The gaming industry is evolving and incorporating several innovations over time. Gone are the days when the developers have to sit in small spaces for days and weeks to design their game ideas. In the present on-the-go world, mobility is inevitable. And as a developer, whether a beginner or a professional, you must have an idea that the best budget laptop for game development is essential to convert a good idea into excellent execution.
Every game developer knows that developing the game on low storage and underpowered laptops involves many lags and glitches that lead to frustration. In the end, you have to compromise on the quality of the game.
Gaming involves graphic-intensive tasks, and it can be 2D or 3D. The 2D games do not need that much hardware, while 3D game development requires high performing and efficient system. So, the game development is directly linked to the laptop that you use. Therefore, it is necessary to get your hands on a laptop that can effectively fulfill all the requirements.
Thankfully, there are laptops presents in the market that have the specs and hardware required for high-quality game development. Furthermore, these high-performing laptops can run software like Unreal Engine, Unity, Solidworks, and AutoCAD.
A laptop for game development needs to have a dedicated GPU, high-quality RAM, fast storage, graphical display, and a powerful processor capable of handling heavy programs and software without lagging or stuttering.
So, if you are in search of the best budget laptop for game development, this article is dedicated to you. Read on till the end, and you will know all the features of a high-performing laptop and also the reviews of the best laptops for game development present in the market.
Top-rated laptops for game development
A wide variety of laptops are present in the market, but not all laptops are made for game development. The huge number of choices confuse you that which one is best for your needs. Therefore, to help you find the best, we have listed the six best budget laptops for game development after research and expert recommendations.
- Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop
- Apple MacBook Pro
- CUK ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 Creator Laptop
- HP Spectre x360 Touch laptop
- Gigabyte AERO 15 KB Laptop
- Lenovo Legion Y540 Gaming Notebook Computer
| Images | Product Name | Check Price |
|---|---|---|
 | Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop | Check Price |
 | Apple MacBook Pro | Check Price |
 | CUK ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 Creator Laptop | Check Price |
 | HP Spectre x360 Touch laptop | Check Price |
 | Gigabyte AERO 15 KB Laptop | Check Price |
 | Lenovo Legion Y540 Gaming Notebook Computer | Check Price |
Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop
The Predator Helios 300 is packed with everything you need for game development. With a killer combination of smart features, this laptop is devastatingly powerful. The high-end sound system, killer look, fast performance, and high-end display are the things that make it an industry-standard laptop for game development. Moreover, it fulfills all the requirements necessary for efficient and smooth game development.
Performance
The 10th Generation Intel Core i7 Processor is efficient in its processing power and ensures fast speed. The Core i7 diminishes the chances of glitches and lags during game development. In addition, due to this high-power processor, the graphics pop up on the laptop screen with lifelike precision.
GPU
The laptop is equipped with an Overclockable NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 that has the Turing Architecture. This revolutionary architecture combines artificial intelligence, programmable shading, and real-time ray tracing that allow you to enjoy the most advanced and graphically intensive games like never before.
On top of that, this GPU has 6 GB of dedicated GDDR6 VRAM, which increases the overall storage capacity for the image data during game development.
Memory
The Predator Helios 300 is loaded with 16 GB DDR4 RAM. It is the recommended RAM for working uninterruptedly using different software.
Storage
Laptops with high SSD capabilities are perfect for game development, and this laptop has 512GB NVMe SSD. As a result, it provides the fast and most efficient response times in stored assets.
Display and Design
The 15.6-inch full HD widescreen IPS display has a screen resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels which enhances the visuals and provides the ultimate gaming display for enthusiast gamers. It has an incredible 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms Overdrive response time for high-octane gameplay. In addition, there is 300nit brightness.
Besides that, it features see-through backlit concave-shaped keycaps for WASD. The overall design of the laptop is attractive and eye-catching.
