Best Gaming Laptops 2024: Performance Review and Buying Tips

In the quest for the best gaming laptops of 2024, evaluating pivotal factors like build quality, performance benchmarks, display characteristics, audio output, battery longevity, and keyboard comfort becomes imperative ¹. These laptops undergo rigorous testing, including running contemporary games at their highest settings, stress testing via benchmarks like Metro Exodus, examining productivity potential, assessing display attributes in terms of brightness and color spectrum, alongside battery performance evaluations to meet the diverse needs of both avid and entry-level gamers ². This meticulous scrutiny ensures that the list of the best gaming laptops not only appeals to those seeking immense gaming power, including ray tracing capabilities and high refresh rates but also caters to the needs of individuals looking for the best battery life gaming laptops or those requiring a portable desktop replacement with a sleek design ².

When determining which gaming laptop to purchase, the emphasis is often placed on the GPU due to its non-upgradeable nature, highlighting the necessity of considering future-proofing aspects such as RAM and storage expandability ². Given the typically modest battery life of gaming machines, and the requirement of a power supply for peak performance, selecting a model that balances powerful gaming experiences with desired portability and user experience is crucial ². This guide not only features the most powerful gaming laptops but also explores options offering the best gaming experience across various screen sizes, from nimble 15-inch and 16-inch models to expansive 17-inch screens, ensuring there is a high-performing gaming laptop for every enthusiast, regardless of whether searching for the best gaming laptops under specific price points or in specific regions like India or the UK ².

Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023)

Key Specifications and Performance

1. Processor and Graphics: Equipped with a 13th Gen Intel Core i9 processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 GPU, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) delivers robust performance for the most demanding games ⁶.
2. Display: Features a 16-inch ROG Nebula HDR display, boasting a 240Hz refresh rate and a 3ms response time, ideal for high-speed gaming with minimal motion blur ⁴⁶.
3. Memory and Storage: Comes with 16GB of dual-channel DDR5-4800 RAM and a high-capacity 2TB M.2 SSD, providing ample space and speed for gaming and multitasking ⁴⁶.

Design and Build

• Keyboard: Offers a rubber-dome keyboard design with per-key RGB backlighting, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality for gamers ⁶.
• Connectivity: High-spec connectivity options include Thunderbolt 4 and a 2.5G ethernet port, catering to various peripheral and internet connection needs ⁴.

Performance Challenges

• Thermal Performance: The laptop tends to run hot, with internal temperatures reaching up to 105°C for the CPU and 83°C for the GPU under load, which might require additional cooling solutions when used extensively ⁴⁶.
• Potential Technical Issues: Users might experience some coil whine during gaming and occasional system unresponsiveness, including crashes when launching intensive applications like PCMark 10 ⁴.

Display and Audio Quality

• Visual Experience: The Nebula screen supports HDR well and offers a functionally infinite contrast ratio, with vibrant colors covering 100% of the DCI-P3 spectrum, providing a rich visual experience ⁵.
• Audio: Features rich and bass-friendly speakers, enhancing the overall multimedia and gaming experience ⁴.

Pricing and Value

• Cost: Priced at around $3200 in the US, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) is positioned similarly to competitors like the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i but offers superior CPU performance and a higher refresh rate screen, making it a competitive choice in the high-end gaming laptop market ⁴⁵.

Asus TUF A15 (2023)

The Asus TUF A15 (2023) stands out as a commendable option for gamers seeking robust performance without breaking the bank. It features a durable metal lid with additional plastic components that contribute to its solid construction, showing only minor flex in the typing deck ⁸. This model is designed with a dark cool gray color scheme and an angular cutout to enhance airflow, essential for maintaining performance during extended gaming sessions ⁸.

Weighing in at just 2.2 kg and measuring 25mm in thickness, the Asus TUF A15 is both slimmer and lighter compared to some of its competitors, making it a more portable option ⁹. It boasts a comprehensive array of ports including full-size USB 3.2 Gen 1 on both sides, USB 4 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, HDMI, audio, and Ethernet outputs located on the left edge, catering to a wide range of connectivity needs ⁹.

