10 Best laptops for Gaming 2023

As an avid gamer and laptop enthusiast, I understand that finding the best laptop for gaming in 2023 can be a daunting task. With the gaming landscape constantly evolving, it's crucial to invest in a laptop that delivers top-notch performance, stunning visuals, and a seamless experience for the latest titles. In this guide, I'll walk you through the key factors to consider when searching for the perfect gaming laptop, tailored to meet the demands of upcoming AAA releases and competitive eSports titles.

To ensure you get the most value for your money, I've scoured an extensive laptop spreadsheet, comparing specs and reviews from both professional sources and fellow gamers. Focusing on factors such as GPU performance, high-refresh-rate displays, and thermal management, I've narrowed down the top laptops that cater to various budgets and gaming preferences. As someone who's actively involved in gaming communities, watching live events, and following eSports news, I'm well-versed in the unique requirements that gamers in 2023 need to stay ahead of the curve.

Moreover, I'm aware of the importance of future-proofing your gaming setup. With next-gen technologies like ray tracing and DLSS becoming more prevalent, the best laptop for gaming should be equipped with the latest hardware and features to ensure optimal performance in the years to come. So, whether you're a dedicated streamer, competitive player, or a casual gamer looking for immersive experiences, this guide will help you make an informed decision in your quest for the ultimate gaming laptop.

Deciding on a processor

In late 2022, the laptop processor market is beginning to look pretty exciting. With Apple having released their own ARM-based M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max and M2 System-on-Chip modules, they are offering unprecedented single-core performance and battery life. AMD has also managed to take 20% of the CPU market, with their 6th generation Ryzen processors. We're still waiting for Intel's 13th-gen processors to reach laptops though, with the 12th generation being their latest. Intel and Apple have both adopted a hybrid performance/efficiency core design (based on big.LITTLE) and if you need a good battery life in a PC laptop, Ryzen models should be your go-to choice.

So, if you're looking for a Windows laptop – look for an H-series processor (with an "H" in the model name). The processor is one of the most important components in a gaming laptop, so it's worth investing in one with an "H" series chip (or at least an "U" series chip) for optimal gaming performance. I usually use Cinebench R23 to compare different processors, although it's not the best benchmark out there. A more complete picture of performance will require other tests as well. If you're on a budget, then don't expect your laptop to have top-tier processors – prioritize other components such as graphics card or RAM size instead.

In the next few years, we can expect to see more and more powerful processors being released. Investing in a high-performance CPU for gaming can be a good idea if you want maximum performance, however if you don't need the highest end processors available, then you can save some money by going with a mid-range option.

As far as what are the best processors for gaming right now, I would recommend an Intel i5-10500H as the minimum option, an Intel i5-11400H as the recommended option, and an Intel i9-11900H for a high-end setup. Of course, the actual performance you get will depend on other components such as your graphics card, RAM, etc. So, do your research and choose wisely!

Picking a good graphics

If you're looking to get into gaming, you'll want to make sure you have the best possible graphics card for your laptop in order to maximize the performance of your games. In the current market, NVIDIA continues to dominate the laptop graphics card market, offering GPUs that range from entry-level to high-end models.

Integrated graphics are no longer an option for serious gaming; they can only handle light gaming and even then you'll have to make serious concessions. If you want to enjoy gaming at the highest settings without having to compromise, you'll need to invest in a dedicated GPU.

But is it worth investing in a high-end GPU? Absolutely! The gap between power-limited laptop graphics and desktop graphics cards has widened in the past few years. That's why you should look for a laptop with a dedicated GPU and plenty of RAM allocated to it – that way, you'll get future-proofing for your gaming laptop without breaking the bank.

When selecting the best GPU for your laptop, there are a few things to consider, such as benchmarks, performance, thermals, and power consumption. NVIDIA recently released a few RTX 40 series cards, but these are not yet available on laptops (expected in 2023). That means the RTX 30 series will be the best choice for now.

Here are my recommendations at every price level:

Minimum: GeForce RTX 3050
Recommended: GeForce RTX 2060
High-end: GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q

Keep in mind that the exact GPU wattage is determined by the laptop manufacturer, which means there can be a wide variance in graphics performance even in laptops with the same GPU chipset. That's why you should do your research and make sure to pick the right GPU for your gaming laptop.

How to choose the right memory for Gaming 2023?

