The best gaming laptops of 2025 are starting to take shape, and not all of them are the RTX 50-Series powerhouses you might expect. Yes, machines like the Razer Blade 16 and Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 have knocked older models out of their spots, but there's still plenty of value in older (and cheaper) RTX 40-Series configurations. Prices are going to be lower than their RTX 50-Series equivalents and value is already looking pretty good.
The best gaming laptop I've tested so far is, overall, the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9. It's seriously impressive in its performance and design, offering some fantastic benchmark results while still maintaining a slick and subtle form factor. You'll find all my favorites below, with each rig having passed a series of in-game and dedicated stress-test benchmark processes.
I've also lived, worked, and played with all of these machines for a minimum of two weeks each (and more when I can swing it that way). That means you know each one has been not only play-tested but life-tested along the way. You can check out exactly how we test gaming laptops in our dedicated guide.
I've been obsessed with laptops since I got my first machine that could just about, barely, run The Sims 2. Since then I've been through more gaming laptops than I can count, and - thankfully for my bank balance - have been reviewing these magic machines for over five years at GamesRadar+. While I can certainly appreciate a top of the range set of components, my background as a Deals Editor at our sister site TechRadar has also taught me the importance of value, so I consistently hold a particularly keen eye for user experience, long-term reliability, and the price/performance balancing act.
The quick list
The latest Legion Pro has taken the top spot on the market, boasting excellent performance and a chassis that won't take over your desk.
You don't need to spend big on a gaming laptop - especially if you play lighter games. The Asus TUF A15 offers the best price/performance value I've tested so far, and doesn't come in a cheap-feeling chassis either. This is your go-to starter rig.
The latest Zephyrus G14 feels more like an ultrabook with its slick design and OLED panel. It's still got gaming chops, though - making it our go-to 14-incher.
The latest Razer Blade 16 is going to cost you, but if you're looking to splash out on the highest quality 16-inch machine in the business this is where you need to be looking.
The latest Scar 18 goes all-in on power and immersion without reaching MSI's lofty prices, perfect for those after a new-generation beast machine.
With an AMD Ryzen 9 CPU and RTX 5090 GPU, this thing is absolutely stacked - and it's come out on top across every gaming laptop I've ever benchmarked.
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With an incredibly powerful AMD AI processor at the helm, the Asus TUF A14 is slim and light but still offers excellent performance.
May 27 - It's all change here once again, as the two gaming laptops I've been testing over the last month make their way into the top list. The MSI Raider A18 HX has almost immediately beaten the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 to the title of 'most powerful gaming laptop', while the 2025 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 makes its debut as the best 14-incher on the market.
The best gaming laptop overall
My favorite configuration
The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 kicked the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 off the top spot, and remains the best gaming laptop overall even with RTX 50-Series models on the shelves. Both are high-end 16-inch gaming laptops configurable up to an RTX 4090 but the boosted performance, slicker chassis, and improved design of the Legion Pro makes it the better buy.
✅ You want the best of both worlds: You're usually sacrificing performance to pick up a slimline machine and while the Legion Pro certainly isn't skinny its design means it doesn't look or feel so imposing on a desk.
✅ You're also a content creator: While it's not a 4K panel, the color accuracy and contrast of the Legion Pro's display is a sight to behold. Covering all the gamuts you'll need, this is a perfect fit for multi-taskers.
✅ You're investing long-term: The price is certainly high, but with top of the range components under the hood this is a gaming laptop that will see you through new releases for years to come.
❌ You don't need 100+ framerates: If you just play less demanding games, or you're happy spending less and sticking closer to 60fps then there are far cheaper options out there.
❌ You use particularly fast peripherals: The Legion Pro features older USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, which isn't going to make much of a difference for the vast majority of players. However, if all your peripherals use newer, faster, connections it might be worth looking elsewhere.
Design: There's some kind of magic going on in the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9's design. This is a heavy device, weighing in at 2.79kg (more than the Alienware M16 R2, Asus ROG Strix Scar 16, and Razer Blade 16), but it doesn't invade your backpack in quite the same way as chunkier models. The front edge is tapered, with only the rear I/O panel and a little of the sides sitting at full width. That gives the illusion of a much more svelt machine than the Scar 16 while still packing the power of a full chonk - something that served it particularly well in an RTX 4080 matchup against the skinnier MSI Stealth 18 AI Studio.
Actual build construction is fantastic as well, with an aluminum base and a skinny lid. Despite its minute size, this top panel holds up extremely well - only ever wobbling when being lowered slightly and snapping straight into place when opened with one hand. There's also very little flex to this piece, whereas I would have expected a far bendier experience. You've got all the RGB you can want, with per-key illumination on the full-sized keyboard and a neat strip of LEDs along the front (I personally prefer this more refined effect than the blaring grill of the ROG Strix Scar 16). You're not getting the sleek feel and additional RGB lighting of the Alienware x16 R2, but the extra heft does carry its own value in the features department.
Features: The main upgrade this year, like many other gaming laptops, comes to the Legion Pro's screen. It's still a 16-inch QHD+ 240Hz panel, but Lenovo has boosted its color handling, pushing the IPS display to cover 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut as well as the sRGB range already offered by the previous model. In the real world, that means far more definition between your colors, with games popping off the screen and a particularly immersive vividity to both brighter and darker scenes. It's a far better display than the darker and sometimes washed out Alienware x16 R2.
