Introduction
For a PC gamer, gaming on the go can be quite difficult. Whilst we have seen lots of advancements to handheld gaming in the PC gaming market recently, the likes of the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally can’t match the performance levels of a gaming laptop.
But with gaming laptops being a portable device that offers the closest replication of desktop gaming PC, they can be quite expensive. Therefore, 1440p gaming laptops are an ideal way to get a perfect balance of performance and value. Question is, which one is the best? Luckily for you, we’ve put together a list of our favourites.
1. Acer Nitro 5
CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 6800H
PC/HH Says: This mid-range processor will allow consumers to run some productivity tasks.
Memory: 16GB DDR5
PC/HH Says: 16GB of the latest memory helps to reduce loading times and allow gameplay to feel snappy.
GPU: RTX 3070Ti
PC/HH Verdict: This GPU provides strong 1440p performance, along with some legs at 4K.
For gamers always on the move that are looking to pick up a 1440p-ready laptop in the cheapest way possible, allow us to introduce the Acer Nitro 5. Despite the lower price point, this system will have no issues hitting high framerates in a range of competitive titles, allowing users to take full advantage of the 165Hz display.
Whilst it may struggle to hit the same heights within more demanding AAA blockbusters, the IPS panel with 100% DCI-P3 coverage lets you see these worlds in incredible detail. With the price jump from premium handhelds to this device not being too drastic, it is definitely worth considering for those serious about gaming on the move.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️Very affordable | ❌Not ideal for single-player |
✔️Compact 15.6″ design | ❌ 8GB of VRAM |
✔️IPS panel | ❌ Fairly limited connectivity |
PC/HH Rating: 8/10
2. Gigabyte AORUS 15 XE5
CPU: Intel Core i7 12700H
PC/HH Says: With 14 cores and 20 threads, this CPU will provide smooth gameplay while handling heavy workloads.
Memory: 16GB DDR5
PC/HH Says: DDR5 memory provides improved transfer speeds, resulting in more responsive gaming performance.
GPU: RTX 3070Ti
PC/HH Verdict: Nvidia’s RTX 3070Ti is a solid mid-range graphics card that is ideal for 1440p gaming laptops.
If the previous entry didn’t take your fancy, then the Gigabyte AORUS 15 XE5 is a strong alternative. Offering almost identical specs thanks to the RTX 3070Ti, 16GB RAM, and 165Hz refresh rate, this design is a great choice for 1440p competitive gaming, but lags behind in more graphically intense titles.
In terms of design, the AORUS 15 XE5 feels durable and is filled with premium features. The RGB backlit keyboard providing a tactile feel reminiscent of a mechanical keyboard used with most desktop PCs. Also, this design offers a variety of ports, including Thunderbolt 4 and USB Type-C alt DP, allowing you to hook up to an external display when possible.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️Affordable price point | ❌Limited performance |
✔️Solid 1440p performance | ❌ Uses older parts |
✔️Lots of accessibility features | ❌Cheaper options available |
PC/HH Rating: 8/10
3. Corsair Voyager A1600 AMD Advantage Edition
CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 6800HS
PC/HH Says: Like most Ryzen 7 processors, the 6800HS will provide fast gaming performance in a range of titles.
Memory: 16GB DDR5
PC/HH Says: Whilst 16GB of DDR5 memory is enough to support 1440p, 32GB would be preferred at this price.
GPU: AMD Radeon 6800M
PC/HH Verdict: This mobile graphics card offers exceptional performance at 1440p, with no issues at 4K either.
Gamers looking for a portable gaming device with a bit more gusto should definitely consider the Corsair Voyager a1600 AMD Advantage Edition. As the name suggests, this laptop is powered by AMD’s Advantage technology, which aims to provide a cohesive system that offers significant visual and performance benefits to gamers.
To achieve this, this system is packed with a Ryzen 7 processor and Radeon 6800M graphics card, leading to 1440p performance that can display up to a whooping 240Hz. As for the design, the innovative stream deck allows users to create custom shortcuts to speed up navigation, and the Cherry MX ULP mechanical switches provide a comfortable and reliable typing experience.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️Excellent at 1440p | ❌Pricey at MSRP |
✔️Mechanical keyboard | ❌ 16GB RAM |
✔️Innovative design | ❌ No RJ-45 connection |
PC/HH Rating: 7/10
4. Lenovo Legion Pro 5 16IRX8
CPU: Intel Core i9 13900HX
PC/HH Says: This processor is one of the best options for gaming laptops right now, making it ideal for a range of tasks.
Memory: 32GB DDR5
PC/HH Says: With 32GB RAM, this gaming laptop will have lightning-fast loading times and encounter less rendering issues.
GPU: RTX 4070
PC/HH Verdict: As part of Nvidia’s latest generation of GPUs, this card should last for a number of years.
Moving onto a more premium offering, the Lenovo Legion Pro 5 16IRX8 is built to provide a top-tier portable gaming experience. Featuring a core i9 13900HX, a RTX 4070 GPU, and 32GB DRR5 RAM, this laptop will have no issues running an array of games at 1440p at the max 165Hz refresh rate on the integrated display. Plus, the Legion Pro 5 16IRX8 should be able to support future releases for years to come, as it is packed with the latest generation of hardware.
Design-wise, this laptop doesn’t stray too far from the conventional look of gaming-oriented systems. However, the spaced out arrow keys does give the keyboard a unique look, with the lower position intended to increase ergonomics. The lack of additional design features is a shame given the price point, but this laptop still has all the fundamentals needed to offer satisfying gaming sessions anywhere you go.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️Incredible 1440p gaming | ❌Capped at 165Hz |
✔️32GB DDR5 RAM | ❌ No Thunderbolt port |
✔️Includes latest-gen hardware | ❌Expensive |
PC/HH Rating: 8/10
5. ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 17
CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX
PC/HH Says: As one of AMD’s best laptop CPUs to date, the Ryzen 9 7945HX easily manage demanding workloads.
Memory: 32GB DDR5
PC/HH Says: The 32GB of DDR5 RAM means this system is an ideal pick for anyone looking to do some multi-tasking.
GPU: RTX 4080
PC/HH Verdict: As one of the most powerful graphics cards available, users can expect excellent gaming performance.
If money isn’t a concern, those looking for the pinnacle of 1440p gaming from their laptop will want to take a look at the ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 17. This premium design provides an incredibly luxurious gaming experience at 1440p, as it is able to produce and showcase framerates up to 240Hz. In competitive and narrative-driven titles alike, users can expect nothing but the best from this system.
On top of the stellar gaming performance, the RTX 4080 graphics card and Core i9 processor means this laptop has enough firepower to handle a range of productivity tasks such as video and photo editing, making it an ideal gaming-workstation hybrid. To support this further, the IPS panel provides great colour accuracy, which can be seen clearly thanks to the fairly large 17″ screen.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️Stellar 1440p gameplay | ❌Very pricey |
✔️Handles heavy workloads | ❌ Can’t display 4K |
✔️IPS anti-glare display | ❌Slightly less portable |
PC/HH Rating: 9/10
Conclusion
When it comes to gaming laptops, gamers should be prepared to spend a reasonable amount in order to receive 1440p gaming performance. With many of these systems rivalling the price of most PC builds, a gaming laptop is quite the investment for those looking to game on the go. However, the benefits compared to other portable options are huge, as none of the alternative methods can provide the same level of performance at 1440p.
On top of this, the recommendations above show that these devices can vary drastically in price, with some laptops arguably being a better value for money than desktop gaming PCs of the same calibre. Therefore, if you’re a gaming fanatic that is constantly travelling or away from home, then a gaming laptop is an ideal solution which offers a solid blend of portability and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are laptop GPUs the same as desktop GPUs?
No. Despite some laptop GPUs cheekily having some of the same naming as their desktop alternatives, graphics cards for gaming laptops are less powerful due to their smaller size.
What is the best Hz for a gaming laptop?
For most gamers, anything above 120Hz should be enough to enjoy a smooth gaming experience. However, those wanting to play competitive games will want to look at 165Hz, or even 240Hz displays.