The best gaming laptops of 2024 will not be about sheer power alone; they will need to be portable, designed with a good sense of style, and most importantly pocket-friendly. The best gaming laptop of the year will have to fulfill most of the needs of a user with different priorities.
Over the years, as an experienced reviewer of laptops, I have reviewed a lot of gaming laptops. This guide will help you wade through the myriad options on offer and find the perfect gaming laptop that fits your needs and budget. Now, let’s move to the detailed reviews of the best gaming laptops of 2024.
The Quick List: Best Gaming Laptops of 2024
B E S T
D E S K T O P
R E P L A C E M E N T
6. Lenovo
Legion Pro 7i Gen 8
This laptop strikes a perfect balance between performance and price. With an Intel Core i9-14900HX processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card, and a 16” QHD display, it offers exceptional gaming performance without the premium price tag.
B E S T
P R E M I U M
L A P T O P
8. Razer
Blade
15
The Razer Blade 15 offers top-tier performance, portability, and style. Featuring an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 graphics card, 16GB of RAM, and a 360Hz refresh rate display, it’s perfect for gamers and creative professionals who need powerful hardware in a sleek package.
Choosing the Best Gaming Laptop for 2024: A Buyer’s Guide
The Importance of Budget and Components It’s easy to decide which gaming laptop is the best if you have all the money in the world, but it is a lot harder on a tight budget. The great news is, all of these have largely dropped in price. That being said, both CPUs and GPUs at a lower price can be found these days without losing performance. This article will attempt to help you decide which laptop you should be buying.
Key Requirements for an Excellent Gaming Experience
Memory and Storage RAM: You should go for 16GB of RAM for all resolutions so that performance is nice and smooth. 8GB may seem ample, but it’s not enough for modern gaming. Most of the latest PC titles can gobble up to 100GB of storage space. So, your 512GB SSD might quickly find itself not having enough space. So, a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD is advisable for ample storage space. Processor: At the very least, you should look for an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor. If you wish to go ahead and get better performance, you should definitely aim for an Intel Core i7/Core i7 Ultra or AMD Ryzen 7.
Graphics Cards According to Resolution 1080p Gaming:
For 60 fps on most games, most settings are at their highest. You would need, at the very least, an Nvidia RTX 4050 or AMD Radeon RX 7600M GPU. An Nvidia RTX 4060 or AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT will do better. 1440p Gaming: For 60 fps on max graphical settings, you would need, at the very least, an Nvidia RTX 4070. An RTX 4080 is more preferred, and, for AMD, a Radeon RX 7900M will do. 2160p (4K) Gaming: At the very minimum, you would need an Nvidia RTX 4080 or AMD RX 7900M. However, for 60 fps for modern titles, an Nvidia RTX 4090 is key.
Parts Priority
Although every part is essential, the GPU has the largest direct effect on your gaming experience, especially when it comes to FPS. Here’s the pecking order: GPU: Try to get the best GPU you can, as it is your number-one gaming performance influencer. RAM and CPU: Sufficient RAM and a strong-enough CPU that doesn’t bottleneck the high-tier GPU you are going for. Storage: Adequate SSD storage to keep your apps and games.
Display
Many gaming laptops have a resolution of 1080p or 1440p. In most cases, having a 1080p resolution will get you through a great gaming experience. It will present an optimal balance between the performance of your laptop and the visual quality that it can display. For people with very high aesthetic needs, a 1440p display can do better, but it will not compromise too much on performance.
Are Gaming Laptops Worth It? Absolutely. The difference between gaming PCs and laptops has shrunk dramatically. Moreover, laptops are the most compact, while their high power is a solution for every gamer who wants to carry that power with them in a portable environment. Modern gaming laptops can handle everything from simple titles to the most demanding graphical games, making them a perfect pick for gamers on the move.
How We Tested These Gaming Laptops
Every gaming laptop that finds itself in our lab undergoes a rigorous, extensive testing process. [Your Website] puts every laptop through its paces and gives you the in-depth, detailed review that the laptop deserves.
