The Top Gaming Laptops for 2023

Updated recommendations for the best budget, under $500, under $1000, and overall gaming laptops are now available. Discover the perfect blend of power and portability with gaming laptops, enabling gamers to enjoy their favorite titles wherever they go. If you're seeking a portable gaming solution or wishing to save space by eliminating a computer tower, explore the wide range of excellent and high-performance laptops available for different budgets.

UPDATE: 10/19/2023

We've reviewed our recommendations and have updated our picks for the best budget, the best under $500, the best under $1000, and the best overall gaming laptops. Check it out!

Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8

Best Gaming Laptop Overall See at Lenovo

Acer Nitro 16 (2023)

Best Budget Gaming Laptop $950 at Amazon

Acer Nitro 5

Best Gaming Laptop Under $1000 $785 at Amazon

HP Pavilion 15.6-inch

Best Gaming Laptop Under $500 $450 at Amazon

RazerRazer Blade 18

Best 17-inch Gaming Laptop $2699 at Amazon

What to Look for in a Gaming Laptop in 2023

Gaming laptops are not inexpensive, even if you stumble upon fantastic bargains occasionally. These laptops not only require a substantial amount of powerful hardware but also need to possess durability, reliability, and a solid build that can withstand the wear and tear of extensive traveling over the years.

However, the significance of having the ability to play all your beloved games wherever you are cannot be underestimated. Undoubtedly, gaming laptops are highly sought-after due to their convenience, consequently making them one of the top choices for PC gaming enthusiasts.

Regrettably, shopping for a gaming laptop is not as straightforward as actually gaming on one. The market has been inundated with numerous models in recent years, leading to an abundance of marketing jargon that must be deciphered before you can effectively compare different options. Nevertheless, having a grasp on a few essential features of a quality laptop will make the process of finding the ideal gaming laptop a breeze.

When selecting a gaming rig, it is crucial to prioritize the graphics processing unit (GPU). Opting for a rig equipped with a GeForce RTX 40 series GPU ensures long-lasting compatibility with popular games. Additionally, a minimum requirement of an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 CPU is recommended to handle the demands of modern and resource-intensive releases.

It's important to note that mobile versions of GPUs do not perform at the same level as their desktop counterparts, despite sharing identical names. For instance, a mobile RTX 4070 Ti performs similar to a desktop RTX 4060 Ti. While the disparity is not significant, it should be considered when comparing a gaming rig to a gaming laptop.

When it comes to purchasing a high-performance laptop with a powerful GPU and processor, it's important to carefully consider your budget. Investing too much in a gaming laptop may not be advisable as their components are often not upgradeable, resulting in the need to purchase a new system sooner than expected. This stands in stark contrast to gaming desktop PCs, which allow for individual component replacements as required.

Additionally, the Thermal Design Power (TDP) rating of the GPU plays a crucial role in modern gaming laptops. Even though two laptops may possess the same GPU on paper, the one with a higher TDP will deliver better performance. Therefore, it's essential to seek out benchmarks for any laptop you are considering to ensure that it can adequately handle your favorite games.

If you have a small game collection, you can save money by choosing a laptop with limited internal storage. Another option is to buy an external SSD or HDD for your expanding catalog. However, it's important to note that internal storage is generally faster, although it tends to be more expensive. When shopping for a gaming laptop, prioritize the GPU, processor, and SSD, and be prepared to make some compromises unless you're willing to spend a lot of money.

There are multiple factors to take into account when purchasing a gaming laptop, but the following five products present the optimal blend of performance, pricing, and reliability within their corresponding category.

Best Gaming Laptop Overall: Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8

Our product recommendations at How-To Geek are provided by a team of experts who have successfully assisted individuals in fixing their gadgets on over one billion occasions. Our recommendations are solely based on thorough research and our team's expertise. It is important to note that we do not accept any form of payment in exchange for endorsing or reviewing products. For further information, please click the link below. Read More »

Lenovo

A gaming laptop must excel in more than just performance; otherwise, a desktop PC would suffice. The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 not only meets the requirements for performance but also boasts a robust build, a fast and reliable screen, and sufficient ports to connect any desired peripherals.

The price of the Legion Pro 7i can vary depending on the chosen hardware specifications. However, even the starting configuration offers impressive hardware capabilities at a reasonable cost. It comes equipped with an Intel i9-13900HX CPU, featuring eight Performance cores and 16 Efficiency cores, resulting in a total of 24 cores and 32 threads. Additionally, it includes an NVIDIA RTX 4070 GPU, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB M.2 SSD for powerful graphics and ample storage space.

Unlike other gaming laptops, selecting the basic configuration does not mean you will be stuck with a subpar screen. Regardless of the configuration you choose, you will receive the same high-quality display. This includes a 16-inch, HDR-capable IPS display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 and a refresh rate of up to 240Hz. The display is non-touch and has a maximum SDR brightness of 500 nits.