Not only that, but the keyboard underneath that screen is one of the best I've tested, offering a super springy feel and a tactile, clean response. Your port selection is pretty standard fare, with two USB-C options (both offering power delivery and Display Port 1.4), one being Thunderbolt 4. However the four USB-A connections on offer are all USB 3.2 Gen 1. That's not going to make much of a difference to the majority of players' peripherals, but if you're using faster, more recent gadgets you might get a slower transfer rate on paper.
Performance: The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i consistently performed better than the ROG Strix Scar 16 across synthetic and in-game benchmarks, posting some framerates that gave the (admittedly skinnier) RTX 4090 Razer Blade 16 something to think about. This is a particularly well-engineered device, running in 1080p Ultra settings at between 97fps and 195fps and QHD Ultra taking us to 71fps - 184fps. That puts it at the top of my RTX 4080 comparison pool, sometimes even overtaking far more expensive RTX 4090 configurations.
Verdict: The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i can top the performance charts in its price range, depending on the game, and does it all in a chassis that looks and feels more streamlined than that of the Strix Scar 16. It sits in the middle of the price range, but punches well above that position in both performance and quality of life features and that's a rare beast indeed.
Read more: Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 review
The best cheap gaming laptop
My favorite configuration:
The Asus TUF A15 has long been held as a staple among budget gaming laptops, but the latest model has cemented its position as one of the greats. This is a cheaper rig, so you're making some sacrifices to get those latest components in the price tag. However, the performance on offer is fantastic value for money as a result.
✅ You prioritize speed over finesse: The 1080p display in here is built to handle speed over the extra details you might find in a 1440p or 1600p screen.
✅ You're happy to crank up the fans: We got our best results from the Turbo Mode power preset which can kick those fans up to give you a tangible boost in performance.
✅ You don't want it to look cheap: The metal lid and simple color scheme makes the A15 look far more premium than its price tag suggests. If you're looking to spend less without that typical budget aesthetic, this is your best bet.
❌ You need a machine for daily work: If you're after a portable machine for daily work out and about, this isn't it. Not only is it chunkier than other ultrabooks at similar prices, but the keyboard and trackpad aren't up to a full day's clacking.
❌ You want to push demanding games to their limits: There's only so much an RTX 4060 or RTX 4070 can do - if you're looking to play next year's biggest Triple-As on max settings we'd recommend something with a little more power.
Design: From the cool gray tones to the metal lid, the Asus TUF A15 looks and feels more premium than it actually is. Yes, the majority of this chassis is plastic, and there are some questionably cringey text stamps on the main body, but it's a slick form factor overall and one that neatly sidesteps the common angular pitfalls of cheaper rigs.
The build quality is secure, with a nicely tightened hinge to the main display and only the expected amount of flex in the keyboard area for a gaming laptop of this price. No, it's not quite as slim as the previous Asus TUF Dash F15 before it (my personal machine for a long time), but it's still a comfortable size - easily backpackable and well below the heavyweights on this list.
Features: Like all good budget gaming laptops, the A15 has everything you need, but doesn't pump too much of your cash into any of its main feature areas. Instead, it saves its value for performance. That means you're getting a pretty standard 1080p 144Hz IPS display (in an older 16:9 form factor that did feel a little restrictive in my testing).
This screen could have benefitted from a few more nits of brightness, but displays its colors with enough contrast and vividity to get by in a more casual context. That still makes it a more immersive panel than you'll find on the HP Victus 16, a similarly priced budget entry. However, it's not quite up to the same heights as the Acer Nitro V 14, which makes particularly good use of its display.
There's also a full-sized keyboard in here - a rarity even in 16-inchers these days - and while it's a little softer than I'd like it still gets the job done. That trackpad isn't going to see you through a work day on the go, though. It's a clunky implementation with unreliable zoning for each click side and a heavy middle section.
Performance: I was impressed with the numbers filing out of the A15's benchmarks. It actually scored higher in Time Spy and Fire Strike than a similarly specced HP Omen Transcend 16 (worth about $600 more) and managed to carry me through demanding titles like Returnal and Hitman 3 without once dropping even close to 60fps. Considering you're spending far less than usual and still scoring three-figure framerates in Shadow of the Tomb Raider this is an absolute win.
Verdict: If you're going all in on performance and your budget doesn't stretch to the big dogs in this race, the Asus TUF A15 is a must-see. It's one of the cheapest machines I've tested so far and I've come away surprised by the performance on offer as well as the form factor and design. You are making some sacrifices to get there, but at this price point they're all worthwhile.
Read more: Asus TUF A15 review
The best 14-inch gaming laptop
My favorite configuration:
The 2025 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 is a little different to last year's, though you wouldn't necessarily know just by looking at it. With its increase in performance thanks to a boost up to an RTX 5080 (the previous generation tapped out at an RTX 4070) and one of my favorite gaming laptop CPUs at the helm, though, this one's all about performance. That does mean the line drops some of its affordability-factor, and 2025's iteration does jump up the price scale a little. If you're after value above-all, then, the 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 is still a fantastic bet.
✅You travel regularly with your laptop: Its 14-inch form factor is the giveaway here, but the G14 is particularly easy to transport thanks to its light weight and sturdy design.
✅Screen quality is a priority: That OLED panel is unmatched at the moment, offering an incredible viewing experience across both games and movies.
✅ You want a subtle aesthetic: The more refined aesthetic means you've got a gaming laptop that won't stand out from high-end ultrabook options. Think MacBook but with an RTX 5080.
❌ You want a desktop replacement: The G14 is designed to go out and about with you - if you don't mind a larger machine you can spend less and keep it docked at home.