Our Expertise
- Hundreds of gaming laptops reviewed
- Over 10 years of product testing experience
- Reviewed more than 16,000 products in total
- Nearly 200,000 hours spent testing technology
How We Test There are several key points of our extensive test plan with each laptop, which is meant to bring a full picture of every gaming laptop’s capabilities. Here’s an overview:
Performance Evaluation
- Gaming Tests: We play the latest and most popular games to evaluate real-world gaming performance. That way, we learn how well the laptop copes with graphics, frame rates, and thermal performance over long gaming periods.
- Synthetic Benchmarks: We run the laptop through well-known, industry-standard benchmarks like PCMark 10, 3DMark, and Geekbench 5 to provide measurable performance data in terms of processing power, graphics performance, and system efficiency.
- Battery Life Tests: We measure battery longevity in gaming modes and other uses, just to make sure it can last you through the day without a power bank.
Peripherals and Design Assessment
- Display Quality: We test the quality of the display in terms of color accuracy, brightness, refresh rate, and response time. A high-quality display is key for an immersive gaming experience.
- Keyboard and Touchpad: We test the keyboard for comfort, key travel, and response—important features that can make a big difference when it comes to gaming. We also assess the touchpad for precision and usability.
- Ports and Connectivity: We check the availability and variety of ports and then assess whether they are enough to fit in peripherals, external displays, and accessories. The connectivity options are checked for speed and stability of performance.
- Design and Build: We look over the overall design, build quality, aesthetics, and portability of the unit. After all, a decent gaming laptop has to perform well while being durable and at the same time delivering ease of carriage.
Other Features Included
- Webcam and Audio: Other than that, the webcam is also tested for performance, and built-in speakers and the microphone are tested for sound quality. We try to have a recording of some gaming footage, and the webcam should be alright for this purpose.
Value for Money
Finally, we put all this against the price of the laptop. If its performance and features, together with the build quality, make sense with the price, it receives a value for money designation. We do all this so that you find a gaming laptop that is topnotch in performance and features but is not a drain on your pocket.
With these testing processes followed to the T, you can bet that what we put forth at the end of the day is an unwavering, unbiased opinion, which will surely make the biggest difference in the purchase of your next gaming laptop.
Best Midrange Gaming Laptop
(Image Credit: ASUS)
For gamers who seek a balance between performance and price, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 is an excellent choice. It offers robust performance with high-end features at a more accessible price point, making it perfect for serious gamers who don’t want to splurge on a premium model.
1. ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2024)
Best Midrange Gaming Laptop
In-Depth Review
The ASUS ROG Strix G16 is designed for gamers who demand high performance without breaking the bank. Its Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card ensure that it can handle the latest games with ease.
Performance:
- The combination of the Intel Core i9 processor and RTX 4060 GPU allows for smooth gameplay at high settings. During testing, the laptop consistently delivered high frame rates, even in graphically demanding games.
Design and Build:
- The ASUS ROG Strix G16 features a sturdy and aggressive design that’s typical of the ROG series. While it’s bulkier than some other gaming laptops, it’s built to last and can handle the rigors of daily use.
- The RGB lighting adds a touch of flair, appealing to gamers who enjoy customizable aesthetics.
Display:
- The 16” QHD display is a standout feature, offering crisp and vibrant visuals. The high resolution ensures that games look detailed and immersive, making it a pleasure to play on.
Battery Life:
- The battery life is average, lasting around 5-6 hours with regular use. This is typical for gaming laptops, so it’s advisable to keep the charger handy during extended gaming sessions.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Processor: Intel® Core™ i9-14900HX
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
- Display: 16” QHD
REASONS TO BUY
- Powerful Performance: The Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card deliver excellent gaming performance.
- High-Quality Display: The 16” QHD display provides sharp and vibrant visuals, enhancing the gaming experience.
- Value for Money: Offers high-end features and performance at a midrange price point.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Bulkier Design: It’s not as lightweight or portable as some other gaming laptops.
- Noisy Fans: Can get quite loud under heavy load.
BUY IT IF
- You Want High-End Performance Without the Premium Price: The ASUS ROG Strix G16 offers top-tier specs at a midrange price, making it a great value for serious gamers.
- You Need a High-Quality Display: The QHD display provides excellent visual quality for gaming and multimedia.
SPECIFICATIONS
- You Prefer a More Portable Laptop: Its bulkier design might not be ideal for those who need a lightweight and compact device.