Just like any respectable gaming laptop, this model comes with an RGB backlit keyboard, featuring per-key RGB lighting. Additionally, you will find a good number of ports, such as two USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports that support DisplayPort and USB power delivery. These are accompanied by two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a reliable wired Ethernet port.

If you're looking to go beyond the standard setup, there are options to enhance the GPU, RAM, and storage. However, the CPU remains consistent across all available choices. While the RTX 4070 is a capable option, you have the ability to upgrade to either the 4080 or even the 4090. Additionally, you can max out the RAM at 32GB and the storage at 2TB.

Introducing the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8

The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 is the ultimate gaming laptop, offering both impressive performance and a sleek, professional design. It seamlessly transitions from a productive work companion during the day to a thrilling gaming experience in the evening. Check it out at Lenovo.

Best Budget Gaming Laptop: Acer Nitro 16 Gaming Laptop

Acer

When it comes to selecting a budget gaming laptop, compromises are typically part of the deal, be it limited compatibility with modern games or unstable frame rates. However, the Acer Nitro 16 Gaming Laptop does necessitate a few tradeoffs. Nonetheless, its exceptional gaming performance, particularly with contemporary games, surpasses any concerns in the areas it may fall short in.

Examining the core configuration of the Nitro 16, one may initially find the hardware specs less than awe-inspiring. The inclusion of an Intel i5-13500H CPU and a GeForce RTX 4050 GPU may not seem as impressive as the predecessor's RTX 3060 on paper. These components are complemented by 8GB DDR5 RAM and a 512GB SSD.

The real standout feature of the Nitro 16 lies in its implementation of DLSS 3, a groundbreaking addition accompanying NVIDIA's 40-series cards. In games that support this technology, such as Cyberpunk 2077, substantial frame rate improvements can be achieved, even when playing at higher settings with ray tracing enabled. It is worth noting that not all games currently support DLSS 3, but its support is steadily expanding over time.

The Nitro 16 stands out from previous models by clearly showcasing its 16-inch screen size and a resolution of 2560 x 1600. With a refresh rate of up to 165Hz, this screen may initially appear excessive, but thanks to the frame rate enhancements from DLSS 3, you may be surprised to find games consistently reaching that limit.

The Intel version of the Acer Nitro 16 only allows for a RAM upgrade, but opting for the AMD version opens up numerous possibilities. This means you can combine the Ryzen 7 CPU with an RTX 4070 GPU, providing even greater gaming prowess.

The Acer Nitro 16 (2023) - A Great Budget Gaming Laptop $950 $1200 Save $250 Despite its seemingly unimpressive specifications, the Acer Nitro 16 delivers exceptional gaming performance, even with the most affordable configuration. When it comes to playing modern games on a tight budget, there are few options that can surpass it.

$950 at Amazon

Best Gaming Laptop Under $1000: Acer Nitro 5

Acer

Spending a large sum of money in search of the perfect gaming laptop is a common practice, but not everyone desires to do so. To obtain a budget-friendly laptop without compromising on power, one effective approach is to opt for a slightly older model like the Acer Nitro 5. Although it may be older than the Nitro 16, it actually surpasses it in certain aspects.

The Nitro 5 is equipped with an Intel Core i5-12500H CPU, which, while being one generation behind, still possesses ample power. When combined with the GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Laptop GPU, this laptop can easily handle most modern games. Furthermore, it boasts a substantial amount of memory and storage, featuring 16GB RAM and a spacious 512GB Gen 4 SSD.

The screen on the Nitro 5 is a 15.6-inch full-HD IPS model that offers a refresh rate of up to 144Hz. With its slightly lower resolution, combined with the powerful 3050 Ti graphics card, the performance of this model can often match or even exceed that of the newer version, particularly in situations where the Nitro 16 cannot utilize the benefits of DLSS 3.

In terms of connectivity, the Nitro 5 is equipped with a wide range of ports to cater to your needs. It includes a Thunderbolt 4 port that supports USB charging, a USB-C 3.2 port with DisplayPort functionality, traditional USB-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a wired Ethernet port.

If you're seeking to economize, you have the option to choose a slightly lower-spec version of the Acer Nitro 5 with just an RTX3050 card and 8GB DDR4 RAM. However, the primary configuration we're focusing on here will offer the best value for your money.

Acer Nitro 5

Best Gaming Laptop for Less Than $1000 - Save $115!

The Acer Nitro 5, despite being a previous generation model, remains an outstanding gaming laptop that holds up well against its newer counterparts. Although slightly dated, its affordability makes it a smart investment that will continue to serve you for years.