Design: Last year's Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 introduced a more ultrabook-esque aesthetic for the line, and I'm glad this subtle approach has stuck through to 2025. The new release looks and feels fantastic, pairing a slimline waist with a clutter-free design to continue the tradition of the best-looking gaming laptops I've used. The rounded corners keep things softer than the Razer Blade 14, while the CNC-milled aluminum alloy build means everything is rock solid. There's still an unnecessary piece of "Slash Lighting" across the back, which can get annoying, but it's easy to turn off.
Features: This year's G14 sticks with OLED, packing a 2880 x 1800 resolution with 120Hz refresh rates. That's the same spec as last year's, and it shines just as bright. This is a sturdy panel overall, even if warmer tones sometimes leap a little larger than cooler ones. It's no Blade 16, but it's certainly an upgrade from IPS solutions like the Asus TUF A14 further down the page.
As an AMD machine, there's no Thunderbolt in the side ports here - though a USB-4 connection will keep you looped up with a dock. If you're after Thunderbolt instead, check out the 2025 Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 with its Intel specs.
Performance: I missed the true pairing of portability and performance in last year's iteration, but 2025's G14 puts that right. This rig kept up with larger RTX 4090 machines in my testing, blitzing through 1600p benchmarks at three-figure framerates in lighter titles, and staying well over 60fps in Horizon Zero Dawn: Remastered. Some graphical tweaks will need to be made to achieve those numbers in Cyperpunk 2077 and Black Myth: Wukong, though the Multi-frame Generation of the RTX 50-Series can step in when you need a hand.
Verdict: The Zephyrus G14 is the best 14-inch gaming laptop I've had my hands on so far, and 2025's iteration continues this tradition of pairing performance with outstanding portability. It's not going to reach the framerate highs of a chunkier device but with a gorgeous OLED panel and a fantastic form factor it's going to see much more use in everyday life.
Read more: 2025 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 review
The best 16-inch gaming laptop
My favorite configuration:
The latest 2025 Razer Blade 16 is certainly making a statement. It's slimmer and lighter, but also slightly more expensive than the previous generation - and that was already an eye-watering price tag. This is one for those investing in the quality of life of their gaming laptop - if you want the best screen, keyboard, and form factor (with some DLSS help to reach high framerates) I've tested in a gaming laptop so far, it's a must-see.
✅ You prioritize style: Razer has bags of style about it, from that slick aesthetic to the slimline form factor. If you're looking for a high-end gaming laptop that really looks the part, you've found it here.
✅ You don't want to compromise on your display: That 240Hz OLED panel running at a full 1600p is something to behold. There's no sacrifices in this screen - it's got it all.
✅ This is a long-term investment: The Blade 16 is a lot up front, but these rigs can see you through years of the most demanding games.
❌ You only play lighter titles: If you don't play every day, or you only play low-demand games then the high cost of the Razer Blade 16 just doesn't make sense.
❌ You don't want to use DLSS: Chunkier gaming laptops are going to get better framerates, so while the slimline Blade 16 makes some headway with native performance you're always going to have a better time with higher TGPs and bigger chassis'.
Design: It's slimmer, lighter, and even manages to look better despite carrying the same CNC milled black form factor as countless Blades before it. The 2025 Razer Blade 16 is a masterclass in gaming laptop design. This is a surprisingly skinny machine, thinner than my everyday Razer Blade 14, which makes throwing it into a backpack incredibly easy. Even the USB-A ports barely fit on the side of this chassis, and we're still playing with flagship power under the hood.
Of course, that classic Razer durability continues throughout this build. The aluminum body and sand-blasted matte finish feel great in the hand, and offer a reassuring solidity to the frame as a whole. Of course, there's no flex to the main deck here, and the screen hinge is well-tensioned with very little wobble.
Features: The first thing you'll probably notice on the Razer Blade 16 is the OLED display. It was certainly my biggest takeaway from the 2024 model, and its implementation in this year's device is nothing short of breathtaking. Its color accuracy, contrast, and eye-watering vibrancy make it the best gaming laptop display I've tested so far.
This year we've also got a new keyboard to contend with, and Razer's claimed another top spot here as well. The scissor-switch deck has upped the key travel to 1.5mm for a particularly satisfying feel. These clickers are energetic, precise, and smooth, making for a comfortable and precise typing and gaming experience. They're also accompanied by a boosted audio system, featuring four upward and two downward firing speakers.
It's AMD's time to shine under the hood this year, and while the AI-focused CPUs do hold the Blade 16 back a little, especially when compared with the powerhouse of an Intel processor featured in the last generation, they tick along nicely. I'd prefer an Intel i9-14900HX, but Razer is going for lean efficiency with its latest model, which makes sense given the boosted battery life, Nvidia RTX 50-Series DLSS features, and slimmer form factor.
Performance: This is where things get interesting. Most of my benchmarks put the RTX 5090 inside my test device only slightly ahead of the RTX 4090 in last year's Blade 16. Some even placed it behind the previous generation. There isn't a generational jump in performance on offer here - like it or not, to be gaming at higher framerates on a slimline device like this, you'll need DLSS.
That's not to say you'll be stuttering through your gameplay. My RTX 5090 test device still managed to push more than playable framerates in everything from Black Myth: Wukong to Cyberpunk 2077, but those benchmarks were often more than doubled with the right AI tweaks in place.
Verdict: The 2025 Razer Blade 16 wants to be as helpful as possible; squeezing into a more portable form factor with a longer battery life and still offering excellent framerates. While the native performance of the RTX 5090 might put some off, this is an incredibly efficient device that wouldn't have been possible without newer generation tech under the hood. Its display and keyboard are the best in the business to boot.
