ErinGamers know that they need more power than a standard laptop to enhance their performance: that’s why there are gaming laptops designed specifically for streaming and playing online games.
The best gaming laptops have powerful graphics cards, processors, and more top-tier parts to efficiently run games. You may be wondering how much a good laptop for gaming will cost, but there are great options at various price points. Find the top choice that fits within your budget.
Best Gaming Laptops Under $3000
Razer Blade 15 Advanced Model
Features:
- 15.6” 144Hz Full HD edge-to-edge display
- 1920x1080p resolution
- Thin and compact, durable CNC aluminum unibody
- 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8750H 6 core processor
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q Design VR Ready graphic
- Compact 180W power adapter
- 4.9mm thin bezels
- Razer Synapse 3 control system
- Microsoft Precision Glass Touchpad
- Zero bloatware
- 1 GB Flash Memory Solid State Drive
- 512GB of storage, upgradeable to 2TB
- 16GB Dual-Channel Memory – 2667MHz
- 80Wh battery
- External graphics support
Pros:
- High quality HD display
- Super thin and compact
- Customizable settings, lighting, and more via Razer Synapse 3
- Great graphics and customization options
Cons:
- Expensive
Verdict
The Razer Blade 15 is one of the best options on the market today for gamers. While it is on the expensive end of laptops, the build is incredibly high quality and made with premium components. It has a long battery life, customizable lighting and other settings, and fast frame rates. This laptop has all the right features to make for a high performance gaming experience.
Asus ROG Zephyrus S GX701
Features:
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 8GB GDDR6 with ROG Boost (Base: 1215 MHz, Boost: 1440 MHz)
- Latest 9th Gen Intel Core i7-9750H Hexa-core Processor
- 17. 3” 144Hz 3ms FHD (1920×1080) Display with NVIDIA G-Sync
- 16GB DDR4 2666MHz RAM
- 1TB NVMe PCIe SSD
- 1 GB SSD
- Windows 10 Home Operating System
- Gigabit Wave 2 Wi-Fi 5 (802. 11ac)
- Upgraded Intelligent Cooling System with ROG-exclusive Active Aerodynamic System, 12V fans, and increased longevity with anti-dust tunnels
- Per-key Aura Sync RGB Keyboard
- GPU Switch Mode: switch between integrated and discrete graphics for increased battery life or powerful gaming performance
- 1080p detachable webcam
- Pantone Validated colors for accurate content creation & gaming visuals
- Type-C charging offers portable charging options
Pros:
- High quality components throughout
- Intelligent cooling
- GPU switch mode for more powerful graphics
- Portable charging options (portable charger not included)
Cons:
- Some complaints of slow charging
Verdict
Asus is one of the best gaming brands, and the Zephyrus S GX701 is one of the top laptops offered today. It has high quality components all the way through, from strong graphics to a 7 core processor to high definition resolution. One cool feature is the ability to use a portable charger to recharge on-the-go when there isn’t a wall outlet nearby. Overall, this is one of the best laptops for gaming.
Razer Blade Pro 17
Features:
- 9th Gen Intel Core i7-9750H 6 core processor w/ 2.6GHz/4.5GHz (base/max turbo)
- NVIDIA GeForce 2070 RTX Max-Q graphics
- 0.78″ thin CNC aluminum unibody
- High-performance vapor chamber cooling
- Supports SSD and dual-channel memory upgradeability
- Compatible with Razer Core X external GPU enclosures for additional graphics power
- Edge-to-edge, 100% sRGB, factory-calibrated matte screen with a 144Hz refresh rate
- 1920 x 1080p resolution
- Customizable RGB Individual Key Lighting: Includes 16.8 million colors
- Biometric Security: Supports Windows Hello instant facial unlock with integrated webcam and IR sensor
- 16GB RAM
- 512GB SSD
Pros:
- High quality components
- Easily upgradable with an extra M.2 drive, 2 DIMMs, and more
- Customizable RGB lighting
- Biometric security
Cons:
- Backlight bleed
- Issues with onboard WiFi
Verdict
Another in the Razer Blade series, the Razer Blade 17 is one of the best on the market today. It has similar features to the 15 model listed above, including high quality internal components and plenty of customizable and upgradable features. For gamers in need of a powerful laptop to stream and play, the Razer Blade 17 is a great option with high tech features.
Best Gaming Laptops Under $2000
Acer Predator Triton 500
Features:
- 9th Generation Intel Core i7 9750H 6 Core Processor (Up to 4. 5GHz)
- Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Graphics with 6 GB of dedicated GDDR6 VRAM
- 15. 6″ Full HD (1920 x 1080) Widescreen LED backlit IPS Display
- 144Hz refresh rate
- 16GB DDR4 2666MHz Memory
- 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD with one open slot for easy upgrades
- 3 Fan Cooling with one 4th Gen All Metal AeroBlade 3D Fan and 5 Copper Heat Pipes
- VR ready
- Customizable RGB mechanical gaming keyboard
- PredatorSense Controls for customization, overclocking, game profiles, and more
- Killer DoubleShot Pro bandwidth prioritization
Pros:
- High quality processor, graphics, memory, and more
- Very customizable and upgradable
- Bandwidth prioritization
- VR capability
Cons:
- Battery life is lacking
- Bloatware
Verdict
The Acer Predator Titan 500 is one of the best picks under $2000. If you’re able to spend a fair amount but have some budgetary limits, this might be the laptop for you. It has amazing features, high quality components, and plenty of easily customizable options to upgrade. The software is intuitive, it has a high quality keyboard and trackpad, and the overall performance is top-notch.
HP Omen X2S
Features:
- Unique dual screen design – 6-inch 1080p touchscreen mounted above the keyboard
- Hexa-Core 9th Generation Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-9750H Processor, 6-Core, 2.6GHz up to 4.5GHz
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 with Max-Q graphics
- VR/MR Ready
- 15.6-inch diagonal FHD IPS anti-glare micro-edge WLED-backlit display (1920 x 1080) with 144Hz refresh rate
- OMEN command center software
- Enhanced thermal cooling through three outlet vents and a 3-phase motor with fluid dynamic bearing
- 16 GB DDR4-2666 SDRAM
- 12 GB PCIe(R) NVMe(TM) M.2 Solid State Drive
Pros:
- 2 screens offers unique gaming experience
- High quality components throughout
- VR ready and compatible with Windows Mixed Reality Headset
- Easily customizable with Omen command center
Cons:
- Battery life could be better
Verdict
The HP Omen X2S is a unique option in that it has two screens – the main screen and a second, six inch screen directly above the keyboard. This gives gamers the ability to stream other entertainment, queue their Spotify playlist, and much more while keeping the top screen available for gameplay. It has plenty of other great features as well, making it one of the best laptops for a mid-range price.
Alienware M17
Features:
- 9th Gen Intel Core i7 Processor
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 graphics
- Versatile Thunderbolt 3 port
- Advanced thermal technology
- Lightweight, premium build made with magnesium alloy, copper, and steel
- Windows 10 Home 64bit
- 60Wh battery (4-cell)
- 16GB of 2666Mhz DDR4 memory
- 512GB PCIe M.2 SSD
- 17.3″ QHD (2560 x 1440) display and a refresh rate of 120Hz
- Killer DoubleShot Pro bandwidth prioritization
- Alienware Command Center
Pros:
- Premium components
- Lightweight and thin design
- Super high quality screen with high resolution
- Alienware Command Center is easy to use for customization
- Fast internet speeds
Cons:
- Loud fans
- Some reviews complain of overheating
Verdict
The Alienware M17 is another great choice for less than $2000. It is made with high quality components, so performance is great for gamers. The monitor is especially impressive, with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels and a fast refresh rate. Alienware software is easy to use, so you can customize your laptop to fit your preferences.
MSI GS75 Stealth
Features:
- Intel Core i7-9750h 2. 6 – 4. 5GHz processor
- 17. 3″ FHD (1920×1080), 144Hz, 3ms, IPS display
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX1660Ti 6G GDDR6 graphics
- 16GB (8G*2) DDR4 2666MHz 2 Sockets
- 1TB NV Me SSD
- RGB Customizable Keyboard
- Super responsive touchpad
- Cooler Boost Trinity
- Thunderbolt 3 port
Pros:
- Great components for high gaming performance
- High quality display
- Fast performance
Cons:
- Sound system is only average
- Operating system would be better with Pro version instead of Windows 10 Home
Verdict
The MSI GS75 Stealth is another great laptop for gamers! It has all the right components to make a high quality, high performance gaming computer, and it is compact with a thin design as well. All the features are made for gaming, with plenty of memory, strong graphics, and more.
Best Gaming Laptops Under $1500
Acer Predator Helios 300
Features:
- 9th Generation Intel Core i7 9750H 6 Core Processor (Up to 4.5GHz)
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Graphics with 6GB of dedicated GDDR6 VRAM
- Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
- 15.6 inches Full HD (1920 x 1080) Widescreen LED backlit IPS Display with 144Hz Refresh Rate
- 16GB DDR4 2666MHz Memory
- 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Backlit Keyboard
- 4th Gen AeroBlade 3D Fan Technology
- PredatorSense control and customization
- VR ready
- Bandwidth prioritization
- Immersive audio
Pros:
- Great performance
- High quality display
- VR ready
- Very customizable and upgradable
- Fast WiFi
Cons:
- No G-sync
- Loud fans
Verdict
The Acer Predator Helios 300 is one of the best laptops for less than $1500. While this isn’t a cheap option, it offers great value for its price point, with some of the best quality components available and great performance. It offers great extra features like VR compatibility, bandwidth prioritization, immersive audio, and more.
Lenovo Legion Y540
Features:
- 9th Generation Intel Core i7-9750H Hexa-Core Processor 2.8GHz (up to 3.80GHz)
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Graphics
- 16GB DDR4 RAM
- 512GB SSD+1TB HDD
- 15.6″ Anti-glare LED Backlit Full HD (1920 x 1080) Display
- Windows 10 Home
- 45 WHr 4-Cell Li-Polymer Battery
- Razer Chroma mouse included
Pros:
- Hybrid hard drive
- Great components
- Mouse included
- HD display
Cons:
- Not the latest from Lenovo
Verdict
The Lenovo Legion Y540 is a good gaming laptop made with premium components. While it is not the latest in this series from Lenovo, we chose it over newer models because of its great performance and reliability. It is still fitted with the latest specifications, and the hybrid hard drive offers the perks of both SSD and HDDs. This laptop even comes with an included gaming mouse for better gameplay.
CUK MSI GF65 Thin Gaming Laptop
Features:
- Intel Core i7-9750H Six Core Processor (12MB Cache, 2.6GHz-4.5GHz) 45W
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 6GB GDDR6 graphics card
- 32GB DDR4 2666MHz RAM
- 1TB NVMe Solid State Drive
- Windows 10 Home x64 Operating System
- 15.6″ Full HD 120Hz IPS-Level Thin Bezel Display (1920 x 1080)
- Single Backlight Keyboard with Anti-Ghost Key
- 3-Year CUK Limited Warranty
- Cooling system with 6 heat pipes to maximize airflow
- MSI Dragon Center Controls: System Tuner, LED Wizard (for multi-zone backlight models only), Gaming Mode, Voice Wizard, Mobile Center, and Tools & Help
- 720p HD webcam
- 3-Cell, 51 Wh Lithium-Ion Polymer battery
Pros:
- High quality components
- Good battery life
- Intuitive control center
- Fast performance
Cons:
- Gets warm quickly
- Keyboard backlight is only red
Verdict
The CUK MSI GF65 is a great choice for gamers looking for a lightweight laptop with high performance. It has premium components, from the crisp screen to a strong graphics card and CPU. This is a good pick for gamers, although customers complain that it can get warm quickly, and it doesn’t have the same color customization options.
[amazon box=”B079SCFYPF”]
What is the Best Gaming Laptop? Buying Guide
If you’re looking for a laptop for gaming, there are plenty of good options to sort through. Learn what features to look for when choosing a from the best gaming laptops.
Graphics Card
For gamers, the GPU is probably the most important part of any gaming computer or laptop. Check out the specs on the graphics card before making any purchase.
A computer’s graphics card is the part that transmits the image to the monitor, so it affects the quality of imaging and how well your games can stream. Look for a gaming laptop with one of the best graphics cards for gaming to ensure that your games look great and stream quickly. Our favorite picks all have some of the best GPUs for gaming.
CPU
The CPU, or processor, is essentially the brain of your computer that processes signals and sends messages to other parts of the computer to make it function. When choosing a laptop based on processor, look for the latest models in either Intel or AMD. Check for the number of cores and the clock speed (measured in GHz) to find the fastest and most efficient processors for your laptop.
Display
The display on a good laptop for gaming should ideally be HD with a high resolution and refresh rate. You should also consider monitor size; most run between 14-18 inches, depending on the size of the laptop and bezel.
Look for an IPS display with high resolution and refresh rate of 60Hz minimum. 120Hz refresh rate is better, but if you’re on a tight budget 60Hz will do the trick.
Memory and Storage
How much memory and the hard drive storage is another important factor to consider. At a minimum, you’ll need 8 GB of RAM – this often isn’t enough for serious gamers, but most laptops under $1000 max out at 8 GB. If you can afford it, aim for a gaming laptop with at least 16-32 GB of RAM.
For storage, there are two hard drive options: HDD and SSD. SSD is the better option for both speed and weight, but HDD is typically cheaper. SSDs are becoming more affordable however, and you can find a laptop in any price range that has an SSD hard drive.
Size and Weight
What size and weight do you want your laptop to be? Laptops are meant to be portable, but some are lighter and thinner than others, making them easier to travel with. Check out dimensions and weight specs if this is an important factor for your use.
Price
Price is inevitably a factor when making a big tech purchase. Luckily, there are good gaming laptops in various price ranges, with some as cheap as $600 or so. While it is often true that you get what you pay for, there are still great options that won’t break the bank. More high-end laptops will be pricier, and may be worth the advanced features and hardware.
If you’re less serious about gaming, however, a cheaper model will likely do the job just fine. Check out the best gaming laptops under $1000 for budget deals!
Final Thoughts
Pick from our list of the best gaming laptops of 2020 to enhance your gaming experience! Find all of your gaming gadgets here on iDapt.
Add comment