Best Laptops for Gaming and Work in 2024

Gaming is a stress reliever for many and while there are plenty of great gaming laptops on the market, most users don’t want to invest in a second laptop for their work. This means a laptop that can serve both purposes is the most cost-effective option here.

Not only does this double down the time one may need to find an appropriate laptop, but it may also create a lot of confusion in choosing the right laptop, considering how many options are available for a similar price. Finding the right laptop that serves both gaming and work purposes can be as challenging as choosing a character class in an MMORPG. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, this guide dives into the world of dual-duty laptops that excel both in the heat of battle and the boardroom.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Laptop

When choosing the best laptops for gaming and work, consider these factors.

• Performance: A robust CPU and GPU combo handles intensive tasks and games.
• Battery Life: Sufficient power sustains long work sessions and gaming marathons.
• Build Quality: A durable design can withstand work and play.
• Display: At least a full HD resolution on a high-quality panel makes gaming more immersive and provides accurate color representation.

For gamers who want to level up in real life, an upgrade to a premium gaming laptop might be the next quest.

Game Rant’s Picks for The Best Laptops for Gaming and Work in 2024

No matter how heavy the workload is, the ROG Strix G16 can handle it without breaking a sweat. Asus’ ROG Strix series is generally a top-of-the-line offering for every product lineup and the G16 has proven that it can’t be outperformed in functionality or aesthetics. This highly-rated laptop is powered by the Core i9 13980HX, which is the flagship mobile CPU in the Raptor Lake Refresh family and is designed for high performance in CPU-oriented tasks. This makes it a potent solution for different types of CPU-intensive loads, whether it is rendering, compilation, encoding, or similar stuff.

With 24 cores and 32 threads, it is already too good for just work, but with the RTX 4070 laptop GPU, it becomes overwhelming in gaming too. The RTX 4070 is the most popular ADA card and this laptop edition GPU is sufficient to max out graphics in modern titles at 60+ fps. It brings 8GB of VRAM, which is enough for most games available today to bring eye candy on its QHD screen. This isn’t a regular IPS display but a Nebula one that comes with a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut for vibrant colors and runs at a 240Hz refresh rate, which is perfect for competitive gaming.

Other specs include 32GB of DDR5 memory, 1TB fast NVMe SSD, and all other latest connectivity features to keep users ahead. The construction is sturdy and brings a bezel-less design for more immersion. On top of that, the keyboard is RGB-backlit and the front edge has its own RGB LED strip that enhances its aesthetics significantly.

MSI Vector GP68HX comes in various configurations, but this 13VH-098US model is probably the most attractive one. Featuring an exceptional configuration, the laptop is ready to deliver unparalleled performance for its price tag. At its core lies the i9 13950HX CPU, featuring a whopping 24 cores and 32 threads. While 8 cores are performance ones, the rest 16 are efficient cores that take on the background tasks to minimize the load on the primary ones. This helps it achieve superior performance in intensive operations.

So, whether users are running rendering applications or applications related to encoding, compilation, or compression/decompression, the Vector laptop has got them covered. Now for gaming, the RTX 4080 is probably the best choice at the moment, which can max out any title at way over 60 fps. Assisting the laptop’s performance further is the 16GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB NVMe SSD for quickly booting up applications and OS. While it’s recommended to upgrade to 32GB if users see any limitations, 16GB will do the job perfectly in most programs and games.

To enjoy high fluidity, the laptop is equipped with a fast 144Hz refresh rate, and an IPS display that measures 16″ for a more immersive experience and brings an FHD+ resolution. Connectivity is also satisfactory, providing users with multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, including Type C and Thunderbolt 4 ports.

Gaming laptops are generally more expensive than generic office-purpose laptops. Finding a perfect balance of both budget and performance can be difficult, but the Nitro V 15 gaming laptop does it convincingly for around 800 dollars. The laptop is lightweight and features a thin build to carry it easily. This is despite its capable specifications that incorporate the 13th-generation Core i5 13420H CPU, featuring 8 cores, 12 threads, and an RTX 3050. With this combo, users can expect it to perform decently in various CPU-intensive tasks and gaming too.

However, it isn’t to max out something and is best for lighter loads. The total system RAM users will be getting initially is 8GB and 512GB NVMe storage. Not bad, but it’s recommended to add another 8GB RAM stick to increase its capacity to 16GB to eliminate any kinds of bottlenecks. The display, however, is fantastic, boasting an IPS panel with a refresh rate of 144Hz and a full HD resolution. This allows gamers to get fluidity similar to what is found on more expensive laptops. The laptop is perfectly able to game with playable frame rates and can provide over 60 fps in eSports and some non-intensive titles.

