RTX 50-Series mobile GPUs may be paired with previous generation processors in 2025
Rumors are swirling around next-gen RTX 50-Series GPUs being paired with existing Intel processors in 2025's configurations. If true, it's telling of the kind of performance jump we can expect between generations.
The best gaming laptops do far more than run your favorite PC games in a more portable form factor, they do so with high quality displays, a slick selection of ports, comfortable and satisfying keyboards, and thermal controls that prevent throttling. It's easy to get sidetracked by the glitz of the most expensive models, though, which is why value for money is one of the biggest factors that should go into your decision. I've used $800 / £800 machines that offer far better value than $2,000 / £2,000 rigs and I've used mid-range options that take you much further than only slightly cheaper models.
The best gaming laptop I've tested so far is, overall, the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9. The 2024 model is seriously impressive in its performance and design, offering some fantastic benchmark results while still maintaining a slick and subtle form factor. We're at an apex of current-generation power right now, with gaming laptops pairing Intel and AMD's latest processors with Nvidia's turbo-powered RTX 40-Series generation. While rumors of the RTX 50-Series are just starting to spill out, this year's machines still represent the best of the market.
You'll find all my favorites below, with each rig having passed a series of in-game and dedicated stress-test benchmark processes. I've also lived, worked, and played with all of these machines for a minimum of two weeks each (and more when I can swing it that way). That means you know each one has been not only play-tested but life-tested along the way. You can check out exactly how we test gaming laptops in our dedicated guide.
If you're on the hunt for some particularly low prices, you're browsing at the right time. Plenty of the options on this list are regularly featured in annual Black Friday gaming laptop deals, and discounts are already hitting the shelves.
The quick list
The best gaming laptop overall
The latest Legion Pro has taken the top spot on the market, boasting excellent performance and a chassis that won't take over your desk.
The best cheap gaming laptop
You don't need to spend big on a gaming laptop - especially if you play lighter games. The Asus TUF A15 offers the best price/performance value we've tested.
The best 14-inch gaming laptop
The latest Zephyrus G14 feels more like an ultrabook with its slick design and OLED panel. It's still got gaming chops, though - making it our go-to 14-incher.
The best 16-inch gaming laptop
Yes, the Blade 16 is going to cost you - but it's the best 16-inch model on the market thanks to its blinding OLED display and fantastic performance.
The best 18-inch gaming laptop
The Alienware M18 walks a fine line. It's a beast but that means it can rev its components to their maximum value - for a fair price to boot.
The most powerful we've tested
The MSI Titan 18 HX is a beast, splitting its sides with the latest and greatest components and throwing out some of the highest benchmark scores we've seen yet.
Show more ↓
Best slimline
The HP Omen Transcend 14 feels almost like a Chromebook, but that super-skinny plastic chassis and low weight hide some solid performance.
I've always been obsessed with laptops, from opening my lunch box at school and pretending to actually own one to finally getting my first machine that could just about, barely, run The Sims 2. Since then I've been through more gaming laptops than I can count, and - thankfully for my bank balance - have been reviewing these magic machines for over three years at 12DOVE. While I can certainly appreciate a top of the range set of components, my background as a Deals Editor at our sister site TechRadar has also taught me the importance of value, so I consistently hold a particularly keen eye for user experience, long-term reliability, and the price/performance balancing act.
Recent updates
October 29 - New leaks surrounding next year's Nvidia RTX 50-Series graphics cards made their way to the rumor mill this week, so I've added more information on what might be heading our way to this guide. That includes whether or not it's worth buying a gaming laptop before the new models arrive next year, while also detailing the SKU list in full. As for right now, the MSI Raider 18 HX is currently on my test bench, a slightly cheaper 18-inch alternative to the MSI Titan. Things are looking promising so far, so stay tuned for the full review and whether or not Alienware's M18 R2 is pushed from its big-screen top spot.
The best gaming laptop overall
My favorite configuration
The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 has kicked the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 off the top spot. Both are high-end 16-inch gaming laptops configurable up to an RTX 4090 but the boosted performance, slicker chassis, and improved design of the Legion Pro makes it the better buy in 2024.
✅ You want the best of both worlds: You're usually sacrificing performance to pick up a slimline machine and while the Legion Pro certainly isn't skinny its design means it doesn't look or feel so imposing on a desk.
✅ You're also a content creator: While it's not a 4K panel, the color accuracy and contrast of the Legion Pro's display is a sight to behold. Covering all the gamuts you'll need, this is a perfect fit for multi-taskers.
✅ You're investing long-term: The price is certainly high, but with top of the range components under the hood this is a gaming laptop that will see you through new releases for years to come.
❌ You don't need 100+ framerates: If you just play less demanding games, or you're happy spending less and sticking closer to 60fps then there are far cheaper options out there.
❌ You use particularly fast peripherals: The Legion Pro features older USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, which isn't going to make much of a difference for the vast majority of players. However, if all your peripherals use newer, faster, connections it might be worth looking elsewhere.
Design: There's some kind of magic going on in the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9's design. This is a heavy device, weighing in at 2.79kg (more than the Alienware M16 R2, Asus ROG Strix Scar 16, and Razer Blade 16), but it doesn't invade your backpack in quite the same way and chunkier model. The front edge is tapered, with only the rear I/O panel and a little of the sides sitting at full width. That gives the illusion of a much more svelt machine than the Scar 16 while still packing the power of a full chonk.
Actual build construction is fantastic as well, with an aluminum base and a skinny lid. Despite its minute size, this top panel holds up extremely well - only ever wobbling when being lowered slightly and snapping straight into place when opened with one hand. There's also very little flex to this piece, whereas I would have expected a far bendier experience. You've got all the RGB you can want, with per-key illumination on the full-sized keyboard and a neat strip of LEDs along the front (I personally prefer this more refined effect than the blaring grill of the ROG Strix Scar 16).
