Do you want to create a setup for gaming on your laptop, but aren’t quite sure how to do it?
Whether you’re a part of a professional esports team or you just like gaming with your friends, the laptop setup you create can really help take your gaming to the next level. But, how do you set up your environment for more enjoyable gaming?
Check out this guide to learn how to put together the ultimate gaming laptop setup.
Laptop vs Desktop
First things first, you need to decide whether you want to play video games on a laptop or on a desktop. The great thing about laptops is that they offer portability.
If you don’t have a dedicated space for gaming at home, then a laptop will give you the freedom to move around. Also, if you’re a part of an organized team, such as a collegiate esports team, a laptop gives you the ability to bring your device to tournaments, events, and meetups.
Another great thing about laptops is that they come with portable batteries that allow you to use your computer even if you’re far from a plugin socket or if you have lower power consumption. Another thing to keep in mind is that laptops are a lot easier to troubleshoot than desktops. If something goes wrong, you’ll be able to get support quickly.
Laptops are also known for being more beginner-friendly than desktops. If you think a laptop is the right choice for you, you can check out this guide to learn how to save on gaming laptops.
However, the downside to laptops is that there’s less potential to upgrade parts. Additionally, desktops of the same power spec tend to have better performance.
Desktops, on the other hand, are great for those who always plan to game from the same location. They offer more powerful processors, and they’re usually easier to upgrade than laptops. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the computer monitor and keyboard aren’t built into a desktop.
While this can be seen as an inconvenience, many people like that they’re separate because it allows them to upgrade to higher quality keyboards and gaming monitors. This can help improve your display and controls, which will result in better overall performance.
How to Choose the Right Gaming Laptop
If you’ve decided to go with a laptop instead of a desktop computer, here are some tips to keep in mind to help you choose the right gaming laptop:
Components
One of the biggest things you need to pay attention to when buying a gaming laptop is the GPU and CPU components. Because most video games are GPU-dependent, you need to make sure you choose a laptop with a good GPU, as this can’t be upgraded later on.
You also need to make sure you choose a laptop with a strong CPU, as this will provide you with the performance headroom that you need. The CPU is another critical component that can’t easily be upgraded, so you need these components to be strong from the start.
Connectivity
Another thing you need to pay attention to when choosing a gaming laptop is the connectivity strength. Make sure your system comes with enough flexible ports that can be connected to external monitors and external storage.
RAM
Gaming can be very RAM-intensive, so we suggest choosing a gaming laptop with at least 16 GB. If you can’t purchase a gaming laptop with 16 GB now, consider upgrading later. You can upgrade the memory in many different laptops, and 8 GB can hold you over until you can afford more.
Storage
Another thing you need to consider when purchasing a gaming laptop is storage availability. When it comes to storage, you have two main options: an SSD (solid-state drive) or a hard drive. Many gamers think that you have to choose between the two, however, if you need extra storage, you can opt for both.
Choose the Right Gaming Graphics Card
Another very important component for a superior gaming setup is your gaming graphics card. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing a gaming graphics card:
Memory Amount: Your gaming graphics card should have at least 4 GB of storage. If you’re gaming at 1080p, you’re going to want a card with 6 GB or more. If you’re gaming at very high resolutions, go for a card with 8 GB or more.
Thermal Power Design: Also known as TDP, thermal power design measures heat dissipation. It also estimates how many watts you need to run a card at stock settings. Generally speaking, 600 to 800 watts is sufficient for most gamers.
Form Factor: Another very important thing you need to consider is the form factor. You need to make sure your card can physically fit into your case. Before buying a gaming graphics card, make sure to check the height, length, and thickness.
Choose the Right Gaming Keyboard
Choosing the right gaming keyboard is another major component of achieving the best gaming setup possible. When it comes to gaming keyboards, you have two main options: a mechanical keyboard or a membrane keyboard. Here’s what to know about each one:
Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical keyboards are considered the gold standard among gamers, as they come with a complete switch underneath each key. When pressed, you’ll hear a noticeable “clicking” noise, which makes it easier to tell if a keystroke has been registered.
Mechanical keyboards are known for being extremely durable, and they generally have a lifespan of 50 million to 80 million keystrokes. However, it’s important to keep in mind that mechanical keyboards are significantly more expensive than membrane keyboards.
Membrane Keyboards
If you can’t afford a mechanical keyboard, a membrane keyboard is another great option. Not only are they much more affordable, but membrane keyboards are often a better choice for beginning gamers who don’t want keyboard performance to affect their gaming experience.
Membrane keyboards make up the majority of modern PC keyboards. When you press down the keys, the keyboard sends an electric current through plastic membranes. While they’re quieter than mechanical keyboards, they also aren’t as robust.
Choose the Right Gaming Headset
Another important factor you need to consider to elevate your gaming experience is your gaming headset. Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing a gaming headset:
Headphones vs Headset
First, it’s important to understand the difference between headphones and headsets, as both can be used for gaming. Gaming headphones are the same headphones that many people use for enjoying music.
While they offer superior sound quality, unlike headsets, headphones don’t come with microphones or microphone attachment slots. If you want to communicate with headphones, you’ll need to purchase an external mic.
While headphones offer better audio quality, they’re also a bigger investment. Gaming headsets, on the other hand, are more affordable, and they offer a simple, all-in-one solution.
Wired vs Wireless Headsets
With a wired headset, you’ll use a cable to connect your headphone to a compatible audio source. Wired headsets are more affordable, there are plenty of options to choose from, and you don’t need to worry about charging them or buying batteries.
However, they’re prone to damage and breakage, and they restrict your movement when gaming. Wireless headsets, on the other hand, offer less movement restriction and strong battery life. However, they can be expensive and you have to worry about charging them.
Choose the Right Gaming Chair
No gaming setup is complete without the right gaming chair. Here’s what to keep in mind when purchasing a gaming chair:
Ergonomically-Designed
First things first, you want to choose a gaming chair that’s ergonomically designed. It’s no secret that sitting for hours at a time is bad for your health. Sitting for prolonged periods raises your risk of heart disease, leads to chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain, and raises your risk of developing high cholesterol or diabetes.
Buying a chair that’s ergonomically-designed can help combat some of the negative side effects of sitting. An ergonomically designed gaming chair should offer comfortable lumbar support, armrests, and an adjustable seat.
Consider the Material
When choosing a gaming chair, you also need to consider the chair’s material. Generally speaking, a chair made from genuine leather is your best bet.
Genuine leather is extremely durable, and in some cases, it can even improve with age.
Gaming Laptop Setup: Are You Ready to Set Up Your Gaming Station?
Now that you know how to create the ultimate gaming laptop setup, it’s time to get started. Pretty soon, you’ll have created the gaming set up of your dreams.
Be sure to check back in with our blog for more gaming-related tips and tricks.