Welcome to our buyer’s guide – “Best Gaming Laptops of 2024”! Finding the perfect gaming laptop can be overwhelming, especially in today’s crowded market. Popular brands like Asus, Lenovo, MSI, and Razer offer sleek, thin and subtle gaming laptops without compromising on the performance in 2024. Whether you’re into competitive FPS gaming, or more of an RPG person, these gaming laptops will do the job really well in 2024. Not only that, you can even use them for work, such as coding or video editing.
For those craving a powerhouse, the resurgence of 18-inch gaming laptops is great news. Join us on a journey through the top gaming laptops of 2024 – where power meets portability!
1. ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16: Incredible display
The ROG Zephyrus M16 doesn’t just bring gaming muscle to the table – it’s a blend of raw power and modern, top-notch features. Think of it as an upgrade from the already impressive G15. The M16 throws in some cool extras like a wider 16:10 screen, a built-in webcam, and support for Thunderbolt. Plus, that matte black design? It’s not just for show – it holds its own against stylish competitors like Razer.
And here’s the kicker with the second version – they fixed one of the few issues from the first round. No more being stuck with just an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 graphics card. Now, you can deck out the M16 with a speedier option – up to an RTX 4090. Picture this: top-tier gaming performance, an awesome laptop keyboard, and a bunch of killer display options to choose from.
Now, if you’re diving into the specs, it sports an Intel Core i9-13900H processor, Nvidia RTX 4090 graphics card, and a 16-inch QHD display rocking a smooth 240Hz refresh rate.
Pros:
- Stunning Mini LED display
- Powerful performance
- Sleek and portable design
- Excellent build quality
- Good battery life
- Anime Matrix lighting
- Excellent audio
Cons:
- Expensive
- Keyboard layout may not be for everyone
- Limited port selection
- Average touchpad
2. Lenovo Legion Pro 7i: AI-tuned Gaming Beast
The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i aims to be the ultimate gaming laptop, and it comes close. Packing the latest 13th Gen Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 graphics card, it delivers smooth, high-performance gameplay even at the highest settings. The stunning 16-inch QHD+ display with its 240Hz refresh rate and excellent color accuracy further enhances the gaming experience. Additionally, the premium design, comfortable keyboard, long battery life, and port selection make it a well-rounded choice for gamers who demand the best.
The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i is a powerful, versatile, and well-rounded gaming laptop. While its high price tag might be a deterrent for some, it delivers top-tier performance, stunning visuals, and a comfortable user experience, making it a strong contender for one among the best gaming laptops of 2024.
Pros:
- Handles even the most demanding games with ease
- High refresh rate and excellent color accuracy for immersive gaming
- Sleek, stylish, and durable
- Extends your gaming sessions without needing an outlet
- Comfortable keyboard and touchpad
- Rich port selection
Cons:
- High price tag may deter some users
- Keyboard layout: May not be suitable for all users
- Not ideal for color-sensitive work
3. Lenovo Legion Slim 5: Portable powerhouse
The Lenovo Legion Slim 5 14 (Gen 8) strikes a perfect balance between performance and portability. This sleek and lightweight laptop boasts an impressive 14-inch 2.8K OLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate, offering a vibrant and smooth gaming experience. Despite its thin profile, it packs a powerful punch with its latest AMD Ryzen processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 series graphics card, delivering exceptional performance for demanding games. The Legion Slim 5’s battery life, thermal management, and overall value is quite impressive. While its keyboard and limited port selection might raise concerns for some, the overall value and performance make it a strong contender in the 2024 laptop market.
Pros:
- Easily portable for on-the-go gaming
- Beautiful 2.8K OLED display for tunning visuals and smooth gameplay
- Stays cool even under heavy load
- Game for hours without needing an outlet
- Offers exceptional value for its features
Cons:
- May require additional adapters for some peripherals
- Keyboard has shallow key travel and some layout quirks
4. ASUS ROG Strix G16: Bold aesthetics with performance
The ASUS ROG Strix G16 is a unique and powerful gaming laptop that stands out from the crowd with its sleek design, cyberpunk aesthetic, and impressive performance. Its 16-inch QHD+ display boasts vibrant colors and a high refresh rate for smooth gameplay, while the 13th Gen Intel processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card provide plenty of power to handle even the most demanding games.
The ASUS ROG Strix G16 is a powerful and stylish gaming laptop that offers an excellent gaming experience. However, its high price tag and limited color space coverage may deter some users. Overall, it’s a great option for gamers who demand performance and a unique design.
