6-inch size.
Larger displays are capable of giving you higher-than-1080p resolutions, but choose wisely, as a resolution of QHD, QHD+, or 4K can boost the final cost twice: first for the panel, and second, possibly, for the higher-quality graphics chip, you'll need to drive it to its full potential. As mentioned, look for increasingly common G-Sync or high-refresh-rate screens (as discussed earlier) if you want smoother visuals.
Because they require the most potent GPUs for smooth gameplay at native resolution, gaming laptops with a 4K screen (3,840 by 2,160 pixels in 16:9) are still an exception, and still expensive. Keep this in mind: Only the most powerful graphics cards can render complex game animations at playable frame rates across the full screen at 4K, so a 1080p screen may be a better use of your money if all you do is play games.
Even though the RTX 3080 and particularly the RTX 4080 can handle 4K gaming much more ably than any laptop GPUs before them, we still don't think it's worth the cost to seek out 4K gaming in laptops, unless you can spend big. The screens do look excellent, though, especially since they're sometimes paired with OLED technology. QHD is often a better resolution pairing for modern high-end GPUs on laptops.
How Much Storage Space to Get in a Gaming Laptop SSD?
Nowadays, virtually every laptop comes with an SSD as the boot drive, and most have done away with spinning hard drives entirely. SSDs speed up boot time, wake-from-sleep time, and the time it takes to launch a game and load a new level. Only older laptops will still have a hard drive as the boot drive.
In large gaming laptops, it was previously common to see a small-capacity (256GB) SSD boot drive paired with a roomy (1TB or greater) secondary hard drive to store the bulk of your library. You may still find this combination, but as higher-capacity SSDs have become more affordable, SSDs have become the norm. A 512GB SSD is the new default, while some budget gaming laptops will start at 256GB, and high-end systems will include a 1TB SSD or more.
Adding greater SSD capacity will undoubtedly increase the price, but it may be necessary, given how large modern game installations can be, so shop accordingly. We recommend at least a 512GB SSD if you can afford it; your library will fill up your drive fast. A too-small SSD can mean you're forever shuffling games on and off the drive.
How Much Memory to Get in a Gaming Laptop?
Before we forget, let's talk about memory (RAM). In a Windows gaming laptop, expect at least 8GB of RAM. (In practice, no model will come with less.) That will give you some breathing room when switching back and forth between your gameplay window and your messaging app, but we'd save researching game tips for when you're not playing, as each successive browser window you open eats into your RAM allotment.
For a higher-end system, we recommend 16GB, so you can have your gaming session, a messaging app, several websites, a webcam, and streaming video active simultaneously. A midrange gaming laptop should function fine with 8GB of memory, but be aware that some new laptops are not upgradable. You may be stuck with the amount of memory you order. For an investment-grade gaming laptop, 16GB is the minimum target; for most folks who aren't extreme streamers or multitaskers, more than that is overkill.
Buying the Best Cheap Gaming Laptop
If you're shopping for a gaming system on a limited budget (in this case, between roughly $800 and $1,300), you must make some sacrifices. Maximizing power while staying within a limited price range is the goal, but you'll have to accept that some components won't be comparable with the more expensive laptops you'll see while browsing. That said, $1,200 is a reasonable ceiling for what some buyers are ready to spend on a gaming laptop, and you can still get an effective system for that much. (Check out our side roundup of the best cheap gaming laptops.)
The main drop-off will be in the graphics, since the dedicated graphics chip is one of the most expensive components in a machine and the primary factor in a laptop's gaming prowess. The graphics chip almost single-handedly defines the class of laptop you're dealing with, so pay attention to that part. Fortunately, even the less powerful GPU options these days are pretty capable.
Past budget systems were equipped almost exclusively with those wallet-friendly Nvidia GeForce GTX GPUs we mentioned earlier. The GeForce RTX 3050, RTX 3050 Ti, and RTX 4050 have replaced these inside laptops for as low as $799. These are now the entry-level options.
The RTX 4050 is now the budget baseline, but you can hunt for sales for past 30-series laptops if you want to save as much as possible. Even at the entry range, with most of these GPUs, you'll be able to play smoothly at 1080p, just not at the very highest settings in newer games, and all should be able to provide at least a decent level of VR play if that's your thing.
Processors are the next most significant difference. In a budget model, you'll likely get a capable Core i5 instead of a faster Core i7. Still, some of the benefits of an i7 machine aren't a major factor for gaming, but instead benefit video editing and other creative uses, so an i5 will do the job. Over the past year or two, we saw more Ryzen CPUs in cheap, general-use laptops than in affordable gaming laptops, despite their adoption in some higher-end or ultraportable gaming systems.
AMD GPUs are much less common in budget gaming laptops than Nvidia ones. You'll find more all-AMD laptops available than in the past, but few are budget machines.
Outside of the graphics card and processor, the other components should be closer to more expensive machines than you'd expect. SSD boot drives are the norm even in the cheapest new gaming laptops, though they may be small in capacity. The display will almost certainly be 1080p, as 1,366-by-768-pixel panels are now reserved only for the very cheapest non-gaming systems. The RAM will likely top off at 8GB in budget laptops, but you will find some (more ideal) 16GB laptops in this range.
What Else Do You Need to Up Your Game?
Given that high-end components tend to drain battery life, don't plan on taking any of these gaming rigs too far from a wall socket very often. Cutting-edge ports like USB Type-C and Thunderbolt 4 are beneficial now and will only be more so down the road, but look for at least two ordinary-shaped (aka, "Type-A") USB 3.0 ports so you can plug in an external mouse and a hard drive for your saved media files.
If you want to attach a VR headset to your rig, look for the right loadout of ports to accommodate it. You'll need a well-placed HDMI or DisplayPort video out (it depends on the headset which one you'll need) and enough USB ports for a possible hydra-head of cabling. Other video ports, like DisplayPort or mini-DisplayPort (sometimes implemented over a USB-C port), will be helpful if you want to play games on an external display, but they aren't necessary if your laptop's screen is large enough.
So, Which Is the Best Gaming Laptop to Buy?
Feeling more prepared now to buy than before? We hope so. Scroll down for a detailed spec breakout of all the top-pick machines we laid out above.