Features: The main upgrade this year, like many other gaming laptops, comes to the Legion Pro's screen. It's still a 16-inch QHD+ 240Hz panel, but Lenovo has boosted its color handling, pushing the IPS display to cover 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut as well as the sRGB range already offered by the previous model. In the real world, that means far more definition between your colors, with games popping off the screen and a particularly immersive vividity to both brighter and darker scenes.
Not only that, but the keyboard underneath that screen is one of the best I've tested, offering a super springy feel and a tactile, clean response. Your port selection is pretty standard fare, with two USB-C options (both offering power delivery and Display Port 1.4), one being Thunderbolt 4. However the four USB-A connections on offer are all USB 3.2 Gen 1. That's not going to make much of a difference to the majority of players' peripherals, but if you're using faster, more recent gadgets you might get a slower transfer rate on paper.
Performance: The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i consistently performed better than the ROG Strix Scar 16 across synthetic and in-game benchmarks, posting some framerates that gave the (admittedly skinnier) RTX 4090 Razer Blade 16 something to think about. This is a particularly well-engineered device, running in 1080p Ultra settings at between 97fps and 195fps and QHD Ultra taking us to 71fps - 184fps. That puts it at the top of my RTX 4080 comparison pool, sometimes even overtaking far more expensive RTX 4090 configurations.
Verdict: The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i can top the performance charts in its price range, depending on the game, and does it all in a chassis that looks and feels more streamlined than that of the Strix Scar 16. It sits in the middle of the price range, but punches well above that position in both performance and quality of life features and that's a rare beast indeed.
Read more: Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 review
The best cheap gaming laptop
My favorite configuration:
The Asus TUF A15 has long been held as a staple among budget gaming laptops, but the latest model has cemented its position as one of the greats. This is a cheaper rig, so you're making some sacrifices to get those latest components in the price tag. However, the performance on offer is fantastic value for money as a result.
✅ You prioritize speed over finesse: The 1080p display in here is built to handle speed over the extra details you might find in a 1440p or 1600p screen.
✅ You're happy to crank up the fans: We got our best results from the Turbo Mode power preset which can kick those fans up to give you a tangible boost in performance.
✅ You don't want it to look cheap: The metal lid and simple color scheme makes the A15 look far more premium than its price tag suggests. If you're looking to spend less without that typical budget aesthetic, this is your best bet.
❌ You need a machine for daily work: If you're after a portable machine for daily work out and about, this isn't it. Not only is it chunkier than other ultrabooks at similar prices, but the keyboard and trackpad aren't up to a full day's clacking.
❌ You want to push demanding games to their limits: There's only so much an RTX 4060 or RTX 4070 can do - if you're looking to play next year's biggest Triple-As on max settings we'd recommend something with a little more power.
Design: From the cool gray tones to the metal lid, the Asus TUF A15 looks and feels more premium than it actually is. Yes, the majority of this chassis is plastic, and there are some questionably cringey text stamps on the main body, but it's a slick form factor overall and one that neatly sidesteps the common angular pitfalls of cheaper rigs.
The build quality is secure, with a nicely tightened hinge to the main display and only the expected amount of flex in the keyboard area for a gaming laptop of this price. No, it's not quite as slim as the previous Asus TUF Dash F15 before it (my personal machine for a long time), but it's still a comfortable size - easily backpackable and well below the heavyweights on this list.
Features: Like all good budget gaming laptops, the A15 has everything you need, but doesn't pump too much of your cash into any of its main feature areas. Instead, it saves its value for performance. That means you're getting a pretty standard 1080p 144Hz IPS display (in an older 16:9 form factor that did feel a little restrictive in my testing).
This screen could have benefitted from a few more nits of brightness, but displays its colors with enough contrast and vividity to get by in a more casual context. That still makes it a more immersive panel than you'll find on the HP Victus 16, a similarly priced budget entry. There's also a full-sized keyboard in here - a rarity even in 16-inchers these days - and while it's a little softer than I'd like it still gets the job done. That trackpad isn't going to see you through a work day on the go, though. It's a clunky implementation with unreliable zoning for each click side and a heavy middle section.
Performance: I was impressed with the numbers filing out of the A15's benchmarks. It actually scored higher in Time Spy and Fire Strike than a similarly specced HP Omen Transcend 16 (worth about $600 more) and managed to carry me through demanding titles like Returnal and Hitman 3 without once dropping even close to 60fps. Considering you're spending far less than usual and still scoring three-figure framerates in Shadow of the Tomb Raider this is an absolute win.
Verdict: If you're going all in on performance and your budget doesn't stretch to the big dogs in this race, the Asus TUF A15 is a must-see. It's one of the cheapest machines I've tested so far and I've come away surprised by the performance on offer as well as the form factor and design. You are making some sacrifices to get there, but at this price point they're all worthwhile.
Read more: Asus TUF A15 review
The best 14-inch gaming laptop
My favorite configuration:
The 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 changed the game again, adding a glorious OLED display and cutting its top end components from the lineup to achieve a more ultrabook-oriented slimline design. This is a masterpiece for those after the best possible experience at the intersection between power and portability.
✅You travel regularly with your laptop: Its 14-inch form factor is the giveaway here, but the G14 is particularly easy to transport thanks to its light weight and sturdy design.
✅Screen quality is a priority: That OLED panel is unmatched at the moment, offering an incredible viewing experience across both games and movies.
✅ You want a subtle aesthetic: The more refined aesthetic means you've got a gaming laptop that won't stand out from high-end ultrabook options. Think MacBook but with an RTX 4070.
❌ You're chasing framerates: The lack of RTX 4080 and RTX 4090 configuration options means you're not going to beat more high-end specs in the framerate department.
❌ You want a desktop replacement: The G14 is designed to go out and about with you - if you don't mind a larger machine you can spend less and keep it docked at home.
