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Buying a Gaming Laptop

How to Choose the Right Gaming Laptop

Picking the right gaming laptop doesn’t have to feel like solving a puzzle. Whether you're chasing 240 FPS in competitive shooters or want smooth 4K visuals in single-player epics, here’s what actually matters when choosing your next portable powerhouse. Learn more in our full Insider guide: How to Choose the Best Gaming Laptop – 2025 .

Gaming Laptop vs. DIY Desktop: What You Gain (and Give Up)

The Plug-and-Play Option (Gaming Laptop) The DIY Route (Customer - Built Desktop )

Total control — Handpick everything from the case to cooling and RGB.
Cost efficiency — Can save 15–30% when parts are on sale.
Learning experience — Building your first PC is rewarding.
Risk factor — Mistakes can lead to troubleshooting and extra time.

The Plug-and-Play Option (Gaming Laptop)

Zero assembly — Unbox, sign in, and start gaming immediately.
Portable performance — Compete, create, and play anywhere.
No-compromise visuals — Many premium laptops now feature RTX 50 series GPUs and high-refresh-rate displays.
Upgrade limits — Some models have limited RAM/SSD upgrade options.

What Really Matters in a Gaming Laptop

GPU — Your Gaming Lifeline

Your GPU drives frame rates and visual quality. Match the GPU tier to your target resolution:
1080p @ 144Hz: RTX 4060 Laptop / RX 7600S
1440p + Ray Tracing: RTX 5080 / RTX 4080 Laptop
4K Ultra: RTX 5090 / RTX 4090 Laptop or higher
CPU — The Game’s Conductor

Current favorites include Intel Core Ultra 9 and AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series. If you stream or multitask heavily, Intel Core i9 or AMD Ryzen 9 offers extra headroom for smooth gaming plus background workloads. Explore CPU options.
RAM — Your Multitasking Muscle

16GB is the baseline. 32GB DDR5 (5600MHz+) is ideal for newer AAA titles and creative multitasking. Heavy creators or power users can consider 64GB. Filter by Laptop Memory.
Storage — Speed Meets Capacity

Aim for at least a 1TB Gen4 NVMe SSD for faster game loads and smoother updates. Some GPU bundles may include bonus storage.

Gaming’s Best Supporting Actors

Must-Have Peripherals

Gaming Monitor — Let your GPU shine with higher refresh and clarity.
Gaming Keyboard — Faster inputs, better feel, better control.
Quality Headset — Hear footsteps and cues before your opponents do.

Newegg’s Game-Changing Tools

Laptop Finder: Use the Laptop Finder tool to filter by screen size, GPU, CPU, RAM, storage, and budget—so you can quickly identify the best gaming laptop for your needs.

Deal Alerts: Track the latest savings on gaming laptops on sale and catch limited-time price drops.

Get ready for major seasonal savings—featuring deep discounts on top-rated RTX and AI-powered gaming laptops. Upgrade to premium notebooks like ASUS ROG, MSI Stealth, and Lenovo Legion with RTX 5090 / 5080 / 5070 Ti GPUs and Intel Core Ultra or Ryzen AI processors for next-gen performance. These early offers are limited-time and may include some of the lowest prices of the season.

Editor’s Picks: Recommended Gaming Laptops

ASUS TUF Gaming A18 — High FPS, Big Screen

18" WQXGA display, Ryzen 7 AI 260 CPU, and RTX 5070 GPU—great for serious gamers and creators.

ASUS TUF Gaming A18 – RTX 5070, Ryzen 7 AI 260, 18" WQXGA, 16GB DDR5, 1TB PCIe SSD

ASUS TUF Gaming A16 — Portable Performance

Balanced specs for mainstream gaming—RTX 5060, Ryzen 7 AI, and a sleek 16" design for on-the-go play.

ASUS TUF Gaming A16 – RTX 5060, Ryzen 7 AI 260, 16" FHD, 16GB DDR5, 512GB NVMe SSD

Watch the "Laptop Performance Essentials" video from Newegg Studio to learn how GPU power, cooling, and system efficiency impact laptop performance, stability, and long-term reliability.

Last Updated: January 2026| Newegg Content team: Newegg Laptop Buying Guide

Gaming Laptop Frequently Asked Questions:

ROG Strix vs. Legion Pro 5i — which is better for gaming?

Both are excellent gaming laptops , but they lean into different strengths. ROG Strix models usually push more aggressive GPU power limits and RGB styling, while Legion Pro 5i systems focus on balanced thermals, quieter fans, and a cleaner design. If you want maximum tuning and flair, Strix fits better; if you prefer a cooler, more understated daily driver, Legion Pro 5i is a great choice.

