1. The Quick List
2. Best overall
3. Best under $1,000
4. Best for most players
5. Best for budget 1440p
6. Best 14-inch
7. Best 15-inch
8. Best 17-inch
9. Most powerful
10. Best slimline
11. Best value
The best gaming laptops provide the power of a high-end desktop with the portability of a much smaller, lighter machine - that much is obvious. However, truly great gaming laptops manage to do all this while remaining cool and comfortable enough to run for long periods of time, all while packing high quality graphics, displays, and performance into a fair price tag.
Thankfully, those on the hunt for the best gaming laptop in 2023 have plenty to choose from. With 16-inch and 18-inch form factors taking over from the previous 15.6-inch and 17.3-inch mainstream, we're getting bigger screens, boosted graphics power, and the latest generation of blindingly fast processors. That means PC gaming on the go has never felt so good - and we're bringing you all the top models right here.
The best gaming laptop of 2023 is the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 so far, but plenty of our favorite machines balance raw power with value for money. That means some of these top models won't run the most impressive graphics cards or pack bags of RAM - they will simply outperform their price tag. After all, if you don't need an all singing rig, why pay for one.
We've put a wide range of gaming laptops through their paces to find the best machines in the business, testing performance relative to the specs on offer, efficiency in design and temperature, and overall value for money. We run each machine through a series of performance benchmarks, and live, play, and work with the models we review for an extended period of time - you can check out exactly how we test gaming laptops in our dedicated guide. You'll find all our recommendations for the best gaming laptop on the market just below, and more information on choosing the right configuration for you and your budget as well.
It's also worth noting that Prime Day gaming deals could well offer up the discount you've been looking for on July 11 / 12. We're regularly see Prime Day gaming laptop deals serving up record breaking discounts during this sale so keep your eyes peeled on your favorite model.
The quick list
The best gaming laptop overall
The Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 is the best RTX 40-Series gaming laptop we've tested so far, making it the best rig on the shelves in our eyes. Combining bags of power with a crisp MiniLED display, this is a real treat.
The best gaming laptop under $1,000
It's no looker, but the Acer Nitro 5 regularly offers some of the best component value on the market. You'll find some of the lowest prices on high-end parts in these machines.
The best for most players
The M15 R7 walks a fine line between price and performance. Configurable across the component scale for serious power across genres, it's an excellent all-rounder.
The best for budget 1440p
The Asus TUF Dash F15 is a solid bet if you're after 1440p gaming that won't run into dangerous price territory. The slightly weaker processors are saving you cash but performance is still solid.
The best 14-inch gaming laptop
The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 does everything a 14-inch machine should, keeping a compact footprint while working its hardest to keep up with the performance of larger devices.
The best 15.6-inch gaming laptop
Impressive performance, a sleek slimline chassis, and a stunning display make the Razer Blade 15 the best 15-incher we've tested yet. It's pricey but well worth it if you're after an investment.
The best 17-inch gaming laptop
17-inch laptops have a tough job, but the Razer Blade 17 packs some incredible performance while holding onto a slimline form factor. That's rare to find, especially with a screen this good.
The most powerful we've tested
The Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 has overtaken the Strix Scar 16 to be the most powerful gaming laptop we've tested yet. Of course, there's lightning fast performance here, but also two screens running.
The best slimline gaming laptop
The Alienware x14 is an impossibly thin machine, and while you're dropping down to weaker components to achieve this portability factor there's still plenty of luxury in everyday use.
The best gaming laptop overall
Our favorite configuration:
✅You prioritize performance over a slick chassis: The Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 is a powerful machine, but it's certainly not the most expensive model on the market - because it doesn't try and squeeze those components into a more portable form factor.
✅You value a high quality display: That Mini LED display does add to the final price, but it's well worth the additional immersion for that crisp QHD+ resolution.
✅You don't mind a more gamer-styled aesthetic: The Strix isn't going to fade into the background - while you can turn those glaring LEDs off, the translucent body and chunky grills scream gaming laptop.
❌You don't want to spend over $3,000: The Strix series is at the top of Asus's range, so we're unlikely to see cheaper configurations surfacing. While it's good value in its price bracket, it's still a premium machine.
❌You prefer a sleek form factor: The extra space required to achieve such performance is a necessary evil here.
❌You don't need the latest top of the range specs: If your Steam library simply won't make the most of those top shelf graphics cards and processors, the Strix isn't going to be worth it.
The Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 has taken over from the Razer Blade 15 (still featured below) as the best gaming laptop we've had our hands on yet. This thing flies through anything you can throw at it, without reaching the dizzying heights of other premium RTX 40-Series rigs. That's because the Strix Scar puts its power exactly where a PC gaming enthusiast wants it - cooling, CPU efficiency, and GPU power - all while still offering a crisp set of RGB panels and a Mini LED display worthy of its next generation chassis.
No, framerates weren't as impressive as the ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 listed below - but equally you're not spending an extra $1,000 on a fancy second screen (and the power to run it) you might not use. Plus, at three-figure framerates in Ultra settings across demanding titles, there's no arguing the raw horsepower baked into this machine.
