If you’re one of the millions of people now working from home, you’ve probably been using your laptop more than ever. You’re ready for an upgrade! Here’s some unexpected advice: look into purchasing a gaming laptop.
But wait, are gaming laptops good for everyday use, too? These souped-up devices are made for entertainment, not work, right?
In fact, gaming laptops may even be better for everyday use! Gaming laptops can be used to run most web applications, and are usually made to handle large workloads. If you’re a PC gamer already, you can combine entertainment and work all in one computer!
Read on to find out why gaming laptops are great for everyday use. You’ll be able to pick the best gaming laptop for your lifestyle by the time we’re done!
What Makes Gaming Laptops Different
Gaming laptops are different in a few ways from regular laptops. They’re designed with gamers in mind and are built more similarly to a gaming PC.
This shows in a few ways. For one, gaming laptops prioritize speed and graphics above all else. They’re made to run beefy games like PUBG and Call of Duty without a blip.
Gaming laptops also have more RAM and are easy to upgrade. Many models allow you to replace parts of the hardware as needed. This makes gaming laptops extremely customizable.
Compared to regular laptops, gaming laptops usually have larger screens and a sturdier build. They’re designed to hold up to heavy use and possible key smashing. But what can you do with a gaming laptop besides, well, game?
Are Gaming Laptops Good for Everyday Use?
They are – if you’re willing to make a few concessions. Let us explain.
Gaming laptops are going to run any web client, desktop app, or other programs without issue. Their large amount of memory makes it easy to download files and programs as needed. If you work in graphic design or video editing, the graphics card will be a boon.
If you need a laptop for working from home, drafting letters, and managing simple programs (like Microsoft Office), a gaming laptop will meet your needs. However, you’ll have to sacrifice some aesthetic value and battery life.
Because gaming laptops are meant to be used for long periods of time while running beefy games, their battery life isn’t impressive. Since they also fit so much advanced hardware, many gaming laptops are bulkier: not great if you need to carry it in a backpack for most of the day. This does, however, make the laptops sturdier and more damage-resistant.
We’ll explain these cons more later, but first, let’s examine all the ways a gaming laptop could be perfect for you. There are plenty of models that deliver on function while still remaining sleek.
Why Gaming Laptops are Worth the Investment
Your average gaming laptop will be pricier than a general-use computer. However, you’re investing in a computer that you can continue to upgrade and use for years to come. Gaming laptops are great for most people who work and game from home; here’s why.
Better Graphics
Gaming laptops come with a high-resolution built-in graphics card. This is invaluable if you plan to use your laptop for video or photo editing or you work as an artist. The laptop will not only have the capacity to run high-quality programs like Photoshop and InDesign; your work will look great.
These graphics cards are usually removable and replaceable (but not on every model). If you’re planning to keep up with the best visuals technology has to offer, be ready to invest in a new card every few years. Luckily, your laptop should be able to keep up with the progress.
Faster Processing
When running video games, the laptop has to take in a lot of information in a short amount of time. To ensure that the laptop can handle this input and output, the processing system is capable of advanced function.
This means that the laptop won’t get overwhelmed if you’re listening to Spotify while working in Asana and also drafting in Microsoft Word. It’s made to handle higher workloads than you’ll usually be doing.
This makes gaming laptops frustration-free, as you’ll be able to breeze through your day without having to wait for the computer to catch up. Most models also have multiple memory slots, so you can add storage as needed.
Sturdy Construction
Gaming laptops are often made of sturdier metals to better protect the expensive hardware inside. Many models also have rubberized edges or guard to prevent scratches and scuffs. Even the sleekest gaming models are pretty heavy-duty int heir construction.
If you have to take your laptop back and forth often, this is a great advantage. You won’t have to worry that you broke the screen if you set your backpack on the floor a little too hard. It can make the laptop heavier, but you may be okay with that in the end.
Upgradable Features
If a general-use laptop starts to function poorly, you have to replace the whole device. Gaming laptops, by contrast, are meant to have their inner parts switched out every so often. This means you can customize and upgrade your laptop as much as you want, with a little tech know-how.
Many gaming laptops even have a replaceable battery that you can charge and swap out. This makes the upkeep of a gaming laptop far less expensive than a general-use computer. It also gives you more control over the way your laptop runs and functions!
Longer Lasting Machines
Gaming laptops are meant to be purchased and upgraded for a few years. They’re designed with longevity in mind and don’t face the problem of planned obsolescence. Gaming laptops are durable and easy to upgrade as technology improves.
It will be a couple of years before you have to upgrade your gaming laptop, especially if you’re confident in your ability to upgrade the innards. Unlike other general use laptops that stop working after a new operating system is released, your gaming laptop could last a decade or more (with proper maintenance!)
Downsides of Gaming Laptops
As we mentioned before, the biggest downside of gaming laptops is their battery life. Video games take a lot out of the battery, so the laptops are designed to be used while plugged in. The average battery life of a gaming laptop is less than eight hours.
If you’re only planning to surf the web and draft a Word document, you can probably stretch that better life a little longer. But don’t count on hours of use without a good charge.
We’ve talked a lot about the sturdiness of gaming laptops. It’s a double-edged sword. The laptop will be able to stand up to some heavy use, but that makes it heavier and bulkier.
Many laptops have metal exteriors rather than plastic, which adds a lot of weight. Heavy-duty gaming sets will be bulkier as well, and not easy to carry in a small bag. If you often have to take your computer in to work, opt for a smaller, sleeker model.
If you want a velvet-soft keyboard or silent typing, a gaming laptop won’t meet your needs. Their keyboards are usually utilitarian and loud.
Finally, a highly aesthetic gaming laptop may not be best for work. Your colleagues may not take you seriously if you’re using an RBG backlit keyboard with huge, clacky keys. Keep that in mind, while purchasing a model for use at work and home.
How to Pick the Best Gaming Laptop
There are tons of gaming laptops out there for you to choose from. But how do you know which one is right for you? You may be familiar with some of the bigger brands, like Alienware and Raspberry Pi, but are there sleeker, subtler models out there?
If you’re okay with shorter battery life and less customization, you can definitely go with a budget model. These are usually made with a plastic exterior and are smaller than other gaming setups. They’ll run fast, look good, and can store everything you need.
Our personal favorite line of gaming laptops comes from Lenovo. They make sleek, impressive models that look good and run even better. Their specs are beyond impressive, and you’ll be amazed at the value.
Invest in Fun and Function
We hope you’re no longer asking yourself “are gaming laptops good for everyday use?” and are ready to start researching the best laptop for you. Upgrading your laptop to a gaming device will help you work smarter, not harder. Get ready to be amazed at your new workhorse laptop!
For more tech advice and reviews, check out our blog. We’re tech professionals ready to help answer all your questions. Flip through our older posts for more!
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