Photo/Asus
Having the right setup makes all the difference when it comes to gaming. While desktop PCs have traditionally dominated the gaming world, the best gaming laptops today are proving that you can have high-performance gaming on the go. With the new breed of gaming laptops, your gaming experience doesn’t have to be confined to your desk; it can travel with you, whether you’re at a coffee shop or on the road.
This year hasn’t brought any groundbreaking new GPUs, and Intel’s latest 14th-generation processor is more of an incremental update. This has pushed gaming laptop manufacturers to innovate in other areas, such as faster OLED displays and redesigned chassis. While the performance jump from last year’s models isn’t huge, the latest laptops still pack a punch. Plus, the slightly older models now offer great value, making this a fantastic time to buy.
Read: Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Own Gaming PC
If you’re on the hunt for the best gaming laptop, the 2023 Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 is our top pick. It offers a blend of powerful performance, manageable size, and plenty of features without hitting the extreme prices of its larger 18-inch sibling. But if that’s beyond your budget, don’t worry—we’ve tested machines across various price points to bring you the best options available. Each laptop has undergone rigorous in-game testing and stress benchmarks to ensure it delivers top-notch performance. Let’s dive into our top picks in no particular order.
1. Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 (2023): The Gaming Titan Above All
If you're on the hunt for the ultimate gaming laptop, look no further than the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 (2023). Yes, there's a newer 2024 model on the shelves, but honestly, the performance differences are so marginal that you might not even notice. In fact, the 2023 version still holds its ground, sometimes even outperforming its successor. So, if you're all about getting the best bang for your buck, this one's still at the top of the leaderboard.
Design: Striking Looks with a Subtle Edge
Design is always a matter of taste, but let's be honest—this isn't the most understated machine on the market. With its translucent plastic and RGB lights, it's clear that the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 is here to make a statement. At first glance, the plastic chassis might seem a bit underwhelming for its price point. But then, you look at the nearly $5,000 price tag of the all-aluminum Razer Blade 18, and suddenly, the Scar 18's build feels more reasonable. It's solid, dense, and durable enough to survive the rigors of everyday use, even if it doesn't exude luxury.
Read: How To Create HTML5 Games with ChatGPT in Minutes
However, the port placement is where things get a bit tricky. All the connections are located on the left and right sides, which is a bit of a head-scratcher for a laptop designed to be a desktop replacement. Those cables are bound to create a mess on your desk, so keep that in mind if you like a tidy setup.
Features: Power-Packed Without Breaking the Bank
Asus made a smart choice by skipping the expensive Mini LED display in favor of investing in top-tier components. The 240Hz panel still offers impressive clarity and contrast, making your gaming experience immersive without draining your wallet. Plus, under the hood, you've got an Intel i9-13980HX processor—a rarity in the gaming laptop world.
The full-sized keyboard (complete with a number pad), four excellent speakers, a MUX switch, and robust cooling all contribute to making this laptop a standout. It's a feature set that even the Razer Blade 18, which skips the number pad, can't match. And all of this is packed into a chassis that manages to stay lighter than the Alienware M18.
Specifications
Performance: The Benchmark Beast
Now, let's get to the heart of the matter—performance. Before we got our hands on the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18, the dual-screened Zephyrus Duo 16 was the top dog in our gaming laptop rankings. But the Scar 18 has left it in the dust, even if the Duo 16 was running a second display.
Read: How to Optimize Windows 11 for Gaming: Step-by-Step Guide
With benchmark scores like 34,507 on Fire Strike and 20,132 on Time Spy, the Scar 18 isn't just fast—it's a rocket. It crushed the RTX 4090 Razer Blade 18's scores of 26,844 / 16,367 and even managed to keep pace with the 4090 Zephyrus's 36,768 / 15,713. Throw in consistent 100+ framerates on high graphics settings in demanding games like Returnal, Total War: Three Kingdoms, and Hitman 3, and you've got a machine that's as powerful as it is consistent.