We tested an RTX 4080 rig with the Intel i9-13980HX processor that comes with both this and the 4090 configuration, drawing a 17,611 Time Spy score and 32,876 Fire Strike score to beat out the Asus ROG Zephyrus M16 by some margin. The Scar 16 even beat the larger (and far more expensive RTX 4090-toting) Razer Blade 18 in these benchmark tests as well. Those are numbers that will comfortably see you through the next five years of gaming, and potentially much more if we don't see any particularly demanding graphical breakthroughs.
With HDR content represented in gorgeous detail and colors popping from the screen with excellent vibrancy, this is a real feast for the eyes.
Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 review
This isn't a machine for the more subtle amongst us, though. While the RGB panel running across the lower lip can be switched off, this is still very much a gaming laptop. The translucent design across the main deck wasn't quite our favorite touch and does add to this gamer aesthetic while slightly cheapening the experience, but this is down to personal preference. The lid sports a large ROG logo and a series of etched diagonal lines along the chunky grill towards the back, further removing this rig from your everyday office laptop. However, it's not such an in your face design, and putting those LEDs to sleep certainly keeps the vibe slick.
On the other side of that panel, though, we've got one of the best screens we've had the pleasure of using on a gaming laptop. Asus has branded its Mini LED screens 'Nebula HDR', and they sing. Between 1,024 dimming zones and 1,100+ nits of peak brightness, colors pop with an excellent vividity and balance well with a deep, rich contrast. Throw in Dolby Atmos and a solid virtual surround system and you've got a seriously immersive experience.
We're getting our hands on more RTX 40-Series gaming laptops all the time, but for now the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 is the best model to pass our desks. It's well worth the investment for anyone on the hunt for a high-end machine with bags of power to spare for future releases.
Read more: Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 (2023) review
| Benchmark Test | 1080p | QHD+ |
|---|---|---|
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | High: 201fps / Highest: 191fps | High: 179fps / Highest: 173fps |
| Total War: Three Kingdoms | High: 193fps / Ultra: 148fps | High: 121fps / Ultra: 87fps |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | Balanced: 118fps / Highest: 107fps | Balanced: 95fps / Highest: 94fps |
| Metro Exodus | High: 134fps / Ultra: 115fps | High: 101fps / Ultra: 93fps |
| The Division 2 | High: 167fps / Ultra: 138fps | High: 140fps / Ultra: 108fps |
The best gaming laptop under $1,000 / £1,000
Our favorite configuration:
✅ You want high-end components without breaking the bank: The Acer Nitro 5 manages to pack some solid components without bumping the price up. That's because there are sacrifices elsewhere, but it does mean great value for money.
✅You're buying your first gaming laptop: With its low price and entry level features, the Nitro 5 is the perfect starter laptop. Use this for a couple of years to decide what you really value in a rig before you make a big purchase.
✅You play casually and not every day: If you don't think you'll be able to warrant the higher price tag of a more sophisticated machine with your daily use, it's well worth picking up a cheaper runner.
❌ You need a particularly fast display: The Acer Nitro 5 display isn't particularly impressive and has certainly been sacrificed to keep that price low.
❌ You prioritize aesthetics: Its older style aesthetics have been outdated for a while now, so that chunky, angular design won't be to everybody's taste.
❌ You're looking for a longer term investment: These are older laptops, so they're not going to be able to keep up with more demanding games of tomorrow.
It’s not about to blow anyone away with flashy features or top-tier performance, but the Acer Nitro 5 is a very respectable choice of gaming laptop for the busy gamer who doesn’t want to break the bank. A good full-scale keyboard with numpad makes this laptop appropriate for both work and play. That means it's a great replacement for a full-tower desktop PC at home that also offers portability thanks to its relatively low weight as gaming laptops go.
The RTX 3060 GPU paired with a Ryzen 5800H processor offered up strong performance in our testing, hitting 86fps in High settings on The Division 2, and only dropping to 77fps in Ultra. While the SSD could be a bit speedier, it’s not going to cause any major headaches. Most games will run above 60fps at maximum settings, and ray-tracing is also an option, though it does come with an associated performance hit.
We found the screen to be somewhat dull compared to other laptops in the same price range, and the battery life is decidedly unimpressive, but given the budget cost, these do feel like fair tradeoffs. Especially since the display does retain an excellent 144Hz refresh rate.
All but the most demanding games should run comfortably above 60fps at maximum graphical settings
Acer Nitro 5 review
Regularly available for under $1,000 / £1,000, the RTX 3060 Nitro 5 manages to pack some impressive components into a budget price tag by dropping nice-to-have features. That makes it perfect for anyone after raw power without all the fancy extras that can sometimes bloat gaming laptop costs. We'd recommend the Nitro 5 to anyone after their first gaming laptop - it's the perfect way to spend less, get a few good years of gaming in, and work out exactly what you need from a larger purchase further down the line.