Design: Asus has done away with its iconic LED matrix lid, and instead opted for a much cleaner (and personally preferable for this reviewer) single diagonal stripe. Alongside a new unibody CNC milled aluminum chassis, MacBook Pro-esque light gray, and slimline base, this is a gaming laptop designed to fit in with high end ultrabooks. Dropping bigger components like the RTX 4080 and RTX 4090 from its lineup means the G14 is now one of the lightest rigs on the market at just 1.5kg, all while still retaining a particularly durable form factor.
Features: I'll have to kick off with that display. Asus partnered with Samsung for this OLED panel and the results are incredible. Everything leaps off the screen, from simple developer logos on game boot to the frenzied colors of Cyberpunk 2077. It's a little slower in the refresh rate department, but in everyday play the incredible color contrast and super vivid effect overall made for an excellent experience.
Those specs have taken a slight hit this year. The 8000 Series Ryzen 9 processor is a marginal upgrade from 2023's model, and GPUs now start at RTX 4050s and cap out at an RTX 4070. That means the overall output is going to be lower, traded out for a more slimline build.
Performance: No, the 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 isn't going to perform as well as an RTX 4090 model from the previous generation. But with that excellent screen and super slick form factor it doesn't necessarily need to. The RTX 4070 in my testing device was more than capable of staying at over 100fps at 1080p in most games, and often held that position in QHD+ as well. Performance here is on par with a similarly specced Razer Blade 14, though for a lower price, with a notable improvement further up the resolution scale.
Asus is taking the Zephyrus G14 beyond its gaming roots
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 review
Verdict: The Zephyrus G14 is the best 14-inch gaming laptop I've had my hands on so far, and 2024's iteration continues this tradition of pairing performance with outstanding portability. It's not going to reach the framerate highs of a higher powered device but with a gorgeous OLED panel and a fantastic form factor it's going to see much more use in everyday life.
Read more: 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 review
The best 16-inch gaming laptop
My favorite configuration:
The 2024 Razer Blade 16 is expensive - probably a little too expensive considering its competition. But it is the best 16-inch gaming laptop I've tested so far, and it packs a serious punch in its extra features as well.
✅ You prioritize style: Razer has bags of style about it, from that slick aesthetic to the slimline form factor. If you're looking for a high-end gaming laptop that really looks the part, you've found it here.
✅ You don't want to compromise on your display: That 240Hz OLED panel running at a full 1600p is something to behold. There's no sacrifices in this screen - it's got it all.
✅ This is a long-term investment: The Blade 16 is a lot up front, but these rigs can see you through years of the most demanding games.
❌ You only play lighter titles: If you don't play every day, or you only play low-demand games then the high cost of the Razer Blade 16 just doesn't make sense.
❌ Portability is your number one priority: Yes, the Blade 16 is slimline, but it's not as easy to transport as something smaller like the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 or G16. This is still a heavy piece of kit considering its stature.
Design: You don't need me to tell you what a Razer Blade gaming laptop looks like. These machines have all held the same black CNC milled unibody design for years now, and the 2024 Blade 16 doesn't deviate from the plan. This is still a fantastic build, though, with the rock solid form factor and slick, subtle aesthetic that has been celebrated in Razer's history. The 16-inch form factor feels good as well, that 16:10 aspect ratio gives you plenty more real estate compared to the Razer Blade 15, but doesn't overload a backpack in the same way as the Razer Blade 18.
Yes, this is still a skinny machine - especially compared to chunkier Scar models from Asus. But it's not quite as thin or light as the Asus ROG Zephyrus G16, so if you're putting portability at the forefront of your purchase you might want to consider another build. That extra size does work in the Blade 16's favor overall, though. You've got plenty more space to draw just that little extra power out of your components - which can make all the difference when balancing performance.
Features: The star of the show is that 240Hz OLED panel. Developed by Samsung, this is the first high-speed OLED I've tested and it absolutely sings, offering up a super sharp picture in 1600p and balancing incredible contrasts at the same time. This is the best display I've seen on a gaming laptop, and it's well worth checking out in person.
That screen upgrade is Razer's answer to a slow year for components. Yes, we've got Intel's new 14th generation i9 chip in all configurations (and RTX 4070 - RTX 4090 GPUs), but improvements under the hood are minimal. Similarly, the keyboard and trackpad feel pretty much the same as they always have done - though the sheer size of the latter does get in the way often. THX speakers, a FHD webcam, user-upgradeable RAM and storage (up to a massive 96GB / 8TB), and a surprisingly efficient battery all make this a well-rounded piece of kit for work and play.
Performance: The slimmer form factor means that, despite its extra cost, the Razer Blade 16 actually performs pretty much on par with other high-end 16-inch laptops. It does, however, edge away from similarly skinny models in both in-game framerates and industry benchmark tests. The RTX 4090 configuration I tested posted better numbers than the similarly specced Asus ROG Zephyrus G16, and even beat the chunkier Lenovo Legion Pro 7i by some margin as well.
It’s insanely powerful, packs a seriously smart aesthetic, and its screen can trade blows with high-end gaming monitors.
Razer Blade 16 review
Verdict: The Razer Blade 16 won't be for everyone - and there are plenty of similarly specced 16-inch gaming laptops available for less. However, if you're going for the best in the business, this is the first machine I'd point to. Its display, performance, form factor, and aesthetic all tip the scales in Razer's favor and the result is a truly fantastic luxury rig.
Read more: Razer Blade 16 review
The best 18-inch gaming laptop
My favorite configuration:
The Alienware M18 goes toe to toe with the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 in terms of sheer performance, but does so at a considerably lower price. With a range of configuration options, a slick design, and features more geared towards desktop usage, it's the best 18-inch gaming laptop overall in my books.
✅ You want big-screen gaming without too high a cost: The Alienware M18 can be configured as low as $1,699.99. While that's still expensive, it's nowhere near the lofty price tags other machines of this scale regularly reach.