Verdict: A Beast with a Niche Audience
The Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 isn't for everyone. In fact, it's for a very select group of gamers who need desktop-level power with the option to take their rig on the road occasionally. But if that sounds like you, this is hands down the most powerful gaming laptop we've ever tested.
2. HP Omen Transcend 14: Slim, Sleek, & Surprisingly Capable
This year, the HP Omen Transcend 14 has taken the crown from its 16-inch predecessor, and it's easy to see why. This ultra-thin laptop is perfect for those who need a powerful device that won't weigh them down—just make sure you keep a USB-C charger nearby.
Design: Compact and Clean with a Modern Aesthetic
The first thing you'll notice about the HP Omen Transcend 14 is its size. The 14-inch form factor makes it incredibly portable, and the floating chassis design adds to its lightweight appeal. It's so slim that it easily slips into your backpack without adding much bulk.
However, the build quality does take a slight hit to achieve that low weight. We noticed some flex in the lid and main deck area, despite the aluminum construction. But overall, it still feels like a premium device.
Read: Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Own Gaming PC
Gone are the days of flashy gamer aesthetics—this laptop embraces a clean, minimalist design. The soft-touch matte lid is simply stamped with the 'Omen' logo in the center, and there's no external lighting to speak of. It's a refreshing change from the over-the-top designs of yesteryear.
Features: Conservative Specs with a Show-Stopping Screen
Like its predecessor, the HP Omen Transcend 14 keeps its specs on the conservative side. You have three lower-tier graphics cards to choose from, with the RTX 4070 option upgrading the processor to an Intel Core Ultra 9 model—though that comes with a hefty price jump.
But where this laptop really shines is its display. The OLED panel offers stunning visuals with vibrant colors and crisp details, making it one of the best screens we've seen on a gaming laptop. While it's limited to 120Hz, that's pretty standard for this level of device. You're also getting a sharp 1800p resolution, which adds to the overall visual experience.
Specifications
Performance: Punching Above Its Weight Class
Despite its compact size, the HP Omen Transcend 14 packs a surprising punch. Sure, the CPU and GPU are mostly iterative upgrades from last year, but with a bit of tweaking to the fan settings, this laptop can deliver some impressive framerates.
The RTX 4060 in our test unit ran at a lower 65W power rate, but we still managed to achieve more than satisfactory framerates and stress test benchmarks at 1080p and on high settings at 1600p. It's not the most powerful machine on the market, but for its size and price, it's a strong contender.
Verdict: A Stylish Choice with Solid Performance
If you're looking for the best 14-inch gaming laptop, the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 might still be the top recommendation, especially considering its slightly lower price point. However, if you value slimline style and subtle design while still craving the vibrant OLED display that Asus offers, then the HP Omen Transcend 14 is your go-to.
Read: How to Optimize Windows 11 for Gaming: Step-by-Step Guide
3. Alienware M18: The Best 18-inch Gaming Laptop
When it comes to raw performance, the Alienware M18 is a formidable contender, standing tall against the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18. While it might fall just short of claiming the 'most powerful' crown, this gaming laptop has much more to offer than just brute force. With a variety of configuration options, a sleek design, and desktop-focused features, the Alienware M18 emerges as our top pick for an 18-inch gaming laptop.
Design: Sleek Yet Powerful
Unboxing the Alienware M18 is a bit of a surprise. Its front lip gently slopes into a thin taper, making the design feel more manageable than the bulkier Strix Scar 18. Sure, this isn't a laptop you'll be tossing into your backpack daily; its massive 410 x 319 x 25 mm footprint and hefty 4.23 kg weight ensure that. But despite its size, the Alienware M18’s streamlined design makes it appear less chunky on a desktop.
Alienware stays true to its signature aesthetic with this model. The cool aluminum lid is embossed with an '18', while the plastic body maintains a sleek gray look throughout. And, of course, there's the obligatory RGB light show—although it’s a bit more subtle than what you'd find on an Asus laptop.