You'll also find excellent options in the Dell G15 and Asus TUF Dash F15. The former is generally found on sale for slightly less than the Acer Nitro 5, but doesn't quite pack the same thermal regulation. Meanwhile, Asus's budget option is pitched at a slightly higher price point, sacrificing processing power for a 1440p display.
Read more: Acer Nitro 5 review
| Benchmark Test | 1080p |
|---|---|
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | High: 118fps / Highest: 107fps |
| Total War: Three Kingdoms | High: 81fps / Ultra: 58fps |
| Metro Exodus | High: 79fps / Ultra: 39fps |
| The Division 2 | High: 86fps / Ultra: 77fps |
The best gaming laptop for most players
Our favorite configuration:
✅You need all-round power across a range of genres: The M15 R7 is well suited for a massive range of games, offering excellent performance at a solid mid-range price.
✅You're a more competitive player: With its super-fast display and Ethernet port, this is a machine built with competition in mind.
✅You want to save by opting for an older machine: The R7 has been superseded by the M16 in 2023, which makes it a generation behind. However, that means we regularly see it on sale.
❌You travel regularly with your laptop: The Alienware M15 R7 weighs in at just under 6lbs (2.7kg) and packs a massive charger to boot. This isn't a backpack friendly machine.
❌You want the latest components: As a previous generation machine, you're locked into RTX 30-Series graphics cards and Intel's 12th generation processors. There's still plenty of power here, but not quite as much value as a newer build.
❌ You want a luxury chassis: Alienware shaves the price of its M-Series devices by dropping the premium build materials of its X-Series.
The Alienware M15 R7 is here to bring the now mid-range line of luxury laptops into 2022's standards. With Intel's new 12th generation processors and Nvidia's Ti GPUs at the helm, there's some serious power up for grabs here. While prices are looking a little higher than those of the predecessor (especially now that discounts abound on the outdated model), you're getting enough new tech under the hood to warrant the splurge.
We were blown away by the performance of this machine. Our test unit featured an i7-12700H processor and an RTX 3070 Ti graphics card, and was easily sailing through our benchmarks and stress tests. This beast didn't even flinch at heavier titles like Red Dead Redemption 2 and Metro Exodus - offering up 76fps in RDR2's Ultra settings, and 72fps with all RTX set to max in Metro Exodus. Those are settings that would make the uber expensive RTX 3080 Ti Razer Blade 15 sweat.
However, it's worth noting that this machine is built purely for power. It's a stocky design, and a particularly heavy one at that - the charging brick alone nearly runs the full length of the keyboard. So no, this isn't going to be a gaming laptop you'll easily throw into a backpack - and those fans can certainly scream - but if you're looking for an all-rounder that can level with machines far pricier than itself, these are easy sacrifices to make.
Faster action titles ran without a hitch, with that 360Hz refresh rate display acting as the cherry on the stunningly powerful cake.
Alienware M15 R7 review
Alienware is, after all, a luxury brand. With its M-series now falling to the middle of its range (thanks to the advent of the X-series last year), the Alienware M15 R7 is affordable by the brand's standards. That means you'll find far cheaper machines out there, but without that Alienware pedigree to speak of. Still, with performance to rival some of the best gaming laptops in the business, and only a few sacrifices to get there for a great price, this is an excellent option for most players. You could consider the X15 technically the best Alienware gaming laptop on paper alone, but when it comes down to price and the wider market, this is the winner.
Read more: Alienware M15 R7 review
| Benchmark Test | 1080p |
|---|---|
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | High - 148fps / Highest - 129fps |
| Total War: Three Kingdoms | High - 120fps / Ultra - 83fps |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | Balanced - 79fps / Highest - 76fps |
| Metro Exodus | High - 98fps / Ultra - 72fps |
| The Division 2 | High: 124fps / Ultra: 97fps |
The best gaming laptop for budget 1440p
Our favorite configuration
✅You don't want to break four figures: You'll regularly find the Asus TUF Dash F15 on sale for well below $1,000 / £1,000 - which means you'll get excellent value on an RTX 3060 or RTX 3070 build.
✅You don't mind sacrificing a little CPU power for a better GPU: To cram those graphics cards into this price point, the Asus TUF Dash F15 does sacrifice a little processing power. That didn't amount to too much in our everyday testing, though.
✅You travel regularly with your laptop: A sleek, slimline build means this machine is particularly easy to sling in a backpack and doesn't weigh everything down as much as other rigs.
❌ You want to push newer games on higher settings: Our testing back in 2022 revealed the F15 could handle the games of the time particularly well, but subsequent sessions with new releases show it's starting to fall behind with the settings cranked up.
❌ You need a webcam: There's no webcam to be found here, so if you'll also be using your laptop for quick work calls or easy streaming, you'll need to pick up a separate camera.
❌ You need plenty of processing power: Cheaper Asus TUF Dash F15 rigs ship with a four-core Intel processor which can drop your performance in CPU-heavy tasks.