The display of the Asus TUF A15 is a 15.6-inch IPS panel with a 144Hz refresh rate, suitable for mainstream gaming. For those in other regions, options with a 1440p 165Hz or 1080p 165Hz screen are available, although the 18ms grey-to-grey response time might cause some blur in fast-paced games ¹⁰¹¹. The display’s maximum brightness peaks at 290 nits, which could pose challenges for outdoor use ¹¹.

Under the hood, the Asus TUF A15 is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS processor paired with an Nvidia RTX 4060 GPU. This combination is capable of handling top single-player games and provides sufficient speed for eSports titles for the foreseeable future ⁸⁹. Despite its budget-friendly price, the laptop does not compromise on performance, as evidenced by its capability to match the performance of RTX 4070 and even some 3080 Ti class mobile GPUs ¹³.

In terms of memory and storage, the laptop offers two memory slots, an M.2 SSD, and a spare M.2 storage slot, scoring high on upgradeability ¹⁰. This feature is particularly beneficial for gamers who may seek to enhance their system’s capabilities in the future. The Wi-Fi performance is slightly behind the ASUS TUF A16 but shows improvement over last year’s A15 model ¹⁰.

While the Asus TUF A15 does have some compromises in areas like the display, keyboard, trackpad, and speakers, it remains highly recommended for those looking for a cost-effective gaming laptop that does not skimp on performance ⁸.

ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024)

Key Specifications

1. Model and Price: ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024) GA403, priced at $2,199.99 ³.
2. Processor and Graphics: Equipped with an AMD Ryzen™ 9 8945HS Processor, featuring a base clock of 4GHz and AMD Ryzen™ AI up to 39 TOPs, paired with NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070 and 4060 Laptop GPUs ¹⁴.
3. Memory and Storage: Offers 16GB*2 LPDDR5X 6400 on board, expandable up to 32GB, and 1TB PCIe® 4.0 NVMe™ M.2 SSD for high-speed storage ¹⁴.
4. Display Features: 14-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 2880 x 1800, 120Hz refresh rate, Pantone validated, and supports Dolby Vision HDR for superior visual quality ¹⁴.

Design and Build

• Dimensions and Weight: Measures 31.1 x 22.0 x 1.59 ~ 1.63 cm and weighs 1.50 Kg, making it highly portable ¹⁴.
• Keyboard and Camera: Features a backlit chiclet keyboard with 1-zone RGB lighting and a 1080P FHD IR camera for Windows Hello ¹⁴.
• Connectivity and Security: Includes HDMI, USB Type-A, USB Type-C, and Type-C with DisplayPort™ and power delivery. Security features include BIOS Administrator Password and User Password Protection, along with a McAfee® 30 days free trial ¹⁴.

Performance and Utility

• Wireless Capabilities: Supports Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) and Bluetooth® 5.3 for robust wireless connectivity ¹⁴.
• Battery and Power Supply: Equipped with a 73WHrs, 4S1P, 4-cell Li-ion battery and a 180W AC Adapter, balancing performance with energy efficiency ¹⁴.

This model stands out as the best overall gaming laptop due to its combination of powerful components, superior display technology, and portable design, making it a top choice for gamers seeking high performance in a compact form ³¹⁴.

Razer Blade 15 (2022)

Key Specifications and Performance

1. Processor and Graphics: The Razer Blade 15 (2022) is powered by the latest 12th Gen Intel Core i9 Processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 Series Laptop GPUs, offering top-tier gaming performance ³.
2. Display Options: Users can choose from a Full HD 360Hz, QHD 240Hz (G-SYNC or OLED), or UHD 144Hz display, catering to various gaming preferences and needs ³.
3. Memory and Storage: This model features options for 16GB or 32GB of DDR5 memory, upgradeable to 64GB, and a 1TB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD, expandable up to 2TB, ensuring ample space and speed ³.

Design and Build Quality

• Chassis and Build: The Razer Blade 15 (2022) sports a sleek, black matte chassis with a light-up Razer logo, measuring 14.9 x 9.3 x 0.7 inches and weighing 4.6 pounds. It is designed without vents on the back, placing them all on the bottom instead ³.
• Display Quality: It features a high-contrast OLED display with excellent color space coverage, making it suitable for both gaming and creative tasks ³.