- You’re Sensitive to Noise: The fans can get quite noisy during intense gaming sessions.
In summary, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2024) is a fantastic midrange gaming laptop that offers a great balance of performance, features, and price. It’s perfect for gamers who want high-end specs without the premium price tag.
Best Budget Gaming Laptop
(Image Credit: ASUS)
For gamers on a budget, the ASUS TUF Gaming A15 offers impressive performance at an affordable price. It strikes an excellent balance between cost and capability, making it ideal for those who want a reliable gaming laptop without spending a fortune.
2. ASUS TUF Gaming A15 (2023)
Best Budget Gaming Laptop
In-Depth Review
The ASUS TUF Gaming A15 is a standout option for budget-conscious gamers. It combines affordability with solid performance, making it a great entry-level gaming laptop.
Performance:
- Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, the TUF Gaming A15 delivers decent performance for most games. While it may not handle the highest settings in the latest titles, it provides a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience at medium settings.
Design and Build:
- The laptop features a rugged design with military-grade durability, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use. It’s built to last, making it a reliable choice for gamers on the go.
- The keyboard is comfortable and responsive, with RGB backlighting that adds a touch of style.
Display:
- The 15.6-inch display offers good visuals, but it’s not as vibrant or high-resolution as those on more expensive models. It’s adequate for gaming and everyday use but might not satisfy those who prioritize top-notch display quality.
Battery Life:
- The battery life is decent for a budget gaming laptop, lasting around 7-8 hours with light use. This allows for some gaming sessions without needing to be constantly plugged in.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 7
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050
- RAM: 16GB DDR5
- Display: 15.6 inch
REASONS TO BUY
- Affordable Price: Offers solid gaming performance at a budget-friendly price.
- Durable Build: Built to withstand daily use with military-grade durability.
- Decent Performance: The AMD Ryzen 7 processor and RTX 4050 GPU handle most games well.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Average Display Quality: The display is not as vibrant or high-resolution as higher-end models.
- Limited Storage: The storage capacity may not be sufficient for gamers with large game libraries.
BUY IT IF
- You’re on a Tight Budget: The ASUS TUF Gaming A15 provides excellent value for money, offering good performance at a low price.
- You Need a Durable Laptop: Its rugged build quality ensures it can withstand everyday wear and tear.
DON’T BUY IT IF
- You Want the Best Display: The display quality is adequate but not exceptional, which might not satisfy gamers who prioritize visuals.
- You Require Extensive Storage: The limited storage capacity might be a drawback for those with extensive game collections.
The ASUS TUF Gaming A15 (2023) is an excellent budget gaming laptop that offers great value for money. It’s perfect for gamers who want solid performance and durability without spending a lot.
Best Large Screen Gaming Laptop
(Image Credit: Alienware)
For gamers who prioritize screen size and immersive gameplay, the Alienware m18 is the ultimate choice. Its massive 18-inch display and powerful hardware make it ideal for those who want a desktop-like gaming experience in a portable form.
3. Alienware m18 AMD Gaming Laptop
Best Large Screen Gaming Laptop
In-Depth Review
The Alienware m18 is designed for gamers who want a large screen and powerful performance. Its 18-inch display and high-end specs make it a standout option for those who need a desktop replacement that’s still portable.
Performance:
- Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 GPU, the Alienware m18 delivers exceptional performance. It can handle the latest games at high settings, providing a smooth and immersive experience.
Design and Build:
- The Alienware m18 features a sleek and futuristic design, with customizable RGB lighting that adds a personalized touch. The build quality is solid, ensuring durability and reliability.
- Despite its large size, the laptop is well-balanced and comfortable to use for extended gaming sessions.
Display:
- The 18-inch FHD+ display is the highlight of this laptop. It offers crisp and vibrant visuals, making games look stunning. The large screen size provides an immersive experience, perfect for gaming and multimedia consumption.
Battery Life:
- The 18-inch FHD+ display is the highlight of this laptop. It offers crisp and vibrant visuals, making games look stunning. The large screen size provides an immersive experience, perfect for gaming and multimedia consumption.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 9
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080
- Display: 18-inch FHD+
REASONS TO BUY
- Large Display: The 18-inch FHD+ display offers an immersive gaming experience with plenty of screen real estate.
