When buying a computer, gamers generally choose desktop computers that are free from thermal problems and that make them feel powerful. Yes desktop PCs are a better option for gaming, but we turn to laptops for many reasons. Today we will try to talk in detail about the things you should consider when buying a “gaming laptop”.
Gaming laptops used to be bulky, noisy and thick. This is not the case today. The laptops presented to us in recent years are very elegant, portable and at the same time very powerful thanks to the developing foundry technologies. There is still no comparison with a desktop, but there are many laptops with really powerful CPU and GPU combinations. Even though the prices are a little expensive..
If you do not have very high budgets for a laptop, it is necessary to strike a balance between performance, portability, material quality and ergonomics. If you ask me, when it comes to games, the priority is pure hardware power and performance. However, since this is a portable and lightweight device, it is not enough to just look at the technical specifications. On the other hand, people have now started to use laptops produced for gamers in their work and school life. Therefore, personal preferences come into play at some points.
Now we will try to make the points you need to pay attention to when buying a gaming laptop and some of the decisions you need to make as easy as possible. Of course, everyone wants to choose the best according to their budget. Considering that we have been using a computer we bought for years, this is an important decision.
Determining Budget and Hardware
When looking at gaming laptops, you must first determine a budget. Prices start from 700-800 dollars and can go up to over 2,500-3,000 dollars. Economical gaming laptops offer an attractive balance between performance and affordability, offering attractive options for budget-conscious gamers. Despite their low prices, these computers can offer a considerable gaming experience without shaking your budget.
GPU
GPUs now offer excellent performance not only for games but also for different productivity tools. Especially for gaming and for some people, for work purposes, the first thing we need to look at is the GPU of the computer, in other words, the graphics card. Most games are GPU dependent and you cannot upgrade this hardware later. If the graphics chip is powerful, you can game with your laptop at higher settings for longer periods of time.
You will encounter graphics cards such as GeForce GTX 1650/1660 or RTX 3050 in entry-level laptops. However, you can even find a laptop with RTX 4060 for the same or slightly higher price. Research is very important. The names of the models we named will change in the coming years, but the logic will follow the same way.
The number of models with AMD branded graphics cards is quite low. On this side we have the Radeon RX 7000M and 7000S series. As for the difference between them, while the power limits are higher in the M series, they are lower in the S series. Laptop prices fluctuate a bit. You can find many models from many brands on the market. You can also see a lot of price differences from seller to seller. Discounts can sometimes be very attractive.
- Entry Level Acting: If your budget is limited and playing games at the highest settings is not very important to you, entry-level products now allow you to play almost all games at low-medium settings. If possible, try to choose a computer with at least RTX 4050. If you can switch to RTX 4060, you will get better performance in games and if there are not too high price differences, it will be an investment worth paying the difference. We do not specify the price due to possible changes in exchange rates. Laptops of this type usually cost $750-1100
- Middle Class, Mainstream Acting: GeForce RTX 4060 is a good mid-range card that will allow you to play most games at high settings. When you open your wallet, you can have a much more superior gaming experience with the RTX 4070, which we can position in the middle-upper class. Prices will hover between $1100 and $1500, but you can see widely varying prices at retailers.
- High End, High Settings and VR: RTX 4070 is enough to play almost any game at medium-high settings, but RTX 4080 and RTX 4090 stand out as the most powerful GPUs on the market. If you’re buying one of these types of laptops priced over $2,000 and up to $3,000, you already have high expectations. With the leaders of the RTX 4000 series, you can even go up to 4K resolution depending on the game and settings. When you activate DLSS, you can play much more comfortably.
At the time we wrote this article, the options we mentioned were available in the market. Many options of the GeForce RTX 5000 and Radeon RX 8000 series will be released in the future. However, what we said will largely remain valid.
Difference Between Max-Q and Max-P
When buying a laptop, you may see phrases such as “Max-Q and Max-P” next to the GPUs. This is important. NVIDIA has turned this into a set of technologies that laptop manufacturers can choose to use.
Max-Q is a GPU technology that NVIDIA first introduced in 2017 and allows manufacturers to adjust power/performance according to the features of gaming computers. To summarize, a graphics card bearing the Max-Q suffix is designed for a lighter and thinner type of laptop. For this reason, maximum TDP values and performance may be slightly low.
Max-Q technology is used to ensure that laptops are thinner, quieter and more energy efficient than other gaming laptops when running NVIDIA graphics technology. In general, heat management of graphics cards is important. Nobody wants thick and heavy laptops with bulky, noisy cooling systems.
Although the phrase Max-Q is not always mentioned in retail sales lists, it is a very important detail. It directly affects the performance of the system, especially games.
Max-Q graphics cards are designed to optimize efficiency and cooling systems. So you can run heavy graphics workloads like 4K gaming on sleek laptops. Max-Q laptops can handle 25cdm (cubic decimeter) distance and “average” gaming workloads and room temperatures It aims to have the highest noise level of 40dBA when faced with heat.