✅ You're keeping your laptop on your desk: With a 4.23kg weight, this thing isn't travelling too far. This is a supremely heavy laptop, with a larger footprint than most to boot. That means the Alienware M18 is perfect for those planning to keep their laptop firmly in place.
✅ You don't want messy cables: The majority of the M18's ports are located to the rear of the machine which means you can connect your desk setup without having cables spreading out from the sides. There are still a few handy USB-A and USB-C options on the sides for easy access as well.
❌ You're a competitive player but still want QHD+: The 165Hz rate on the QHD+ screen option is going to hold competitive players back. The FHD+ option is geared towards those more speed-inclined, though, with a whopping 480Hz refresh rate.
❌ You want the best screen quality possible: We noticed that the matte cover makes the screen considerably duller than its competitors, which also has an effect on color contrast.
❌ You want more of an option to travel: All 18-inch laptops are difficult to transport, but this particularly so. There are slimmer, lighter machines out there for those who would still like the option to take their show on the road.
Design: The Alienware M18 had a surprise for me when I first opened the box. Gently sloping the front lip to a thin taper means that the whole design feels more manageable than the more boxy Strix Scar 18 from Asus. No, this isn't a portable laptop by any means, you're still picking up a massive 410 x 319 x 25 mm footprint and a considerable 4.23kg weight, but that slicker design makes it look a little less chunky on a desk top. Elsewhere, you've got all the design staples of an Alienware rig. A cool aluminium lid sports an embossed 18 along the top, with the plastic main body holding onto the same gray aesthetic throughout. Of course, there's still a nice RGB light show to take in, with a more subtle approach than Asus'.
Features: Of course, the big player here is that 18-inch screen. Dell has made some interesting decisions with the specs it offers here, there are only two options; QHD+ 165Hz or FHD+ 480Hz. It would have been nice to have a middle option - both the Razer Blade 18 and Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 have found happy homes in the QHD+ 240Hz region. While motion is still slick, higher framerate games could stand to benefit a little more from improved handling overall. I also noticed that this display runs less bright than both Razer and Asus's options, and doesn't offer any additional HDR capabilities.
However, with an excellent port selection, 1080p webcam built in, and a full sized keyboard (with full sized number pad) this feels like a real desktop PC alternative. Working particularly hard in the M18's favor though, are the component options. With RTX 4060 configurations on the table at sub-$2,000 prices, the Alienware M18 is winning in the value category. That's perfect if you're after big-screen entertainment but don't want to splash thousands on graphics cards you won't make the most of.
Performance: The Alienware M18 almost bested the Strix Scar 18 in our testing, even beating it in a handful of benchmarking scenarios. There's some incredible performance under the hood here. In fact, the M18 performed better in more demanding titles like Returnal and Total War: Three Kingdoms, and always packed three figure framerates well into the highest graphics settings in native resolution.
Yes, Alienware has made some sacrifices along the way - in screen, speakers, and portability - but if you're after a desktop replacement that really can take over your setup, you're in the right place.
Alienware M18 review
Verdict: The Alienware M18 does make a few sacrifices, but in doing so it manages to position itself as an incredibly versatile gaming laptop. You can configure it up to the high heavens if you have the budget, or keep things more grounded for big-screen gaming under $2,000. That's not something many 18-inchers can claim - and especially not machines that manage to squeeze this amount of power out of their components.
Read more: Alienware M18 review
The most powerful gaming laptop we've tested
My favorite configuration:
The MSI Titan 18 HX is an insanely powerful gaming laptop that sits near the top of the entire price bracket. While it's only really going to provide its full value to a niche of content creators / gamers looking for a long term investment, it's still the most powerful gaming laptop I've had my hands on yet.
✅ You need a machine for gaming and content creation: This is a do-it-all kind of rig, with the guts to keep the latest and greatest games running smoothly and the processing power and display for high-end content creation.
✅ You want steady 4K framerates: This is the first gaming laptop I've used that has consistently managed smooth 4K gaming.
✅ You need a desktop replacement: The sheer scale of the Titan means you're not going to be taking it on the road anytime soon, but for those after an all-in-one PC and monitor replacement it's certainly a worthwhile investment.
❌ You only play lighter games: This is a pricey machine made for those with a hefty investment sum to spend. If you generally play quite casually, it's not going to make sense for you.
❌ You hate keyboard ping: I did notice some reverberation around the mechanical keyboard included, which is a personal hate of mine. If you're the same you might not be able to get past this one.
❌ You need to run off battery sometimes: It almost goes without saying, but the Titan 18 HX doesn't do too well when left without a cable.
Design: The MSI Titan 18 HX works hard to keep its black and gray aesthetic subtle while measuring in at true 18-incher proportions. Like other gaming laptops of this magnitude, it's not going to be particularly happy in a backpack, weighing in heavier than both the Razer Blade 18 and Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 at 3.59kg. The extra cooling shelf at the back also gives it a larger footprint compared to these competitors as well. Still, all of these machines are large - they're designed to sit at home rather than travel with you. And the Titan looks great while doing just that.
A primarily matte black colorway keeps things looking simple, with gray / silver accents running along the back shelf and lower portion of the main deck inside. Everything feels particularly solid with only a little flex to the main keyboard area (and I only felt that when specifically pushing for it). I did have one problem with the overall design, though, and that's the trackpad. It's a haptic model that sits completely flush with the rest of the palm rest area, which means it's easy to simply glide off the side without noticing. That's not going to be too much of a problem when gaming (you'll likely be using a separate mouse), but during everyday tapping around it quickly grows tiresome.