- Powerful Performance: The AMD Ryzen 9 processor and RTX 4080 GPU ensure top-tier gaming performance.
- Customizable RGB Lighting: Adds a personalized touch to your gaming setup.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Heavy and Bulky: The large size makes it less portable compared to smaller gaming laptops.
- High Price: Premium features come with a premium price tag.
BUY IT IF
- You Want a Large Screen for Gaming: The 18-inch display provides an expansive and immersive gaming experience.
- You Need Powerful Performance: The high-end specs ensure smooth gameplay and fast processing.
DON’T BUY IT IF
- You Need a Portable Laptop: Its large size and weight make it less convenient for on-the-go use.
- You’re on a Budget: The high price might be prohibitive for budget-conscious buyers.
In summary, the Alienware m18 AMD Gaming Laptop is an excellent choice for gamers who want a large screen and powerful performance. Its high-end specs and immersive display make it a top pick for those who need a desktop replacement in a portable form factor.
Best Portable Gaming Laptop
(Image Credit: MSI)
For gamers who need a portable and powerful machine, the MSI Katana 15 is an excellent choice. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry, while the robust specs ensure smooth gaming performance on the go.
4. MSI Katana 15
Best Portable Gaming Laptop
In-Depth Review
The MSI Katana 15 is designed for gamers who need a portable and powerful machine. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry, while the robust specs ensure smooth gaming performance.
Performance:
- The 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and RTX 4070 GPU deliver solid performance, allowing for smooth gameplay at high settings. The laptop handles most modern games with ease, providing a great gaming experience on the go.
Design and Build:
- The MSI Katana 15 features a sleek and modern design, with a durable build quality that can withstand daily use. Its lightweight and compact form factor make it easy to carry, perfect for gamers who travel frequently.
- The keyboard is comfortable and responsive, with RGB backlighting that adds a touch of style.
Display:
- The 15.6-inch display offers good visuals, with a 144Hz refresh rate that ensures smooth gameplay. While it may not have the highest resolution, it provides a great balance between performance and visual quality.
Battery Life:
- The battery life is decent, lasting around 6-7 hours with light use. This is typical for gaming laptops, so it’s advisable to keep the charger handy for extended gaming sessions.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Processor: 13th Gen Intel Core i7
- Graphics: RTX 4070
- RAM: 16GB DDR5
- Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD
REASONS TO BUY
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry, making it ideal for gaming on the go.
- Good Performance: The Intel Core i7 processor and RTX 4070 GPU deliver smooth gameplay.
- Affordable Price: Offers good value for money with its solid performance and portability.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Average Battery Life: The battery life is decent but not exceptional, lasting around 6-7 hours with light use.
- Noisy Fans: The fans can get quite loud under heavy load, which might be distracting.
BUY IT IF
- You Need a Portable Gaming Laptop: The lightweight and compact design make it perfect for gaming on the go.
- You Want Good Performance at a Reasonable Price: The MSI Katana 15 offers solid specs at an affordable price.
DON’T BUY IT IF
- You Need Long Battery Life: The battery life is average, so it might not be suitable for extended gaming sessions without a charger.
- You’re Sensitive to Noise: The fans can get quite noisy during intense gaming.
The MSI Katana 15 is an excellent portable gaming laptop that offers good performance and portability at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for gamers who need a reliable and powerful machine on the go.
Best Affordable Midrange Gaming Laptop
(Image Credit: Acer)
For gamers seeking a balance between affordability and performance, the Acer Nitro 16 offers an excellent midrange option. With solid specs and a large display, it provides great value for money without compromising on gaming capabilities.
5. Acer Nitro 16 Gaming Laptop
Best Affordable Midrange Gaming Laptop
In-Depth Review
The Acer Nitro 16 is a great midrange gaming laptop that offers a balance between affordability and performance. Its large display and solid specs make it a great choice for gamers who want good value for money.
Performance:
- Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, the Acer Nitro 16 delivers decent performance for most games. It can handle high settings in many titles, providing a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.
Design and Build:
- The laptop features a sleek and modern design with a durable build quality. While it may not be as robust as higher-end models, it’s built to last and can handle the rigors of daily use.
