Gaming Laptop Buying Guide

Introduction:

So you’ve decided to buy a gaming laptop. That’s great! But with so many different models on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. Don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll explain the different features to look for when buying a gaming laptop, and we’ll recommend some of the best models on the market. So whether you’re looking for a high-end gaming laptop or something more affordable, we’ve got you covered.

What's your budget?

When it comes to buying a gaming laptop, one of the most important decisions you'll make is your budget. Gaming laptops can start at well under $1,000, and there are some great choices in that price range. In particular, we're seeing some great choices under $1,000, like Dell's G15, which currently starts at $930. PCs in this price range will definitely feel a bit lower quality than pricier models, but they'll still offer a good gaming experience. Stepping up to mid-range options beyond $1,000 is where things get interesting. In general, you can expect better graphics cards, CPUs and storage options at this price point. If you're willing to spend around $1,800 or more, you can start considering more premium options like Razer's Blade.

What kind of CPU and GPU do you want?

When it comes to CPUs for gaming laptops, Intel is still the king. The company’s Core i7-8750H CPU is currently the best option for most gamers. That said, AMD is making some serious headway in this category. With its new Ryzen 7 3750H CPU, AMD offers similar performance for a fraction of the cost. If you’re looking to buy a gaming laptop right now, an Intel chip with an NVIDIA GPU is still the way to go. But if you can wait a little while longer, AMD’s new CPUs might be a better option.

What kind of screen do you want?

When it comes to gaming laptops, screen size is one of the most important factors to consider. In general, 15-inch laptops offer the best balance of immersion and portability, while larger 17-inch models are heftier and can be more difficult to take with you on the go. However, there are some 13-inch gaming notebooks available on the market, like the Razer Blade Stealth, that offer a good gaming experience without sacrificing too much in terms of portability. Nowadays, most gaming notebooks come with a 120Hz 1080p screen, but there are some models that feature a faster 144Hz screen. If you can afford it, definitely opt for a notebook with a 144Hz screen — your gaming experience will be much smoother and more immersive.

other takeaways:

There are a few other key takeaways from this guide. If you're a multitasker, you'll want to make sure you have plenty of RAM. Get at least 16GB, and if you're planning to do a lot of streaming and gaming at the same time, 32GB might be a better option. Storage is also still a big concern, especially if you plan on downloading lots of games. These days, I'd recommend aiming for a 1TB M.2 SSD, which should be enough space to juggle a few large titles like Destiny 2. Normally we'd recommend getting your hands on a system before you buy, but that's tough as we're in the midst of a pandemic. In this case, do your research and make sure to read user reviews to get an idea of what to expect.

Conclusion:

A gaming laptop is a great investment for any gamer, and with the right knowledge, you can find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you're looking for a powerful laptop that can handle the most demanding games or something more affordable, we've got you covered. Use our gaming laptop buying guide to learn everything you need to know about purchasing a gaming laptop and find the perfect one for your needs.