10 Best Gaming Laptops in 2024

When it comes to selecting the perfect gaming laptop, the vast array of options can make the task daunting. With each passing year, manufacturers introduce new models featuring ever more powerful CPUs and GPUs. To ensure you make the right choice, it’s essential to focus on key factors like CPU and GPU performance, long-term functionality including thermal management, display specifications such as refresh rate and VRR support, and the comfort and responsiveness of the keyboard. Additionally, for those who prefer gaming without a headset, it’s important to consider the noise level generated by the laptop’s cooling system under heavy loads. Moreover, if portability is a priority for you, evaluating the laptop’s size, weight, and battery life is crucial.

Having conducted thorough testing on over 250 laptops, we’ve curated a list of the best gaming laptops currently available. Explore our recommendations to find the perfect fit for your gaming needs. Additionally, we offer insights into top-performing laptops overall, budget-friendly gaming options, and the leading Windows-based models.

 

10 Best Gaming Laptops in 2024

 

1. Alienware M17R5 – Best Gaming Laptop

The pinnacle of gaming excellence in our review lineup is the latest offering from Alienware M17R5 Gaming Laptop. Boasting a breathtaking 17.3-inch FHD display with an exceptional 480Hz refresh rate, this laptop sets new standards for immersive gaming experiences. Powered by the formidable AMD Ryzen 9-6900HX processor and featuring a generous 32GB of lightning-fast DDR5 RAM, it ensures unparalleled performance for even the most demanding games and tasks.

Equipped with a spacious 1TB SSD and the powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GDDR6 graphics card, the Alienware M17R5 delivers stunning visuals and smooth gameplay. Plus, with Windows 11 Home pre-installed, you’ll enjoy the latest features and enhancements tailored for gaming and productivity purposes.

While the Alienware M17R5 boasts exceptional build quality, its bulkiness and weight may impact portability. Additionally, its battery life during gaming sessions may be limited, necessitating the need to carry the charger. However, the customizable keyboard, available with scissor or low-profile CherryMX mechanical switches, ensures personalized comfort for extended gaming sessions. Online gamers will appreciate the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E and an Ethernet port for a stable internet connection.

For those seeking an even larger and more immersive gaming experience, the Alienware M17R5 is an excellent option. With top-of-the-line hardware and cutting-edge features, it offers unparalleled gaming prowess that will elevate your gaming experience to new heights.

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2. ASUS TUF Dash 15 Gaming Laptop – Best Budget Laptop

The top budget-friendly gaming laptop we’ve evaluated is the ASUS TUF Dash 15 Gaming Laptop. Available with an Intel Core i7-12650H processor and a GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card, this laptop offers impressive performance at an affordable price point. Equipped with a 15.6-inch 144Hz FHD display, it provides smooth and immersive gaming experiences.

Featuring 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 512GB SSD, the ASUS TUF Dash 15 delivers responsive multitasking and fast storage for games and applications. Additionally, it boasts Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for high-speed data transfer and device connectivity. Pre-installed with Windows 11 Home, this laptop offers the latest features and optimizations for gaming and productivity.

While the ASUS TUF Dash 15 excels in performance and affordability, it’s important to note that its battery life may be limited during intense gaming sessions. Additionally, the cooling fans can become audible under heavy loads, but the laptop maintains comfortable temperatures for extended use. With its sleek design and robust features, the ASUS TUF Dash 15 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers.

 

3. GIGABYTE G5 Gaming Laptop – Best Affordable Gaming Laptop

 

Featuring a 144Hz 1920×1080 FHD display and powered by an Intel i7-13620H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card, this laptop delivers exceptional gaming performance at an affordable price point. With a generous 1TB SSD and 16GB of DDR5 RAM, it provides ample storage and memory for gaming and multitasking.

Equipped with Win11 Home+, this laptop offers the latest features and optimizations for gaming and productivity. While the GIGABYTE – G5 excels in performance and affordability, it’s important to note that its battery life may be limited during intense gaming sessions. Additionally, the cooling system ensures optimal thermal management, maintaining comfortable temperatures for extended gaming sessions.

With its sleek design and robust features, the GIGABYTE G5 Gaming Laptop is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers seeking a high-performance gaming experience.