- The keyboard is comfortable and responsive, with RGB backlighting that adds a touch of style.
Display:
- The 16” WQXGA display is a standout feature, offering crisp and vibrant visuals. The high refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay, making it perfect for gaming and multimedia consumption.
Battery Life:
- The battery life is decent, lasting around 7-8 hours with light use. This allows for some gaming sessions without needing to be constantly plugged in.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
- RAM: 16GB DDR5
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Display: 16” WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS anti-glare touchscreen with 240Hz refresh rate
REASONS TO BUY
- Affordable Price: Offers solid performance at a midrange price point.
- Large Display: The 16” display provides an immersive gaming experience.
- Decent Performance: The AMD Ryzen 7 processor and RTX 4060 GPU handle most games well.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Average Build Quality: The build quality is decent but not as robust as higher-end models.
- Limited Storage: The 512GB SSD may not be sufficient for gamers with large game libraries.
BUY IT IF
- You’re Looking for an Affordable Midrange Option: The Acer Nitro 16 offers great value for money with its solid performance and large display.
- You Want a Large Screen: The 16” display provides an immersive gaming experience.
DON’T BUY IT IF
- You Need Robust Build Quality: The build quality is decent but not exceptional, which might not satisfy those who prioritize durability.
- You Require Extensive Storage: The limited storage capacity might be a drawback for those with extensive game collections.
The Acer Nitro 16 Gaming Laptop is an excellent midrange option that offers great value for money. It’s perfect for gamers who want a large display and solid performance without spending a lot.
Best High-End Gaming Laptop
(Image Credit: Lenovo)
For gamers who seek a balance between performance and price, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 is an excellent choice. It offers robust performance with high-end features at a more accessible price point, making it perfect for serious gamers who don’t want to splurge on a premium model.
6. Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 (2023 Model)
Best High-End Gaming Laptop
In-Depth Review
The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 is designed for gamers who demand the best. With its high-end specs and premium build quality, it’s a top contender for those looking for a powerful gaming laptop.
Performance:
- The Intel Core i9-13900HX and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 GPU ensure that the Legion Pro 7i can handle the latest games at the highest settings. During testing, it delivered outstanding frame rates and smooth gameplay across various titles.
Design and Build:
- The laptop features a sleek, professional design with a sturdy build. While it’s heavier than some other models, the quality and durability are evident.
- The RGB lighting on the keyboard adds a customizable touch, appealing to gamers who enjoy personalized aesthetics.
Display:
- The 16-inch QHD+ display is one of the best in its class, offering sharp and vibrant visuals. The 165Hz refresh rate ensures that fast-paced action appears smooth and fluid, making it perfect for competitive gaming.
Battery Life:
- Battery life is average, lasting around 6-7 hours with regular use. Given its powerful hardware, this is expected, but it’s advisable to keep the charger handy for extended gaming sessions.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Processor: Intel Core i9-13900HX
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080
- RAM: 32GB
- Storage: 1TB SSD
- Display: 16-inch QHD+ 165Hz
REASONS TO BUY
- Exceptional Performance: The Intel Core i9-13900HX and RTX 4080 GPU deliver unbeatable gaming performance.
- High-Quality Display: The 16-inch QHD+ display with a 165Hz refresh rate provides stunning visuals and smooth gameplay.
- Ample RAM and Storage: 32GB of RAM and 1TB SSD ensure quick load times and seamless multitasking.
REASONS TO AVOID
- High Price: Premium features come at a high cost, making it less accessible for budget-conscious gamers.
- Heavy and Bulky: The robust build adds to the weight, making it less portable.
BUY IT IF
- You Need Top-Tier Performance: The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 is built to handle the most demanding games and tasks.
- You Want a Premium Display: The QHD+ display with a high refresh rate ensures an immersive and visually stunning gaming experience.
DON’T BUY IT IF
- You’re on a Budget: The high price might be prohibitive for those looking for a more affordable option.
- You Need a Lightweight Laptop: Its bulkier design might not be suitable for those prioritizing portability.
Battery life is average, lasting around 6-7 hours with regular use. Given its powerful hardware, this is expected, but it’s advisable to keep the charger handy for extended gaming sessions.
