GameLaptop

9 Best Laptops for Game Development

Jack

By Jack Lin

Update on

Best Laptop for Game Development

Using laptops for game development is a pretty common scenario these days. Thanks to modern-day developments, laptops have become exceptionally powerful.

So, are you a game developer and wish to buy the best laptop for game development?

If so, you can go ahead and learn and read this guide. In this, we explain how to choose the right kind of product along with the products in the market.

So, please keep reading and learn everything about it.

Things to Consider when Shopping for the Best Laptop for Game Development

When it comes to purchasing a gaming laptop, it all depends on what type of game you’re working on. Unlike 3D games, 2D games may not necessitate as much powerful software.

The best gaming laptops are those that meet the requirements of game engines such as Unity and GameMaker.

Each laptop specification that is required for a smooth game development process will be examined. So, mentioned below are the things to consider when you look for laptops for game development.

CPU/Processor

When building a game, speed is crucial. In fact, having a sluggish processor is a surefire way to have an unpleasant experience. Compilation and rendering times in game development necessitate a fast laptop CPU.

It’s recommended to use a Core i7 CPU to execute the major software that is required for game creation. So, take that into consideration when you look for the best laptop for game development.

Graphics

As a game developer, you should not rely on the CPU’s graphics capabilities too much. This is particularly true if you are using a laptop. Because of that, once you’re well into production, a high-quality GPU is compulsory for gaming development.

Graphics processing power can be greatly enhanced by a powerful GPU. On the other hand, the additional memory provided by a GPU can complement its RAM to great benefit. There are times when a respectable CPU and RAM will suffice.

However, a strong GPU is required to create the next 3D blockbuster. When looking for a laptop to use for game development, watch for one that supports DirectX X11.

RAM

You may be astonished to discover that 8 GB of RAM is more than adequate. In order to get a Chromebook or a notebook that works, you need at least 8 GB of RAM.

Strong CPU & GPU capabilities are essential for most game creation. Nevertheless, you still need a significant amount of RAM to run numerous large programs at once.

Strong CPU & GPU capabilities are essential for most game creation. But, again, you still need a significant amount of RAM to run numerous large programs at once.

To put it another way, the more RAM you have, the better. All of your apps, no matter how hefty, will run smoothly with 16 GB of memory available.

Display Monitor

The capacity to see what you’re making as it’s meant to be seen is game development’s crucial component. It’s best to use a 1080P monitor in most cases. Consider a laptop with an IPS panel if you want the greatest display for game development.

To get the most out of your color and graphic displays, IPS can provide the most vibrant illumination. So, consider it seriously if you are looking for the best laptop for game development.

Storage

When developing a video game, storage space is essential. As a result of SSD (solid-state storage), you may rest assured that your storage demands will be met. Consider purchasing a laptop with a solid-state drive (SSD) instead of a hard disk drive (HDD).


Laptops for Game Development – the List of Best Products

Now that you know the criteria to consider when choosing the best laptop. Let’s look at the list.

#1. Acer Predator Helios 300

Best Laptops for Game Development - Acer Predator Helios 300

This high-performance laptop meets all of the specifications needed to create games quickly and easily.

In terms of speed and power, the Core i7 CPU is awe-inspiring. Graphics will have a lifelike accuracy and fluid fluidity with this CPU. With a Core i7, you won’t worry about performance issues while developing.

This laptop boasts 16 GB of RAM. However, it’s the presence of 6GB of VRAM that makes this machine truly special. Since this model’s GPU has more VRAM, it can store more image data while it is being developed.

It has a widescreen 1080P HD resolution and an IPS display. In fact, this screen is capable of producing the most brilliant and illuminating pictures.

Pros

  • It has a powerful and exceptionally fast processor
  • 16GB RAM and 6GB VRAM
  • 1920, 1080p HD display
  • 512GB SSD with excellent storage space
  • Perfect cooling ability

Cons

  • There can be laggings on the keyboard when you run multiple apps on it
  • Not the best battery life

#2. MacBook Pro

MacBook Pro

The MacBook Pro’s RAM is where it really shines. With a maximum of 16 GB RAM, this system offers significantly more memory compared to conventional laptops. With 64 GB of DDR4 memory, this computer can handle all the multitasking associated with development.