Features: The 128GB RAM configuration I received for testing felt like a spaceship compared to my everyday Razer Blade 14. But considering the Titan 18 HX comes outfitted with a 24-core Intel i9-14900HX, RTX 4090, and 4TB SSD, going big feels fitting. I'm certainly struggling to go home now that my testing period has ended. Those kinds of components meant the Titan was able to handle anything I could think to throw at it during my weeks with the device - and throw it all on a gorgeous Mini LED 4K display.
That panel runs a little slower than the majority of gaming laptops that pass my desk these days, capping at 120Hz. It's still a super bright panel and handles even 4K motion well, though. Plus, HDR content feels next-level with local dimming features in tow. A mechanical keyboard sits underneath (courtesy of SteelSeries and Cherry), with a particularly snappy tactile switch. That's perfect for typists, but I did notice repeat presses were a little harder to nail with this set of keys - and there was some reverb around the chassis as well. You're also getting a similar port selection to other 18-inch gaming laptops and a robust vapor chamber cooling system as well.
It might take a few workarounds, but speedy 4K gaming is a real possibility here - and that’s not something I’ve written about a gaming laptop before.
MSI Titan 18 HX review
Performance: This is where things go from good to great. The MSI Titan 18 HX outperformed my top-range RTX 4090 comparison pool (the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18, Alienware M18, Razer Blade 18, and Razer Blade 16) in pretty much every test apart from one - Returnal. While it was blazing past the competition in framerates and stability, Housemarque's demanding in-game benchmark tool seemed to stick a hurdle in this race. After testing and re-testing, I'm still none the wiser as to why the Titan came last in this particular title, when it so obviously out-performed in everything else, but it's likely a compatibility or update issue.
Verdict: Overall, the MSI Titan 18 HX is the most powerful gaming laptop I've tested yet - and it backs up its high-end components with plenty of extra features and high-end tech to keep that price point honest. It's still a lofty rate, though, so this really is only one for those particularly committed to a long-term purchase.
Read more: MSI Titan 18 HX review
The best slimline gaming laptop
My favorite configuration:
The HP Omen Transcend 14 has taken over from its 16-inch sibling this year. The super thin device packs a low weight profile perfect for on the go work and play, but you'll need to keep a USB-C charger handy.
✅ You travel regularly with your laptop: If you need to get out and about this is one of the lightest ways to do so right now.
✅ You prioritize screen quality: Some of your cash is going towards your screen, so if you want to spend a little more than you would on a budget device you're being handsomely rewarded with a fantastic OLED panel here.
✅ You're happy to keep a cable spare: Despite being a work / play hybrid, the HP Omen Transcend 14 still doesn't pack the biggest battery life. USB-C charging makes that easier, but you'll be keeping a spare wire handy.
❌ You prioritize performance over form: If you're chasing framerates, a slimline gaming laptop isn't going to be the right choice for you. There's just not enough space here to run the more powerful components needed.
❌ You only use your laptop in daylight: That screen glare might become a bit much if you're only using your laptop in high lighting situations.
❌ You need all day battery: If you rarely get a chance to plug in while you're on the go you might need to look for an alternative. The battery on this device isn't as strong as it should be for a hybrid system.
Design: The HP Omen Transcend 14 is certainly small. The 14-inch form factor helps out here, but a floating chassis design also keeps things feeling particularly thin in the hand and a low weight makes it backpack friendly as well. Build quality does take a slight hit to keep those numbers low - I found some noticeable flex in the lid and main deck area, despite its aluminum construction.
Like many gaming laptops in 2024, the Transcend is rejecting the old gamer aesthetic of yore. Instead you've got a crisp, clean body with minimal branding and no external lighting to speak of. A simple 'Omen' is stamped in the middle of a soft-touch matte lid, with some text in the lower corner of the hanging edge as well.
Features: Like the HP Omen Transcend 16 before it, the 14-inch model keeps its specs conservative. You've got the three lower tier graphics cards to choose from, with the RTX 4070 option bumping the processor from an Intel Core Ultra 7 to an Ultra 9 model for a hefty price jump.
Above ground, though, you've also got one of the best screens we've used on a gaming laptop. Similar to the OLED panel across the 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14, this screen offers fantastic crisp visuals with incredibly vibrant and detailed color handling to boot. It's limited to 120Hz, but that's par for the course at this level. You're still getting a clean 1800p resolution as well.
Performance: This little 14-inch gaming laptop surprised me in testing. You'll need to tinker with fan settings before reaching the machine's highest possible framerates, but once you do these are some pretty impressive numbers.
Yes, the CPU under the hood is largely an iterative upgrade over last year's roster and the GPU remains the same - but this is a machine with plenty of tricks to boost performance away from core component potential. While the RTX 4060 in my test unit was running at a lower 65W power rate, I still managed to post more than workable framerates and stress test benchmarks at 1080p and in High settings on 1600p.
This is a machine for those looking to take their rig pretty much anywhere, and sometimes for less cash than similarly specced options from Asus and Razer.
HP Omen Transcend 14 review
Verdict: A higher price on the RTX 4060 model means I'd still recommend the slightly cheaper (at MSRP) Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 for anyone after the best 14-inch gaming laptop. However, if you're going for slimline style in a subtle form factor, and still want to keep the OLED display of Asus's juggernaut then the HP Omen is your best bet.
Read more: HP Omen Transcend 14 review
How we test gaming laptops
Update: As of July 2024, we will also be benchmarking gaming laptops using 3D Mark's new Steel Nomad test.
I live, work, play, stream, and browse on every gaming laptop that passes my desk for a minimum of two weeks. That allows me to assess its build quality, portability, display features, keyboard and trackpad, port selection, and form factor in a real-world setting as if it was being popped straight into your setup. For this reason, I use every laptop both by itself and as part of a larger monitor system (usually via USB-C using a Ugreen Revodok Pro 312 docking station).
I rate gaming laptops based on their design, features, and performance - and each section requires its own tests and real-world experiences.
