At Tom's Guide, we've been testing and reviewing the latest tablets for over a decade, with our tablet experts being parents themselves. Along with going hands-on with tablets, we stress-test these slates to see if they have the durable design, range of apps and fun factor every kid would look for.

Right now, the best tablet for kids we recommend to most is the Apple iPad 11. It's easy to use, comes with plenty of entertaining apps, built-in parental controls and isn't too expensive for what it offers. We do recommend buying a rugged case to make sure it can survive drops and scratches!

The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro and Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids are also excellent tablets for value, with a kid-proof design and intuitive parental controls. For more in-depth reviews, expert advice and test results, our guide to the best tablet for kids will help you pick the device your kid will love to use.

The best tablets for kids you can buy today

The best tablet for kids overall

Who is the Apple iPad 11 for?

Apple's iPad 11 is a great all-round tablet for kids of all ages. There are other tablets on this list that are more directly catered to certain age ranges, but if you wanted to make one purchase and accessorize with different cases as they grow up, this is the one to buy.

Why is it the best tablet for kids?

Looking beyond the design (which will just be covered up by a case to protect it from clumsy moments), the three superpowers here are its big and bright display for all your kid's needs, impressive performance and power efficiency to keep running on long journeys, and the amount of child-friendly experiences you can find on the App Store. And all of this comes in at a good price of $299.

What do we like about the iPad 11?

👍 A16 Bionic performs well for kids: We've done all the lab testing to prove this is the fastest tablet on this list for apps and games. I'll spare you the jargon and simply say this guarantees the A16 Bionic is zippy enough for zero temper tantrums while using it, and with over 11 hours of battery life, long enough for those big journeys.

👍 Apps and accessories to match your child's imagination: With any child-friendly tablet, you want to not just distract them from eating broccoli, you want to inspire learning and creativity. From Lego Duplo World to Crayola Create and Play, the options are endless in iPad's app store. And on top of that, the optional Magic Keyboard or Apple Pencil can take that creativity one step further when the time is right.

What don’t we like about the iPad 11?

👎 An expensive bet: I know I mentioned the cases to protect your iPad, along with the $299 price being good value for money as a whole. But if you need something quick and cheap to do the job, there are cheaper options on this list that aren't a potentially fragile combination of aluminum and glass.

The best tablet for younger kids

Who is the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids for?

The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablet has been purpose-built for children aged 3-7 years old — from its ultra durable and colorful hardware construction to the tailored OS with engaging apps and robust parental controls.

Why is it the best tablet for younger kids?

With a specific focus on younger kids, the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablet is a fantastic option for any child to grow up with — packing enough performance and battery life to keep that 1080p panel going for a long time, comprehensive child safety controls for setting limits, and all the entertainment your kids will love from the likes of Disney and Blippi's Treehouse.

What do we like about the Fire HD 10 Kids?

👍 Kid-proof from all angles: Yes, this is a big 10-inch tablet, but Amazon has pulled out all the stops with its Kid-Proof case, parental controls to set screen time limits and restrict apps, and a dense library of content catered to every year, so the tablet actually grows with your child.

👍 Performant and power efficient: To limit frustration, you've got to make sure its zippy and lasts a long time. While Geekbench scores (1,523 multi-core) may fall well behind iPad, the 2.0GHz octa-core processor is more than enough for the far more simplistic OS you get in the Fire HD 10 Kids tablet. Plus, this slab can last over 14.5 hours on one charge.

👍 Big, bright display: The 10.1-inch display is a true eye-catcher with color and brightness — paired effectively with loud and clear speakers. The bass production is poor, but from personal experience with my nephew, a kid is going to miss that bassy warmth when watching Paw Patrol in the car seat.

What don’t we like about the Fire HD 10 Kids?

👎 Limited app selection: Just like the HD 7, you get a year of Amazon Kids+. The content selection is wonderful for kids, but beyond the Kids+ subscription, Amazon's tablet app library is extremely constrained.

The best tablet for older kids

Who is the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro for?

For slightly older kids aged 6-12 years old, that's where the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet comes in. The case is slimmer, the OS is tweaked to allow for more advanced interactions (while keeping those robust parental controls), and Disney, Marvel and Lego are all part of that Amazon Kids+ subscription.

Why is it the best tablet for older kids?

For the kids growing up and getting used to using tech/expanding their horizons of learning/being inspired by the gadgetry they use, the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro Tablet is a respectively powerful slab with storage to take your films and TV shows on the go.

What do we like about the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro?