RTX 5090 laptops vs. RX 9000 — which provides better value?

RTX 5090 laptops typically win on features like DLSS, Frame Generation, and stronger ray tracing performance, while RX 9000 machines can offer similar traditional raster performance at a lower price. If you care about upscaling tech and creator app support, the RTX 5090 is usually better; if your priority is a lower-cost 1080p or 1440p gaming machine, RX 7700S can deliver excellent value.

How does this laptop perform against Razer Blade models?

Compared to Razer Blade laptops, this system often trades a slimmer, all-metal premium chassis for stronger cooling headroom and better performance-per-dollar. Blades are known for their ultra-thin builds and minimalist design, while many competitors give you higher GPU power limits, more RAM, or more storage at the same budget. If you want maximum luxury and portability, a Blade appeals; if you want more raw performance for your money, this model may come out ahead.

Which delivers better thermal performance in esports titles?

Thermal performance in esports titles depends on the cooling design more than the game itself. Laptops with dual-fan, multi-heatpipe systems and good intake and exhaust vents will generally run cooler and sustain higher boost clocks. When comparing models, look for reviews or tests that show sustained CPU and GPU temperatures in games like Valorant, CS2, or League of Legends to see which one stays cooler under load.

Does this model outperform previous-year Legion laptops?

Most current-generation models outperform previous-year Legion laptops thanks to newer CPUs, more efficient GPUs, and faster memory. You can usually expect higher frame rates at the same settings, better ray tracing performance, and improved battery efficiency. For a clear comparison, check side-by-side benchmarks in the games and resolution you actually play.

Does this model support DLSS 4 for better gaming performance?

If the laptop uses a NVIDIA RTX 40-series or 50-series GPU, it is designed to support DLSS in compatible titles, with newer GPUs ready for DLSS 3 or 4 features. DLSS can dramatically boost frame rates while keeping image quality sharp, especially at higher resolutions or with ray tracing enabled. Always confirm the exact GPU model and check the game’s support list to make sure DLSS 4 is available for your favorite titles.

What is the TGP (Total Graphics Power) of the GPU in this laptop?

The exact TGP for this laptop’s GPU depends on the specific configuration and manufacturer tuning. You can usually find it listed in detailed product specifications, on the OEM website, or in third-party reviews and teardowns. As a rule, higher TGP settings let the GPU sustain higher boost clocks, but they also require stronger cooling and tend to produce more heat and fan noise.

What is the sustained GPU wattage during long gaming sessions?

During long gaming sessions, the GPU usually settles near its configured TGP, adjusted by temperature and power limits. In a well-cooled laptop, sustained wattage will remain close to that advertised value instead of dropping significantly over time. You can monitor actual GPU power draw with utilities like MSI Afterburner, GPU-Z, or the manufacturer’s performance software while you play.

Does this laptop include MUX switch support?

Many modern gaming laptops now include a MUX switch or a dedicated “dGPU only” mode that routes the display directly to the discrete GPU for extra performance. This can improve frame rates and reduce latency compared to always using hybrid graphics. Check the product page or the laptop’s control center software for options labeled MUX, GPU switch, Ultimate mode, or similar terms.

Does the display support G-SYNC or FreeSync?

Adaptive sync support depends on the exact panel and GPU pairing used in this laptop. Many gaming notebooks now offer G-SYNC, FreeSync , or a generic Adaptive-Sync mode to reduce tearing and stutter in fast-paced games. Look for these terms in the display specifications, and be sure to enable the feature in your graphics control panel if it is available.

Should I buy a gaming laptop or a desktop gaming PC?

Buy a gaming laptop if you need portability for school, travel, or shared spaces and still want strong performance in modern titles. Choose a desktop gaming PC if you care more about maximum power, easier upgrades, and better thermals at the same budget. In general, desktops win on performance-per-dollar, while laptops win on flexibility and convenience.

What’s the best gaming laptop under $1,500?

The best gaming laptop under $1,500 usually includes a modern 6–8 core CPU, an RTX 4060 or similar GPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 144Hz or faster display. Focus on a balanced configuration with a quality panel, solid cooling, and at least a 512GB SSD instead of chasing just one headline spec. Comparing a few trusted brands and reading recent reviews will help you spot the strongest all-around option in this price range.

Is this a good laptop for both gaming and school?

Yes, as long as it has a modern CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a manageable weight, it can handle both gaming and school work comfortably. You can run office apps, video calls, and research tools during the day, then switch to high-refresh gaming after hours. Just pay attention to battery life and portability if you plan to carry it around campus every day.

Should I choose a 240Hz display or 165Hz for gaming?