Read more: Razer Blade 16 (2025) review
The best 18-inch gaming laptop
My favorite configuration:
The 2025 Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 was the most powerful machine I'd tested until the MSI Raider below came along, but it's still a fantastic rig. The guts inside here and the strength of that display make this the best 18-inch gaming laptop on the market right now.
✅ You want immersion and speed: This is a high-end Mini LED panel, but it keeps things zippy at QHD+ with a 240Hz refresh rate. That's an excellent compromise you won't find everywhere.
✅ You have a multi-monitor setup: Not all 2025 gaming laptops are upgrading to Thunderbolt 5, but the ROG Strix Scar 18 certainly is. You're getting two here - ideal for a multi-display setup.
✅ You like a light show: The new Scar 18 extends and emboldens the RGB light strip around the edge, making for a fantastic floating effect.
❌ You want to spring for 4K: MSI is the better choice for a 4K panel that can absolutely sing, though you'll certainly be paying for the privilege.
❌ You want a beefier processor: The Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX inside every Scar 18 isn't the most powerful CPU on the market, whereas the MSI below packs an insane AMD brain.
Design: Straight out the gate, the 2025 version made one simply change that already had me preferring it over last year's 2024 iteration. That translucent plastic plaguing the chassis has gone, and is replaced with a solid matte finish that's far more befitting of a gaming laptop at this price point. It means your several-thousands-of-dollars investment doesn't look like a cheap toy on the desk.
Still, this is a chunky machine and while its dimensions and weight aren't going to make it the perfect travel companion it was never designed for that. The extra chassis size allows for better cooling, keeping all those internal components running as best they can.
That's topped with new RGB lighting gracing not just the front lip (though that has also been slimmed down for a more sophisticated look) but also the sides as well. With everything switched on, this giant looks like it's hovering gracefully over whichever tabletop has been cursed to carry it.
I can't layer the same praise on the LED matrix display that's somehow crawled out of the Zephyrus's cage, but it can be switched off easily enough. It's just a shame that's factored into the final price tag.
Features: Up top, we've got the same ROG Nebula HDR display we've come to know and love in all its Mini LED glory. It's been upgraded slightly for 2025's iteration, with some extra layers for glare reduction and better viewing angles, but all in all this is still a fantastic OLED alternative. Connections are plentiful as well, with two Thunderbolt 5 options for additional speed over the Thunderbolt 4s in last year's MSI rigs, though you are dropping a USB-A port compared to the Alienware M18 R2.
The keyboard and trackpad haven't received the same kinds of upgrades as you'll find in the Razer Blade 16 2025, but do feel energetic and responsive. That deck also benefits from full-sized arrow keys, whereas you'll often find half-sized clackers on smaller models.
Performance: This is where it gets interesting. The RTX 5090 Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 I tested blew the competition away when it came to easier 3D Mark tests like Fire Strike and Time Spy, and maintained its lead over the RTX 4090 MSI Titan and Raider in Steel Nomad as well. In-game, MSI was top dog across FHD and QHD+ benchmarks in all but Shadow of the Tomb Raider where the Raider just nudged it out the way.
It's not a leap in performance compared to the same rig with an RTX 4090 under the hood, but this generation is paying more attention to efficiency elements like DLSS. I managed to get Cyberpunk 2077 running at 212fps with Frame Generation on, while also bumping Super Resolution up to Quality. That's a rare feat in the world of laptops.
Verdict: The 2025 Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 isn't just the most powerful rig I've had on the test bench so far, it's also worthy of the title as one of the best gaming laptops in its own right. Smart design upgrades and that fantastic Mini LED screen put those high-end components to good use.
Read more: Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 (2025) review
The most powerful gaming laptop we've tested
My favorite configuration:
I wasn't remotely surprised when the MSI Raider A18 A9W broke records as the most powerful gaming laptop I've tested yet. After all, it's the only pre-market gaming laptop to pair the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D processor with an RTX 5090, and it does so while also upgrading your SSD to a Gen 5 as well. That's all pretty rare, and it makes for a super-fast, if super-expensive, machine. There are some caveats to that hype, though.
✅ You're future-proofing: This is a lot to drop on a new gaming laptop, but if you're investing in a machine that will go the distance there's nothing else like it on the market.
✅ You want a desktop experience: With that 4K panel beaming up top, and plenty of ports available, you don't need to connect an extra display or potentially even a hub to this device.
✅ You transfer between storage devices regularly: If you need some extra speed, this is definitely the way to go. A Gen5 SSD is tough to find in a gaming laptop, and it makes a world of difference here.
❌ You play competitively: The Raider uses a 4K 120Hz panel, which is ideal for those after immersive single-player campaigns, but might not be fast enough for ranked leaderboards.
❌ You've got your eyes on last year's Titan: The Titan has a better build quality than the new Raider, but it also comes in a lot cheaper - even with an RTX 4090 up top.
Design: The MSI Raider still packs a plastic chassis, despite charging more than last year's aluminum Titan model. That's a little disappointing, especially considering I experienced notable flexing in the main deck. Considering my test device would have cost well over $5,000, that's an oversight. Still, this is a classic Raider design with its slightly indented keyboard area, clean back lid, and subtle nod towards RGB lighting. The light strip you'll find on the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 above is far more impressive, but there's something here for those LED lovers. Underneath, extra rubber feet also provide a little extra elevation to improve airflow as well.