👍 Big, bright display: With a 10.1-inch 1080p display, this is a big, bright and colorful canvas for your kids to interact with. Whether it's jumping into all the age-appropriate Amazon Prime Video content or the apps and games built into the Kids+ service.

👍 Enough under the hood to do more: It's still not iPad-levels in terms of power, but for the limited amount of tasks that are possible on the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro Tablet, the Octa-core chip is fast enough for keeping apps running at a smooth 60 FPS with plenty of multitasking capability too — say for when you're flipping between a word processor for your homework and Duolingo for learning foreign languages. Oh, and did we mention this has over 14 hours of battery life in our testing!?

👍 Award-winning parental controls: Amazon goes on about the controls being award-winning a lot, but what that means in practice is so much more important when it comes to older kids. Those guardrails are critical in this transitional phase of a kids life, and being able to fine tune them along with screen time use limits too has limited my sister's anxiety when it comes to making sure my nephew stays safe on the tablet.

What don’t we like about the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro?

👎 Limited app selection: At this point in a child's development, sometimes what you need to do isn't necessarily going to be a purpose-built education app or a storybook. You need the ability to get stuff done, and the productivity side of Amazon Fire tablets has always been a bit of a weakness.

Battery life test results compared

The longer a tablet lasts, the happier your kids will be watching shows or playing games for hours. Battery life is a key factor in keeping your little one occupied, so we use our in-house battery test to measure how long each tablet we review lasts.

The good news is all the tablets in this guide have some of the longest-lasting batteries we've tested for tablets, stretching well past 10 hours. To put that into perspective, the pricey iPad Air M4 lasts 9 hours and 44 minutes, which goes to show how long these tablets last for less.

The table below will show you how each tablet compares in battery life. Also, if your kid is really putting the tablet through its paces, you'll want to keep one of the best portable chargers handy.

Best Tablets For Kids Battery Life Test Results

In our battery test, we set the tablet's display to 150 nits of brightness and have it endlessly browse the web via Wi-Fi until it runs out of juice.

Battery life (hh:mm:ss)

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids

14:32:00

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro

14:12:00

Apple iPad 11

11:25:00

03.757.511.2515

hours

Battery life (hh:mm:ss) Data

Product	Value
Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids	14.533333333333333
Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro	14.2
Apple iPad 11	11.416666666666666

Best Tablets For Kids: Frequently Asked Questions

How to choose the best tablet for kids

Still not sure which tablet is the right fit for your child? Don’t worry. Picking the right one can feel a bit overwhelming, especially with so many out there. I go through tons of tablets every year, and here are the key things I always think about when deciding which ones are actually worth recommending for kids.

• Screen size: Think about how your child is going to use the tablet. If they’ll be watching lots of videos or playing games with detailed visuals, a bigger screen — up to 10 inches — will give them a better experience.
• Battery life: All the tablets I recommend here last at least 10 hours, so you can expect them to survive a full school day or a long car ride. That said, some last even longer — over 12 hours — perfect for those long-haul flight moments for vacation.
• Budget: You can spend as little as $50 or as much as $600 on a kids’ tablet. But honestly, most parents don’t need to go anywhere near the top of that range. A good rule of thumb is to only spend what you’re comfortable losing if (okay, when) it gets dropped, sat on, or left behind somewhere.
• Age matters: A tablet that works great for a preschooler probably won’t cut it for a pre-teen. For little ones (around ages 3–7), the Fire HD 10 Kids is ideal — it’s easy to use, durable, and has excellent parental controls built in. For kids a bit older (around 6–12), the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro offers the same reliability but with a more “grown-up” feel. And once they’re in their teens, they’ll likely want something more capable, like the iPad.

How we test tablets for kids

When we test tablets for kids (or anyone, really), we don’t just take a quick look and call it a day — we put them through their paces to make sure they’re really worth your money.

First, we check how fast they are compared to other tablets. Some are better at handling games and apps than others, and we try to measure that as clearly as possible.

Then we take a close look at the screen. Is it bright enough to use comfortably? Do colors look rich and vibrant? We actually use tools (like light meters) to check this, so it’s not just based on how it “feels” to us.

Battery life is a big one too. Nobody wants a tablet that dies halfway through a long car ride. So we run a set test that browses the web nonstop until the battery runs out — that gives us a consistent way to compare how long each one lasts.

And finally, we use the tablets the same way you and your kids might. We browse the web, watch videos, play games, write things — all the everyday stuff. If the tablet has a keyboard attachment, we’ll even try typing the entire review on it, just to see how it holds up in real-life.