Available for only $785 on Amazon.

Best Gaming Laptop Under $500: HP Pavilion 15.6”

HP

If you are in search of a gaming laptop priced under $500, it is necessary to manage your expectations accordingly. It is highly unlikely that you will be able to play modern games with ray tracing on such a budget. Nevertheless, there are numerous affordable laptops available in the market that possess considerable power and exceed your expectations. An excellent illustration of this is the HP Pavilion 15.6”.

Instead of dwelling on the absence of a dedicated GPU, it's worth highlighting the notable features this model offers. The AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, combined with 16GB RAM and 512GB of storage, delivers impressive performance at an affordable price. Although the screen may not replace a dedicated monitor, it is still commendable considering the price. With a 15.6-inch display boasting a full-HD resolution of 1920 x 1080, it lacks a high refresh rate and HDR but provides a satisfactory brightness of 250 nits.

The Radeon integrated graphics in the Ryzen 5 5500U may not be ideal for modern games, but it can surprisingly perform better than anticipated for casual and older games. If you want to play older games like Final Fantasy XIV that still have a strong player base, this laptop will meet your needs.

However, for modern games, the situation becomes more challenging. Nevertheless, this laptop is sufficiently fast to support cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or NVIDIA's GeForce Now. You might be pleasantly surprised by the gaming experience you can achieve at such an affordable price, especially for games that do not demand extremely fast reaction times.

The HP Pavilion 15.6-inch is an exceptional gaming laptop available for just $483, offering a remarkable value. Although the integrated graphics may not be ideal for modern games, the laptop compensates with its powerful CPU and ample RAM, making it an excellent choice for playing older games. Moreover, it is also highly suitable for game streaming services. With its competitive pricing and impressive features, the HP Pavilion 15.6-inch is a top contender in the gaming laptop market.

$450 at Amazon

Best 17-inch Gaming Laptop: Razer Blade 18

Hannah Stryker

The ideal gaming laptops seamlessly combine power and portability. That's why the 15.6-inch form factor is so popular among our top picks. Nevertheless, it's undeniable that a larger laptop offers a bigger, and often superior, display, making the extra weight and size worthwhile.

If you're in the market for an impressive larger laptop, the 2023 version of the Razer Blade 18 is a stellar choice. As its name suggests, this laptop surpasses even the 17-inch models with its remarkable 18-inch screen. With a 16:10 aspect ratio, 2560 x 1600 resolution, 240Hz refresh rate, and up to 500 nits of maximum brightness, this laptop truly delivers a visually stunning experience.

Despite its larger screen size, the laptop's overall form factor is remarkably smaller than most 17-inch laptops, thanks to its thin bezels that reduce the size of the Blade 18. However, the thin bezels do not compromise the laptop's durability, thanks to its all-aluminum chassis which boasts exceptional build quality.

When it comes to the CPU and GPU, the laptop features the cutting-edge Intel Core i9-13950HX CPU, capable of handling any task effortlessly. Additionally, it offers a range of RTX 4000 GPUs to choose from, including the RTX 4060 up to the flagship RTX 4090.

The Razer Blade 18 may come with a hefty price tag, but it more than justifies its cost with a plethora of impressive features. With a powerful GPU and CPU combination, this laptop is designed to deliver an exceptional multimedia experience. Additionally, its remarkable speaker system, 240Hz refresh rates, and QHD+ resolution ensure that it is ideal for both consuming and creating various types of media.

However, like any laptop, the Razer Blade 18 does have its downsides. These include below-average battery life, a cramped keyboard, and a bulky form factor that hampers its portability. Not even the trimming of bezels can rectify this issue.

The Razer Blade 18, a top-of-the-line gaming laptop, offers an exceptional gaming experience. Priced at $2699, down from $2900, it provides savings of $201. With a flagship Intel CPU and a choice of RTX 4000 mobile GPUs, this laptop delivers outstanding performance. Its 18-inch screen offers a stunning display, and it comes equipped with a wide range of ports and ample storage. Furthermore, its sleek aluminum body adds a touch of sophistication.

$2699 at Amazon See at Best Buy

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am excited about the latest gaming laptops for 2023. The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 is the ultimate gaming laptop with its powerful specs and sleek design. It's perfect for gamers who want the best of the best. For those on a budget, the Acer Nitro 16 (2023) is a great option. It offers excellent performance for its price and is a great choice for casual gamers.

The Acer Nitro 5 is another affordable option that is perfect for gamers who want a powerful laptop without spending a lot of money. For those looking for a value-for-money option, the HP Pavilion 15.6-inch is a great choice. It offers good performance and features for its price. Finally, the Razer Blade 18 is the best 17-inch gaming laptop on the market. It's perfect for gamers who want a large screen and powerful performance.