Advanced Features and Connectivity

• Audio and Touchpad: The laptop includes THX Spatial Audio for immersive sound and a precision glass touchpad for accurate control ³.
• Connectivity: It supports a wide range of devices with advanced connectivity options such as Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and Gigabit Ethernet ³.
• Additional Features: The Razer Blade 15 offers a full-HD webcam with IR for Windows Hello, providing a secure and fast way to unlock the device ³.

Performance Insights

• Gaming Capabilities: With the power to handle demanding games at high settings, the Razer Blade 15 reaches beyond playable frame rates, enhanced by a MUX switch in Razer’s Synapse software that allows users to toggle between integrated and discrete graphics ³.
• Display Performance: The 360Hz display option is ideal for achieving high frame rates in fast-paced games, although it is typically used with lower settings to maximize the refresh rate ³.

Pricing and Configuration

• Price Range: Starting at $2,500 for the base model with an Intel Core i7-12800H, prices can soar above $4,000 for high-end configurations featuring up to an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 Ti ³.
• Battery and Charging: The model supports USB-C charging in advanced configurations, allowing for convenient charging on the go ³.

With its combination of powerful hardware, versatile display options, and robust design, the Razer Blade 15 (2022) stands out as a top contender in the best 15-inch gaming laptop category ³.

Alienware M18

Key Specifications and Performance

1. Processor and Graphics Options: The Alienware M18 offers a range of powerful processors, including Intel i9-13980HX, Intel i7-13700HX, and AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX, coupled with high-performance GPUs like the Nvidia RTX 4090 and AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT, ensuring top-tier gaming and productivity performance ¹⁹.
2. Display: It features an 18-inch QHD+ (2560 x 1600) display with a 165Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth and immersive visual experience, although its brightness level of 300 nits may not compete with some rivals ¹⁸¹⁹.
3. Memory and Storage: With options for up to 64GB DDR5 RAM and 8TB SSD storage, the Alienware M18 caters to extensive multitasking and vast data storage needs ¹⁹.

Design and Build

• Keyboard: Includes a spacious CherryMX mechanical keyboard that offers a satisfying typing experience, ideal for both gaming and general productivity ¹⁸.
• Build Quality: Although weighing nearly 9 pounds, the solid construction accommodates an expansive 18-inch screen and robust internal components, making it more suitable for stationary use rather than frequent mobility ¹⁸¹⁹.

Connectivity and Expansion

• Ports: The laptop is equipped with a comprehensive range of ports including USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2 Type-C, HDMI 2.1, miniDisplayPort, and an Ethernet port, facilitating a wide array of connectivity options ¹⁹.
• Wireless Technology: Features Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, providing the latest standards in wireless connectivity ¹⁹.

Performance and Utility

• Cooling System: Advanced cooling solutions, including quad internal fans and a vapor chamber, help manage the heat effectively, maintaining optimal performance even under heavy loads ²⁰.
• Audio and Camera: While the stereo speakers provide decent sound output, they may not match the audio quality of some competitors. The 1080p webcam offers sharp and accurate video, suitable for streaming and video calls ¹⁸²¹.

Pricing and Availability

• Cost: The starting price of the Alienware M18 is $1,699.99, with high-end configurations like the one with an Intel Core i9-13980HX and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 priced at $3,549, offering a range of options depending on the user’s budget and performance requirements ¹⁹²⁰.

Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 (2023)

Key Specifications and Performance

1. Processor and Graphics: The Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 (2023) is equipped with a 13th-gen Intel Core i9-13980HX CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 GPU, making it one of the most powerful gaming laptops on the market ²²²³²⁴.
2. Display: Features an 18-inch ROG Nebula Display with quad HD resolution, 240Hz refresh rate, and 100% DCI-P3 coverage, providing an exceptional visual experience ²²²⁴.
3. Memory and Storage: Comes with 64GB of DDR5 memory running at 4800 MHz and dual 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD storage, offering ample space and high-speed performance ²³²⁴.

