Playing your favorite PC games with maxed-out settings doesn’t mean you need a big desktop rig. We’ve got a top-rated gaming laptop for every type of user, based on our in-depth, testing-based reviews. Which one should you get?
Purists will argue that you need a PC to truly play games, especially if you’re a fan of pushing the levels of graphics quality beyond the capabilities of a mere gaming console. To do that, the gaming desktop is still king, particularly when it comes to stuffing in the components and horsepower needed to run 4K games smoothly and support virtual reality (VR) setups. But if you want something you can tote around the house or over to your friend’s place, we’re here to help you choose the right gaming laptop.
Our list of picks is ever-evolving as we test new models. We have organized our choices into our current favorites in the budget (under about $1,200), midrange (between $1,200 and $2,000), and high-end ($2,000 and up) classes. In years past, 15.6-inch and 17.3-inch laptops were the norm, but we now see 14-inch, 16-inch, and 18-inch systems, so grouping picks by specific size is too cumbersome. And so, in addition to the pricing tiers, we’ve selected picks for those seeking a particularly portable or an especially big-screen solution and designated a few additional favorites for narrower use cases, such as content creation and cloud gaming.
If the base model of a given laptop starts at a lower price, we may designate a model in a different price class than what we tested it at. Also note that the budget class, in particular, has seen some price inflation since the pandemic. (Before, we had a hard limit of $999 for budget gaming laptops.) So, we’ve lifted the price ceiling for this class of gaming machines in 2024 to $1,200.
Check out a detailed breakout of our current picks for the best gaming laptops for 2024 below, followed by our extensive buying guide to how to shop for a gaming laptop.Why We Picked It
Given the Legion Slim 5 Gen 8’s reasonable $1,299 starting price, wealth of configuration options, and sturdy build, we can comfortably recommend this model to the average gamer. Our configuration (at $1,549) is a little pricier than the base model, which gives you an idea of how it can scale up without coming close to high-end pricing. With an AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU for speedy midrange gaming performance—alongside a sharp 165Hz display, a comfortable keyboard, and efficient cooling—this Legion is a worthy selection.Who It’s For
While the starting price is a bit beyond budget class (we have other picks for that purpose), most of you will find the performance more than acceptable at a reasonable cost. This model has a 16-inch screen, and you can find plenty more portable laptops if that’s your priority. Still, know that 16 inches is rapidly becoming the «standard» size among gaming machines. If you have money to spend, but not that kind of money, come first to the Legion Slim 5 Gen 8.Why We Picked It
You’ll find plenty of powerful and pricey systems on our list, but we’re thinking of the many shoppers on tight budgets, too. The Acer Nitro V 15 (ANV15-51-59MT) starts at the low price of $699.99, and even our upgraded $849.99 review model sits comfortably under $1,000. For that, you get an Nvidia RTX 4050 GPU and an Intel 13th Gen Core i5 CPU, which posted comfortable 1080p gaming numbers in our testing. The 512GB drive is a bit restrictive for gaming, but that’s normal in this price range, and crucially the battery life and port offerings are broad enough to balance out the package. The Nitro focuses on gaming performance per dollar, costing as little as possible for a smooth experience in the modern market.Who It’s For
If $1,000 is pushing your wallet too far, you’ll find no better pick at retail price than this laptop. The last thing you want to concede on for a gaming laptop is graphics and gaming performance, and in that regard, the Nitro hangs with more expensive machines. This laptop can run all of the most popular games, including the more demanding big-budget games, at 1080p without issue. Only the most cutting-edge titles will require you to turn down some visual settings at that resolution, too, making for a generally plug-and-play experience. If you’re a parent buying your child a first or college laptop, or a mainstream gamer on a strict budget, this is the best option for as little as possible.Why We Picked It
If you can extend your budget up from the Nitro, this is one of the better $1,000 deals available. The entry-level parts won’t set any records, but an RTX 4050 GPU and particularly a 13th Gen Core i7 processor at this price are a reasonable package. You’ll always have to make concessions (a dim display and a graphics performance are top of mind here), but it’s easy to recommend this laptop to mainstream gamers on a budget. You should note, though, that despite the lower price, Acer’s Nitro can push superior gaming performance to this machine. You’re largely paying more for a slightly snappier processor and double the RAM, while the design is a more subjective preference. Who It’s For
If the Nitro isn’t available or you find this laptop on sale, it’s another smart pick for budget-bound shoppers, young gamers getting their first gaming laptop, and anyone in those groups who especially wants a quick processor. The Nitro is a better deal, punching above its weight on performance, but you may prefer the Cyborg’s build, or have your eye on the superior CPU and memory for other uses. Outside of that comparison, this remains one of the best ways to spend your money in this category.Why We Picked It
While relatively new sizes such as 16-inch and 18-inch machines are becoming the norm for midrange and high-end laptops, the Lenovo Legion Slim 5 Gen 8 bucks the norm at 14.5 inches. It does so without dropping the ball on the performance side: Our AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS- and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060-equipped review unit can keep up with larger, similarly outfitted systems. It’s got more tricks up its sleeve beyond the performance and portable size, too, chiefly a brilliant OLED screen and a long battery life. It’s well made, long lasting, and a good performer, all at a very reasonable price.Who It’s For