Features: The MSI Raider introduces Thunderbolt 5 to its feature list, but aside from the new-generation components under the hood that's about it. Up top, we've still got a gorgeous 4K Mini LED panel that made everything from Doom: The Dark Ages to Indiana Jones and the Great Circle shine its brightest during my testing. MSI didn't opt for the dual-mode display you'll find on a Razer Blade 18, though, which means everyone is stuck on that 120Hz refresh rate - not great news for more competitive players.
If you're going solo, though, the size, depth, and detail in this screen are still a sight to behold - and the refresh rate isn't going to hold you back much at 4K anyway. The keyboard and trackpad also suffer from the same low build quality that initially had me concerned. The former is a little too soft for a gaming laptop of this price, and the latter feels too small in everyday use.
Performance: The MSI Raider A18 HX more than makes up for its shortfalls once it gets going, though. With those red-hot components whirring away under the surface, I was able to benchmark at much higher rates than ever before. Even taking some odd Shadow of the Tomb Raider results out of the equation, the Raider's use of the RTX 5090 put it at the top of my testing pool across FHD and QHD benchmarks, and it blitzed the competition in 3D Mark's synthetic runs. Needless to say, that AMD processor sits proudly at the top of my PC Mark 10 data set as well.
Verdict: The MSI Raider A18 HX is the best gaming laptop for those hunting down desktop-based power without the need for a monitor, especially if you're going after single-player immersion over competitive speed. It's the fastest machine I've tested so far, but you'll need to think about overall value to determine whether it's right for you - last year's MSI Titan 18 HX is still a formidable opponent.
Read more: MSI Raider A18 HX A9W review
The best slimline gaming laptop
My favorite configuration
The Asus TUF A14 is now the best slimline gaming laptop I've tested, after beating the HP Omen Transcend 14 in everything apart from screen. Yes, you're dropping the OLED display of my former top pick, but considering you're gaining so much in raw power and dropping a little weight (while keeping the cost lower), this is the new model to beat.
✅ You travel regularly with your laptop: The A14 feels made for backpacks, with a super sturdy build and a low weight, it's the most portable machine I've tested yet.
✅ You prefer a subtle design: Gone are the loud icons and gaudy stamps of previous TUF gaming laptops - this slate gray and black aesthetic slots into both work and play scenarios.
✅ You want to use AI features: Whether it's normal Copilot tasks or you're looking to use more game-boosting features over the next couple of years, this is the processor to do it with.
❌ You prioritize screen vibrancy: Both the HP Omen Transcend 14 and Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 match this slimline form factor, but with high-end OLED displays up top. If you want that crisp contrast and boosted HDR functionality you'd be better off moving further up the price scale.
❌ You want to keep your laptop on your desk: If you don't need to travel with your machine there's better value in chunkier models. You'll notice a performance bump even with similar components under the hood just from that extra chassis space alone.
Design: The TUF A14 reminded me of one of the first gaming laptops I bought for myself; the Asus TUF Dash F15. The cool slate aluminum lid and cheaper plastic internal deck, wrapped up in a super slick slimline form factor is a true sight to behold. Things are a little more refined these days, with no cringey text stamped onto the main palm rest, or heavy angular lines running across the main lid. That means this is a true hybrid machine in its aesthetic - it won't stand out in either a work or play environment. That might not be to everyone's taste but it's certainly versatile.
This is one of the lightest machines on the market, and it manages to keep its waistline thin as well. While not as tiny as the Alienware x14, it carries the same 0.7-inch thickness as the more expensive Zephyrus G14 and HP Omen Transcend 14 while weighing in less than both. You are getting some slightly cheaper materials in the mostly plastic chassis (save for the aluminum lid), but with MIL-STD 810H certification it remains plenty durable. That lid also makes it a better build than the much cheaper-feeling Acer Nitro V 14.
Features: Configuration options are limited to an RTX 4060 GPU, which taps out a little earlier than the RTX 4070 options available in the Zephyrus G14. However, putting all your eggs in that graphics basket will have you missing out on a stunner of a processor. The AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 is based on AMD's latest Zen 5 system, offering up to 50 TOPS across a super sophisticated NPU. In everyday terms, it's super fast and super efficient. The exact kind of processor you want in a slimline gaming laptop. That's not all, though, Asus is packing this $1,499.99 configuration with 32GB RAM and a 2TB SSD - specs I often see in machines pitched at around $1,800 - $2,000. There are cheaper configurations available as well, with the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS getting involved.
Above all that you've got a 165Hz QHD+ display with a nicely bright response that dwarfs that of the Asus TUF A15 in speed and resolution. A well-spaced and tactile 1.7mm-travel keyboard lines the bottom section, with a generously sized glass trackpad underneath as well. Ports offer everything you could ask for - in brief, two USB-A options, two USB-C options (one with power delivery), a micro SD, and 3.5mm audio.
Performance: The efficiency of the Asus TUF A14 meant it was able to threaten even RTX 4070-toting machines like the Razer Blade 14 and Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 in my testing. Lighter 1080p benchmarks saw the A14 either beating or narrowly falling short of these far more expensive machines, and that little RTX 4060 could certainly keep up in QHD+ as well. It pitted miles ahead of the HP Omen Transcend 14, a machine I praised earlier in the year for its impressive benchmarks in this slim and light competition pool. Not only that, but that AMD CPU put the Ryzen 9 8945HS and Intel Core Ultra 7 155H to bed as well, topping the charts with an 8,259 score in PC Mark 10 and an astonishing 1,207 multi-core benchmark in Cinebench R24.