Interfaces
With this laptop in hand, you can plug multiple external devices easily into the ports. There is a Mini-Display port, the USB 3.2 Type C Gen 2 port, USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and HDMI 2.0. Also we have review of Best 2 in 1 gaming laptops.
Other details
The new 4th Gen Aeroblade 3D Fan technology keeps the performance up and heats down. The Bandwidth prioritization is also under user control in the Control Center. With the Killer DoubleShot Pro, you can control the bandwidth taken up by the applications.
Furthermore, the DTS X Ultra provides a high-end 360o surround sound system that allows you to enjoy your favorite games with real-world sound.
Specifications
- Processor: 10th Gen Intel Core i7
- RAM: 16 GB
- CPU speed: 5 GHz
- Screen size: 15.6 inches
- Weight: 5.07 lbs
- Operating system: Windows 10 Home
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Pixels
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060
- Battery life: 6 hours
- Memory: 512GB NVMe SSD
Features
- Comfortable keyboard
- Powerful GPU
- High-quality audio
- Predator sense RGB controls
- Heat dissipation system
Apple MacBook Pro
The MacBook Pro has all the features one needs to develop the game efficiently. It has always been the first choice of professional game developers. The high power, perfect quality, and durability are some features that make it the best laptop for coding and gaming.
With the superfast processor, next-generation graphics, and the longest battery life, this laptop is designed for those who want to develop high-quality games.
Performance
The laptop has an Intel Core i9 processor with eight cores and sixteen threads that maintain the high performance for longer periods. It delivers 2.1 times better performance than the previous model of MacBook Pro. So, whether you are compiling and testing codes or developing and playing games, you can do it fastly with this laptop.
GPU
The graphics of the MacBook Pro makes it the best choice compared to other laptops. The AMD Radeon Pro 5000M provides high-end graphics. This model is 2X faster than the previous model and ensures seamless playback and faster rendering of ultra-high-definition videos.
Moreover, for graphics-intensive projects, you can supercharge it with the additional Radeon Pro 5600M to ensures ultra-rich and high-definition playback.
Memory
The unit has 16 GB RAM, which is far more than the 8 GB required for game development. In addition, this model also has 64 GB of DDR4 memory. Therefore it allows more efficient multitasking during game development.
Storage
The MacBook Pro has 8TB of SSD storage. It is the highest storage available that allows you to easily store a large amount of data without any worry.
In addition, no matter what amount of data you have stored in your MacBook Pro, the superfast up to 3.2GB/s sequential read speed loads the massive files instantly.
Display and Design
This best laptop for video game design has a 16-inch Retina display with True Tone technology. It produces 500 nits of brightness. In addition, the P3 wide color gamut ensures brilliant and true-to-life images and videos.
The 16-inch MacBook Pro features a Scissor Switch keyboard that allows a comfortable typing experience.
Interfaces
There are four Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports that allow the transfer of data easily and quickly.
Other details
The six-speaker sound system produces an excellent sound that makes the games more enjoyable. The dual force-canceling woofers minimize the vibration for a clearer and natural sound. The studio-quality three-mic array is also there for superclean recordings.
Besides that, it has a high-capacity battery. The 100 watt-hours lithium-polymer battery provides the longest battery life of up to 11 hours. In addition, the Apple T2 Security Chip provides high-level data security.
Specifications
- Processor: 2.3GHz 8-core Intel Core i9
- Graphics: AMD Radeon Pro 5500M
- Memory: 16 GB
- Display: 16-inch Retina Display
- Resolution: 3072×1920 native resolution
- Wight: 4.3 pounds
- Storage: 8TB SSD
- Operating system: Mac OS
- Battery life: 11 hours
Features
- Sleek design
- Long battery life
- Ultrafast SSD
- Six speaker system
- Comfortable keyboard
- High-quality audio
CUK ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 Creator Laptop
If you are developing games that require a lot of software to run simultaneously, then you need ZenBook Pro as it is the best laptop for video game design. It helps to deliver high-end game development. The ZenBook Pro Duo lets you done your work in style and with zero fuss. It is a powerful and elegant laptop for on-the-go productivity and creativity. Also you can check Best Cheap Gaming Laptops.