If you're looking to grab an RTX 30-Series card but don't want to break too far past $1,000 / £1,000, the Asus TUF Dash F15 is going to be your best bet. In our testing, we found this budget-friendly machine to charge through even some of the more demanding titles as if it sat in a much higher price bracket - despite the weaker 4-core i7-11370H processor at the helm. Plus, you're still getting the super slimline form factor that has proven so popular over the last couple of years.
The key here is that you can outfit it with the full 11th generation i7 / 1TB / 32GB RAM suite of turbo power - or you can pick up a more conservative spec for a little less cash. That means you won't need to spend on high-end gear that you might not even get to use if you're running less demanding titles.
We were particularly impressed by how well those more power-hungry components played together in a cheaper chassis. We didn't notice any over-heating issues here, and while we did have to make some sacrifices to more demanding titles, we still managed to hit 60fps+ on an RTX 3070 with consistency. We also tested an RTX 3060 unit and found similar performance levels when dropping a few sliders down a fraction as well, which means you're sorted at all ends of the budget here.
You'll be hitting 60fps+ in most games as long as you're happy not playing everything maxed out.
Asus TUF Dash F15 review
For its lower price point, the Asus TUF Dash F15 does excel in its build quality. This is a sleek, slimline laptop with a cool aluminum frame and a sleek matte black or white design. The full chassis is just under 20mm, a true feat at this lower price point - perfect for anyone looking to stretch their cash without buying a bulky grill-oriented machine. The exterior TUF decal might not be to everyone's taste, but it's subtle enough to slide under the radar in more professional settings as well.
It's tough to find a 1440p rig for this kind of price, so the TUF Dash F15's got a solid proposition on its hands. You can, of course, keep everything moving a little slicker by dropping that resolution down to 1080p, but for the most part we still experience excellent performance even in our RTX 3060 model.
Read more: Asus TUF Dash F15 review
| Benchmark Test | 1080p | 1440p |
|---|---|---|
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | High: 79fps / Highest: 60fps | High: 72fps / Highest: 57fps |
| Total War: Warhammer II | High: 82fps / Ultra: 63fps | High: 76fps / Ultra: 53fps |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | Balanced: 63fps / Highest: 57fps | Balanced: 54fps / Highest: 51fps |
| Metro Exodus | High: 72fps / Ultra: 51fps | High: 64fps / Ultra: 46fps |
| The Division 2 | High: 86fps / Ultra: 54fps | High: 76fps / Ultra: 47fps |
The best 14-inch gaming laptop
Our favorite configuration:
✅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.
✅You want portability and power: While the Alienware x14 prioritizes portability at the expense of more powerful components, the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 packs offers far greater choice.
✅You don't want to dip below Ultra settings: We noted that the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 performed pretty much just as well at Ultra as it did High. That efficiency means you won't need to make sacrifices in the settings menu here.
❌ You want the best display possible: Asus has cut back on the power of its MiniLED display in this 14-incher which means things aren't quite as vibrant as other 2023 releases.
❌ Weight is a key factor: The G14 is certainly compact, but it's got nothing on the slimline Alienware x14 when it comes to the scales. If you're looking for an ultralight experience, and you don't need all this power, Dell has it in the bag.
The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 long reigned over the slimline gaming laptop world. It was one of the first easily portable machines, built with a form factor that respected your backpack and your desk top. In 2023, Asus has doubled down on its power. With RTX 40-Series graphics heralding a return to Nvidia (last year's AMD build was certainly speedy but dropped a few fancy graphical tricks), and Intel's 13th generation processors at the helm, the latest iteration embodies that classic power / portability balance.
We managed to squeeze some impressive numbers out of this compact design as well. Consistently hitting well over 120fps in in-game benchmarks at a High setting, and holding that performance pretty well across Ultra, those new generation components certainly aren't put to waste in this smaller chassis. Whether you're in 1080p or 1440p, everything is silky smooth.
You're still getting the 16:10 display introduced on the previous model, but at the top RTX 4090 tier Asus has added its Nebula HDR MiniLED panel. While a jump from IPS in its own right, though, this screen has had its specs trimmed to slot into the Zephyrus G14's bracket. Whereas other 2023 Asus laptops are wowing with their vibrant 1,100 nits of peak brightness and 1,024 dimming zones, the G14 trades down to 600 nits and 504 zones. That's a noticeable sacrifice having had the other models in-hand.
Whether trundling through Red Dead Redemption 2's snowy landscapes or skimming webpages, everything feels sharp and snappy
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 review
We did notice those temperatures creeping under intense workloads, though, so this will be one to keep on a desk rather than a lap. That said, not many 14-inch rigs can keep up with these specs, and even fewer can do so with the extra screen space afforded to you here.
The G14 is the best 14-inch gaming laptop we've had our hands on so far. It manages to combine power and portability in a package that very few rigs can match. You're getting better value for money, more component choices, and lower prices than the Alienware x14, making it the go-to for anyone after a compact PC.