If you're shopping for a gaming laptop in 2023, RAM is one of the most important components you need to consider. In 2021, the majority of mid-range laptops come with 16 GB of RAM, while high-end laptops usually have 32 GB or more. It's also possible to find some laptops that support DDR5 memory, though this technology is still relatively new and expensive.

For gaming purposes, 16 GB is a good minimum – it should be enough for most games. If you want to future-proof your laptop and make sure it can handle more intensive games and programs in the future, then 32 GB is a good starting point. However, if you plan to edit videos or work with large files, then 64 GB is ideal.

In terms of memory types, DDR4 is still the standard for gaming laptops – there's no need to go for DDR5 yet, as the performance difference between the two is negligible at best. You can also look for laptops that support ECC memory (which has an "R" suffix) if you want extra protection against data corruption – however, this feature is not essential for most gamers.

Ultimately, what you get depends on your budget. 16 GB of RAM should be enough for most gamers, but if you have the budget, then 32 GB or 64 GB can offer future-proofing benefits and improved performance. With careful shopping and research, you should be able to find a laptop that meets your needs at any price point.

Answers to Your Burning Laptop Questions!

Q: What is the best gaming laptop for 2023?

Ah, the golden question! The best gaming laptop for 2023 would have to be the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16. Packed with the top-of-the-line i9-11900H processor, a whopping 64 GB of RAM, and the powerful GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q graphics card, this beast is ready to tackle any game you throw at it.

What are the recommended specs for gaming laptops in 2023?

In 2023, we recommend aiming for at least an i5-11400H processor, 32 GB of RAM, and a GeForce RTX 2060 graphics card. These specs will give you a solid gaming experience without breaking the bank.

Can a gaming laptop from 2022 handle games in 2023?

Absolutely! Gaming laptops from 2022 can still handle games in 2023. While they may not have the latest and greatest components, they should be able to run most games at decent settings. However, if you want to experience the newest titles at their best, it's always a good idea to upgrade to a more recent model.

What is the average price of a gaming laptop in 2023?

The average price of a gaming laptop in 2023 varies depending on the specifications you're after. On the lower end, you can find capable options starting around $1,800. On the higher end, premium gaming laptops can reach prices upwards of $3,000. It all comes down to your budget and performance requirements.

Are gaming laptops worth it in 2023?

Gaming laptops are still a worthwhile investment in 2023. With advancements in technology, they have become more powerful, portable, and feature-packed than ever before. Whether you're a frequent traveler or prefer the versatility of a laptop, gaming laptops offer an immersive gaming experience with the convenience of mobility.

How much RAM is needed for gaming laptops in 2023?

The amount of RAM needed for gaming laptops in 2023 largely depends on the games you play and your multitasking habits. For most gamers, 16 GB of RAM should be sufficient. However, if you like to have multiple applications running in the background while gaming, opting for 32 GB or even 64 GB of RAM might be a good idea to future-proof your setup.

Which brand offers the most reliable gaming laptops in 2023?

When it comes to reliability, brands like Acer, Lenovo, ASUS, and MSI have consistently delivered quality gaming laptops. However, as with any electronics, there's always a small chance of encountering issues. It's essential to research specific models and read user reviews to get a sense of their reliability before making a purchase.

Is a 4K display necessary for gaming laptops in 2023?

While a 4K display can provide stunning visuals and an immersive gaming experience, it's not necessarily necessary for gaming laptops in 2023. Many gamers still prefer Full HD (1080p) or even QHD (1440p) displays due to the increased performance and battery life they offer. However, if you're a content creator or value the utmost visual fidelity, a 4K display might be worth considering.

What are the latest features in gaming laptops for 2023?

In 2023, gaming laptops come packed with an array of cutting-edge features to enhance your gaming experience. Some of the latest features you can expect to find include high refresh rate displays for smoother gameplay, advanced cooling systems to keep temperatures in check, RGB lighting customization options for that extra flair, and Thunderbolt 4 ports for lightning-fast data transfer and connectivity.

What are the upcoming gaming laptop releases in 2023?

As of August 2023, there are several highly anticipated gaming laptop releases on the horizon. Manufacturers like Acer, ASUS, and Lenovo are expected to unveil their latest models featuring the newest processors, graphics cards, and advancements in design and performance. Keep an eye out for announcements from these brands as they continue to push the boundaries of gaming laptops.