Verdict: The Asus TUF A14 is one of the most impressive gaming laptops I've tested this year, and while it's not quite the best 14-inch model due to its lack of OLED display and higher configuration options, it definitely wins in the flyweight bout. A super slimline profile paired with efficient and powerful internal components makes for an excellent machine.
Read more: Asus TUF A14 review
How I test gaming laptops
I live, work, play, stream, and browse on every gaming laptop that passes my desk for a minimum of two weeks. That allows me to assess its build quality, portability, display features, keyboard and trackpad, port selection, and form factor in a real-world setting as if it was being popped straight into your setup. For this reason, I use every laptop both by itself and as part of a larger monitor system (usually via USB-C using a Ugreen Revodok Pro 312 docking station).
I rate gaming laptops based on their design, features, and performance - and each section requires its own tests and real-world experiences.
The design of a laptop incorporates everything from its aesthetic (and how well it will blend into non-gaming scenarios) to build quality (its materials, any wobbles around the hinges, flexibility in the screen or base plate, and any creaking or rattling internally). In the world of gaming laptops, portability also plays a large role so I make sure to take each machine out with me for a series of coffee shop crawls, or a longer travel distance during my testing period.
The specific features I test are the display (brightness, clarity, color range, sharpness, speed), keyboard (size, balance, typing feel, placement), webcam, port selection (and placement), configuration options, trackpad, and onboard software options. All of these elements aren't just reviewed as a whole package, but directly compared against similarly priced competitors to understand each machine's value proposition as well.
Then we get to the all-important performance category. Every gaming laptop that I review is stress-tested against a series of benchmarking processes and everyday use. I run a standardised series of performance tests on each rig, benchmarking on both High and Ultra / Highest across:
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider
- Total War: Three Kingdoms (Battle)
- Black Myth: Wukong
- Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
- Cyberpunk 2077
I carry out these benchmarks at both 1080p and other native resolutions offered by each individual system.
I then test the GPUs inside these gaming laptops against 3DMark Fire Strike, Steel Nomad, and Time Spy. I also use PC Mark 10, Maxon Cinebench R24, and Geekbench tests for general productivity benchmarking.
Read more about how we find the best tech with the full Hardware Policy and find out exactly how we test gaming laptops.
Also tested
I'm always reviewing new gaming laptops, but only the very best make it to the top list above. You'll find all the most recent gaming laptop benchmark scores just below, and more information on each model further down.
How to find the best gaming laptop for you
Gaming laptops come in all shapes and sizes these days, with a massive range of configuration options, display technologies, and price tags to contend with. I've bought my fair share of machines over the years, and there are always three factors that make up the majority of my decision-making; size, specs, and display.
Size matters
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Gaming laptops come in three sizes nowadays; 14-inch for those after a lightweight, portable design, 18-inch for a full desktop replacement, and 16-inch for a well-rounded performer that can still travel when needed. It's easy to see why 16-inch laptops reign supreme, taking over from the 15.6-inch models of yore to become the most popular gaming laptop form factor on the market.
In general, I'd recommend most players aim for this happy medium. An 18-inch device is a real strain on the back if you need to take it on the go (if it will even fit into a conventional backpack) and a 14-inch model can sacrifice power in the name of a slimmer form factor while carrying a similar price. However, if you know you're looking for a chunkier device that won't need to be moved or a work laptop that needs to keep up with you day to day, each extreme certainly has its place.
Under the hood
Your decision will mostly come down to your graphics card and processor - though, helpfully, finding the right GPU will often land you with the right CPU in the first place.
An RTX 4050 rig is designed for lighter players who might want to tinker through some less demanding games while primarily using their laptop for work or streaming. These rigs are likely to come with cheaper i5 or Ryzen 5 processors, but can also pack an i7 or Ryzen 7 punch as well. You'll usually find 16GB RAM and 512GB - 1TB of storage space included.
I would move up to an RTX 4060 if you're looking to play more demanding games, but don't necessarily need three-figure framerates - especially in QHD+ resolutions. This is the start of the mass market, most players will either find themselves with an RTX 4060 or 4070 rig - but sticking to the lower version might keep you from smooth rates on more demanding games in the years to come. You'll usually be opting for an i7 or Ryzen 7 processor here, with 16GB RAM and 1TB of storage space.
The RTX 4070 is the most popular graphics card in a gaming laptop - and it's generally where I start my search when pricing up new machines. You're getting enough juice to bump things up to 1600p comfortably, though you might need to make some textural tweaks to run heavier games at Ultra settings. The price jump from an RTX 4060 to RTX 4070 isn't quite as high anymore either, especially when rigs go on sale. I'd still recommend most players stick to an Intel i7 or Ryzen 7 processor to keep the value right here (though i9 and Ryzen 9 options start becoming more available this high up the food chain), with 16GB - 32GB RAM and 1TB - 2TB of storage space.
An RTX 4080 gaming laptop is going to see you through QHD+ gaming at ultra settings pretty comfortably - even in more demanding games. This is the start of high-end, and as high as I would recommend most casual players go. These machines are starting to drop their price tags a little now, but can still feel like a larger investment - especially if you take up the i9 / Ryzen 9 processors, 32 - 64GB RAM, and 2TB+ SSD opportunities that start opening up here.
I wouldn't recommend the majority of players concern themselves with RTX 4090 gaming laptops just yet. There's a performance jump, for sure, you'll be outputting in 4K with much more ease, and QHD+ gameplay will feel like a breeze. However, these are premium machines, reserved for those with over $3,000 to spend. They're worth saving for if you want to future-proof yourself, but unless you're streaming or playing hardcore titles regularly you'll find better value further down the price range.