Read more: Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 review
| Benchmark | 1080p | 1440p |
|---|---|---|
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | High: 165fps | Highest: 153fps | High: 130fps | Highest: 124fps |
| Total War: Three Kingdoms | High: 145fps | Ultra: 118fps | High: 117fps | Ultra: 86fps |
| Rainbow Six Extraction | High: 238fps | Ultra: 192fps | High: 170fps | Ultra: 141fps |
| Returnal | High: 131fps | Epic: 124fps | High: 122fps | Epic: 121fps |
| Hitman 3 | High: 121fps | Ultra: 115fps | High: 114fps | Ultra: 110fps |
The best 15-inch gaming laptop
Our favorite configuration:
✅ You want a good looking laptop: There's no doubt about it, the Razer Blade 15 looks good. A slick, slimline chassis with a matte black design fits into a range of scenarios well.
✅ You want a 4K option: We actually managed to squeeze some playable 4K framerates out of the Blade 15 - a rarity we didn't think possible from even the RTX 3080 Ti under the hood.
✅ You need a machine for work, content creation, and play: The display quality and sleek design means the Blade 15 is an incredibly versatile laptop, ready to take on anything you can throw at it.
❌ You value performance over aesthetics: The Blade 15 is impressive, but it's not topping the charts. You can pick up better performance with an RTX 40-Series graphics card at the helm these days.
❌ You don't want to spend more on luxury: Razer comes with a tax, this is a luxury laptop after all. If you're not interested in paying more for that slick experience, you're better off with another brand.
❌ You won't get the miles out of it: If you're not going to be pushing the Blade 15 to its limits across work and play, its higher price might not make much sense.
We got our hands on a beast of a Razer Blade 15, but it showed us just how powerful 15.6-inch gaming laptops can be. The RTX 3080 Ti / i9-12900H configuration I had on my desk was a true monster in its performance. However, this rig's ability to offer such performance while keeping the slimline chassis we've all come to know and love really cemented its top spot among the best gaming laptops on the market.
Of course, this is no cheap machine. The 2022 Razer Blade 15 starts at $2,499.99 for an RTX 3060 configuration. You're certainly paying for this luxury name here, but if you're on the hunt for one of the most technically capable machines in one of the most portable form factors, the cash is well invested.
That does mean this isn't necessarily the best gaming laptop for everyone - those playing lighter games won't need the horsepower on offer here, and if you're just after a machine you can sign into every now and then you won't get solid value by going all out. However, if you're interested in a top of the range rig (and have the budget to throw at it), our testing speaks for itself.
"In 2022, the Razer Blade 15 is still doing exactly what its ancestors did - leading in high-end components and luxury performance."
Razer Blade 15 review
I managed to run Shadow of the Tomb Raider at 74fps in 4K with everything turned up to 11 here. While more demanding titles still struggled in that UHD resolution, though, I was still impressed with the 60+ fps in 1440p on Red Dead Redemption 2 as well as the 78fps in the same resolution on The Division 2. I only needed to drop some more taxing visual effects to hit higher framerates in 4K, and everything looked incredible while doing so.
You can't beat the Razer Blade 15 for performance, component horsepower, and portability. After all, the only other machines offering RTX 3080 Ti graphics cards at the time of writing still can't compete with that 4K 144Hz display for the price.
Note: The 2023 Razer Blade 15 is on its way, and once we've had our hands on the newer device we'll update this guide accordingly.
Read more: Razer Blade 15 review
| Benchmark Test | 1080p | 1440p | 4K |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | High: 101fps / Highest: 97fps | High: 94fps / Highest: 67fps | High: 66fps / Highest: 74fps |
| Total War: Three Kingdoms | High: 107fps / Ultra: 79fps | High: 67fps / Ultra: 49fps | High: 33fps / Ultra: 23fps |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | Balanced: 84fps / Highest: 67fps | Balanced: 69fps / Highest: 52fps | Balanced: 43fps / Highest: 26fps |
| Metro Exodus | High: 87fps / Ultra: 67fps | High: 69fps / Ultra: 53fps | High: 42fps / Ultra: 25fps |
| The Division 2 | High: 107fps / Ultra: 86fps | High: 78fps / Ultra: 61fps | High: 45fps / Ultra: 35fps |
The best 17-inch gaming laptop
Our favorite configuration:
✅ You want a big-screen experience without the bulk: Perhaps the Razer Blade 17's biggest strength is the fact it packs that larger screen into a slimline chassis, dropping the chunky exterior usually found on larger machines.
✅ You need a gaming and content creation machine: The display and power under the hood make the Blade 17 perfect for both gaming and content creation, thanks to its solid color reproduction and contrast.
✅ You plan on keeping your laptop on a desk: With this level of power (and heft), the Blade 17 can comfortably trade in for a desktop PC. Plus, with this weight we wouldn't recommend frequent travel.
❌ You need to travel with your laptop: As slimline as the Blade 17 is, it's still by no means a portable laptop. If you're after something to throw in a backpack, the 15.6-incher above is better suited.
❌ You want to run off battery alone: Many gaming laptops struggle to run off battery alone, but the Razer Blade 17's power demands make that all but impossible.
❌ You want the latest components: Razer's big-screen laptop for 2023 is the Blade 18, which means we won't be getting a 17.3-inch model with RTX 40-Series graphics cards and Intel 13th generation processors.