Performance
Game development software requires a good processor to run the system smoothly. Therefore, this laptop is equipped with an Intel Core i9 eight-core processor, which allows you to run multiple software and development engines without any problem.
GPU
This laptop has NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070, which accelerates graphics rendering and provides you the tracking for high-end game development. So, with this laptop in hand, you can develop games with high efficiency.
Memory
It has 32 GB DDR4 RAM, which is more than the recommended RAM required for game development. So, you can work in a flow at high speed, and everything will run efficiently without interruption.
Storage
The 1 TB SSD takes this laptop to new heights. Due to that high storage capabilities, your saved work will load up in instants, and you don’t have to worry about storage space.
Display and Design
It has 15.6-inch OLED 4K UHD NanoEdge touchscreen that provides ultra-clear colors. In addition, there is a secondary touchscreen that tilts up by 9.5o and makes an angle of 144.5o between the main screen and ScreenPad Plus. So, you can enjoy excellent visuals across both displays. Besides that, the high-tech magnesium-aluminum alloy is used in its construction. The intriguing design gives ZenBook Pro Duo 15 a totally unmistakable identity.
Interfaces
For easy connection, this laptop features a set of ports, which include a pair of Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ports. These ports ensure high-speed data transfer.
Other details
The weight of the laptop is 5.16 lbs; therefore, it is highly portable. In addition, it delivers high-quality audio that makes your gaming experience more enjoyable.
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core i9 eight-core
- Graphics Coprocessor: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070
- RAM: 32 GB DDR4
- Storage: 1 TB
- CPU speed: 2.40 GHz
- Screen size: 15.60 inches
- Weight: 5.16 lbs
- Display resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
Features
- Dual screen setup
- Diverse connectivity
- Built to last
- High storage capacity
- Attractive design
HP Spectre x360 Touch Laptop
The HP Spectre x360 Touch Laptop is one of the best laptops for game design. It has a high capacity to let you run multiple game development software simultaneously. With this laptop in your hand, you can develop high-quality games with better sound and extraordinary visuals.
Performance
In terms of performance, the HP Spectra x360 is equipped with a 10th generation quad-core Intel Core i7 processor, which is perfect for game development. It offers four-way processing and 1.30 to 3.9 GHz processing speed with an 8MB Smart Cache. In addition, the Intel Turbo Boost Technology provides high-efficiency performance.
GPU
The Intel Iris Plus is present in this laptop which helps you to create high-quality video graphics. You can develop your games using the required software efficiently and smoothly without any interruption.
Memory
The laptop has 16 GB RAM, which is enough for game development. It is the recommended memory for using game-developing software smoothly. So, you can work in a smooth flow without any issues.
In addition, this best budget laptop for game development is a one-time investment and allows you to do multitasking.
Storage
With 512 GB NVMe M.2 SSD, you can access your data fastly. This large storage capacity allows you to store a bulk of data in your laptop, and it also improves the laptop’s performance.
Display and Design
The 13.3-inch full HD touch screen lets you experience unique colors and clarity. The high screen resolution and crystal clear display provide a high-quality picture. Moreover, the IPS technology ensures wide viewing angles, and the laptop has a 13T GEM cut design that is highly attractive.
Interfaces
There are excessive options for connectivity and safe data transfer. The laptop has one USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A and two USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C with Thunderbolt 3.
Other details
The laptop provides unmatched audio performance with Quad Bang & Olufsen speakers. The premium sound quality brings entertainment to your life, and you can enjoy your games with good sound effects. Moreover, fingerprint reader, Webcam kill switch, and Mic mute key are the few other features that make it worth buying.