Each mobile NVIDIA graphics subsystem is rated for a different power configuration. For example, laptop manufacturers can use the mobile GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER model at a rating between 80W and 115W. This rating may vary depending on the laptop’s design, cooling system, material quality and product segment. A laptop with an RTX 2070 SUPER running at 80-90W and meeting certain thermal standards is described as “Max-Q”. The mobile RTX 2070 SUPER variant, which breaks the chains and operates at full 115W power, does not need this label or can sometimes be defined as “Max-P”. The letter “P” in Max-P represents “performance”.
The Max-Q version of the GeForce graphics system offers lower clock speeds because it uses less power. You won’t get the best possible performance from your mobile GPU with a Max-Q system, but you will get good performance on a device that meets NVIDIA’s Max-Q size, thermal and noise standards. Generally, the lightest, thinnest and most stylish looking laptops with NVIDIA GPU are of the “Max-Q” type.
CPU, RAM and Storage
By the way, let’s not forget to mention that recently, games have started to become more dependent on processors. GPUs are still the priority, but the importance of processors has increased compared to before. Therefore, it is useful to establish a balance between GPU and CPU. Do not choose a much older generation, inefficient and weak processor just because the graphics card is powerful. Also consider the type of games you play.
When it comes to memory, current games consume much more RAM than before. Therefore, if possible, try to choose a laptop with at least 16 GB of RAM. There is also the dual channel issue. If you can go into details, go for a model with 2×8 GB memory instead of 1×16 GB. The use of dual channel memory creates big differences in performance.
Laptops generally use previous generation processors from Intel or AMD. If you are choosing an Intel branded computer, we recommend that you choose the 12th generation or above, if possible. Intel switched to hybrid architecture with the 12th generation and very radical changes were made. However, let’s say you have found a laptop that is suitable in terms of everything else and is powerful enough even if its processor is old generation, you can choose it. On the AMD side, if possible, prefer Ryzen 6000 and above processors, but in some cases, the Ryzen 5000 series may also be preferred.
We actually talked about other hardware, but let’s go through it in parts:
- processor: Depending on your budget, you should buy at least a Core i5 or Ryzen 5 series processor in the lower segment. It is also possible to find laptops with very high performance but expensive desktop CPUs. In this regard, there is no need for expensive computers with premium class processors, as most games pay more attention to the GPU than the CPU. If you need a powerful CPU for special reasons, this is your choice.
- RAM: If you are playing old games, you may need less RAM. Minimum 8 GB is already required. We recommend 8 GB for even average productivity tasks. As we just said, if possible, the gaming computer should have at least 16 GB (dual channel running) RAM. The good thing is that most laptops offer upgrades on the memory side. Therefore, even if you buy a computer with 8 GB of memory (if it has an available slot), you can install another 8 GB of RAM in the future.
- Storage: Hard disk or SSD? Of course, the answer is SSD and now almost every computer has at least one SSD. Although storage is important, you can use a hard drive in a gaming computer. While the primary storage is low capacity SSD, HDD can be used for secondary storage. Some budget gaming laptops come with only a single hard drive, but there should be at least an SSD, albeit a small capacity one. You can see the 128 GB SSD and 1 TB HDD duo in an affordable option. Can I buy this computer? Yes, it is taken. You can upgrade the SSD over time. As an important note, be sure to choose a HDD running at 7,200 RPM instead of a 5,400 RPM HDD. Just like RAM, you can upgrade storage units over time.
Compact and Ultraportable Computers
Over the past few years we’ve seen gaming laptops shrink in size and thickness. The 14-inch laptop category is quite new and various brands such as Alienware, MSI, Razer and Lenovo offer a variety of options. If you will carry your computer very often and use it for different tasks, you can choose a small product.
Can you play games on a computer with a 14 inch screen size? Although most people answer no to this question, personal needs may vary. In summary, before making a purchase, you need to determine your primary use purpose and what you need. Ã You need to choose the category that best suits your business.
Additionally, let us point out that computers designed for gaming are of heavier construction. So the bag you carry with you may be a bit heavy, after all, you are carrying a powerful monster.
Screen
Dimensions
Screen quality and features are another factor we should pay attention to. If you are not going to use an external screen, you will have to look at the same screen for years. In general, gaming computers come with 14 and 15.6″ screen sizes. Frankly, these dimensions will seem small for those who play games with a 24″ monitor on the desktop. You will see that some models have a large screen size of 17.3 inches. If there is no problem in terms of portability, you can turn to large-screen laptop models. As a result, it would be beneficial for gamers to choose at least a 15.6 inch screen.
Resolution
It has already become a standard: the resolution should never fall below 1920 x 1080 (1080p). Although most gaming PCs come with 1080p resolution, resolutions like 1440p and 3840 x 2160 (4K) are becoming more popular. Since products with 4K screens are very expensive, you can take a look at products with 2K screens. If you are looking for image quality above 1080p, 1440p is a balanced choice. On the other hand, the 16:10 aspect ratio has become increasingly common. In this context, you can also see resolutions such as 1200p and 1600p.