2022's Razer Blade 17 is here, which means there's a new beast in town - and this one's looking particularly flashy. Don't get us wrong, this is a pricey piece of kit. The i7-12800H / RTX 3080 Ti model we tested runs in at nearly $3,999 / £4,099 - but if you're investing in a gaming and content creation powerhouse, this is the best 17.3-incher in the business. Yes, there's a Razer tax here. You'll find budget machines packing similar specs for slightly less (though not by dramatic amounts) out there, but in return you are investing in a durable, quality piece of kit with some excellent engineering under the hood.
For example, we were particularly impressed with the eight-speaker array - there's some serious power behind these grills, so much so that we didn't feel the need to slap on a gaming headset during our time. Similarly, the expansive display doesn't drop its clarity or color reproduction like many wider models. In fact, we found the screen so impressive that we would happily recommend it for more artistic purposes. Add a wide range of all the latest ports, that classic Razer suave aesthetic, and a clean, tactile glass touchpad and the Razer Blade 17 feels like it could handle anything.
And it can. This machine ripped through benchmarks like they were calculators, spitting out an impressive 25,484 Fire Strike score and a blitzing 12,244 Time Spy result when placed under stress. Results in real-world play were similarly breathtaking - Total War: Three Kingdoms ran buttery smooth at 98fps in High settings and Red Dead Redemption 2 continued to clock 90fps when cranked up to Ultra.
Shocking exactly nobody, the 2022 Razer Blade 17 eats benchmarks for breakfast and powers through the latest games at 1440p, even without the assistance of Nvidia’s nifty DLSS tech.
Razer Blade 17 review
Watching all that slick action on a big-screen is particularly immersive, with action sliding across the screen without so much as a flicker. It's obvious that this is a chassis packed with power, but the newer releases will be even moreso. Razer isn't refreshing its 17.3-inch model for 2023, instead offering a Razer Blade 18 for a far greater sum. That means you won't be able to grab this rig with the latest RTX 40-Series graphics cards and Intel 13th generation processors.
The only issues we faced in our testing were those standard of larger gaming laptops - namely the poor battery life and lack of portability. Of course, if you're in the market for a bigger machine you've already reconciled these facts of life - making the Razer Blade 17 the best 17-inch gaming laptop on the market.
Read more: Razer Blade 17 review
| Benchmark Test | 1440p |
|---|---|
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | High: 146fps / Highest: 134fps |
| Total War: Three Kingdoms | High: 98fps / Ultra: 69fps |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | Balanced: 104fps / Highest: 90fps |
| Metro Exodus | High: 90fps / Ultra: 75fps |
| The Division 2 | High: 101fps / Ultra: 73fps |
The most powerful gaming laptop we've tested
Our favorite configuration:
✅ You want a work machine as much as a gaming laptop: That second screen is excellent, but it makes the most sense in a productivity scenario. If you're after an all-in-one device, this is a go-to.
✅ You want high-end performance without a bulky feel: We were surprised by the benchmark numbers on offer here, especially considering the Duo 16 was also running a second screen at the same time.
✅ You have a lot of budget to play with: This isn't a cheap rig but if you're the right person looking to invest it's an excellent choice.
❌ You won't use the second screen: A lot of the price does go into that second display - you'll find far cheaper laptops with similar specs and no fancy extras on the shelves.
❌ You like plenty of space to type: Adding another screen pushes the keyboard to the bottom of the chassis and the trackpad to the right. That's not going to be comfortable for everyone.
❌ You need a lightweight laptop: All that tech carries weight, and at 2.67kg this is heavier than most slimline laptops.
The Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 isn't the first dual-screened gaming laptop Asus has brought to market, but it is by far the most powerful. The AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX is a force to be reckoned with, posting some incredible numbers all while running a second touch-sensitive display underneath the main Mini-LED panel. We benched numbers far higher than that of the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 in Fire Strike, PC Mark 10, and Cinebench R23 tests, with in-game performance offering equally impressive results. Meanwhile, the Duo thrashed the Asus ROG Zephyrus M16 across all tests as well.
The form factor might trip you up, though. While the second screen sits in an excellently angled design, allowing for additional airflow, it does take up half the main body. That means the keyboard and trackpad have been reorganised, with the deck of keys pushed right to the lower lip of the chassis and the mouse shifted to the right hand side. We were originally dubious of this design, but in practice it's remarkably comfortable. Yes, you'll need to switch up your typing style a little, but we came to love the relaxed feel of a sideways trackpad and the smaller keys didn't get in the way of a week's worth of work from the couch.
The touchscreen itself comes in particularly handy for work purposes. We got a far greater mileage out of this panel when using it as a standard second display for everyday productivity. Some games shift the display down the actual screen and others won't allow the screen to display at all, which means it's not a key gaming feature. However, there aren't that many uses for it outside of streaming and performance specs anyway. It works just fine for both of these use-cases, but we would still recommend this rig to those after an all-in-one gaming and productivity powerhouse.