Best Midrange Gaming Laptop
(Image Credit: Dell)
For gamers seeking a balanced performance at a midrange price, the Dell G16 7630 is an excellent choice. It offers robust specifications and a high-refresh-rate display, making it perfect for gamers who want solid performance without breaking the bank.
7. Dell G16 7630 Gaming Laptop
Best Midrange Gaming Laptop
In-Depth Review
The Dell G16 7630 is a fantastic midrange gaming laptop that offers a balance between performance and price. Its robust specs and high-refresh-rate display make it a great choice for serious gamers.
Performance:
- Powered by an Intel Core i9-13900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, the Dell G16 7630 delivers excellent performance. It handles most modern games at high settings, providing a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.
Design and Build:
- The laptop features a sturdy and professional design with a durable build quality. While it’s slightly heavier than some other midrange models, it’s built to last and can handle daily use.
- The keyboard is comfortable and responsive, with customizable RGB backlighting.
Display:
- The 16-inch QHD+ display is a standout feature, offering crisp and vibrant visuals. The 165Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay, making it perfect for gaming and multimedia consumption.
Battery Life:
- The battery life is decent, lasting around 6-7 hours with light use. This allows for some gaming sessions without needing to be constantly plugged in.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Processor: Intel Core i9-13900HX
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
- RAM: 16GB DDR5
- Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD
- Display: 16-inch QHD+ 165Hz
REASONS TO BUY
- Balanced Performance: The Intel Core i9-13900HX and RTX 4070 GPU offer excellent performance for gaming and multitasking.
- High-Refresh-Rate Display: The 16-inch QHD+ display with a 165Hz refresh rate ensures smooth and responsive gameplay.
- Ample Storage: The 1TB NVMe SSD provides fast load times and plenty of storage space for games and applications.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Average Battery Life: The battery life is decent but not exceptional, lasting around 6-7 hours with regular use.
- Heavier Design: It’s slightly bulkier than some other midrange laptops, making it less portable.
BUY IT IF
- You Want Solid Midrange Performance: The Dell G16 7630 offers great performance and features at a midrange price, making it a good value for money.
- You Need a High-Refresh-Rate Display: The 165Hz display provides a smooth and immersive gaming experience.
DON’T BUY IT IF
- You Need Long Battery Life: The battery life is average, so it might not be suitable for extended gaming sessions without a charger.
- You Prefer a Lightweight Laptop: The slightly bulkier design might not be ideal for those prioritizing portability.
The Dell G16 7630 Gaming Laptop is an excellent midrange option that offers great performance and features at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for gamers who want a high-refresh-rate display and solid specs without spending a fortune.
Best Premium Gaming Laptop
(Image Credit: Razer)
For those who seek top-tier performance, style, and portability, the Razer Blade 15 stands out as the best premium gaming laptop. It combines powerful hardware with an elegant design, making it ideal for gamers and creative professionals who want a sleek and powerful machine.
8. Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop (2024)
Best Premium Gaming Laptop
In-Depth Review
The Razer Blade 15 returns in 2024 with an upgraded CPU and maintains the same iconic style that has made it a favorite among gamers. Crafted from a single block of CNC aluminum, it boasts a robust build quality comparable to that of a MacBook Pro, while being lightweight and highly portable.
The latest hardware refresh includes the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS CPU and up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, making it a formidable contender in the gaming laptop market. Although it doesn’t dramatically outperform its predecessor, it does offer significant improvements, securing its position as the top 14-inch gaming laptop.
Performance:
- The RTX 4070 GPU allows the Razer Blade 15 to achieve impressive gaming benchmarks. In Assassin’s Creed Mirage at its highest settings and native 2560x1600p resolution, the laptop maintained an average of 73 FPS.
- In Cyberpunk 2077 at native resolution, it averaged 23 FPS. While this may seem low, enabling DLSS 3 significantly boosts performance, ensuring a playable framerate at high resolutions.
Design and Build:
- The Razer Blade 15’s design is both sleek and durable. Its CNC aluminum chassis not only looks premium but also provides a sturdy build that can withstand daily use.
- The laptop’s portability is one of its standout features. It’s easy to carry, making it ideal for gamers who travel frequently or need a powerful machine for both work and play.
