Gaming laptops vs. gaming PCs: what will be worthwhile in 2024?

The gaming market is growing steadily, and gamers are faced with a difficult decision: should it be a gaming laptop or a gaming PC? Both categories have their advantages and disadvantages, and technological developments in 2024 will also influence the purchase decision. In this blog post, we compare gaming laptops and gaming PCs, analyze their strengths and weaknesses and help you find out what will really be worth buying in 2024.

1st Performance: Who is ahead?

Performance is a decisive factor for gaming enthusiasts. While gaming PCs are traditionally considered more powerful, gaming laptops have caught up considerably in recent years.

Gaming PCs

Gaming PCs still offer the best performance for computationally intensive games or applications. With high-end graphics cards such as the NVIDIA RTX 4090 and the latest processors such as AMD’s Ryzen 7000 series or Intel’s Core i9-14th generation, the graphics quality is unparalleled. What’s more, gaming PCs can be customized, which means you can always use the latest hardware, such as the MSI MEG Infinite X 11th.

Gaming laptops

Gaming laptops, on the other hand, have reached new milestones in 2024. Thanks to the introduction of mobile graphics units such as the NVIDIA RTX 4000 laptop series and Intel HX processors, many models offer impressive frame rates, even for AAA titles. However, performance is often limited by thermal constraints. Models such as the OMEN Gaming Laptop 17-db0795ng are examples of this.

Performance comparison: Table

Criterion	Gaming PC	Gaming laptop
Graphics performance	Very high	High
Processor performance	Very high	High
Thermal management	Efficient	Limited
Upgrade options	Flexible	Limited to not possible

2. mobility: gaming on the move

One of the main advantages of gaming laptops is their mobility. But is this flexibility really worth it?

Gaming Laptops
Gaming laptops are easy to transport and ideal for players who are often on the go or do not have a fixed gaming area. They offer an all-in-one integrated package with a screen, keyboard, and battery. These devices prove to be particularly practical at e-sports tournaments or LAN parties.
Gaming PCs
A gaming PC is stationary, which means that you are tied to a fixed gaming location. Elaborate setups with a monitor, mechanical keyboard, and gaming mouse are the dream of many gamers, but they are not so easy to transport.

3. value for money: where do you get more for your money?

The price plays a major role in the purchase. There are clear differences between laptops and desktop PCs.

Gaming PCs: For the same price as a gaming laptop, you get more performance and better upgrade options. A gaming PC for €1,500 can usually run games in 4K resolution with high settings.
Gaming laptops: Although gaming laptops are more expensive per performance unit, they offer the advantage of mobility. A comparable gaming laptop often costs 20-30% more than a desktop PC.

4. upgrade options: Invest in the future

Technology is constantly evolving, and the question of future-proofing is an important criterion.

Gaming PCs

This is where gaming PCs come up trumps: almost every component can be upgraded. Whether GPU, CPU, RAM or storage space – a gaming PC can be easily adapted to support new generations of hardware.

Gaming laptops

Gaming laptops, on the other hand, often have limitations. Most components, especially the CPU and GPU, are permanently soldered and cannot be replaced. Only RAM and SSD are replaceable in some models.

5. heat and noise development

Thermal management is particularly important during demanding gaming sessions. This is where laptops and PCs differ considerably.

Gaming PCs: Due to their larger housing, gaming PCs have better cooling. With high-quality air or water cooling systems, the temperature remains stable even during long gaming sessions.
Gaming laptops: Laptops often struggle with thermal limits. To keep the compact cases cool, the fans usually run at high speeds, which increases the noise level.

6 Sustainability and energy efficiency

With the increasing importance of environmental protection, sustainability should also be taken into account when purchasing.

Gaming PCs

The ability to upgrade individual components means that gaming PCs can be used for longer. In addition, many desktop components are more energy-efficient than their mobile counterparts.

Gaming laptops

Gaming laptops usually have a higher power consumption, especially when they are under load. Due to the lack of upgrade options, they have to be replaced more frequently, which is less sustainable.

FAQ

Which is better for beginners?

A gaming laptop is a good choice for beginners who primarily want to be mobile. However, those who value maximum performance and upgrades should choose a gaming PC.

Can gaming laptops keep up with desktop PCs?

In 2024, gaming laptops will come close to gaming PCs in many areas, especially for full HD or QHD gaming. However, PCs will still be the better choice for 4K or demanding ray tracing.

Which is cheaper to maintain?

Gaming PCs are often cheaper to maintain in the long term due to better compatibility and upgradeability.

Conclusion: What will be worthwhile in 2024?

The decision between a gaming laptop and a gaming PC depends on your priorities:

Gaming PC: Perfect for gamers looking for maximum performance, upgrade options and durability.
Gaming laptop: Ideal for mobility and flexibility, but with sacrifices in performance and upgrade options.

2024 has brought new technologies that have made gaming laptops more powerful. Nevertheless, the gaming PC remains the first choice for hardcore gamers, while laptops offer an attractive alternative for those on the move. Choose the device that best suits your lifestyle!

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