This is the first time I've seen the fps counter stay above 200 for the duration of a benchmark.
Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 review
The main panel offers a gorgeous picture, though. With the crisp details and gorgeous color contrast of a Mini-LED display and a super-fast 240Hz refresh rate, everything absolutely sings up here.
The Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 is an expensive machine, and it certainly won't be for everyone, but it is the most powerful gaming laptop we've had our hands on so far and well worth it for a unique design.
Read more: Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 review
| Benchmark Test | 1080p | 1440p (2560 x 1600) |
|---|---|---|
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | High: 219fps | Highest: 211fps | High: 189fps | Highest: 182fps |
| Total War: Three Kingdoms | High: 190fps | Ultra: 158fps | High: 134fps | Highest: 97fps |
| Metro Exodus | High: 175fps | Ultra: 172fps | High: 129fps | Ultra: 121fps |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | Balanced: 163fps | Highest: 153fps | Balanced: 158fps | Highest: 120fps |
| The Division 2 | High: 203fps | Ultra: 192fps | High: 187fps | Ultra: 179fps |
The best slimline gaming laptop
Our favorite configuration:
✅ You prioritize aesthetic and build quality over power: What the Alienware x14 lacks in raw power it makes up for in luxury, high quality build quality. This is Dell's most premium line so you know you're getting a slick piece of kit.
✅ You regularly travel with your laptop: At an almost impossibly thin 14.4mm and weighing just 1.8kg this is the most portable laptop on our list.
✅ You play lighter, less graphically demanding games: Our benchmark tests certainly didn't disappoint considering the low-end components on offer, but they still indicate that the x14 is better suited to less demanding titles.
❌ You want top settings: We did manage to see 100fps+ rates in Shadow of the Tomb Raider, but the majority of newer and non-Nvidia optimized titles struggled to hold onto 60fps in Ultra settings. That's to be expected, but something to consider if you're used to pushing those sliders.
❌ You want plenty of configuration options: The Alienware x14 only comes in two flavors; RTX 3050 and RTX 3060. That means anyone after some particularly powerful graphics cards will be better suited to another machine.
❌ You want the best value for money possible: At full MSRP, an RTX 3060 build will run you close to $2,000. That's particularly expensive considering the actual components on offer, but you're spending on the luxury chassis and super slim build instead.
The Alienware x14 is the thinnest laptop we've had on our desks, and it delights in its performance relative to the lower mid-range components under the hood. Of course, Intel's latest 12th generation processors are helping those RTX 3050 / RTX 3060 graphics cards (as is that DDR5 RAM), but all together these specs are working particularly hard to offer silky smooth framerates in even more demanding titles.
We found that the overall build quality was particularly impressive here, with the x14 shrinking exactly what makes the Alienware x17 feel so solid and premium down into a super flexible form factor. This thing is only 14.4mm thick, and if it weren't for the glowing RGB alien head on the top panel you'd be forgiven for thinking it was a slick business ultrabook.
In fact, there's some serious gaming chops under the hood. Of course, we didn't get numbers to threaten RTX 3070 or RTX 3080-toting machines in our testing, but with the Nvidia optimised Shadow of the Tomb Raider hitting an average of 108fps on Highest settings, there's plenty we shouldn't take for granted here. The Alienware x14 did struggle under heavier titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, but we could still draw 55fps in High settings. With a little tweaking, these more humble configurations can easily soar thanks to the engineering under the hood.
The Alienware X14 earns its place on the mid-range shelf but will appeal more to those after a premium feel than those chasing framerates.
Alienware x14 review
During our testing, though, it quickly became obvious that the RTX 3050 / RTX 3050 Ti configurations would offer the best value for money here. We were a little disappointed by the 1080p 144Hz display considering the fact that our test unit was just knocking on the $2,000 price point. By contrast, this is a more than passable screen when placed on a $1,499 RTX 3050 rig. It feels like there's diminishing returns heading up the price scale here.
That cost is the Alienware x14's only weakness, especially when it's wrapped up in the fact that there are comparatively very few components to choose from here. You're capped at an RTX 3060 and that configuration runs you equally close to a $2,000 price. Compared to the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 above, the value for money in terms of raw power just isn't there.
Still, if you're looking for a super slimline, easily portable machine, the Alienware x14 is an excellent premium option. Not only are you getting that backpack-friendly form factor, but the USB-C charging makes it particularly easy to juice up on the go as well.
Read more: Alienware x14 review
| Benchmark Test | 1080p |
|---|---|
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | High: 116fps / Highest: 108fps |
| Total War: Three Kingdoms | High: 83fps / Ultra: 58fps |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | Balanced: 55fps / Highest: 52fps |
| Metro Exodus | High: 65fps / Ultra: 47fps |
| The Division 2 | High: 90fps / Ultra: 68fps |
How we test gaming laptops
Why you can trust GamesRadar+ Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.
Every gaming laptop that we review is stress-tested against a series of benchmarking processes and everyday use. We 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)
- Metro Exodus
- The Division 2
- Red Dead Redemption 2
We carry out these benchmarks at both 1080p and other native resolutions offered by each individual system.
