With around 3.32 billion active video game participants globally, it’s fair to say gaming is a popular hobby. It’s also a big business. The segment is worth $282 billion and, by 2027, could climb to a $363 billion valuation.
While there are various ways gamers can enjoy their favorite titles, many enjoy playing on laptops specifically built to accommodate the needs of gamers. A regular machine might be okay for word processing, surfing the internet, streaming movies, and doing other things. But a gaming laptop offers better specs to ensure gameplay isn’t a major letdown.
Many popular franchises require machines offering specific specs. It’s not just about enjoying better gameplay either. Without the right spec, you might not be able to play certain titles. So, if you’re a serious gamer or enjoy specific types of games, a gaming laptop might be a requirement.
But what specs should you look for in a suitable machine? Keep reading to see four things to consider before spending money on a gaming machine.
1. Consider What Games You Enjoy Playing
Before looking at specific gaming laptops, you must consider the types of games you enjoy playing. Real-time strategy games typically require relatively low computing power versus other game genres. If real-time strategy is your thing, you can save on a gaming computer since you won’t need one with the highest-level specs. But for games like Grand Theft Auto, Fortnite, and Apex Legends, you’ll need a gaming laptop with top-notch CPU, RAM, and graphics card specs.
2. Consider the GPU
When looking for a good gaming laptop, you must find something with the right graphics processing unit (GPU). A machine with an inferior GPU won’t produce the required frames per second to enjoy the games you want to play. You’ll want a gaming laptop with the latest GPU for gamers.
If you’re going to cut corners on one spec, the GPU isn’t it. The wrong one will make gaming a task rather than a pleasure.
3. Consider the Screen
The screen is another thing to consider. And while the screen size is important, that’s far from the only screen-related issue to factor into your buying decision. When it comes to the size of the gaming laptop screen, bigger is usually better since it can improve the gaming experience. You’ll pay for that enhanced gaming experience, however.
Another screen-related matter is the resolution. Arguably, the minimum resolution should be 1080p with a 60Hz display, but more of each is better. And, yes, upgrading on those fronts will increase the purchase price. But that’s what it’ll take to get a formidable gaming laptop. Next is the refresh rate. A good gaming machine should have a refresh rate of no less than 144Hz. But aim for higher if you want superior gameplay.
4. Consider Hardware
After looking at the three considerations above, you’re ready to focus on the hardware required for a good gaming machine. Three essential components include the RAM, CPU, and storage.
For RAM, you need at least 16GB. More is better, but don’t even look at a gaming laptop with less than that. While 16 GB is the minimum, getting double that amount is better.
For the central processing unit (CPU), you should go all out. An inferior CPU will make gaming cumbersome and unenjoyable. Most experts recommend Intel i7. But anything above i5 will give you a solid gaming machine.
Another vital consideration is storage. While there are various storage options, you should only look for a gaming laptop with a solid-state drive (SSD). SSDs boot up faster, offer better performance, are quieter, and are more durable than other types of storage. It’s a no-brainer.
A gaming laptop is a must if you want to experience games how they were meant to be experienced.
Keep these tips in mind if you need a new machine.
Photo Credits
Guest Author Bio
Jamie Lansley
Jamie is a freelance writer who covers trends in business, technology, and health. She loves to go skiing, camping, and rock climbing with her family.
Please Share Your Thoughts - Leave A Comment!