Let’s be real: **PC gaming** provides the premier experience for gamers. High-performance gaming PCs showcase superior graphics and processing capabilities compared to any console available, in addition to offering unparalleled customization and game options. But let’s be honest—do you truly want to be confined to your desk every time you want to game?

While desktops are renowned for their exceptional performance, **gaming laptops** are more suitable for the modern, mobile lifestyle. The advantage of being able to transport your gaming setup anywhere—be it your friend’s place or just another room in your house—is hard to rival. Moreover, there’s a gaming laptop available for every kind of gamer. Whether you’re seeking a powerhouse with breathtaking visuals, a compact laptop that easily fits in your bag, or an affordable gaming laptop, there’s definitely a machine that caters to your needs.

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### Where’s the ideal spot to purchase a gaming laptop?

Nowadays, you can discover a fantastic variety of gaming laptops at major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, GameStop, and B&H. Nonetheless, purchasing directly from gaming laptop brands can offer distinct advantages. Many of these brands permit you to tailor your laptop’s specifications to suit your exact requirements. Conversely, large retailers commonly provide pre-configured models, which could lack the appropriate specs or pricing for your preferences. (And if you’re browsing on Amazon, be cautious of third-party sellers with dubious configurations.)

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### Are budget gaming laptops worthwhile?

You don’t need to break the bank on a $3,000+ gaming laptop to have a great gaming experience. There are numerous impressive options available under $1,000 that are **worth every cent**. However, it’s prudent to avoid going too low-cost. With gaming laptops, the saying often holds true—you typically get what you pay for—choosing a budget model may result in being unable to play the games you desire.

If you’re on a strict budget and are willing to consider cloud gaming, the **Acer Chromebook 516 GE** is an excellent choice (details below). For an even lower cost, the **Lenovo Gaming Chromebook 16** is another robust option for cloud gaming. You can find more information about these models in our guide to the **best laptops under $500**.

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### What are the top gaming laptops?

Identifying the **best gaming laptop** that fits your requirements and budget can seem daunting. While gaming laptops are generally easier to assess than desktops, they still require careful scrutiny of specifications. Unlike consoles, where you can simply select the latest model and begin playing, gaming laptops necessitate a closer examination of components like graphics cards, processors, storage, and display quality. It can be a lot to take in—but that’s where we step in.

Our team of Mashable Shopping experts has evaluated and reviewed countless gaming laptops over the years. Continue reading to uncover our top selections for the **best gaming laptops of 2024**. Whether you’re a casual player or a dedicated gamer, we’ve compiled recommendations to enhance your gaming experience.