Best Gaming Laptops 2024: Top Picks for Every Budget
From budget-friendly options to high-end gaming powerhouses, we've tested the best gaming laptops available this year.
Gaming laptops have evolved dramatically in 2024, offering desktop-level performance in increasingly portable packages. Whether you're a casual gamer or esports professional, there's a gaming laptop that fits your needs and budget.
Budget Category: Under $1,000
The ASUS TUF Gaming A15 leads our budget category with an AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS processor and RTX 4050 graphics card. At $899, it delivers solid 1080p gaming performance while maintaining decent build quality and thermal management.
Mid-Range Excellence: $1,000-$2,000
The Lenovo Legion 5 Pro with RTX 4060 stands out in the mid-range segment. Its 16-inch QHD display, excellent keyboard, and balanced performance make it ideal for both gaming and productivity tasks. Battery life is surprisingly good for a gaming laptop.
High-End Performance: $2,000+
For unlimited budget gaming, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18 with RTX 4090 delivers uncompromising performance. The 18-inch 240Hz display is magnificent for competitive gaming, while the desktop-replacement performance handles any modern game at maximum settings.
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for a gaming laptop, prioritize GPU performance over CPU for pure gaming. Look for at least 16GB RAM, fast NVMe storage, and quality cooling systems. Display quality and refresh rate are crucial for competitive gaming.
Our Top Recommendations
Best Overall: Lenovo Legion 5 Pro
Best Budget: ASUS TUF Gaming A15
Best Premium: ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18
Best for Content Creation: MSI Creator Z17