Display:
- The 14-inch QHD+ display is a highlight, offering a 240Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time, which ensures smooth gameplay and vivid visuals. The 100% DCI-P3 color gamut provides excellent color accuracy, making it great for both gaming and creative work.
Battery Life:
- Battery life remains a weak point. The Razer Blade 15 (2024) manages around six and a half hours of light use, which is lower than its predecessor’s eight hours. While this is typical for gaming laptops, it’s something to consider if you need longer battery endurance.
SPECIFICATIONS
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS
- Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 – 4070
- RAM: Up to 32GB DDR5
- Display: 14-inch, QHD+ (2560×1600), 240Hz, 3ms, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut
- Storage: 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD
REASONS TO BUY
- Excellent Gaming Performance: The Razer Blade 15 excels in delivering high frame rates and stunning visuals, thanks to its powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card.
- Thin and Light: Weighing just a few pounds, it’s incredibly portable for a gaming laptop, making it perfect for gaming on the go.
- Great Audio System: The laptop’s audio quality is exceptional, providing an immersive sound experience for both gaming and media consumption.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Expensive: The high-end specs come with a hefty price tag, making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
- Poor Battery Life: Despite its performance capabilities, the battery life falls short, lasting only around six and a half hours with light use.
BUY IT IF
- You Want the Best 14-inch Gaming Laptop: The Razer Blade 15 continues to set the standard for portable gaming laptops.
- You Want a Stylish Gaming Laptop: This laptop features a sleek, elegant design without the typical RGB lighting, appealing to gamers who prefer a more subdued aesthetic.
DON’T BUY IT IF
- You’re on a Budget: The Razer Blade 15’s premium price makes it a significant investment, which may not be suitable for all budgets.
- You Want Better Battery Life: Its battery performance is subpar compared to other laptops in its class.
The Razer Blade 15 (2024) is an outstanding gaming laptop that excels in performance, design, and display quality. Despite its higher price and limited battery life, its exceptional capabilities make it a top recommendation for gamers who want the best portable gaming experience.
FAQ Section
What Should I Look for in a Gaming Laptop?
When choosing a gaming laptop, consider the following factors:
- GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): The GPU is crucial for gaming performance. Aim for at least an Nvidia RTX 4050 or AMD Radeon RX 7600M for 1080p gaming.
- CPU (Central Processing Unit): A strong CPU is important for overall performance. Look for an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 for the best balance between power and price.
- RAM: 16GB of RAM is recommended for smooth multitasking and gaming performance.
- Storage: Opt for at least a 1TB SSD to ensure you have enough space for games and other applications.
- Display: Consider a high-refresh-rate display (120Hz or more) for smoother gameplay. A 1440p resolution is a good balance between quality and performance.
- Battery Life: Gaming laptops typically have shorter battery life due to high power consumption. If you need longer battery life, look for models with efficient power management.
Are Gaming Laptops Good for Everyday Use?
Yes, gaming laptops are versatile and can handle everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming, and productivity work. Their powerful hardware makes them suitable for demanding applications beyond gaming, including video editing and 3D modeling.
How Long Do Gaming Laptops Last?
The lifespan of a gaming laptop depends on usage and maintenance. On average, a gaming laptop can last 3-5 years before needing an upgrade. High-end models may last longer, especially if well-maintained and kept cool.
Are Expensive Gaming Laptops Worth It?
Expensive gaming laptops offer the best performance, build quality, and features. If you are a serious gamer or need a powerful machine for demanding tasks, investing in a high-end gaming laptop can be worth it. However, midrange and budget options also provide excellent value for money for casual gamers or those with tighter budgets.
Choosing the best gaming laptop in 2024 depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. From premium models like the Razer Blade 15 that offer top-tier performance and style, to budget-friendly options like the ASUS TUF Gaming A15 that deliver solid gaming capabilities without breaking the bank, there’s a perfect gaming laptop for everyone.
Whether you’re a hardcore gamer looking for the ultimate performance or a casual gamer seeking a balance between price and capability, our in-depth reviews and recommendations are designed to help you make an informed decision. Each laptop on our list has been tested extensively to ensure it meets the highest standards of gaming performance and quality.
Investing in a gaming laptop that suits your needs will enhance your gaming experience and provide you with a powerful machine for years to come.