 

4. Acer Chromebook 516 GE – Best Gaming Chromebook

 

The top gaming Chromebook we’ve evaluated is the Acer Chromebook 516 GE. Differing from the aforementioned selections, this device operates on Chrome OS, an operating system not typically associated with gaming, and relies on its Intel 12th Gen Core i5-1240P CPU and integrated graphics. It’s tailored for cloud gaming services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW, where processing occurs on NVIDIA’s servers—or those of the service provider—streaming the image to your device, negating the need for powerful hardware. The laptop includes a three-month trial of the GeForce NOW paid subscription service.

The overall build quality is commendable, and despite being somewhat bulky, it remains reasonably lightweight, ensuring portability. Its 16-inch QHD display features responsive performance, and it offers a 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth viewing experience. Additionally, it provides Wi-Fi 6E wireless connectivity and an RJ45 Ethernet port, crucial for optimal cloud gaming performance and stable internet connections. The spacious keyboard delivers tactile feedback and includes RGB backlighting, enhancing the typing experience. Unfortunately, battery life is notably short, providing approximately six hours of light use or an hour of gaming.

 

5. Lenovo LOQ Gaming Laptop – Best Mid-range Laptop

 

Our top mid-range choice is the Lenovo LOQ Gaming Laptop. This 16.0″ WUXGA model features an AMD 8-Core Ryzen 7 7840HS processor, comparable to the performance of an Intel i7-12700H, and is equipped with a GeForce RTX 4060 GPU. While it may not offer the same level of sturdiness as the aforementioned Alienware in terms of build quality, it still provides solid performance. With display options limited to either a 165Hz or a 240Hz QHD+ IPS panel, it offers a responsive and immersive gaming experience.

Featuring a tactile, backlit keyboard and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, the Lenovo LOQ ensures comfortable typing and fast wireless performance. It also boasts an array of ports, including HDMI 2.1 and Ethernet, providing ample connectivity options. Although the fans may become loud under heavy load, both the CPU and GPU maintain consistent performance without throttling. With a generous 64GB of DDR5 RAM and a massive 4TB PCIe SSD, this laptop offers ample storage and memory for gaming and multitasking. Additionally, it comes equipped with a webcam and runs on Windows 11 Home, ensuring a seamless and modern user experience.

 

6. MSI Titan 18 – Best Laptop for Heavy Gaming

 

The MSI Titan GT77 HX stands as a pinnacle of technological prowess, offering an array of cutting-edge features that cater to the most discerning of users. While its price tag of $5,500 may place it beyond the reach of many, rest assured that there are more budget-friendly alternatives available for those seeking similar performance. Powered by the formidable Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and the latest Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop GPU, coupled with an ample 128GB of RAM and a capacious 4TB SSD storage, this powerhouse of a laptop delivers unparalleled performance across a myriad of tasks, from gaming to content creation.

Despite the incremental improvements of the 14th Gen Intel Core processor over its predecessors, the Titan 18 HX truly shines when faced with demanding workloads, effortlessly handling resource-intensive applications such as running Cyberpunk 2077 on the Ray Tracing Ultra preset. Moreover, the inclusion of a Cherry MX mechanical keyboard elevates the typing and gaming experience, providing tactile feedback and satisfying keystrokes. It’s worth noting, however, that these switches are not extended to the number and arrow keys, which may be a minor drawback for some users.

Perhaps the most striking feature of the MSI Titan GT77 HX is its stunning 18-inch mini-LED display, boasting an impressive 112.4% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut and achieving a remarkable peak brightness of 559 nits. Whether you’re immersing yourself in the latest AAA titles or indulging in a cinematic viewing experience, the HDR display ensures vibrant colors and stunning clarity. In summary, the MSI Titan GT77 HX represents the epitome of desktop-grade performance condensed into a sleek and portable form factor, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike who demand nothing but the best.

 

7. Asus ROG Strix G16 – Best Portable Gaming Laptop

 

The Asus ROG Strix G16 has emerged as a formidable competitor in the market of powerful and portable gaming laptops, standing toe-to-toe with offerings from industry leaders like Razer. Boasting a robust configuration featuring the Core i9-13980HX processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics, this laptop delivers exceptional performance within its remarkably slim 0.89-inch chassis. While its design may not match the sleekness of Razer’s Blades, the Strix G16 offers a compelling value proposition with its competitive pricing at $2,200. Moreover, users will find the laptop’s battery life to be impressive, lasting for an impressive 8 hours and 49 minutes on our rigorous battery test. Additionally, the inclusion of RGB keys with 2 millimeters of travel adds a touch of customization and comfort to the gaming experience.