Gaming laptops with the RTX 4070 typically cost close to $2000, which makes achieving ultra-quality eye candy difficult at an affordable price. The HP Victus, therefore, stands out as it brings the powerful RTX 4070 GPU for a high frame rate gameplay that will look absolutely flawless on its 144Hz IPS display, which is also anti-glare and has very thin bezels. The screen boasts an unusual 16.1″ size, but it should provide a slightly more immersive experience compared to the standard 15.6″ laptops.

The laptop uses the Intel Core i7 13700H as its processor, which uses the Hybrid architecture to provide 6 performance and 8 efficient cores, resulting in a total of 14 threads and 20 cores. The clock speeds of this processor are impressive too, with the performance cores reaching as high as 5.0GHz, thanks to the maximum turbo power that doesn’t restrict it in its performance. Nonetheless, this also comes out to be a CON when the battery life is considered. It comes with a 70Wh battery that won’t be sufficient to keep it on for several hours when on full load, particularly on gaming loads where both the CPU and GPU are in full action.

This is a purely productivity-based laptop with a Core i9 13900H CPU and an insane capacity of system RAM. Typically, most gaming or work-oriented laptops come with 16 or 32GB of RAM, which is adequate for most loads. However, with 64GB DDR5 RAM, the HP Envy WQXGA will be a beast in crunching numbers. For users who are into 3D modeling, graphic design, and multimedia editing, this is the laptop they should be opting for.

In their spare time, they can try their hands at modern titles powered by the RTX 4060 GPU, which won’t make them compromise on the graphical settings. Moreover, the storage capacity is impressive with dual fast SSDs each carrying 2TB of storage space. The laptop looks like a work-oriented one with a thin build, but inside it resides powerful hardware to achieve any operation.

The Raider GE78 HX is the pinnacle of performance within the mainstream laptop category. From solid aesthetics to unparalleled configuration, the laptop excels in every area, giving users the best they can have for money. It boasts a beautiful RGB-backlit keyboard and RGB LEDs on the front edge, configurable via MSI center. The display is truly impressive with an excellent color gamut of 100% DCI-P3 to cover a wide range of colors, providing more vibrant details. Moreover, the 240Hz refresh rate will further smooth out the gameplay, making it ideal for competitive gaming.

The machine is powered by the latest i9 14900HX CPU that easily dominates almost every mobile chip, thanks to its powerful 24-core/32-thread configuration, which now boasts a higher clock speed than its predecessor. The max turbo-boost can go as high as 5.8GHz, which is 400MHz higher than the 13900HX. This may not be very noticeable in gaming, but will be apparent in CPU-oriented loads where some applications are highly sensitive to the CPU frequency.

The i9 14900HX is combined with 64GB of fast DDR5 RAM that runs at 5600MHz and an RTX 4090 laptop GPU, featuring 16GB of GDDR6 VRAM. This is plenty for maxing out the latest titles at its QHD+ resolution and most games will see way over 100 fps on ultra settings. Other features of this laptop are also top-notch, exceeding what is commonly found on mid-range and high-end models, including connectivity and speakers.

How to Choose the Best Laptops for Gaming and Work

Understanding the intricacies of selecting a dual-purpose laptop can ensure that gamers and professionals alike can find a device that meets their needs. Check out these key considerations for a choice that checks all the boxes for performance, endurance, and resilience.

Performance

A top-notch CPU paired with a formidable GPU that won’t falter under the pressure of the latest games or heavy-duty work tasks is essential. Seek out specs that promise smooth gameplay and swift multitasking capabilities to ensure a seamless switch between work and play.

Battery Life

Endurance is crucial, as a laptop for gaming and work must keep pace with its user’s lifestyle. Aim for a model that guarantees ample battery life, giving freedom from the tether of a power outlet whether users are crunching numbers or crushing foes.

Build Quality

The rigors of daily use demand a laptop that’s built to last. Opt for a chassis that champions durability, paired with a keyboard and trackpad that remains comfortable and responsive over countless hours of gaming and work.

Display

While VA and TN panels are cheaper and more common, IPS will provide the best viewing angles and better color accuracy. It’s recommended to aim for a panel that covers different color spaces with a wide range of colors.

FAQ

Q: Can gaming laptops be used for working from home?

Certainly, gaming laptops often have powerful specs that can easily handle work-related tasks, though they may be overpowered for typical office work.

Q: How important is battery life for a home office laptop?

Battery life is vital. It ensures you can work uninterrupted throughout the day without staying plugged in, offering flexibility in work locations.

Q: Are built-in webcams important for remote work laptops?

With the rise of video conferencing, a built-in webcam is essential for virtual meetings, making it a critical feature for remote work laptops.