All of this helps us figure out which tablets are actually worth recommending — and which ones aren’t ready for life with kids.

Best of all, some of the best cheap smartwatches in 2026, like the Amazfit Active 2, cost less than $100. Others, like my overall pick for iPhone users, the Apple Watch SE 3, start at $249 but frequently go on sale for much less.

After hundreds of hours testing dozens of budget-minded smartwatch models, these are my five favorite cheap smartwatches in 2026, with a little something for everyone.

It's smartwatch release season! Which means there are new wearables from Apple, Google and Samsung all hitting shelves (or about to). None of the major brands released a dedicated budget model this year, so if you have an iPhone, I'd still recommend the Apple Watch SE 3 (even though the heart rate tracking is much improved on the Apple Watch Series 12) and likely steer clear of this year's Google Pixel Watch 5 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 9, and these are very modest improvements on the older versions, which are going to drop in price now.

Best cheap smartwatch under $100

The Amazfit Active 2 is the best cheap smartwatch you can buy in 2026 for less than $100. Compatible with both Android and iOS devices, it boasts an impressive set of fitness, health, and sleep-tracking tools, outstanding battery life, a stylish and comfortable design, and a handful of useful smart features like storage for offline music and NFC payments.

That said, the operating system isn't as refined as the latest watchOS or Wear OS builds, but for under a Benjamin, the Active 2 punches well above its price class. It also features onboard GPS for location tracking without a smartphone, support for offline maps, a moderately-useful AI voice assistant, and a surprisingly gorgeous display.

Did I mention it's just $99?

• Read our full Amazfit Active 2 review

Best cheap Apple Watch

The third-generation Apple Watch SE 3 is the best cheap smartwatch you can buy in 2026 if you own an iPhone, with most of Apple's best wellness, fitness, sleep tracking, and safety features, the latest S10 processor, an always-on display, and 5G connectivity, all for under $250.

Battery life is still just 18 hours per charge, like its predecessor; however, you can bump that to 24 hours per charge by switching to low-power mode. The screen brightness is also nothing to write home about, and the case is a little chunky, but those downsides aside, the SE 3 represents tremendous value when you consider all the features you're getting for the price. Better yet, it goes on sale frequently for $50 or more off.

It also works with all of Apple's latest on-wrist AI tools, including the personalized fitness coach, Workout Buddy, and live message translations.

• Read our full Apple Watch SE 3 review

Best cheap Android smartwatch

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 may be out, but the Galaxy Watch 7 remains an attractive value proposition for Android smartphone owners. It boasts a slim, lightweight, and comfortable design, two size options, a bright and responsive AMOLED touchscreen, and excellent health and fitness tracking features backed by AI.

Like the Apple Watch SE 3, there are an impressive number of third-party apps to try out, as well as the option to add LTE connectivity. However, compatibility is limited to Android devices only, and some features, like sleep apnea detection, require a Samsung Galaxy phone.

That said, when it comes to AI features, the Galaxy Watch 7 beats all of the other smartwatches in this guide thanks to its support for Google's genuinely useful Gemini AI voice assistant.

• Read our full Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 review

Best cheap smartwatch for fitness

The Garmin Forerunner 55 is the brand's most entry-level running watch, but don't let that dissuade you. This thing is absolutely brimming with high-end training features, health sensors, and holistic insights. These include tools to help you stay on pace while training, effectively recover after particularly challenging workouts, and prep for upcoming events.

The watch's battery life and build quality also impress. However, non-workout features are virtually non-existent. For example, there's no NFC for mobile payment or onboard storage for music. That said, you do get accurate GPS tracking and a super-rugged, comfortable overall design.

• Read our full Garmin Forerunner 55 review

Best cheap smartwatch for golf

Golf watches can be pricey, and especially for new or casual players, the upfront cost of the game tends to add up. So for the $199 Garmin Approach S12 to pack many of the key game features found in the brand’s higher-tier devices — including 43,000 preloaded courses, shot-distance measurements, and compatibility with Garmin’s other golf accessories — its value is hard to beat. That's why it's one of the best cheap smartwatches for golfers, if not the best overall.

It doesn’t have the finesse of Garmin's higher-end golf watches, and the lack of a heart rate monitor means it can't replace your fitness tracker. But for mirrored notifications and a simple, yet customizable watch face, there's plenty of versatility on and off the green.