Constructed with an aluminum lid and a plastic body, the ROG Strix G16 exudes durability and reliability, providing peace of mind to users during prolonged gaming sessions. Despite its plastic construction, the laptop feels anything but cheap, boasting a sturdy build that can withstand the rigors of regular use. In our extensive performance benchmarks, the ROG Strix G16 consistently surpassed the 60 fps mark, delivering smooth and immersive gameplay experiences at both 1080p and its native resolution of 1920 x 200. However, it’s worth noting that our unit featured a 1920 x 1200 touch screen, which may not meet the expectations of users accustomed to higher resolutions. Nevertheless, with the formidable RTX 4070 graphics at its helm, the laptop is more than capable of handling demanding gaming titles with ease.

The Asus ROG Strix G16 presents a compelling option for gamers seeking a high-performance laptop that strikes a balance between power, portability, and affordability. With its impressive specifications, sturdy build quality, and competitive pricing, the Strix G16 is poised to cater to the needs of both casual gamers and enthusiasts alike, offering an exceptional gaming experience without breaking the bank.

 

8. Lenovo Legion Pro 5i – Best 16 Inch Gaming Laptop

 

At a price point below $1,800, you’ll discover an enticing array of 16-inch esports laptops crafted to meet the demands of discerning gamers. These laptops feature screens optimized for immersive gaming experiences, boasting high-resolution displays that bring your favorite games to life with stunning clarity. With a 2560 x 1600 WQXGA resolution and an impressive refresh rate of 240Hz, these machines excel in competitive esports gaming while delivering unparalleled visual fidelity for action-packed titles. Although some gaming laptops offer faster displays, they often come with a premium price tag that may not fit within everyone’s budget.

Delving into the specifications, the Lenovo Legion Pro 5i boasts top-of-the-line hardware, including a 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 8G GPU. Supported by a whopping 64GB of DDR5 RAM and a spacious 2TB NVMe SSD, this laptop ensures seamless performance for gaming, content creation, and multitasking needs.

The Lenovo Legion Pro 5i stands out with its impressive features, including a 2560 x 1600 WQXGA display and a rapid refresh rate of 240Hz. Additionally, the laptop comes equipped with Windows 11, providing users with a modern and intuitive operating system experience. During rigorous testing, the SSD demonstrated remarkable speed, further solidifying the laptop’s ability to deliver competitive gaming performance. However, it’s important to note that users may experience fan noise and suboptimal audio quality. In such cases, investing in one of the best gaming headsets can greatly enhance the overall gaming experience.

 

9. Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 – Best Dual-Screen Laptop for Gaming

 

Asus continues to lead the way in gaming innovation, constantly pushing boundaries to provide gamers with unparalleled experiences. The Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 exemplifies this commitment, offering dual screens powered by AMD’s Ryzen 9 7945HX and Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 40890. This powerhouse of a laptop features a secondary ScreenPad Plus, which not only provides extra space for chat apps or guides during gaming sessions but also contributes to enhanced ventilation when lifted.

With its main mini LED screen boasting an impressive 684 nits of brightness, the Zephyrus Duo delivers stunning visuals that bring HDR games and shows to life with unparalleled clarity. Moreover, while the ScreenPad Plus sports a glossy finish, the main screen maintains a matte surface, ensuring a balanced visual experience that’s easy on the eyes.

In terms of design, Asus sets itself apart with unique shiny purple and blue lines on the lid, eschewing the standard RGB for a more refined and distinctive appearance. However, there’s still room for improvement in the placement of the keyboard and mouse, an area that Asus could address in future iterations.

Despite this, the Zephyrus Duo offers a unique advantage with its dual screens, providing gamers with increased productivity and multitasking capabilities. While it may not outperform Intel-based competitors in certain gaming suites, the added functionality of the second screen can greatly enhance the overall gaming experience for many users.

Ultimately, the decision to invest in the Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 depends on whether the dual-screen setup aligns with your gaming needs and preferences. As Asus continues to innovate and refine its technology, gamers can expect even more groundbreaking solutions that redefine the gaming landscape.

