One popular question among those who play video games is: How long do gaming laptops last? With so many different types of gaming laptops, from entry-level to more specialised specialist professional models, this question can be difficult to answer. So, if you’re in the market for a laptop for gaming, here’s what you need to know about battery life, processors, RAM, and other important factors that contribute to a laptop’s longevity.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important consideration when choosing a laptop for gaming. Battery life can vary depending on the type of gaming laptop you purchase, the age of the device, and how often it’s used. Generally, high-end gaming laptops offer better battery life than mid-range models. When comparing models, look for 5 hours or more of battery life.
No matter how long the battery of your gaming laptop claims to last, it’s a good idea to keep a power bank of some sort on hand for those times when you need to plug in for longer gaming sessions. Otherwise, you might find your battery unexpectedly dying on you in the middle of a game.
Processors
The processor, or CPU, is the ‘brain’ of the laptop, and it plays a major role in how long a laptop can last. For resource-intensive gaming, you’ll want to look for a laptop with at least an Intel Core i5 processor. This type of processor is powerful enough to handle most types of gaming, but won’t be too expensive to purchase or operate. You’ll find better performance (and longer device life) with an Intel Core i7 or Core i9 processor, but these are usually more expensive.
For even better performance, look for laptops with the latest Intel “Ice Lake” processors. These offer significantly better integrated graphics and improved performance, making them great for gaming and other intensive applications.
RAM
Random Access Memory, or RAM, helps your laptop run multiple applications at the same time smoothly and efficiently. For gaming, it’s important to have enough RAM, so look for at least 8GB. More RAM provides more memory for running games and programs, allowing for smoother multitasking and gaming. However, too much RAM can be a waste of money. 16GB or more isn’t necessary for most gaming laptops, unless you’re planning on using your laptop for video editing or other Memory-heavy applications.
If you plan on gaming on your laptop for a long time, you’ll also want to look for a laptop with upgradeable RAM. This is especially useful if you plan on using the laptop for multiple years and you find yourself running out of memory.
Graphics Card
One of the most important components of a gaming laptop is the graphics card. A good graphics card can make all the difference when it comes to gaming, as it helps render beautiful graphics, load or stream games quickly, and adjust the graphics settings to your preferences. If you’re serious about gaming, you’ll need to look for a laptop with a dedicated graphics card. These graphics cards can be expensive, though, so it may be worth considering alternatives, such as an external graphics card.
When looking at graphics cards, consider the type and speed of the processor, as well as the amount of onboard RAM. The more powerful the graphics card, the longer your laptop should last.
Other Considerations
When choosing a laptop for gaming, there are other factors to consider that can contribute to a laptop’s longevity. For example, the laptop’s build quality can determine how well the device holds up over time. If a laptop feels flimsy or doesn’t feel like it can handle a bit of rough treatment, it might not last as long as one with a better build quality.
The type of ports and connectivity options you need can also influence your decision. If you’re planning on connecting your laptop to a TV, for example, you’ll need ports for HDMI and DisplayPort cables. Also look for USB-C ports, which allow for both faster data transfer and more flexible charger placement.
Cooling System
No matter how powerful your laptop’s processor or RAM are, if it doesn’t have an adequate cooling system, it won’t be able to handle intensive gaming for long. To ensure that your laptop has a good cooling system, look for laptops with multiple fans, heat pipes, and exhaust vents. This ensures that heat won’t build up and affect performance.
Note that laptops with better cooling systems usually have larger chassis and thicker bodies, meaning they might not be as portable as you’d like them to be.
Upgradability
If you plan on gaming on your laptop for a long time, you’ll want to look for one that is upgradeable. Upgradability allows you to add more RAM, storage, or graphics cards as needed. This can help extend your laptop’s lifespan and let you upgrade it on your own terms instead of having to buy a new one every few years.
Pricing and Warranty
Of course, it’s important to consider the price when purchasing a laptop for gaming. Keep in mind that you’ll likely get what you pay for, so it’s often better to invest in a laptop with better components and build quality, as that will last you longer.
Finally, be sure to look at the laptop’s warranty. This is important, as it will protect your laptop against any faulty components or unexpected breakdowns. A good warranty can give you peace of mind and help make sure your laptop lasts as long as possible.