For game production, this is a powerful graphics processing unit (GPU). Overheating and rapid battery drain are drawbacks of this device’s superior features. However, when developing for long periods of time, these drawbacks can become a problem.

In the grand scheme of things, this is a solid choice for game creators. So, you can consider it favorably if you are looking for the perfect laptop for game development. For development, the visuals and storage are of the highest quality.

Pros

  • Very spacious SSD with fast performance
  • Intel Ultra HD Graphics  
  • 16″ Retina display

Cons

  • The battery life is not so impressive
  • Backlit bleeding can occur

PS: The top best gaming laptop for under 600 dollars.

#3. Asus Zenbook Pro Duo

Best Laptops for Game Development - Asus Zenbook Pro Duo

This laptop is powered by an Intel Core i9 processor, so it’s ready to go. You’ll have to have a processor with such capability during the development process. That is particularly if you want to operate multiple systems and development engines at the same time.

Well, powerful processors are required for game-creation tools, and this laptop has them.

A total of 32GB of RAM is available on this laptop. With a powerful processor, this machine is more than capable of handling the demands of game development. In fact, things will run so effortlessly that your task will be done as you wish.

With the help of a 1TB hard drive, typical SSD capabilities are elevated to a new level of performance. These data can be loaded in a couple of seconds thanks to NVMe SSD technology.

Pros

  • Perfect speed for development projects
  • Touchscreen feature
  • 4K UHD display with OLED
  • 1TB HDD

Cons

  • Some may notice audio interference

#4. MSI GF75 

MSI GF75

Are you an aspiring game developer or a student learning to code? If so, the MSI GF75 is the ideal platform for you! It has a 2.6 GHz Intel i5 processor with a 5 GHz turbo boost.

Moreover, it’s powered by a 10th Gen Intel i7 processor. This device’s 17.3″ FHD is its most notable feature. A 144 FPS rate allows you to play high-end games at a high level of detail.

And, because of the screen’s 88 percent screen-to-body ratio, it offers a svelte appearance. With the MSI GF75, MSI continues its tradition of building laptops with sturdy construction.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Good performance
  • RAM & SSD can be upgraded

Cons

  • Poor battery life

PS: here are the best laptops for video editing for under 1000 dollars for your reference.

#5. HP Spectre X360

Best Laptops for Game Development - HP Spectre X360

This highly portable laptop is designed for developers who don’t want to spend their days chained to a desk.

This wonderful product allows you to run different game development platforms on the go. It allows you to work on your projects whenever and wherever you need to. Using this device, you can create while sitting on a park seat or a coffee shop bench.

Both the CPU and the GPU are sufficient. Using a 10th gen Core i7 CPU is a great way to develop. It’s fine with the built-in graphics processor. High-end game creation won’t get much attention, but mid-range games are good.

This laptop comes with 512GB of SSD storage, which will allow you to access your files quickly. Both the display and the picture quality are excellent. So, we have no hesitation in suggesting this as one of the best laptops for game development.

Pros

  • Highly portable device
  • Spacious SSD
  • Impressive audio
  • Very powerful processor

Cons

  • The laptop might overheat

#6. Gigabyte Aero 15

Gigabyte Aero 15

Considering its impressive specifications, this laptop is surprisingly tiny. The display resolution and true-to-life colors are immediately noticeable when you first open the app. The IPS LCD’s 240 Hz refresh rate will bring graphics to life with incredible clarity.

There are little bezels on this laptop’s screen in order to maximize the brightness of the gaming graphics. So, that’s ideal for those who are looking for the best laptop for game development.  

There is no doubt that its CPU is a graphical powerhouse on its own, according to our investigation. Game creation will be enhanced by GTX Nvidia, a 2070 Max-Q graphics card, and a Core i7 processor.