 

10. Acer Nitro Gaming Laptop – Best Budget Gaming Laptop Alternative

 

The Acer Nitro line has solidified its reputation as a top contender in the gaming laptop market, consistently delivering a winning combination of durability, performance, and affordability. With the introduction of the Nitro 16, replacing its predecessor, the Nitro 5, Acer has raised the bar for entry-level gaming laptops. Powered by an RTX 4050 and a Ryzen 5 7640HS, this powerhouse machine offers impressive performance that rivals higher-priced competitors, all while remaining budget-friendly at under $1,000.

Our comprehensive review of the Nitro 16 revealed a standout feature: its stunning 1920 x 1200, 165 Hz display with G-Sync support. Designed with esports enthusiasts in mind, this high-resolution screen delivers smooth, tear-free gameplay and vibrant visuals, boasting a brightness of 371 nits and covering 91% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. Whether you’re diving into intense multiplayer battles or exploring vast open worlds, the Nitro 16’s display ensures an immersive gaming experience like no other.

During rigorous game testing, the Nitro 16 proved its mettle, consistently delivering solid performance that exceeded expectations. With frame rates surpassing 60 fps in nearly every game at its native resolution of 1920 x 1200, this laptop is more than capable of handling today’s most demanding titles with ease. Additionally, its impressive battery life of 8 hours and 24 minutes ensures uninterrupted gaming sessions, even on the go.

While the Nitro 16 offers exceptional value for its price, there are a few areas where Acer could improve. The webcam quality may not meet the standards of discerning users, and the presence of bloatware out of the box can be a minor inconvenience. However, these drawbacks are easily overshadowed by the Nitro 16’s standout features, including USB 4 support and outstanding performance.

The Acer Nitro 16 sets a new standard for entry-level gaming laptops, offering a winning combination of affordability, performance, and features. Whether you’re a casual gamer on a budget or a seasoned esports competitor, the Nitro 16 delivers the performance and reliability you need to stay ahead of the game.

 

How we test gaming laptops

 

When it comes to reviewing gaming laptops, we follow a rigorous testing process aimed at thoroughly assessing their performance and suitability. Our methodology involves subjecting each laptop to a series of tests and benchmarks to provide comprehensive insights into its capabilities.

During our stress tests, we utilize the Metro Exodus benchmark on the RTX preset, running it multiple times to analyze performance under sustained load and thermal management. Additionally, we conduct productivity benchmarks like Geekbench and Handbrake, alongside proprietary tests, to evaluate real-world performance beyond gaming.

Display quality is meticulously evaluated using advanced tools such as colorimeters and light meters, ensuring accurate assessments of brightness and color accuracy. Our battery tests simulate typical usage scenarios to provide insights into real-world battery life.

In addition to quantitative testing, we incorporate qualitative assessments based on real-world usage, such as gaming, multimedia consumption, and productivity tasks. Furthermore, we disassemble each laptop to assess user-replaceable parts, providing valuable information for potential upgrades and repairs.

Our comprehensive testing approach ensures that gamers can make informed decisions when choosing a gaming laptop, considering factors like performance, display quality, battery life, and user experience.

 

Final Thoughts

 

When considering gaming laptops, it’s essential to prioritize the GPU. The GPU is a critical component for gaming performance, and its capabilities significantly impact your gaming experience. Investing in a powerful GPU upfront ensures that you’ll enjoy smooth gaming sessions for years to come, as GPUs are not upgradeable after purchase.

It’s also wise to plan for future upgrades. While CPUs and GPUs are typically fixed components in gaming laptops, many models offer flexibility for upgrading RAM and storage. Starting with a more affordable configuration and upgrading these components later can help you save money in the long term. Thicker gaming laptops often provide better upgrade options compared to sleeker models, so it’s worth researching this aspect before making a purchase. Detailed upgrade information is provided in our reviews to assist you in making informed decisions.

Most gaming laptops struggle to achieve extended battery life, often requiring them to be plugged in for optimal performance. While advancements in technology, such as AMD’s Ryzen processors and Nvidia’s Optimus technology, may improve battery efficiency, gaming while connected to a power source remains the best practice for optimal gaming performance.