Design and Build

• Chassis: Sports a bold design with an aluminum lid and RGB ROG logo, complemented by a durable plastic body ²².
• Keyboard and Touchpad: Includes a tactile and snappy keyboard with good travel and a large, responsive touchpad ²²²³.

Performance Challenges and Utility

• Cooling and Noise: While the laptop incorporates a sophisticated cooling system, it can still reach high temperatures and the fans may become noticeably loud during intense gaming sessions ²²²⁴.
• Portability and Battery: Weighing 3.1kg and with a thickness of 31mm, this laptop is less portable. Battery performance is lower compared to peers, with significantly short run times during high-demand activities ²²²⁴.

Pricing and Availability

• Cost: The Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 (2023) is priced at approximately $3,899.99, positioning it at the higher end of the gaming laptop market ²².
• Retail Availability: Available from major retailers like antonline, Best Buy, and Amazon, making it accessible for a wide range of consumers ²².

Comparative Advantage

• Benchmark Performance: Outperforms competitors such as the Razer Blade 18 in most benchmarks and gaming tests, offering superior gaming performance ²².
• Display and Audio: The high-quality display and robust sound system enhance the overall gaming and multimedia experience ²²²³.

HP Omen Transcend 14

Key Specifications and Performance

1. Processor and Graphics: The HP Omen Transcend 14 is equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H CPU and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU, providing a solid gaming experience ^{[57][58][59][60][61][63][64]25}.
2. Memory and Storage: It features 16GB of LPDDR-7467 memory and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, enhancing its capability to handle multiple tasks efficiently ²⁵.
3. Display: The laptop boasts a 14-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 2880 x 1800, a refresh rate of 120 Hz, and G-Sync support, offering vibrant visuals and smooth gameplay ²⁵.

Design and Build

• Dimensions and Weight: Compact and lightweight, it measures 12.32 x 9.19 x 0.71 inches and weighs 3.6 pounds, making it highly portable ²⁵.
• Keyboard and Touchpad: Features a full-size RGB keyboard and a spacious touchpad, although the keyboard comfort is noted as suboptimal ²⁵.

Connectivity and Expansion

• Ports and Wireless Connectivity: Includes Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, HDMI 2.1, and a 3.5 mm audio jack, alongside Intel Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 ²⁵.

Performance and Utility

• Productivity Performance: Achieves a single-core Geekbench 6 score of 2,362 and a multi-core score of 13,248, demonstrating strong performance capabilities ²⁵.
• Battery and Power: Comes with a 71 WHrs battery and a 140W power adapter, but it ranks last in battery endurance among its peers, lasting approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes ²⁵.

Additional Features

• Audio and Camera: Includes dual HyperX-tuned speakers and a 1080p IR webcam, although the webcam quality is average with some issues in detail and color accuracy ²⁵.
• Heat and Noise: During stress tests, the laptop’s fans are notably audible, though they remain quieter during regular tasks. Temperature measurements show that the device manages heat well under normal conditions ²⁵.

Software and Upgradeability

• Software: Comes equipped with the HP Omen Gaming Hub for managing games and system performance, along with other HP-specific applications and some preinstalled bloatware ²⁵.
• Upgradeability: The laptop allows for M.2 SSD upgrades, although the RAM is soldered onto the motherboard, limiting further memory expansion ²⁵.

Conclusion

Through careful examination and comparison across a diverse range of gaming laptops targeted for release in 2024, this article has highlighted key factors such as performance, design, upgradeability, and value which are imperative for making an informed purchase decision. Each model, from high-end giants like the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 (2023) and the Alienware M18, to more budget-friendly options like the Asus TUF A15 (2023), caters to the specific needs and preferences of different gamers, showcasing advancements in processing power, graphics capabilities, and innovative design features that enhance the overall gaming experience.

Considering the rapid advancements in gaming technology and the evolving needs of gamers, these reviews underscore the importance of selecting a laptop that not only meets current gaming demands but also offers a degree of future-proofing. Whether you prioritize the top-of-the-line graphics and performance, the portability and battery life for on-the-go gaming, or the best value for your budget, there is a gaming laptop out there that fits the bill. The insights provided here serve as a guide, urging readers to weigh the various aspects discussed before making a final decision, and perhaps, even inspiring further research or inquiries into the ever-growing realm of gaming laptops.