A 165Hz display already feels extremely smooth and is more than enough for most players, especially in AAA games where frame rates rarely hit 240 FPS. A 240Hz panel mainly benefits competitive esports players who chase every millisecond in titles like Valorant, CS2, or Fortnite. If you are not a hardcore competitive player, panel quality, color, and brightness often matter more than the jump from 165Hz to 240Hz.

Is 16GB RAM enough for modern gaming laptops?

Yes, 16GB RAM is still the practical minimum for modern gaming and general multitasking in 2025. However, 32GB is ideal if you stream, edit video, run many browser tabs, or want extra headroom for future titles. If the laptop supports upgrades, starting with 16GB and adding another stick later is a flexible path.

Are there keyboard input delay issues in this laptop?

Most modern gaming laptops offer low-latency keyboards that are responsive enough for fast-paced games. If input delay is noticed, it is more often due to background software load, high system usage, or wireless peripherals than the built-in keyboard itself. Checking reviews or user feedback for this exact model is the best way to confirm that there are no widespread complaints about input lag.

Is the screen bright enough for outdoor use?

For outdoor or very bright environments, a laptop display ideally needs to reach around 400 nits or more to remain clearly visible. Many gaming laptops sit closer to 300 nits, which is fine indoors but can look washed out in direct sunlight. Reviewing the rated brightness and user feedback will tell you whether this model is comfortable to use outside or better suited to indoor gaming.

Do users report thermal throttling under heavy gaming?

Reports of thermal throttling vary by model and configuration, but well-designed gaming laptops should maintain stable clocks in long play sessions. When throttling does appear, it is usually in extreme stress tests or maxed-out settings in very demanding titles. Reading recent reviews and user comments for this specific laptop will give you the clearest picture of real-world behavior under heavy gaming loads.

Are there trackpad sensitivity complaints?

Trackpad quality on gaming laptops has improved, and most models now offer accurate tracking for everyday use. When sensitivity issues do show up, they are often fixed with driver updates or by adjusting touchpad settings in Windows. For serious gaming, a dedicated mouse is still recommended, but you should not see major problems with normal navigation on a well-tuned trackpad.

Is the battery life significantly lower than advertised?

Gaming battery life is almost always much shorter than the advertised figures, which are based on light tasks like video playback or web browsing. Under real gaming loads, it is normal to see the battery drain quickly and performance reduced to manage heat and power. For the best gaming experience, plan to play while plugged in and treat the advertised battery life as guidance for light use, not full-performance gaming sessions.

How do I adjust performance modes for gaming?

Most gaming laptop include a vendor control center where you can switch between Silent, Balanced, and Performance or Turbo modes. Open that software, select the highest performance profile, and make sure the laptop is plugged in so the CPU and GPU can run at full power. You should also set Windows power mode to “Best performance” while gaming for the most consistent frame rates.

Can I install a second SSD in this laptop?

Whether you can install a second SSD depends on the internal layout and available storage slots. Many gaming laptops include at least two M.2 slots, so you can add a second NVMe drive easily, but some thinner models only have one. Check the specifications or service manual for mentions of multiple M.2 slots or 2.5-inch bays before buying an extra drive.

How do I enable high-performance mode for gaming?

To enable high-performance mode, start by plugging in the laptop and setting Windows to “Best performance” in the power settings. Then open the manufacturer’s control center and select the Performance or Turbo preset, which raises power limits and fan curves for gaming. Some models also include a dedicated hotkey or Fn shortcut to switch profiles on the fly.

How do I undervolt to reduce heat?

Undervolting involves slightly lowering CPU voltage using tools like Intel XTU, AMD Ryzen Master, or advanced BIOS options so the processor runs cooler at similar clocks. It must be done carefully and in small steps, with stress tests after each change to ensure stability. If you are new to undervolting, follow a trusted guide for your specific CPU and only proceed if you are comfortable adjusting low-level settings.

How do I update GPU firmware on gaming laptops?

GPU firmware updates are less common than driver updates and are usually provided directly by the laptop maker or GPU vendor for specific fixes. You should only install firmware labeled for your exact model, following the instructions on the support page. For everyday gaming, keeping your graphics drivers and system BIOS up to date is usually sufficient without touching GPU firmware at all.

Bestselling Gaming Laptops Reviews:

Anonymous

1/22/2026 11:31:36 AM

Excellent Raid-ing Laptop

“ This is a gaming laptop, not a high-performance gaming desktop, keep those expectations as such. ”

MSI CROSSHAIR A16 - 16" QHD+ 240H -z AMD Ryzen 9-8940HX - GeForce RTX 5060 - 32GBDDR5 1TB NVMe SSD - Win 11 Gaming Laptop (D8WFKG-015US)

Justin H.