Features: Big Screen, Big Possibilities
The star of the show is undoubtedly the 18-inch screen. Dell has made some interesting choices here, offering just two display options: QHD+ 165Hz or FHD+ 480Hz. It’s a bit of a shame there’s no middle ground, especially when rivals like the Razer Blade 18 and Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 find a sweet spot with a QHD+ 240Hz option. While the motion remains smooth, high-frame-rate games could benefit from better handling overall. Also, this display isn't as bright as those on the Razer or Asus, and it lacks any HDR capabilities, which could be a drawback for some.
Read: How To Create HTML5 Games with ChatGPT in Minutes
However, the Alienware M18 shines in other areas. It comes with an excellent selection of ports, a built-in 1080p webcam, and a full-sized keyboard with a number pad, making it a genuine desktop replacement. But what really sets it apart is the range of component options. With RTX 4060 configurations available at prices under $2,000, the Alienware M18 offers a compelling choice for gamers who crave big-screen entertainment without breaking the bank on high-end graphics cards they might not fully utilize.
Specifications
Performance: Pushing the Limits
The Alienware M18 came very close to dethroning the Strix Scar 18 in our performance tests, even surpassing it in some benchmarks. While the Asus rig still holds the top spot, the M18 boasts impressive power under the hood. It excelled in demanding games like Returnal and Total War: Three Kingdoms, consistently delivering triple-digit frame rates at the highest graphics settings and native resolution.
Verdict: A Gaming Laptop for All Budgets
The Alienware M18 makes a few compromises, but these trade-offs allow it to carve out a unique space in the market. Whether you're looking to max out its specs or keep your budget in check while enjoying big-screen gaming, the Alienware M18 has you covered. Few 18-inch gaming laptops can match the versatility and power that this machine offers, making it a standout choice for gamers of all stripes.
4. Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023)
The Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 has taken over the top spot as the best gaming laptop we’ve tested this year. It’s a beast when it comes to handling anything you throw at it, thanks to its powerful specs that focus on the essentials for gamers—cooling, CPU efficiency, and GPU performance. All of this is wrapped in a chassis that features stunning RGB panels and a Mini LED display.
Design
This laptop is not for the faint-hearted. The RGB panel along the lower lip is customizable, but the overall design screams gaming. The translucent deck design adds to the gamer aesthetic, although it might not appeal to everyone. The large ROG logo and etched diagonal lines on the lid give it a bold look, setting it apart from typical office laptops. However, you can tone it down by turning off the LEDs for a more subdued vibe.
Read: How to Optimize Windows 11 for Gaming: Step-by-Step Guide
Features
One of the standout features is the Mini LED screen, branded as ‘Nebula HDR’ by Asus. With 1,024 dimming zones and over 1,100 nits of peak brightness, the colors are vibrant, with excellent contrast. The sound system is equally impressive, offering Dolby Atmos support and a solid virtual surround experience. The Strix Scar 16 can be configured with up to an Intel i9-13980HX CPU and an RTX 4090 GPU, ensuring it’s ready for the most demanding games.
Specifications
Performance
We tested the model with an RTX 4080 GPU paired with the Intel i9-13980HX processor, and it didn’t disappoint. The Strix Scar 16 outperformed the Asus ROG Zephyrus M16 and even the pricier Razer Blade 18 in benchmark tests, making it a formidable choice for gamers looking for long-term performance. With high framerates on Ultra settings in demanding titles, this laptop will easily last through several years of gaming.
Verdict
The Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 is the best gaming laptop we’ve tested. If you’re looking for a high-end machine with plenty of power for future games, this is the one to beat.
5. Asus TUF A15
The Asus TUF A15 has been a favorite among budget gamers for years, and the 2023 model solidifies its position. This laptop offers impressive performance for its price, making it one of the best value options on the market.