• Read our full Garmin Approach S12 review

Best screenless smartwatch

While this is more of a fitness tracker than a smartwatch, I felt it deserved a place on this list for anyone who's looking for a cheap, screenless alternative to a smartwatch that allows you to focus on your fitness goals with no other distractions.

At just $99, it offers excellent value for money. While it does include a subscription model for personalized AI-backed health and fitness insights and deeper dives into your holistic trends (and many fitness bands do), it isn't necessary. You can still access the Fitbit Air's core features without it via the Google Health app. Plus, if you did want to access these insights, it's fairly inexpensive compared to other fitness subscriptions at $9.99 a month or $99 a year.

In terms of tracking, the Fitbit Air offers sleep tracking insights on par with the best fitness trackers and best smartwatches, and even has an app for tracking holistic trends, including resting heart rate, average calorie burn, step count, heart rate variability, menstrual cycles, and daily readiness. Its fitness tracking is reliable, too — in testing, we found that Fitbit Air tracks your heart rate with similar reliability to the Garmin Forerunner 70.

Overall, we found it to be smaller and lighter than alternatives from Whoop, Amazfit, and Polar, meaning it's comfortable to wear, too.

There are a couple of downsides, however. There's no built-in GPS or altimeter, which means you can't track your location or elevation data without carrying a smartphone. Additionally, during testing, we discovered that its automatic workout tracking only kicks in after 15 minutes. Plus, we found its list of activities that can be manually inputted on the Fitbit app to be lacking when compared with other fitness trackers.

Still, if you want a screenless fitness tracker, the Fitness Air is a comfortable, affordable option.

• Read our full Fitbit Air review

How we test

We test cheap smartwatches the same way we do pricier models: By wearing them. We first see how well the watches fit on our wrists and how easy the displays are to read, especially in direct sunlight.

Depending on its capabilities, we also test the watches' sensors, such as GPS and heart rate monitors. If you need a watch that can track your workouts without your phone, check out our guides to the best GPS watches and best running watches instead.

Other criteria that factor into our ratings include the number of apps available for a smartwatch, how well it interacts with our smartphone, and battery life. In all of this, we also take into account the price of the smartwatch.

The less a watch costs, the more leeway we're inclined to give it. Still, there are a lot of lousy cheap smartwatches — and plenty of good ones, even under $100 — so our tolerance only goes so far.

As you might've guessed, ring lights cast a circular ring of light. Put one of the best phones or best cameras in the middle of the ring, and the effect is even lighting over your whole face in photos and video. You (or your subject) will also have a halo reflection in their eye.

Thankfully, the best ring lights don't have to break the bank. We've tested lots of ring lights and rounded up our favorites here. To find the right one for you, all you need to do is read on!

The best ring lights: Meet the experts

The best ring light overall

Why it’s the best ring light overall: The Neewer RP19H ring light is the one that can do it all. Whether you need it for vlogging, a make-up artistry setup, or simply for taking selfies, this 19-inch ring light has got you covered.

The color temperature varies from 3200K to 5600K and is adjustable in 100K increments, making it fully customizable to suit any situation. The cooler tones show off a lot of detail, but also pick up on some imperfections. The warmer tones are more forgiving and can bring back some natural color with a CRI of 97+ for portrait work, and create an even look. You are also able to fine-tune the brightness in 1% increments to be super precise with your lighting. And this light gets super bright, so mid-level brightness is more than enough here.

The ring has three (yes, three) cold shoe mounts, making it ideal for live streaming and getting different angles at the same time. And any avid streamers will be delighted to hear that there are USB sockets at the back of the light that will charge up your phone, so you never have to worry about your battery running low.

The touch controls on the bottom of the light make it easy to control up close, but there is also a 2.4GHz remote and a Bluetooth shutter button to make shooting from a distance a breeze too.

Not only is the initial setup of the light incredibly simple, but it is easy to pack away when you need to move locations. But for a light that is even more portable and can be used without a power outlet, the Westcott 18-inch Bi-color LED kit is best for professional photographers, as it includes NP batteries.

• Read Ashley's full Neewer RP19H review

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The best budget ring light

Why it’s the best budget ring light: An essential for anyone looking to elevate their Instagram game or hop on the latest TikTok trends, the Neewer Basics BR60 is a five-inch ring light that can instantly polish any selfie or first-person video. The light is simple, yet in the best way possible — no fuss is needed to achieve professional results. And most important, it won't break the bank — this light costs under $20.

Thanks to a Color Rendering Index rating of over 97, real-world color replication with the five-inch ring light is some of the best I have achieved. The image instantly looked more professional, and it totally upgraded the quality of my phone camera.