We then test the GPUs inside these gaming laptops against 3DMark Firestrike and Firestrike Extreme (for 1440p rigs), using Firestrike Ultra for our 4K machines. We also use PC Mark 10 tests (including battery performance), as well as Sky Diver, Cinebench, and Crystal Disk Mark.
Of course, we also live with these machines. We find the best gaming laptops by playing, binge-watching, and working with them for as long as we can, using them as we would our own machines (while pushing them a little further for the sake of science).
Read more about how we find the best tech with our full Hardware Policy and find out exactly how we test gaming laptops.
How to find the best gaming laptop for you
Not sure what screen size you'd ideally want and what minimum spec you'd ultimately like to get in your search for the best gaming laptop? If you need help working that out, we're here to help.
In our opinion, the key is to opt for something with a balance between performance, budget, and components – you want something that will play your favorite games now, but still have enough bandwidth to help you find a new favorite in the future.
So what's your first step when you start browsing for the best gaming laptop? You can start by having a budget or total price ceiling in mind, but generally (and somewhat predictably), you'll want to prioritize the hardware in the machine. As you've made it to this page, you're looking for a gaming-focused portable powerhouse and, as a result, want to aim high in the graphics card department, like a GPU from the RTX family of cards from Nvidia.
This can be an excellent starting point to refine your search - but don't forget to look at laptops with a 16-series card in too as they offer incredible value when complemented by other, well-balanced components. A quick note on components: availability, as everyone knows, has been incredibly unreliable and volatile in recent months. As a result, it might be that when you visit retailers or makers of these machines, only some configurations are available at the time.
If you're unsure of which components you need, it's wise to consider the CPUs and GPUs on offer in tiers. If you only play lighter games that aren't too demanding, you might fall into the entry level tier, if you're looking to hit High settings with a few tweaks and still hit 60fps, it's worth looking in the mid-range. However, if you're going all-in on Ultra settings for the most demanding titles, the best gaming laptop for you might be a more premium option.
| Entry level | Mid-range | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| 11th / 12th generation i5 | Ryzen 5 | 12th / 13th generation i7 | Ryzen 7 | 12th / 13th generation i9 | Ryzen 9 |
| Nvidia GTX 1650Ti / RTX 3050 RTX 3050Ti | RTX 3060 / RTX 3070 / RTX 3070 Ti | RTX 3080 / RTX 3080 Ti / RTX 4080 / RTX 4090 |
| 8GB - 16GB RAM | 16GB - 32GB RAM | 32GB RAM |
| 256GB - 512GB SSD | 1TB SSD | 1TB - 4TB SSD |
| 60-120Hz | 144-240Hz | 240Hz - 300Hz |
| $500 - $800 | $800 - $1,800 | $1,800 - $3,000+ |
Best gaming laptops: FAQs
What new gaming laptops are coming for 2023?
CES 2023 gave us a first look into the next class of gaming laptop, and with everyone from Razer to MSI getting involved, we've got a pretty good idea of where this year is taking us. You'll find the biggest announcements from the biggest brands just below.
Razer
Razer Blade 16
Razer Blade 18
Dell
Alienware M16
Alienware M18
Alienware x14
Alienware x16
Dell G15
Dell G16
Acer
Acer Predator Helios 16
Acer Predator Helios 18
Acer Nitro 16
Acer Nitro 17
Asus
Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 / 18
Asus ROG Strix G16 / G18
Asus ROG Scar 17
Asus ROG Strix G17
Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo 16
Asus ROG Zephyrus G16
Asus ROG Zephyrus M16
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
Asus ROG Flow Z13
Asus ROG X13 / X16
Asus TUF F15 / F17
Asus TUF A15 / A17
Which brand is best for gaming laptops?
Overall, the best gaming laptop brands include 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, however, 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.
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. Our favorite models under this price range are the Dell G15 and the Asus TUF Dash F15, though the Acer Nitro 5 also offers plenty of value in its cheaper configurations as well. You might be dropping down to 8GB of RAM 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.
Do you need a gaming laptop with an RTX GPU?
Picking up one of the latest Nvidia GPUs in your gaming laptop doesn't need to be a costly affair - RTX 3050 machines have been spotted at prices that would previously have sat on older GTX models. Nvidia's RTX chips are currently in their 30-Series, one up from the 20-Series launched last year, and you'll find the vast majority of gaming laptops on the shelves are sporting them. That doesn't necessarily mean you need one if you're just playing smaller games on a budget, in which case a GTX 1650 is still a worthy consideration. However, the bottom line is if you're buying a gaming laptop today, the choices on offer will revolve around the RTX 30-Series line.
If you're looking to save some cash, though, you'll find plenty of RTX 3050 laptop deals and RTX 3060 laptop deals if you're looking for something with a little more power. However, if you're going big, it's worth checking out all the RTX 3070 laptops on offer, as well as the serious savings on RTX 3080 laptop deals as well.
Gaming laptops glossary
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.