Photo/Asus
Design
The Asus TUF A15 features a sleek gray design with a metal lid, giving it a premium feel despite its lower price. While the chassis is primarily plastic, the overall build quality is solid. The hinge is sturdy, and the keyboard area has minimal flex, which is typical for laptops in this price range. It’s not as slim as some of its predecessors, but it’s still portable and easy to carry around.
Features
The A15 offers all the essentials without breaking the bank. It comes with a 1080p 144Hz IPS display, which, while standard, provides good color and contrast for casual gaming. The full-sized keyboard is a nice touch, though it’s a bit softer than we’d like. The trackpad could use some improvement, as it’s a bit clunky and not the most reliable for extended use.
Specifications
Performance
In terms of performance, the A15 punches above its weight. It scored higher in benchmarks than some pricier models, like the HP Omen Transcend 16, and handled demanding games like Returnal and Hitman 3 with ease, maintaining smooth framerates throughout. For a budget laptop, the A15 delivers exceptional performance, making it a great choice for gamers on a tight budget.
Verdict
If you’re looking for solid gaming performance without spending a fortune, the Asus TUF A15 is a must-see. It’s one of the most affordable gaming laptops we’ve tested, and it offers great value for the price.
6. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14
The 2024 edition of the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 continues to push the boundaries of what a gaming laptop can be, combining power and portability in a sleek, ultrabook-like design.
Design
Asus has refined the design of the Zephyrus G14, opting for a cleaner, more minimalist look. The laptop features a single diagonal stripe on the lid and a unibody CNC-milled aluminum chassis, reminiscent of a MacBook Pro. By dropping the larger RTX 4080 and 4090 GPUs, Asus has made the G14 one of the lightest gaming laptops on the market, weighing just 1.5kg.
Features
The highlight of the G14 is its OLED display, developed in partnership with Samsung. The colors are incredibly vivid, and the contrast is stunning, making for an immersive gaming experience. The refresh rate is slightly lower than some other models, but the overall visual quality more than makes up for it. The laptop is powered by an 8000 Series Ryzen 9 processor, with GPUs ranging from RTX 4050 to RTX 4070, offering a balance between performance and portability.
Specifications
Performance
While the G14 doesn’t match the raw power of an RTX 4090-equipped laptop, it still delivers impressive performance. The RTX 4070 model we tested consistently maintained over 100fps in 1080p and performed well in higher resolutions too. It’s on par with similar models like the Razer Blade 14 but comes at a lower price, making it a strong contender in the compact gaming laptop market.
Verdict
The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 is the best 14-inch gaming laptop we’ve tested, combining a stunning OLED display with excellent performance in a portable package. It’s ideal for gamers who want a powerful machine that’s easy to carry around.
7. Razer Blade 16
The 2024 Razer Blade 16 is a premium gaming laptop that offers top-notch performance and features, though it comes with a hefty price tag.
Design
The Razer Blade 16 maintains the classic Razer design, with a black CNC-milled unibody and a sleek, subtle aesthetic. The 16-inch form factor provides more screen real estate without making the laptop overly bulky, though it’s not as slim or lightweight as some competitors. However, the extra size allows for better cooling and performance, making it a worthwhile trade-off.
Features
The standout feature of the Blade 16 is its 240Hz OLED panel, developed by Samsung. This display is sharp, vibrant, and offers incredible contrast, making it one of the best screens we’ve seen on a gaming laptop. The laptop also comes with Intel’s 14th generation i9 chip and GPUs ranging from RTX 4070 to RTX 4090. Additional features include THX speakers, a FHD webcam, user-upgradeable RAM and storage, and a surprisingly efficient battery.
Specifications
Performance
Despite its slim form factor, the Razer Blade 16 delivers performance on par with other high-end 16-inch laptops. In our tests, the RTX 4090 model outperformed similarly specced laptops like the Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 and even beat out some bulkier models like the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i.
Verdict
The Razer Blade 16 is a luxury gaming laptop that isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for the best of the best, it’s hard to beat. Its display, performance, and build quality make it a top choice for gamers who want a high-end experience.
0 Comments