Specifications
- Processor: 10th Gen Intel Core i7
- CPU speed: 1.30 GHz
- Storage: 512 GB
- RAM: 16 GB DDR4
- Screen size: 13.3 inches
- Weight: 2.8 pounds
- Display resolution: 1920×1080 pixels
Features
- Touchscreen
- High-quality audio
- Superior speed and networking
- Lightweight
- Impressive HD panel
Gigabyte AERO 15 KB Laptop
The Gigabyte AERO 15 laptop is the best laptop for graphic design and programming. It has the most powerful tools for creative professionals and content creators to bring their vision and ideas to life. This laptop is optimized with speed and power for high-resolution rendering. It provides an excellent refresh rate to let you enjoy your favorite games with perfect 3D images, good video quality, and color accuracy. It is an ultra-light and high-performance laptop for complex and demanding processing tasks like game development.
Performance
It has a 10th Generation Intel Core i7 processor with a turbo-boosted clock speed of 5GHz and 12MB Smart Cache that optimizes performance. With this six-core processor, you can run multiple software smoothly. There will be no issue of a shutter, chug, or overheating. So, you can work faster on your games more than ever before.
GPU
The AERO 15 laptop features NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 graphics card for creative workflow. The NVIDIA Turing GPU architecture allows game developers to bring their characters to life with realistic effects and ultra-fast frame rates.
Memory
The 16GB DDR4 RAM is also there for multitasking productivity. The 16GB memory is more than enough for game development, so you can easily work on your projects without any interruption.
Storage
The 512GB SSD safely stores all the large-scale projects and creations and also allows accessing files at a fast speed. This high storage capacity makes AERO 15 an ideal choice.
Display and Design
The screen is 15.6 inches in size with ultra-thin bezels. The 89% screen-to-body ratio is perfect for creative tasks. The FHD 240Hz IPS Panel is also there to ensure excellent performance. You can see each detail of the image that directly influences the quality of the work. In addition, it has a compact and durable aluminum alloy back chassis.
Interfaces
The Aero 15 has a variety of input and output ports that allow you to connect nine external devices. There are HDMI 2.0, Mini-Display port 1.4, and Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ports.
Other details
The laptop has a remarkable 8.4 hours battery life. It comes with Microsoft Azure AI self-learning technology that recognizes the game or program and optimizes the best CPU and GPU settings required for that particular program. In addition, this best budget laptop for game development has WINDFORCE Infinity cooling technology that increases the overall cooling efficiency of the laptop by 30% for smooth performance and effective workflow.
Besides that, the laptop also features a sliding webcam cover and Fingerprint login for advanced security. The RGB Fusion 2.0 keyboard with over 16 million backlight colors helps you work at night without straining your eyes. In addition, the Aero 5 has high-power stereo speakers that provide a cinematic sound experience.
Specifications
- Processor: 10th Generation Intel Core i7
- CPU speed: 5 GHz
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060
- Screen size: 15.6 inches
- Storage: 512GB
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Battery life: 8.5hrs
- RAM: 16GB DDR4
- Display resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Operating system: Windows 10 Home
Features
- Windforce Infinity Cooling System
- Long battery life
- AI self-learning technology
- Connects up to 9 external devices
- Eye-catching design
Lenovo Legion Y540 Gaming Notebook Computer
The Lenovo Legion Y540 is also the best budget laptop for game development. The lightweight and sleek design make it an ideal choice. It has all the essential features required for a gaming laptop at an affordable price. Moreover, the fast speed, high storage, and durability are some of the prominent features of this laptop.
Performance
The Intel Core i7 processor is present in this best business laptop for gaming. This high-performing processor enhances the speed and allows you to run multiple software simultaneously.
GPU
When talking about GPU, the Lenovo Legion Y540 has NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660Ti that perfectly gets the job done. It works best for rendering high-quality images and create realistic effects.
Memory
The 16GB RAM is enough for game development. With the high memory, this laptop increases multitasking productivity, and you can work on different game-developing software without any worry.