The design of a laptop incorporates everything from its aesthetic (and how well it will blend into non-gaming scenarios) to build quality (its materials, any wobbles around the hinges, flexibility in the screen or base plate, and any creaking or rattling internally). In the world of gaming laptops, portability also plays a large role so I make sure to take each machine out with me for a series of coffee shop crawls, or a longer travel distance during my testing period.
The specific features I test are the display (brightness, clarity, color range, sharpness, speed), keyboard (size, balance, typing feel, placement), webcam, port selection (and placement), configuration options, trackpad, and onboard software options. All of these elements aren't just reviewed as a whole package, but directly compared against similarly priced competitors to understand each machine's value proposition as well.
Then we get to the all-important performance category. Every gaming laptop that I review is stress-tested against a series of benchmarking processes and everyday use. I run a standardised series of performance tests on each rig, benchmarking on both High and Ultra / Highest across:
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider
- Total War: Three Kingdoms (Battle)
- Returnal
- The Talos Principle 2 (Anthropic Hills)
I carry out these benchmarks at both 1080p and other native resolutions offered by each individual system.
I then test the GPUs inside these gaming laptops against 3DMark Fire Strike, Steel Nomad, and Time Spy. I also use PC Mark 10, Maxon Cinebench R24, and Geekbench tests for general productivity benchmarking.
Read more about how we find the best tech with the full Hardware Policy and find out exactly how we test gaming laptops.
Also tested
I'm always reviewing new gaming laptops, but only the very best make it to the top list above. I've reviewed over 20 gaming laptops in the last two years alone (you can find their full test results just below), so not everyone gets an invite to this party.
The MSI Titan 18 HX has just knocked the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 (2023) off the top spot for performance, so I've added it to this collection. It now sits alongside the 2024 iteration of the same gaming laptop (which strangely performed just a little worse than the older model during my testing).
How to find the best gaming laptop for you
Gaming laptops come in all shapes and sizes these days, with a massive range of configuration options, display technologies, and price tags to contend with. I've bought my fair share of machines over the years, and there are always three factors that make up the majority of my decision-making; size, specs, and display.
Size matters
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Gaming laptops come in three sizes nowadays; 14-inch for those after a lightweight, portable design, 18-inch for a full desktop replacement, and 16-inch for a well-rounded performer that can still travel when needed. It's easy to see why 16-inch laptops reign supreme, taking over from the 15.6-inch models of yore to become the most popular gaming laptop form factor on the market.
In general, I'd recommend most players aim for this happy medium. An 18-inch device is a real strain on the back if you need to take it on the go (if it will even fit into a conventional backpack) and a 14-inch model can sacrifice power in the name of a slimmer form factor while carrying a similar price. However, if you know you're looking for a chunkier device that won't need to be moved or a work laptop that needs to keep up with you day to day, each extreme certainly has its place.
Under the hood
Your decision will mostly come down to your graphics card and processor - though, helpfully, finding the right GPU will often land you with the right CPU in the first place.
An RTX 4050 rig is designed for lighter players who might want to tinker through some less demanding games while primarily using their laptop for work or streaming. These rigs are likely to come with cheaper i5 or Ryzen 5 processors, but can also pack an i7 or Ryzen 7 punch as well. You'll usually find 16GB RAM and 512GB - 1TB of storage space included.
I would move up to an RTX 4060 if you're looking to play more demanding games, but don't necessarily need three-figure framerates - especially in QHD+ resolutions. This is the start of the mass market, most players will either find themselves with an RTX 4060 or 4070 rig - but sticking to the lower version might keep you from smooth rates on more demanding games in the years to come. You'll usually be opting for an i7 or Ryzen 7 processor here, with 16GB RAM and 1TB of storage space.
The RTX 4070 is the most popular graphics card in a gaming laptop - and it's generally where I start my search when pricing up new machines. You're getting enough juice to bump things up to 1600p comfortably, though you might need to make some textural tweaks to run heavier games at Ultra settings. The price jump from an RTX 4060 to RTX 4070 isn't quite as high anymore either, especially when rigs go on sale. I'd still recommend most players stick to an Intel i7 or Ryzen 7 processor to keep the value right here (though i9 and Ryzen 9 options start becoming more available this high up the food chain), with 16GB - 32GB RAM and 1TB - 2TB of storage space.
An RTX 4080 gaming laptop is going to see you through QHD+ gaming at ultra settings pretty comfortably - even in more demanding games. This is the start of high-end, and as high as I would recommend most casual players go. These machines are starting to drop their price tags a little now, but can still feel like a larger investment - especially if you take up the i9 / Ryzen 9 processors, 32 - 64GB RAM, and 2TB+ SSD opportunities that start opening up here.
I wouldn't recommend the majority of players concern themselves with RTX 4090 gaming laptops just yet. There's a performance jump, for sure, you'll be outputting in 4K with much more ease, and QHD+ gameplay will feel like a breeze. However, these are premium machines, reserved for those with over $3,000 to spend. They're worth saving for if you want to future-proof yourself, but unless you're streaming or playing hardcore titles regularly you'll find better value further down the price range.
All about that display
The majority of mid-range gaming laptops ship with QLED+ resolutions in a 16:10 aspect ratio, with a 240Hz refresh rate. That's the gold standard for right now, but there are reasons to deviate from the norm. For example many rigs, particularly those from Alienware, can drop you resolution back down to FHD+ in exchange for faster panels (up to 480Hz in some cases).
That's a screen designed for competitive eSports-style gamers, rather than everyday adventurers, though. On the flip side, you'll find more OLED and 4K panels on the shelves these days - these give you a better viewing experience overall but at the cost of speed. While some brands like Razer have managed to bump their OLED screens up to 240Hz, you'll more likely find these screens at 120Hz max.