All about that display
The majority of mid-range gaming laptops ship with QLED+ resolutions in a 16:10 aspect ratio, with a 240Hz refresh rate. That's the gold standard for right now, but there are reasons to deviate from the norm. For example many rigs, particularly those from Alienware, can drop you resolution back down to FHD+ in exchange for faster panels (up to 480Hz in some cases).
That's a screen designed for competitive eSports-style gamers, rather than everyday adventurers, though. On the flip side, you'll find more OLED and 4K panels on the shelves these days - these give you a better viewing experience overall but at the cost of speed. While some brands like Razer have managed to bump their OLED screens up to 240Hz, you'll more likely find these screens at 120Hz max.
It's important to consider how you play when choosing your screen - whether you want to prioritize fidelity or speed. The QHD+ 240Hz option is so popular because it strikes the perfect balance between the two.
Entry level | Mid-range | Premium |
|---|---|---|
13th generation i5 | Ryzen 5 | 13th generation / 14th generation i7 | Ryzen 7 | 14th generation i9 | Ryzen 9 |
Nvidia RTX 4050 | RTX 4060 / RTX 4070 / RTX 3080 | RTX 4080 / RTX 4090 |
16GB RAM | 16GB - 32GB RAM | 32GB RAM |
512GB SSD | 1TB SSD | 1TB - 4TB SSD |
120Hz | 144-240Hz | 240Hz - 480Hz |
$500 - $800 | $800 - $1,800 | $1,800 - $3,000+ |
Gaming laptops glossary
- AMD: AMD is a brand that develops a wide range of processors and graphics cards for business and gaming laptops. The latest GPU series is the AMD Radeon RX 7900, while it releases processors under the Ryzen name, offering Ryzen 3, 5, 7, and 9 in ascending power levels.
- AMD Freesync: AMD Freesync is a software found in many gaming laptop displays that reduces screen tearing and stuttering. The majority of laptops ship with the base FreeSync features, but there are also FreeSync Premium and FreeSync Premium Pro tiers which offer support for higher refresh rates and resolutions, as well as HDR.
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth is the wireless connection gaming laptops can use to take input from a range of devices such as keyboards, headsets, and mice. However, these devices tend to use 2.4GHz adapter dongles these days (a small USB receiver with a lower latency connection), which means you'll be using Bluetooth for controllers more than anything else. The latest Bluetooth version is 5.3.
- Chassis: The term chassis relates to the main body of the laptop, housing the components under the keyboard and the back of the lid.
- Cinebench: Cinebench is a benchmarking software developed by Maxon, designed to test the rendering power of a gaming laptop's processor. We use Cinebench to test the power of CPUs across both single-core and multi-core stress tests - the higher the number, the better the performance.
- CPU / Processor: The CPU (Central Processing Unit) or Processor is the central component of a gaming laptop, completing instructions and operations across the machine. Intel and AMD are the leading manufacturers of processors, with Core and Ryzen product lines respectively.
- Crystal Disk Mark: Crystal Disk Mark is a benchmarking software to test the storage performance of the SSD or hard drive used in a gaming laptop. We use Crystal Disk Mark to report on read and write speeds, which can translate to launch, loading, and rendering times.
- DisplayPort: DisplayPort is a port found on many gaming laptops, offering the ability to connect your machine to an external monitor. Unlike HDMI, DisplayPort allows for multiple displays to be connected through a single port, however is not compatible with anything other than monitors and computers. The latest version of DisplayPort is 2.1.
- Ethernet: Ethernet is the term given to both the port and cable used to connect your gaming laptop to the internet via a wire. Rather than using a less reliable WiFi connection, hardwiring your machine into your router can be faster and offer lower latencies.
- Fire Strike: Fire Strike is a graphics and physics test within the 3D Mark suite of benchmarks. We use Fire Strike to stress test the processor and graphics card, returning a figure as the result. The higher the number, the better the score.
- FPS (Frames Per Second): Frames per second refers to the number of frames that are displayed on a screen every second. This is a handy way to measure the speed and fluidity of the graphics on your gaming laptop. Most titles run smoothly at 30fps, however faster action titles are better enjoyed at 60fps and up. Competitive esports-level framerates are often over 100fps.
- GPU / Graphics Card: The GPU is responsible for the graphics your gaming laptop is capable of reproducing. AMD and Nvidia produce the majority of graphics cards found in today's gaming laptops, offering a range of different performance levels and prices. The latest AMD GPU is the Radeon RX 7900 XT, and the latest Nvidia range is the GeForce RTX 40-Series.
- HDD: HDD is the acronym for a Hard Disk Drive, otherwise known as a hard drive. This is a form of storage often found in older, cheaper gaming laptops, or in addition to an SSD (Solid State Drive) in newer machines. An HDD is typically slower but cheaper (and therefore more readily available in higher capacities) than an SSD.
- HDMI: HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface, and is the primary connection method used to link a computer to an external monitor, TV, or projector. The latest HDMI version is 2.1.
- Intel: Intel is one of the leading producers of processors in both business and gaming laptops. Intel's CPUs are released in four tiers; i3, i5, i7, and i9 with various different models between them. The latest generation of Intel processors is the 14th.
- Kensington Lock Slot: A Kensington Lock Slot is an additional accessory sometimes found on gaming laptops. It is a port to enable the user to keep their machine secure by tethering a lock and wrapping it around the leg of a table or chair, ensuring nobody else can remove the laptop from its position.