Aspirational gamers are the heart of the target market for this unit. True high-end systems cost $2,000 and up, out of reach for many budgets, but the starting price here is more reasonable for those who can spend a bit above entry-level. The size and portability are also uncommon advantages. There are some 14-inch machines that really specialize in mobility, but this is a nice middle ground, and there are plenty of larger machines if you prefer a bigger screen.Why We Picked It
The Lenovo Legion Slim 5 Gen 8 is a pretty tough value to top, but not every gamer prioritizes portability or wants to play on a 14.5-inch screen. The Alienware m16 R2 sits toward the upper end of midrange pricing, but it’s still a compelling deal given the performance and design. An Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU drive steady high-end gaming and productivity performance in our $1,849.99 test model. The QHD+ screen resolution strains the system in the most cutting-edge games, but only super-expensive laptops can handle it better, and you can always tune down the settings. The build is trim for the power, the keyboard feels comfortable, and the battery lasts long for a gaming laptop, making this a smart buy overall.Who It’s For
Aspirational gamers are the heart of the target market for this unit. True high-end systems cost $2,000 and up, out of reach for many budgets, but the starting price here is more reasonable for those who can spend a bit above entry-level. While it may not be a 14.5-inch machine, it’s pretty slim for the power profile, leaving a place for it as a travel companion. Mainstream and hardcore gamers who want a quality-made laptop and higher-end performance will be satisfied with the Alienware m16 R2.Why We Picked It
Simply put, this laptop is the best of both worlds in performance and price. Bargains aren’t the primary consideration once you’re in this price tier, but it doesn’t hurt that the Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 delivers top-end performance for less than its competition. The build lacks the flash of some rivals, but the subtle design may also be preferable for many shoppers.
Its $2,299 starting price is appealing, and our $2,749 test model includes an Intel Core i9-13900HX and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080, which delivered performance in line with more expensive laptops. Who It’s For
You’ll find much to love here if you are shopping in this laptop’s mid-$2K price range. This Legion Pro’s performance rivals pricier and heavier systems, which is alone reason enough to give it a glance; anyone seeking the best deal in the high-end range should look no further.Why We Picked It
The relatively new 18-inch laptop market is home to some of the most powerful gaming laptops available, allowing manufacturers to pack the best parts and robust thermal hardware into larger frames. This is the second edition of Dell’s Alienware m18, carrying over a lot of what we liked from the first. Namely, this machine goes right to the top end of the power stack, complemented by high-end style and premium features like an advanced display. You can pick from a 1600p 165Hz or 1080p 480Hz panel, and our review unit was loaded with an Intel Core i9-14900HX CPU and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 GPU. Unsurprisingly, this meant extreme performance as configured, and extra options like a Cherry MX mechanical keyboard elevated the experience even further.Who It’s For
This is undoubtedly a big and bulky system, but if you’re considering an 18-inch laptop, you’re looking at a powerful desktop replacement first and foremost—not a super-mobile option. And it’s not just size: We mean it when we say this is our «high-end» option in terms of cost. Its $1,899.99 starting price is rather reasonable for the category, but our $3,599.99 review configuration requires deep pockets. Why We Picked It
The G14 is our current favorite 14-inch option for its combination of performance, style, and price. Our $1,999.99 review configuration is not cheap, but compact gaming laptops are an inherently expensive category, and this is a fine deal for what you get. Its $1,599.99 base model can get you in the door for less. Our model packs an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor, 32GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU into its compact frame, delivering all you need and then some.
Frame rates easily cruised into the hundreds at 1080p and stayed well over 60fps even at native «3K» resolution. This performance comes in a stylish, high-quality chassis that weighs only 3.3 pounds, and it’s realized through a 120Hz OLED panel with G-Sync support. Battery life is long, and you’ll find plenty of ports despite its small frame. It’s difficult to find much fault with the system, adding up to a capable, chic, and portable gaming machine.Who It’s For
PC gamers seeking a portable travel companion should look no further. You’ll see some worthy alternatives, especially the Blade 14 (for those with even bigger budgets), but this ROG Zephyrus is the best mix of the most critical factors. The less-expensive base model can give you a lot of design advantages for hundreds less if our review configuration stretches your budget too far. If you are looking for a primary gaming PC that you can travel with over short or long distances, or if you want a mobile partner for your home desktop, the Zephyrus is your best bet.Why We Picked It
Making high-performance gaming systems compact and portable is never cheap, but Razer’s Blade 14 goes for an especially premium package. This machine starts at $2,399, and our review unit rang up at $2,699, making it a luxury alternative to the Asus model above. A mix of portability, performance, and build quality emerges for that Razer money. The all-metal Blade line always impresses with a premium look and feel, which is even easier to appreciate at this size. Being a high-end machine, our review model works in an AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS CPU and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU (which delivers plenty of wattage despite the system size), ensuring top-notch gaming performance from a tiny package.Who It’s For
Prioritizing portability over power is part of the deal if you’re considering a 14-inch gaming laptop. That’s not to say the Blade 14 isn’t a capable gaming machine.