Storage
This laptop features 256GB of SSD, which is the perfect amount of storage for gaming laptops. Your saved work load-up in seconds, and you can store the files and data in bulk on this laptop.
Display and Design
The laptop has 15.6 inches screen size. The full HD display allows you to see each detail of the image or video clearly. The overall design of the laptop is eye-catching.
Interfaces
This laptop has USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C, USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A, Mini Display port 1.4, and HDMI 2.0 for easy data transfer.
Other details
The built-in audio speakers provide high-quality sound and make your gaming experience more enjoyable. The webcam, durable design, affordable price, and average battery life are some other features that make it the best laptop for game development.
Specifications
- RAM: 16 GB
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660Ti
- Processor: Intel Core i7
- Storage: 256 GB
- Screen size: 15.6 inches
- Operating system: Windows 10 Home
- Weight: 6lbs
- Display resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
Features
- Durable
- High screen resolution
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- High storage capacity
What to consider when buying the laptop for game development
Not all laptops present in the market are developed for gaming purposes. Therefore, you need to be careful before investing your hard-earned money and consider some crucial factors that can impact your game development experience. To know what type of laptop you should invest in, you need to consider the below-mentioned key factors before making any purchase.
RAM
As a game developer, you know how software like Unity, Visual Studio, GMS 2, and Unreal Engine are always hungry for more RAM. When you have to use two or three software simultaneously, the situation becomes even worse.
For beginners, laptops with 8GB RAM are enough, but the case is not the same for professional game developers. Because with every updated IDE version, the requirement for more RAM increases. Therefore, the recommended RAM for game-developing laptops is 16GB.
Processor
To efficiently develop games without constant lags that leave you in frustration, you need a high-speed laptop. The processor or CPU of the laptop needs to be fast to handle the compiling and rendering of the projects.
The best budget laptop for game development must be equipped with multi-threaded processors. Besides that, the processor should provide enough power to smoothly run the software and applications required for game development.
GPU
For 3D game development, it is inevitable to use integrated graphics because you cannot always trust the graphic capabilities of the CPU. A high-quality GPU can help to diminish all the uncertainties during game development.
In addition, the strong GPU provides the additional memory that, along with RAM, ensures smooth working. The GPU combines with the CPU increases the processing power of the graphics. Therefore, you must consider this point before buying the best budget laptop for game development.
Storage
The high SSD is a must to handle the storage needs for game development adequately. The high storage capabilities of the laptop give you peace of mind and allow smooth rendering and compiling of data. However, HDD-based storage is not suitable for game development because it causes serious heating issues during working. So, you must ensure before buying that your laptop has SSD-based storage.
Display
The display size and screen resolution of the laptop play an important part during game development. Because to see what you are creating, you need high resolution to examine each detail carefully.
A laptop having 1080P display monitors along with an IPS panel is best for game development because it provides accurate colors and graphics display.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 16GB RAM enough for game development?
The 16GB RAM is more than enough. The required RAM for game development is 8GB, and with this RAM, you can smoothly work on different software. However, it is always better to have more RAM to efficiently operate various programs at once.
Is a gaming laptop good for everyday use?
A gaming laptop can easily be used as a regular laptop. It can do anything the normal laptop can do. However, gaming laptops are more powerful and more efficient than normal laptops in many terms.
Which is the best for game development: a PC or a laptop?
Desktop computers have their own place in the gaming world, but modern gaming laptops are far better when it comes to comfort, power, and efficiency. You can work on your game conveniently at any place. Moreover, modern laptops are incredibly fast and powerful, which ensures high-quality game development.
Conclusion
All the six laptops mentioned in the article have all the specs required for game development. Keep in mind that you need a unit with a high CPU speed, strong GPU, enough RAM, a high-resolution display, long battery life, and SSD storage. All these features collectively ensure high-quality game development.