1/10/2026 9:54:21 PM

Great Laptop, But

“ but it's a wonderful computer for anyone who wants to game and work ”

MSI Vector - LCD 16" QHD+ GeForce RTX 5080 Laptop GPU - Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX - 16GB Memory - 1 TB SSD - Windows 11 Home - Gaming Laptop - 240 Hz (Vector 16 HX AI A2XWIG-050US )

Anonymous

1/7/2026 2:19:33 PM

Grate Product!

“ Very fast and responsive good for gaming. ”

ASUS TUF Gaming - 18" GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU - AMD Ryzen 7 260 - 16GB (8GBx2) Memory - 1TB PCIe SSD - Windows 11 Home - Gaming Laptop - 240 Hz IPS (FA808UP-NS74 )

M.K.

1/5/2026 2:37:05 PM

Excellent and reliable gaming laptop

“ It is a highly reliable daily driver in addition to being great for gaming. ”

ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15 Gaming Laptop, 15.6” 300Hz IPS Type FHD Display, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080, AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX, 16GB DDR4, 1TB SSD, Opti-Mechanical Per-Key RGB Keyboard, Windows 11, G533QS-DS94

Phil

12/14/2025 11:36:02 AM

Does Everything I need it to.

“ Bought this on Black Friday mainly to have a good laptop for gaming and just getting some work done. ”

ASUS TUF Gaming - 18" GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU - AMD Ryzen 7 260 - 16GB (8GBx2) Memory - 1TB PCIe SSD - Windows 11 Home - Gaming Laptop - 240 Hz IPS (FA808UP-NS74 )

Anonymous

11/27/2025 11:02:12 AM

Great laptop. Beefy.

“ This is a great laptop for gaming and art programs. ”

ASUS ROG Strix G16 - 16" GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU - AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX - 32GB Memory - 1TB PCIe SSD - Windows 11 Home - Gaming Laptop - 240 Hz (G614FP-DS96 )

Grant W.

11/20/2025 8:29:04 AM

Great!

“ Id recommend this to anyone on a budget that wants a great entry level gaming laptop. ”

MSI Thin A15 15.6" Gaming Laptop - AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS - GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU - 16GB DDR5 RAM - 512GB SSD (Thin A15 B7VF-461US )

Game Flame

11/16/2025 4:43:02 AM

Very impressive!

“ This is an excellent gaming laptop and should be secondary to none. ”

GIGABYTE GAMING A16 - 16" NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU - Intel i7-13620H - 16GB Memory - 1TB SSD - 165Hz IPS Display - Windows 11 Home Gaming Laptop (CWHI3US894SH)

Gaming Laptops

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Buying a Gaming Laptop

How to Choose the Right Gaming Laptop

Gaming Laptop vs. DIY Desktop: What You Gain (and Give Up)

The Plug-and-Play Option (Gaming Laptop) The DIY Route (Customer - Built Desktop )

The Plug-and-Play Option (Gaming Laptop)

What Really Matters in a Gaming Laptop

Gaming’s Best Supporting Actors

Must-Have Peripherals

Newegg’s Game-Changing Tools

Editor’s Picks: Recommended Gaming Laptops

Gaming Laptop Frequently Asked Questions:

ROG Strix vs. Legion Pro 5i — which is better for gaming?

RTX 5090 laptops vs. RX 9000 — which provides better value?

How does this laptop perform against Razer Blade models?

Which delivers better thermal performance in esports titles?

Does this model outperform previous-year Legion laptops?

Does this model support DLSS 4 for better gaming performance?

What is the TGP (Total Graphics Power) of the GPU in this laptop?

What is the sustained GPU wattage during long gaming sessions?

Does this laptop include MUX switch support?

Does the display support G-SYNC or FreeSync?

Should I buy a gaming laptop or a desktop gaming PC?

What’s the best gaming laptop under $1,500?

Is this a good laptop for both gaming and school?

Should I choose a 240Hz display or 165Hz for gaming?

Is 16GB RAM enough for modern gaming laptops?

Are there keyboard input delay issues in this laptop?

Is the screen bright enough for outdoor use?

Do users report thermal throttling under heavy gaming?

Are there trackpad sensitivity complaints?

Is the battery life significantly lower than advertised?

How do I adjust performance modes for gaming?

Can I install a second SSD in this laptop?

How do I enable high-performance mode for gaming?

How do I undervolt to reduce heat?

How do I update GPU firmware on gaming laptops?

Bestselling Gaming Laptops Reviews: