5 Criteria To Consider When Purchasing A Gaming Laptop

Modern gaming laptops are both powerful and efficient. Equipped with powerful hardware, they are more than just an IT gadget or device for playing graphic-intensive games, and are also well suited to high-performance tasks. Some of these tasks include photo editing, video rendering, and coding; all within a portable and compact design. Here are 5 key considerations to help you when deciding to purchase a gaming laptop.

1. Graphics Card

Arguably the most important element of a gaming laptop, graphic cards (GPUs) are essential for enjoying quality gaming experiences and carrying out high-performance tasks. They perform rapid calculations to create and render visuals, scenes, animations, as well as smooth video rendering for both graphic intensive games and video editing software.

Most GPUs are made by both NVIDIA and AMD, with models such as the AMD Radeon RX 6000M and NVDIA GeForce RTX 3080 featuring additional cores for faster calculations and smoother handling of visual tasks. A more powerful GPU naturally increases the overall price of a gaming laptop in Malaysia, so users are advised to consider their graphics requirements when purchasing, be it casual gaming or for heavy-duty rendering and editing.

Higher-tier GPUs are also equipped with various features for smoother operation. NVIDIA RTX graphics cards feature ray tracing, which replicates the real-life behaviour of light rays in-game for a flawless and realistic experience. Both AMD and NVIDIA GPUs also feature FreeSync/Adaptive V-Sync technologies, automatically synchronising refresh rates to reduce latency issues and stuttering. In addition, AMD SmartShift tech also incorporates machine learning to boost overall performance.

2. Processor

The processor, also known as the CPU, provides the general instructions and processing power for your gaming laptop to operate efficiently. Higher-end CPUs feature additional cores and virtual threads for more concurrent and swift processing, which translates into higher overall performance such as having multiple Internet browser tabs or applications running simultaneously without dropping in performance.

Most gaming laptops are equipped with a quad-core processor, which delivers a balance of performance and affordability. For additional performance, buyers can consider laptops equipped with Intel’s 11th Gen of chips or AMD Ryzen 5000, with up to 8 processing cores and 16 threads each for unparalleled performance. AMD Ryzen CPUs also feature enhanced cache memory for faster communication and lower latency, along with clock speeds of up to 4.8 GHz for higher performance. Similarly to GPUs, higher-end CPUs will result in a higher laptop price.

3. Screen Resolution

A high resolution screen is vital for gaming laptops, be it for immersive gaming or providing greater colour contrast when editing photos and videos. One of the most popular screen sizes for laptops is the 15-16 inch range, offering all-around versatility at approximately 1980x1080 HD resolution.

Buyers should consider a screen with a high refresh rate, which starts at around 120Hz and can go up to 360Hz for a smooth gaming experience. It is also important to choose screens with a wide colour gamut for optimal visuals, as well as research on screen compatibility with the laptop’s graphic card to maximise overall performance, since certain graphic cards are only able to support 1080p display and not 4K UHD.

4. Battery Life

Gaming laptops run intensive programs, so a long battery life is crucial to ensure that Malaysians can use them without constantly recharging or working next to a power socket. Many laptops offer smart performance and battery saving modes, automatically detecting if users are running graphic intensive applications or regular productivity software as well as whether they are operating on battery or plugged in, adjusting power and performance as necessary.

Battery life can be further enhanced by a good GPU and CPU. Many of them offer real-time automatic power management, such as altering clock rate or selectively powering off internal circuitry. This helps to optimise energy consumption while also extending battery life and laptop longevity.

5. Design

The main advantage that gaming laptops have over gaming PCs is their portability and lightweight form factor, along with comfortable ergonomics for either prolonged gaming or working remotely. Laptop manufacturers have focused on a combination of streamlined and sleek designs alongside eye-catching RGB lighting and sturdy builds designed to withstand impacts and maintain high performance.

Some popular gaming laptop manufacturers include Asus’ ROG range, along with MSI’s well-established laptops. Users are advised to check out the wide range of gaming laptop models at the nearest Harvey Norman outlet, and approach our product experts for advice with regards to laptop specification, budgets and performance needs when it comes to purchasing a gaming laptop.

Want further coverage for your gaming laptop? Harvey Norman’s Product Care covers all parts, labour, and fees for UNLIMITED repairs. We offer flexible coverage for up to 4 additional years in addition to the existing manufacturer’s warranty. Also, purchases over RM1,400 that have had 2 qualified repairs and require a 3rd repair are eligible for a completely new replacement upon request. Visit our website to see our range of well-priced gaming laptops in Malaysia.