It's important to consider how you play when choosing your screen - whether you want to prioritize fidelity or speed. The QHD+ 240Hz option is so popular because it strikes the perfect balance between the two.
| Entry level | Mid-range | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| 13th generation i5 | Ryzen 5 | 13th generation / 14th generation i7 | Ryzen 7 | 14th generation i9 | Ryzen 9 |
| Nvidia RTX 4050 | RTX 4060 / RTX 4070 / RTX 3080 | RTX 4080 / RTX 4090 |
| 16GB RAM | 16GB - 32GB RAM | 32GB RAM |
| 512GB SSD | 1TB SSD | 1TB - 4TB SSD |
| 120Hz | 144-240Hz | 240Hz - 480Hz |
| $500 - $800 | $800 - $1,800 | $1,800 - $3,000+ |
Let's talk RTX 50-Series
Next year will bring Nvidia's RTX 50-Series mobile graphics cards to gaming laptops. While we still don't know too much about what that entails, recent leaks have suggested that the lineup will feature the same RTX 5050 to RTX 5090 cards that we've come to know in the 40-Series but with an RTX 5070 Ti included as well. Not only that, but the rumor mill is also currently alive with speculation that these next-gen cards will be paired with existing Intel CPU models rather than the new Arrow Lake generation expected to hit next year. That means configurations are currently expected to use Intel's 14th generation processors with Nvidia RTX 50-Series graphics cards next year.
2980 / GB10229c0 / GB1022c18 / GB203M, GN22 / 5090 Mobile2c19 / GB203M, GN22 / 5080 Mobile2c2c / N22W-ES-A1 / @mooreslawisdead leaked the picture5070 Ti Mobile5070 Mobile5060 Mobile5050 Mobilehttps://t.co/PGWZsH221XOctober 27, 2024
What does that mean for buying a gaming laptop in these last few months of 2024? We don't know yet - it's all a bit weird. Gaming laptops traditionally pair new-generation graphics cards with the latest processors to give them the most power and efficiency possible. The tweet above is the main leak here, listing the SKUs for each mobile graphics card expected to leave Nvidia's factories at the start of the generation.
The actual performance of next year's graphics cards remains a mystery, but considering the power that an RTX 4090 still has on offer (and the fact that the new generation will run just fine on older architecture) means this likely isn't going to be the same kind of jump as we saw between the RTX 30-Series and RTX 40-Series. An RTX 5070 may well live up to the performance of an RTX 4080, but high-end cards are going to come with high-end prices - and the actual power return might not be as high as some might imagine.
Gaming laptops glossary
- AMD: AMD is a brand that develops a wide range of processors and graphics cards for business and gaming laptops. The latest GPU series is the AMD Radeon RX 7900, while it releases processors under the Ryzen name, offering Ryzen 3, 5, 7, and 9 in ascending power levels.
- AMD Freesync: AMD Freesync is a software found in many gaming laptop displays that reduces screen tearing and stuttering. The majority of laptops ship with the base FreeSync features, but there are also FreeSync Premium and FreeSync Premium Pro tiers which offer support for higher refresh rates and resolutions, as well as HDR.
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth is the wireless connection gaming laptops can use to take input from a range of devices such as keyboards, headsets, and mice. However, these devices tend to use 2.4GHz adapter dongles these days (a small USB receiver with a lower latency connection), which means you'll be using Bluetooth for controllers more than anything else. The latest Bluetooth version is 5.3.
- Chassis: The term chassis relates to the main body of the laptop, housing the components under the keyboard and the back of the lid.
- Cinebench: Cinebench is a benchmarking software developed by Maxon, designed to test the rendering power of a gaming laptop's processor. We use Cinebench to test the power of CPUs across both single-core and multi-core stress tests - the higher the number, the better the performance.
- CPU / Processor: The CPU (Central Processing Unit) or Processor is the central component of a gaming laptop, completing instructions and operations across the machine. Intel and AMD are the leading manufacturers of processors, with Core and Ryzen product lines respectively.
- Crystal Disk Mark: Crystal Disk Mark is a benchmarking software to test the storage performance of the SSD or hard drive used in a gaming laptop. We use Crystal Disk Mark to report on read and write speeds, which can translate to launch, loading, and rendering times.
- DisplayPort: DisplayPort is a port found on many gaming laptops, offering the ability to connect your machine to an external monitor. Unlike HDMI, DisplayPort allows for multiple displays to be connected through a single port, however is not compatible with anything other than monitors and computers. The latest version of DisplayPort is 2.1.
- Ethernet: Ethernet is the term given to both the port and cable used to connect your gaming laptop to the internet via a wire. Rather than using a less reliable WiFi connection, hardwiring your machine into your router can be faster and offer lower latencies.
- Fire Strike: Fire Strike is a graphics and physics test within the 3D Mark suite of benchmarks. We use Fire Strike to stress test the processor and graphics card, returning a figure as the result. The higher the number, the better the score.
- FPS (Frames Per Second): Frames per second refers to the number of frames that are displayed on a screen every second. This is a handy way to measure the speed and fluidity of the graphics on your gaming laptop. Most titles run smoothly at 30fps, however faster action titles are better enjoyed at 60fps and up. Competitive esports-level framerates are often over 100fps.
- GPU / Graphics Card: The GPU is responsible for the graphics your gaming laptop is capable of reproducing. AMD and Nvidia produce the majority of graphics cards found in today's gaming laptops, offering a range of different performance levels and prices. The latest AMD GPU is the Radeon RX 7900 XT, and the latest Nvidia range is the GeForce RTX 40-Series.
- HDD: HDD is the acronym for a Hard Disk Drive, otherwise known as a hard drive. This is a form of storage often found in older, cheaper gaming laptops, or in addition to an SSD (Solid State Drive) in newer machines. An HDD is typically slower but cheaper (and therefore more readily available in higher capacities) than an SSD.
- HDMI: HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface, and is the primary connection method used to link a computer to an external monitor, TV, or projector. The latest HDMI version is 2.1.
