In the fast-evolving world of gaming, choosing the right laptop can make a significant difference. Here’s a curated list of the best gaming laptops in 2024, complete with essential details for an informed decision.
1. Acer Predator Helios 500
- Price: $2,199
- Model: Acer Predator Helios 500
- Make: Acer
- Screen Size: 17.3 inches
- Pixel Difference: 1920 x 1080 pixels
The Acer Predator Helios 500 boasts powerful specs, offering an immersive gaming experience. With a 17.3-inch screen and Full HD resolution, it’s a top choice for gamers seeking high-quality visuals.
2. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14
- Price: $1,499
- Model: ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14
- Make: ASUS
- Screen Size: 14 inches
- Pixel Difference: 2560 x 1440 pixels
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 combines portability with exceptional performance. Its 14-inch display with a 2560 x 1440-pixel resolution delivers stunning visuals for an on-the-go gaming experience.
3. MSI GE76 Raider
- Price: $2,899
- Model: MSI GE76 Raider
- Make: MSI
- Screen Size: 17.3 inches
- Pixel Difference: 2560 x 1440 pixels
The MSI GE76 Raider is a gaming powerhouse with a 17.3-inch display featuring a 2560 x 1440-pixel resolution. Packed with high-end components, it offers a premium gaming experience.
4. Razer Blade 17
- Price: $3,299
- Model: Razer Blade 17
- Make: Razer
- Screen Size: 17.3 inches
- Pixel Difference: 3840 x 2160 pixels
The Razer Blade 17 stands out with a 4K UHD display, providing crisp visuals. Priced at $3,299, it’s a premium option for gamers who prioritize top-notch graphics.
5. Lenovo Legion 7
- Price: $2,199
- Model: Lenovo Legion 7
- Make: Lenovo
- Screen Size: 16 inches
- Pixel Difference: 2560 x 1600 pixels
The Lenovo Legion 7 offers a balance of performance and portability. Its 16-inch display with a 2560 x 1600-pixel resolution ensures an immersive gaming experience.
6. ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17X
- Price: $3,499
- Model: ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17X
- Make: ASUS
- Screen Size: 17.3 inches
- Pixel Difference: 1920 x 1080 pixels
The ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17X is a gaming beast, featuring a 17.3-inch Full HD display. Priced at $3,499, it comes equipped with high-end components for an unparalleled gaming performance.
Gigabyte vs. Aorus: A Year in Review
In the gaming laptop landscape, both Gigabyte and its premium line, Aorus, made significant strides last year. Gigabyte’s focus on affordability and performance is evident in models like the Gigabyte AERO 15, known for its sleek design and powerful specifications.
On the other hand, Aorus, Gigabyte’s gaming-centric brand, launched laptops such as the Aorus 17G, targeting the high-performance gaming market. With features like mechanical keyboards and high-refresh-rate displays, Aorus laptops aimed to deliver an immersive gaming experience.
Comparison with 17X
ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17X vs. Aorus 17G:
- Display: Both laptops feature a 17.3-inch screen, but the Scar 17X offers a Full HD resolution, while the Aorus 17G may boast a higher pixel density with a 2560 x 1440 or 3840 x 2160 display.
- Price: The Scar 17X is priced at $3,499, positioning it in the premium gaming laptop category. Aorus laptops may vary in price based on specifications but generally cater to gamers seeking top-tier performance.
- Performance: Both ASUS and Aorus emphasize high-performance components. The Scar 17X, equipped with cutting-edge hardware, competes with Aorus models in delivering an exceptional gaming experience.
- Features: Aorus laptops often come with unique features like mechanical keyboards and advanced cooling systems. The Scar 17X, while focused on performance, may differ in terms of additional gaming-centric features.
Insightful Commentary from Author
Obviously, everyone in their right mind wants a 4090. But at $5300, it just isn’t a realistic option for most people and look for other affordable gaming laptops. Plus, the battery life is genuinely abysmal.
The 2022 Gigabyte AORUS was an absolutely atrocious laptop. Some called it a true “F-tier” product, and I could not disagree. With that said, AORUS has made some HUGE improvements for 2024.
At $2699, the RTX 4080 AORUS comes in at half the price of the 4090 models. The QHD version (shown) has a stunning 240Hz screen. Despite not being the fancier 16:10 screen, this will be an excellent machine for gaming. It can push 1440p gaming to the 120fps range at ultra settings. The pathetic RTX 3080 Ti was more like 85fps at 1440p.
This AORUS 17X also has HDMI 2.1 in a rear-oriented port for very convenient use with an external monitor or 4K TV. While I genuinely hate the font on AORUS laptops, I could potentially overlook that hatred if this laptop was actually quite good.
I still think $2700 is an insane price to pay for a laptop, but the ability to truly maintain 120fps at 1440p is a huge deal. I love 17″ laptops, and in many ways, the 1440 screen makes more sense than the upcoming 1600p 18″ screens we’ll be seeing on other laptops. Productivity is another story, but 16:9 rules for pure gaming. And why else would you buy an RTX 4080?