Pros:
- Stunning 16-inch QHD+ display with 240Hz refresh rate
- Powerful 13th Gen Intel processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card
- Sleek and stylish design with cyberpunk aesthetics
- Excellent build quality and thermal management
- Long battery life for a gaming laptop
- Comfortable keyboard and touchpad
- Rich port selection
Cons:
- Expensive
- Keyboard layout may not be for everyone
- Limited color space coverage
- Can get loud under load
5. Lenovo LOQ 15: Great value for money
The Lenovo LOQ 15 packs a punch in a budget-conscious package. Featuring a 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card, it handles most games smoothly at medium to high settings. This laptop not only delivers solid performance but also boasts excellent build quality and a comfortable keyboard, making it an attractive option for gamers on a budget.
The Lenovo LOQ 15 is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious gamers seeking a balanced gaming experience. While it may not offer the absolute top-tier features or the highest display refresh rate, its solid performance, comfortable user experience, and affordable price point make it a compelling option. The long battery life and sleek design further enhance its versatility as a well-rounded machine for both gaming and everyday tasks.
Pros:
- Provides exceptional value for its features
- Handles most games well without breaking the bank
- Offers a premium feel and reliable construction
- Ideal for both gaming and typing sessions
- Delivers decent endurance compared to other gaming laptops
- Allows customization of RAM and storage to fit your needs
- Maintains a modern aesthetic without being overly flashy
Cons:
- May not be suitable for color-sensitive work
- Limited ports, may require additional adapters for certain peripherals
- Fan noise can become noticeable under load
6. ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18: Absolute performance
The ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18 is a true monster of a gaming laptop, pushing the boundaries of what portable computing can do. Its vibrant 18-inch QHD display with a 240Hz refresh rate and a combination of the 13th gen Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 graphics card make it a force to be reckoned with. This behemoth is not just about raw power, though. It boasts a premium build quality, a comfortable keyboard, and a rich port selection, making it a complete package for hardcore gamers.
However, its massive size, weight, and high price tag make it a niche choice for hardcore gamers who prioritize ultimate performance and screen size over portability and affordability. If you are looking a more balanced and portable option, you might have to look at other options in the 2024 gaming laptop market.
Pros:
- Superb performance, handles any game with ease
- 18-inch QHD display with a 240Hz/3ms refresh rate
- Premium build quality, feels sturdy and luxurious
- Comfortable keyboard enables extended gaming sessions
- Comprehensive port selection for all peripherals
Cons:
- Big and heavy, not the most portable option
- Comes with a hefty price tag
- Limited battery life, not ideal for long gaming sessions away from an outlet
- Fan noise can become quite loud under heavy load
7. ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition: Battery powerhouse
The ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition strikes a balance between performance and affordability. This 16-inch gaming laptop boasts a vibrant and smooth display with a 165Hz refresh rate, AMD’s potent Ryzen 9 processor, and AMD’s Radeon RX 7600S graphics card, delivering exceptional gaming performance.
The ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition also offers a long battery life, and a comfortable, and clean user experience. The keyboard layout might require some getting used to and the color space coverage isn’t ideal for color-sensitive work. However, the overall value proposition and impressive performance make it a fantastic choice for most gamers.
Pros:
- Handles demanding games effortlessly at high settings
- Offers exceptional features for its accessible price point
- 165Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals while gaming
- Provides ample battery performance for long gaming sessions
- Build feels durable and reliable
- Ideal for both gaming and everyday tasks
- Offers ample connections for your peripherals
Cons:
- Not ideal for color-sensitive work
- Fans can get loud under heavy load
- Minor keyboard layout quirks, may require some getting used to
8. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14: Compact gaming beast
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 is a compelling option for gamers seeking a balance between power and portability. This 14-inch laptop features a sleek design, a vibrant display, and impressive performance for its size. With its AMD Ryzen 9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 graphics card, it delivers smooth gameplay for most games, making it a great choice for both casual and hardcore gamers.
While the price tag may be a deterrent for some and the color space coverage is limited, the overall value proposition and impressive performance make it a compelling option for many gamers even in 2024.
Pros:
- Handles most games well with its powerful internals
- Lightweight and compact
- The 14-inch QHD display offers vibrant colors and a high refresh rate for smooth gameplay
- Provides ample battery performance for extended gaming sessions
- Comfortable keyboard and touchpad
- Offers ample connections for your peripherals
Cons:
- The price tag may be a deterrent for some
- Not ideal for color-sensitive work
- Fan noise can get loud under load
- Keyboard layout may not suit everyone
9. Razer Blade 18 : Ultimate desktop replacement
The Razer Blade 18 is a powerhouse of a gaming laptop, boasting an immense 18-inch display and unparalleled performance fueled by the 13th gen Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 graphics card. This gaming laptop delivers an immersive experience with stunning visuals, a smooth 240 hz refresh rate, and comprehensive port selection. We are awestruck by its raw power. However, its massive size and weight, coupled with a substantial price tag, make it a niche choice for dedicated gamers who prioritize ultimate performance and screen size above all else. Those seeking a more balanced and portable option should look elsewhere.
Pros:
- Conquers any game with effortless ease
- Vibrant 18-inch display with a silky smooth refresh rate
- Equipped with the absolute pinnacle of CPU and GPU available at the moment
- Comprehensive port selection for all your essential peripherals
- Premium build quality and a stylish design
- Comfortable keyboard and touchpad
Cons:
- Not the most portable companion
- Comes with a hefty price tag that may not be accessible to all
- Can become quite loud under heavy load
10. Acer Predator Helios 16: Superb cooling and performance
The Acer Predator Helios 16 is a popular name among the gaming laptop community. This beast boasts a powerful 13th gen Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card, ensuring smooth gameplay for even the most demanding titles. Its 16-inch, 250Hz Mini LED display offers stunning visuals. A wide keyboard and comfortable touchpad make extended gaming sessions enjoyable on the Helios 16.
Pros:
- Delivers exceptional power for seamless gaming and demanding applications
- Vibrant Mini LED display with a smooth 250Hz refresh rate
- The keyboard and touchpad provide a satisfying typing experience and responsive control
- Features a comprehensive selection of ports for all your peripherals
- Sleek and stylish aesthetic with a robust build quality
Cons:
- Not the most portable option for those who travel frequently
- Can become noticeable under heavy load.
- Not ideal for extended gaming sessions without an outlet
- Audio quality might not satisfy audiophiles
How to choose a Gaming Laptop in 2024
The 2024 gaming laptop market is crowded and choosing the best is no easy job. We spent weeks researching and reviewing these machines. Here’s how you can get to your buying decision fast.
1. Determine Your Budget:
Let’s kick things off by deciding how much money you’re comfortable spending on a gaming laptop. The good news is that there’s a wide range of options available for every budget. If you’re on a tighter budget (under $1,000), expect some trade-offs in terms of build quality and features, but these laptops can still handle most games decently. Stepping up to the $1,000 and above range opens the door to better quality and more powerful options. For those with a more generous budget (around $1,800 or more), premium choices await, providing top-notch design, cutting-edge hardware, and a sleek user experience.
2. The Internals of the Laptop: CPU and GPU:
Now, let’s talk about the CPU and the GPU of your gaming laptop. Both AMD and Intel offer good options for the CPU, but if you want the latest in graphics technology, NVIDIA GPUs are generally a step ahead. AMD’s GPUs, while competitive, might not match NVIDIA’s advancements, especially in features like ray tracing.
3. Size, Display, and Refresh Rate:
The physical aspects of your gaming laptop matter too. Think about the screen size that suits your preferences – 14 to 15 inches strikes a good balance between portability and immersion, while larger 17 to 18-inch models offer more screen real estate. Pay attention to the display’s refresh rate; a minimum of 120Hz is recommended for a smooth visual experience, and higher rates (144Hz, 240Hz, or 360Hz) elevate gameplay to another level. If you’re keen on a responsive and tear-free experience, consider laptops with NVIDIA’s G-SYNC or AMD’s FreeSync technology.
While OLED screens are phenomenal for certain applications, for gaming laptops, high-refresh-rate LCD screens are generally preferred due to their smoother performance.
4. Additional Considerations for gaming laptops in 2024:
- RAM Matters: Ensure your laptop has at least 16GB of RAM for smooth multitasking. If you’re a heavy multitasker or plan on streaming while gaming, upgrading to 32GB might be worth considering.
- Storage Space: Gaming these days demands ample storage. Aim for a 1TB M.2 SSD for quick game loading times. If your budget allows, consider a 2TB SSD for even more storage space. Some laptops also offer additional room for standard SATA hard drives.
- Hands-On Testing: Before committing to a purchase, try to get your hands on the laptop in a physical store. Retailers with straightforward return policies, like Amazon or Best Buy, provide an easy way to return the laptop if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
- Accessories: Don’t forget about the peripherals – a good gaming experience requires a quality mouse, keyboard, and headphones. Invest in accessories that complement your gaming style and enhance your overall setup.
Picking the best gaming laptops in 2024 was quite an interesting task for us! We’ve checked out a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences. From affordable ones that still pack a punch to middle-of-the-road choices that offer a good mix of power, and the high-end, super fancy ones that redefine what gaming laptops can do. We talked about the important stuff like what’s inside, the size and quality of the screen, and how much memory and storage you need. So, whether you’re a casual gamer or really into it, these are the best gaming laptops in 2024 that you can consider.