FAQs

What are the key factors to consider when purchasing a gaming laptop?

1. Processor and GPU: The most critical components that determine the gaming performance. Look for the latest generation CPUs and powerful GPUs to handle modern games ¹.
2. Display Quality: High refresh rates and resolution can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Prioritize features like HDR support and color accuracy ¹.
3. Build Quality and Design: A sturdy build reduces wear over time, while a good design can improve cooling and maintain performance under load ¹.
4. Battery Life: Gaming laptops are power-hungry, but a better battery will provide longer playtimes without a constant power supply ¹.
5. Portability: If you plan to carry your laptop often, consider lighter and thinner models ¹.
6. Price: Set a budget and compare the specifications and features within that range to find the best value ¹.

How do I ensure my gaming laptop remains future-proof?

• Upgradeability: Check if the laptop allows for RAM and storage upgrades to boost its performance in the future ¹.
• Latest Technology: Opting for a laptop with the latest technology, like Wi-Fi 6 and Thunderbolt ports, ensures longer relevance ¹.

Can gaming laptops be used for other tasks like video editing or software development?

• Versatility: Most gaming laptops are equipped with high-performance specifications that also make them excellent for demanding tasks like video editing or 3D rendering ¹.

What are the common issues with gaming laptops and how can they be mitigated?

• Overheating: Ensure proper ventilation and consider using a cooling pad to help manage heat effectively ¹.
• Battery Drain: Adjusting screen brightness and power settings can help conserve battery life during intensive use ¹.

Are there specific brands that lead in the gaming laptop market?

• Brand Reputation: Brands like ASUS, Alienware, and Razer are renowned for their quality gaming laptops. However, always check recent reviews and benchmarks for the latest models ¹.

References

[1] – https://www.engadget.com/best-gaming-laptops-172033838.html
[2] – https://www.tomshardware.com/laptops/gaming-laptops/best-gaming-laptops
[3] – https://www.gamesradar.com/best-gaming-laptops-compared/
[4] – https://www.pcgamer.com/asus-rog-strix-scar-16-2023-review-benchmarks/
[5] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekMWEWnz7vc
[6] – https://www.ultrabookreview.com/62826-asus-rog-scar-16-review/
[7] – https://www.pcworld.com/article/407493/best-gaming-laptops.html
[8] – https://www.gamesradar.com/asus-tuf-a15-2023-review/
[9] – https://www.techadvisor.com/article/1989431/asus-tuf-gaming-a15-2023-review.html
[10] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpvbxS51TlM
[11] – https://www.stuff.tv/review/asus-tuf-gaming-a15-review/
[12] – https://www.notebookcheck.net/Asus-TUF-Gaming-A15-laptop-review-A-budget-gamer-with-an-RTX-4050-and-a-144-Hz-screen.725720.0.html
[13] – https://in.ign.com/asus-tuf-gaming-a15-fa577xv-hq036ws-2023/189805/review/asus-tuf-gaming-a15-2023-review-good-but-not-perfect
[14] – https://rog.asus.com/us/laptops/rog-zephyrus/rog-zephyrus-g14-2024/spec/
[15] – https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-gaming-laptops
[16] – https://www.wired.com/review/asus-rog-strix-scar-18/
[17] – https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/alienware-m18
[18] – https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/alienware-m18
[19] – https://www.gamesradar.com/alienware-m18-review/
[20] – https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/alienware-m18-review-a-big-and-bold-gaming-beast/
[21] – https://www.rtings.com/laptop/reviews/dell/alienware-m18-2023
[22] – https://www.gamesradar.com/asus-rog-strix-scar-18-review/
[23] – https://www.techradar.com/reviews/asus-rog-strix-scar-18-2023
[24] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34P_6DchA-E
[25] – https://www.tomshardware.com/laptops/gaming-laptops/hp-omen-transcend-14-review