- Intel: Intel is one of the leading producers of processors in both business and gaming laptops. Intel's CPUs are released in four tiers; i3, i5, i7, and i9 with various different models between them. The latest generation of Intel processors is the 14th.
- Kensington Lock Slot: A Kensington Lock Slot is an additional accessory sometimes found on gaming laptops. It is a port to enable the user to keep their machine secure by tethering a lock and wrapping it around the leg of a table or chair, ensuring nobody else can remove the laptop from its position.
- Nvidia: Nvidia is a brand best known in the gaming laptop space for producing graphics cards. The company's GeForce RTX GPUs are the most popular on the market right now.
- Nvidia G-Sync: Nvidia G-Sync is similar to AMD FreeSync (see above), and used to reduce screen tearing and stuttering during fast moving games. G-Sync is designed for use with Nvidia graphics cards, however.
- OLED: OLED displays are gathering momentum in the world of gaming laptops, offering an alternative to traditional LED screens. An OLED panel is able to produce better color contrasts and higher brightness.
- OS: A computer's OS is its Operating System, most likely Windows. You'll very rarely find a gaming laptop shipping with a different operating system. The latest release is Windows 11.
- PC Mark 10: PC Mark 10 is a benchmarking software designed to test the power of a PC in a productivity setting. The program runs a series of mock work scenarios to test efficiency and processing performance, resulting in a single number response. The higher the number, the better the result.
- RAM: RAM stands for Random Access Memory, and allows your computer to streamline its efficiency in running tasks. The more RAM you have, the more space your gaming laptop has to keep required data easily accessible (and therefore recalled faster).
- Refresh Rate: Refresh rate in the context of gaming laptops generally refers to the speed at which the display refreshes the picture. A higher refresh rate provides smoother motion, which is required for faster paced titles. Gaming laptops today generally offer at least 120Hz refresh rates, but can move up to 360Hz.
- Resolution: The resolution of your screen is the number of pixels on the display. This is usually split into HD (1920 x 1080 or 1080p), QHD (2560 x 1440 or 1440p), or UHD (3840 x 2160 or 4K), however different screen proportions can bend these definitions a little - you may see QHD+ resolutions listed on a screen that isn't exactly 16:9 in dimensions (the standard for displays that these resolution numbers were based off).
- RGB: RGB refers to the lighting often found on gaming laptops, particularly in the keyboard. The term RGB denotes a range of colors rather than limiting backlighting to a single color.
- SSD: An SSD (or Solid State Drive) is the primary format of storage used in today's gaming laptops. It's faster than an HDD but is more expensive, which means you'll generally find SSD space tapping out at 1TB if you're browsing under $2,000.
- Thunderbolt: A Thunderbolt port uses the same design as USB-C but a vastly different experience overall. Machines incorporate Thunderbolt to allow faster data transfer and charging speeds as well as connecting multiple devices via a single cable. The latest version is Thunderbolt 4.
- Time Spy: Time Spy is another DirectX test for the performance of a graphics card inside your gaming laptop, similar to Fire Strike.
- USB Type-A: USB Type-A ports are standard USB connections used by the majority of external devices and are characterized by their larger square shape compared to the smaller USB-C. However, USB Type-C (below) is set to take over from the older A model over the next few years. Type-A supports the speed of data consistent with USB 3.0 (the latest version).
- USB Type-C: USB Type-C is a newer connection type for adding external devices, shaped in a smaller, more rounded port style. USB-C can be used for power delivery if the port on your laptop accepts this feature, but is generally used for the same inputs as USB-A.
- Vapor Chamber Cooling: Vapor Chamber Cooling is a relatively new method of keeping a gaming laptop's temperature down so that it can perform at its best. Rather than solely using air vents and fans, vapor chamber cooling relies on a liquid cooling system to distribute heat more effectively.
Best gaming laptops: FAQs
Which brand is best for gaming laptops?
Overall, the best gaming laptop brands include Lenovo, Razer, Alienware, MSI, Asus and Acer. However, there are a number of companies all competing for the title right now, from budget-oriented developers to high-end industry staples. Finding the best gaming laptop brand may come down to how much you're willing to pay and how much you value extra features like mechanical keyboards and RGB lighting in your chassis. Alienware, for example, produces some incredible machines with these features built in, but at a significant premium - whereas Acer's machines tend to be more conservative in their builds but offer reduced prices.
What specs do you need in a gaming laptop?
This is a big question, and the answer changes every year. However, at the moment I recommend picking up a high-end or upper mid-range processor from the last two years (Intel i7 or i9 from its 13th or 14th generation / AMD Ryzen 7 or Ryzen 9 from its 7000 Series) and at least 16GB RAM. 8GB used to get you by back in the day, but it's just not doable any more. In terms of your graphics card, the model you choose will depend on the kinds of games you play. An RTX 4050 is going to be good for lighter indie titles and undemanding games, but an RTX 4060 can push you further up the settings scale for only a little more cash. RTX 4070 cards are for moderately demanding games, played at high settings while an RTX 4080 or RTX 4090 card will be needed for the biggest releases running in QHD+ at ultra settings.
Can you spend under $1000 on a gaming laptop?
It's absolutely possible to spend less than $1,000 and still pick up one of the best gaming laptops on the market. My favorite models under this price range are the Dell G15 and the Asus TUF A15, though the Acer Nitro 5 also offers plenty of value in its cheaper configurations as well. You might be dropping down to lower refresh rate screens or a cheaper version of an Intel processor, but if you're playing lighter titles or you're not fussed about the latest and greatest in performance there are plenty of options out there.
If you've managed to find the right rig for you, it's worth investing some thought into the best laptop backpacks to get you out and about. Or, check out our guide to the latest cheap gaming laptop deals if you're looking for more savings. Or, check out all the cheap Alienware laptop deals and Razer laptop deals currently on sale for some serious discounts.