Refresh Rate
Screen refresh rate is extremely important for gamers. General standards continue to move up the ladder. While many laptops offer a 144 Hz refresh rate, high-end models can go up to 165 Hz, 240 Hz and even 360 Hz. Make sure that the screen offers a minimum speed of 144 Hz so that you can have a smooth gaming experience.
Most laptops you’ll see will have a 1080p resolution and a 60 Hz display. Actually, 144 Hz is a good choice, but if the other features of the computer are successful, a 1080p/60 Hz computer is sufficient for you. If you are playing fast-paced games such as FPS games or racing games, we recommend that you choose minimum 144 Hz. In addition, let us remind you that if you are increasing to options such as 165 Hz and 240 Hz with 1440p resolution, you need a good GPU.
Sync Technologies
Gamers looking for optimum visual performance should set NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync technologies as a benchmark. Almost every computer now comes with at least a FreeSync certificate. These technologies eliminate screen tearing and ghosting by synchronizing the screen with graphics cards.
Touch screen
Touchscreens are generally unnecessary for gaming laptops because they consume battery life and create unwanted brightness.
OLED
If you care about immersion, OLED screens offer deeper black colors and generally more vibrant colors. Alternatively, mini LED displays provide excellent color reproduction without the risk of burn-in (seen on OLED displays), making them another attractive option for gamers.
Although OLED displays are very expensive, the number of such laptops is increasing. Refresh rates are generally slower than LED displays, but colors are more vibrant. As you know, there are burn risks on OLED screens and some players are worried about this. On the mini LED side, there is no risk of burning.
General Product and Case Quality
When choosing a laptop, also pay attention to the build quality to ensure durability and reliability. This factor is more important if you are going to carry the compact systems at hand a lot. Some manufacturers may design the case in very poor quality to keep the price more affordable. Of course, the price is important, but the computer’s casing is also important for some people.
Be sure to look for laptops made from high-quality materials such as aluminum or magnesium alloy, which allow for both powerful and lightweight systems. Even if the prices increase, it is up to your choice. A rugged case is better for protecting internal components and delivering ergonomic gaming experience on laptops that get hot.
Cooling System
Also consider the laptop’s cooling system. Effective cooling mechanisms such as advanced heat pipes and multiple fans are vital for maintaining optimal performance and preventing overheating during intense gaming sessions. It is important. Adequate ventilation and airflow design helps dissipate heat effectively, extending the life of the laptop’s internal components ır.
GPU and CPU get very hot while playing games. There are various solutions and options for cooling gaming laptops. Brands design their own special cooling systems. Generally, as the laptop segment rises, the quality of the cooling systems used also increases.
Keyboard Quality
Another thing to consider is the keyboard quality. A comfortable and responsive keyboard delivers a better gaming experience while keeping you comfortable, especially when it comes to long periods of gaming. Customizable RGB lighting and anti-ghosting for enhanced gaming performance and aesthetics Look for laptops with technology.
Entry-level computers generally come with LED-illuminated chiclet keys. However, there are more details you can consider:
- Key Blank: When you press a key, the downward movement rate of this key may change. In general, keys with more than 1.5 millimeter key travel are preferred. 2 mm keys are better. Expensive laptops may even have mechanical keys.
- Activation: The force you apply to press a key. It is generally required to weigh between 65 and 70 grams, which is enough to provide resistance without feeling soft.
- Macro: Macros are not as common on laptops as on desktop keyboards. A well-programmable set of macro keys allows you to easily repeat frequent moves you make in games. Manufacturers usually offer special software for this.
- Anti-ghosting: Anti-ghosting is very important. When you press a few keys for combos or perform a few actions, you want them to apply in the game. It will be annoying when you press a few keys and feel that some of them are not detected.
Battery life
While battery life is a very important consideration for most laptops, the same is not true for gaming laptops. Gaming computers, which aim to maximize performance with high-end processors and graphics cards, prioritize power rather than energy efficiency. As a result, we need to use it plugged in for maximum performance, especially during gaming.
Some gaming laptop models from different brands have very large batteries with capacities reaching up to 99.9 watt-hours, which is the maximum size allowed on airplanes. However, no matter how big it is, there is a certain capacity that laptop designs that focus on advanced performance can offer.
In summary, gaming laptops are not “on the same level” portable as others. It consumes more power, the battery drains faster. If you’re using your laptop for gaming, you’ll need to keep it plugged in to get the full performance from your GPU. If you don’t do this, your laptop battery may only last 1-2 hours.
Ports
While the version and number of ports are generally less important to gamers, you may want to use your computer for many purposes. Check how many USB ports there are, as well as the number of HDMI and DisplayPort, as well as their versions. Do you have enough USBs to plug everything in? Is USB 3.0 enough? If you’re considering anything like TV connectivity or desktop setup, do you have all the connections you need?