- Nvidia: Nvidia is a brand best known in the gaming laptop space for producing graphics cards. The company's GeForce RTX GPUs are the most popular on the market right now.
- Nvidia G-Sync: Nvidia G-Sync is similar to AMD FreeSync (see above), and used to reduce screen tearing and stuttering during fast moving games. G-Sync is designed for use with Nvidia graphics cards, however.
- OLED: OLED displays are gathering momentum in the world of gaming laptops, offering an alternative to traditional LED screens. An OLED panel is able to produce better color contrasts and higher brightness.
- OS: A computer's OS is its Operating System, most likely Windows. You'll very rarely find a gaming laptop shipping with a different operating system. The latest release is Windows 11.
- PC Mark 10: PC Mark 10 is a benchmarking software designed to test the power of a PC in a productivity setting. The program runs a series of mock work scenarios to test efficiency and processing performance, resulting in a single number response. The higher the number, the better the result.
- RAM: RAM stands for Random Access Memory, and allows your computer to streamline its efficiency in running tasks. The more RAM you have, the more space your gaming laptop has to keep required data easily accessible (and therefore recalled faster).
- Refresh Rate: Refresh rate in the context of gaming laptops generally refers to the speed at which the display refreshes the picture. A higher refresh rate provides smoother motion, which is required for faster paced titles. Gaming laptops today generally offer at least 120Hz refresh rates, but can move up to 360Hz.
- Resolution: The resolution of your screen is the number of pixels on the display. This is usually split into HD (1920 x 1080 or 1080p), QHD (2560 x 1440 or 1440p), or UHD (3840 x 2160 or 4K), however different screen proportions can bend these definitions a little - you may see QHD+ resolutions listed on a screen that isn't exactly 16:9 in dimensions (the standard for displays that these resolution numbers were based off).
- RGB: RGB refers to the lighting often found on gaming laptops, particularly in the keyboard. The term RGB denotes a range of colors rather than limiting backlighting to a single color.
- SSD: An SSD (or Solid State Drive) is the primary format of storage used in today's gaming laptops. It's faster than an HDD but is more expensive, which means you'll generally find SSD space tapping out at 1TB if you're browsing under $2,000.
- Thunderbolt: A Thunderbolt port uses the same design as USB-C but a vastly different experience overall. Machines incorporate Thunderbolt to allow faster data transfer and charging speeds as well as connecting multiple devices via a single cable. The latest version is Thunderbolt 4.
- Time Spy: Time Spy is another DirectX test for the performance of a graphics card inside your gaming laptop, similar to Fire Strike.
- USB Type-A: USB Type-A ports are standard USB connections used by the majority of external devices and are characterized by their larger square shape compared to the smaller USB-C. However, USB Type-C (below) is set to take over from the older A model over the next few years. Type-A supports the speed of data consistent with USB 3.0 (the latest version).
- USB Type-C: USB Type-C is a newer connection type for adding external devices, shaped in a smaller, more rounded port style. USB-C can be used for power delivery if the port on your laptop accepts this feature, but is generally used for the same inputs as USB-A.
- Vapor Chamber Cooling: Vapor Chamber Cooling is a relatively new method of keeping a gaming laptop's temperature down so that it can perform at its best. Rather than solely using air vents and fans, vapor chamber cooling relies on a liquid cooling system to distribute heat more effectively.
Best gaming laptops: FAQs
Which brand is best for gaming laptops?
Overall, the best gaming laptop brands include Lenovo, Razer, Alienware, MSI, Asus and Acer. However, there are a number of companies all competing for the title right now, from budget-oriented developers to high-end industry staples. Finding the best gaming laptop brand may come down to how much you're willing to pay and how much you value extra features like mechanical keyboards and RGB lighting in your chassis. Alienware, for example, produces some incredible machines with these features built in, but at a significant premium - whereas Acer's machines tend to be more conservative in their builds but offer reduced prices.
What specs do you need in a gaming laptop?
This is a big question, and the answer changes every year. However, at the moment I recommend picking up a high-end or upper mid-range processor from the last two years (Intel i7 or i9 from its 13th or 14th generation / AMD Ryzen 7 or Ryzen 9 from its 7000 Series) and at least 16GB RAM. 8GB used to get you by back in the day, but it's just not doable any more. In terms of your graphics card, the model you choose will depend on the kinds of games you play. An RTX 4050 is going to be good for lighter indie titles and undemanding games, but an RTX 4060 can push you further up the settings scale for only a little more cash. RTX 4070 cards are for moderately demanding games, played at high settings while an RTX 4080 or RTX 4090 card will be needed for the biggest releases running in QHD+ at ultra settings.
Can you spend under $1000 on a gaming laptop?
It's absolutely possible to spend less than $1,000 and still pick up one of the best gaming laptops on the market. My favorite models under this price range are the Dell G15 and the Asus TUF A15, though the Acer Nitro 5 also offers plenty of value in its cheaper configurations as well. You might be dropping down to lower refresh rate screens or a cheaper version of an Intel processor, but if you're playing lighter titles or you're not fussed about the latest and greatest in performance there are plenty of options out there.
If you've managed to find the right rig for you, it's worth investing some thought into the best laptop backpacks to get you out and about. Or, check out our guide to the latest cheap gaming laptop deals if you're looking for more savings. Or, check out all the cheap Alienware laptop deals and Razer laptop deals currently on sale for some serious discounts.
