The best gaming laptops for every budget in 2023

Choosing the right gaming laptop

When it comes to buying a gaming laptop, it’s essential to find a model that aligns with how you play and the types of games you enjoy. Whether you’re after competitive-level frame rates or smooth performance at 1080p, there’s a laptop on the market that can meet your needs. Prioritizing a capable GPU is crucial, but don’t overlook the importance of display quality. A high refresh rate can significantly enhance your gaming experience, especially in fast-paced titles. If you’re unsure where to start your search, rest assured, we’re here to guide you.

Expert reviews for informed decisions

Every laptop featured in this guide has undergone rigorous testing by our expert team. We evaluate various aspects, including graphics performance, typing experience, connectivity options, and display quality. Our commitment to transparency means you can trust our insights. With over 70 laptops reviewed annually since 1983, our expertise ensures you receive reliable recommendations tailored to your budget.

Lenovo Legion 5i: A balanced choice for gamers

The Lenovo Legion 5i stands out as an excellent option for gamers looking for a well-rounded machine. Priced at $1,399, it boasts powerful hardware, a large display, and versatile connectivity options. The Intel Core i9-14900HX CPU delivers impressive speed, while the efficient cooling system ensures quiet operation during intense gaming sessions. Our tests reveal that the laptop remains cool and quiet even under heavy loads, a welcome change from the often noisy gaming laptops.

The RTX 4060 GPU performs admirably, handling modern games with ease. While laptops with the RTX 4070 offer superior performance, the Legion 5i provides excellent value for its price. Its 16-inch, 2560×1600 display with a 165Hz refresh rate ensures vibrant visuals and smooth gameplay. Additional features, including a 1080p webcam and customizable LED keyboard, enhance its appeal. For gamers seeking a powerful yet affordable option, the Lenovo Legion 5i is a commendable choice.

ROG Zephyrus G16: For those craving more power

If you’re in pursuit of a more powerful laptop, consider the ROG Zephyrus G16. This model features OLED displays and options for RTX 4070, 4080, and 4090 GPUs, making it an excellent selection for serious gamers who demand top-tier performance. With exceptional graphics and a stunning display, the G16 is designed for gamers who want to elevate their gaming experience.

Lenovo Legion 9i: The ultimate gaming machine

The Lenovo Legion 9i represents the pinnacle of gaming laptops, delivering unmatched performance and a high-quality display. Retailing for approximately $4,059, it features an Intel Core i9-14900HX CPU paired with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 GPU. This powerful combination can handle even the most demanding games. The 16-inch, 3200×2000 Mini-LED display achieves up to 1,200 nits of brightness, creating an extraordinary HDR experience in visually stunning games.

While the price may deter budget-conscious gamers, those willing to invest in top-tier performance will find the Legion 9i to be an incredible option. It’s lightweight and remains cool even under heavy usage, making it suitable for serious gaming sessions.

Acer Nitro V 16: Affordable yet capable

For gamers on a tighter budget, the Acer Nitro V 16 offers solid performance at just under $1,000. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS CPU and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, it’s capable of running most games at medium to high settings. The large 16-inch, 1920×1200 IPS display with a 165Hz refresh rate ensures a smooth gaming experience, although its battery life is somewhat lacking.

Despite its plastic construction, the Nitro V 16 provides reliable performance and value. While it may not feel as premium as metal-bodied laptops, it remains a strong contender for gamers seeking an affordable option.

HP Omen Transcend 14: Lightweight and powerful

The HP Omen Transcend 14 stands out for its lightweight design and impressive OLED display. Weighing in at just 3.6 pounds, it is an excellent choice for gamers on the go. The all-metal chassis ensures durability, while the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU provide excellent performance. During testing, it achieved a commendable 93 frames-per-second in demanding titles.

Its large battery life of eight and a half hours is a significant advantage in the gaming laptop category. The 14-inch 1800p OLED display, with a brightness of 500 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate, offers stunning visuals. For gamers who prioritize portability without sacrificing performance, the HP Omen Transcend 14 is a fantastic option.

Acer Chromebook 516 GE: For cloud gaming enthusiasts

The Acer Chromebook 516 GE caters to those interested in cloud gaming. With a fast, high-resolution display and solid everyday performance, it excels in cloud gaming environments. Priced at $650, it offers good connectivity with options like USB-C and HDMI. While it’s not designed for local gaming, its capabilities for cloud gaming make it a worthwhile consideration for budget-conscious gamers.

Important considerations when choosing a gaming laptop

When selecting a gaming laptop, it’s crucial to evaluate several factors. First and foremost is the GPU, as it significantly influences gaming performance. The display quality is also essential; opt for IPS or OLED panels for the best visual experience. Additionally, consider the laptop’s weight and size, especially if you plan to carry it around frequently.

Battery life can vary considerably in gaming laptops, so if you aim to use it unplugged for non-gaming tasks, check for models that offer decent battery performance. Finally, storage capacity is vital; ensure you choose a laptop with at least 512GB of SSD to accommodate your gaming library.