This laptop’s storage is likewise top-notch. The 512 GB NVME PCIe SSD provides fast file access and ample space for storing huge files.

Pros

  • Minimal bezel with a translucent screen
  • Excellent video rendering
  • Can connect nine peripherals
  • Superb cooling system

Cons

  • The keyboard requires some improvements
  • Not the best quality of sounds

#7. Lenovo Legion Y540

Lenovo Legion Y540

This gaming laptop with a light & thin design defies expectations. Additionally, this laptop includes a great number of capabilities for game production at a reasonable price.

The Core i7 processor is excellent, and the 16GB RAM only aids in developing the hardware’s lightning-fast performance.

In fact, the 6GB Nvidia Geforce 1660 Ti isn’t the best. Nevertheless, it’s more than adequate for developing mid-grade games. You also get 256GB of SSD storage, which is about enough.

Pros

  • 1TB HDD & 512GB SSD
  • 60Hz & 144Hz display configurations
  • Very light in weight
  • Durable

Cons

  • Relatively low battery performance
  • GPU may overheat

#8. MSI GS75 Stealth

Best Laptops for Game Development - MSI GS75 Stealth

As a result, the development process is more efficient thanks to the Core i7 processor. When we add 32GB RAM to this, we have a development environment that is certain to run well.

The RTX 2080 GPU in this laptop ensures that your visuals are smooth and responsive at all times. For a “good” game production process, these three functionalities are all you need.

The 17.3″ FHD IPS panel display is an added plus. You’ll get excellent illuminating light resolutions in graphics on a laptop with this laptop. However, if you choose the MSI GS75 Stealth, you’ll get a well-known gaming brand.

It’s true that this is not the best laptop for game development. However, it has enough performance for usual game development tasks.

Pros

  • Excellent keyboard with quick performance
  • Ideal CPU & GPU performance
  • 512 GB SSD

Cons

  • Battery life is limited to a few hours

#9. ASUS TUF Gaming F17

ASUS TUF Gaming F17

This can be rated as one of the unique laptops for game development. In fact, by just unscrewing the back cover, you may quickly modify it with aftermarket components. Two more RAM sticks, 2 SSDs, or even a hard drive can be added.

Well, the refresh rate is 144Hz on the TUF Gaming F17’s 17.3-inch Ultra HD display. You won’t have to upgrade these settings at any point throughout the laptop’s lifetime.

The F17 has a lot to offer for its pricing point. In exchange for the features it offers, there are some drawbacks. This laptop is the heaviest on our list, weighing 5.73 pounds. However, the downside is that when its strong fans are running, it can be a little noisy.

Pros

  • Good battery life
  • Excellent audio output
  • Plenty of ports

Cons

  • Somewhat heavier
  • Not the best display quality

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: What are the minimum system requirements for game development?

A1: The minimum system requirements vary depending on the complexity of your projects, but generally, a laptop with at least an Intel Core i5 or equivalent processor, 8GB of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card is recommended.

Q2: Is a gaming laptop suitable for game development?

A2: Yes, gaming laptops are often a good choice for game development due to their powerful processors, dedicated graphics cards, and high-quality displays.

Q3: Can I use a MacBook for game development?

A3: Yes, MacBooks can be used for game development, especially if you are targeting iOS or macOS platforms. However, keep in mind that the software and hardware compatibility may vary compared to Windows-based laptops.

Q4: What software and tools are commonly used in game development?

A4: Some popular software and tools used in game development include Unity, Unreal Engine, Autodesk Maya, Adobe Photoshop, and Visual Studio.

Q5: Are touchscreen laptops suitable for game development?

A5: While touchscreen laptops offer additional input options, they are not essential for game development. Traditional laptops with a reliable keyboard and trackpad are typically sufficient for game development tasks.

Conclusion

So, you can choose the best laptop for game development by reading the above list.

We hope that at least one of the above laptops will match your requirements. Also, if you know better solutions, you may go ahead and let us know. Thanks!

Jack
Jack

10 years of experience in information and computer technology. Passionate about electronic devices, smartphones, computers, and modern technology.

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