The color temperature can be altered from 3000K to 6000K, giving cool tones and warm tones with ease. This is a wide range of adjustment for such a small light. The alterations are incredibly easy to make with the control panel that is built into the charging lead, so you never have to worry about losing the controls.

The BR60 has 60 LEDs on the light to give a maximum illumination of 450Lux/0.5m, which isn't hugely bright, but should be enough for basic indoor vlogging and video calls. There are 10 levels of adjustment to the brightness, giving an ideal glow for any scenario. For more adjustment and the extra power needed to light up photoshoots and do serious content creation, you should look at a bigger light like the Neewer RP19H.

The BR60 comes with a clip to attach it to your phone for ultimate portability and a mini tripod for a desk setup. The light is powered using a built-in USB cable, so it can be used portably with the addition of a power bank.

• Check out Ashley's Neewer Basics BR60 review

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The best ring light for vlogging and content creators

Why it’s the best ring light for vloggers and content creators: For online creators shooting for YouTube or social media (especially if they travel vlog), who want a cheap and cheerful ring light, the Rotolight Ultimate Vlogging Kit really is the ultimate choice.

The kit has everything you need to elevate your content, including an RL48-B ring light, a cell phone adjustable mount, a twin accessory bar, a mini tripod, and a set of four filters.

The Ultimate Vlogging Kit is more versatile than the Rotolight Video Conferencing Kit in terms of handling as you can easily hold it in your hands. It’s also better than the Neewer Basics BR60 5" for vlogging as you can’t mount a camera on Neewer’s offering.

The Ultimate Vlogging Kit’s lightweight design and easy setup make it ideal for creators who want a hassle-free, stripped back ring light. Its mini tripod doubles as a comfortable handheld grip while the ball head mount keeps everything steady, even while walking or moving around quickly.

Housing 48 LEDs — as opposed to the BR60 5" which houses 60 LEDs — and boasting a color rendering index of 95+, the Ultimate Vlogging Kit ensures accurate color and lifelike skin tones. In my testing, I was highly impressed with the Ultimate Vlogging Kit’s performance, especially because it’s so cheap. It’s also got a runtime of approximately three hours as it’s powered by three AA batteries, which is similar to the Video Conferencing Kit which uses six batteries, making the Ultimate Vlogging Kit better for the environmentally conscious.

But one of the ring light’s flaws is that it has a fixed color temperature of 5600K, and if you want to change it, you’ll need to use one of the four included filters for warmer tones (3200K and 4100K) and diffusion. In comparison, the BR60 5” has an adjustable color temperature of 3000K-6000K. Although lacking in advanced features like adjustable temperature or a companion app, for under $30, it’s hard to beat the Ultimate Vlogging Kit’s value and ease of use.

• Read Nikita's full Rotolight Ultimate Vlogging Kit review

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The best ring light for make-up artists

Why it’s the best ring light for make-up artists: Consistent lighting is a part of any good make-up artist’s arsenal, and the Neewer RL-18 is the perfect solution for wherever you may need to work. This 18-inch ring light is incredibly easy to set up and take with you anywhere. This means you are able to get perfect lighting conditions every time, wherever your client may be. The tripod is incredibly stable, so your lighting won’t move, meaning you can be as accurate as possible with make-up.

To get the best results with make-up artistry, you need to have a consistent light source that replicates the natural lighting of daylight, so the client looks natural and not washed out. The brightness adjustment on the light makes this possible with ease.

There are only two color temperature settings that can be changed with plastic filters, from 5600K to 32000K. But for make-up artistry, consistent white light works best as it will show every little detail of the masterpiece being created for a flawless finish every time.

The brightness of the 240 LED lights is fully adjustable with a dial up to 5500Lux/0.5m. And with a colour rendering index rating of 95, the light can replicate how colors will appear in real-world lighting extremely well.

If you also need to make social media content, the ring light comes with a phone holder that attaches in the centre. There is also a Bluetooth shutter button that connects to your phone to stop and start video without having to fiddle with your phone on the stand, and it can take photos without the need for a countdown timer.

The cushioned carry case that comes with the light makes it perfect for carrying between appointments, but the tripod also means it is great for a fixed studio space. It needs to be plugged in, so if you need a light that can be used without a plug socket or even outdoors, look at the Westcott 18-inch Bi-color LED light instead, although that light is more expensive.

• Read Ashley's full Neewer RL-18 review

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The best ring light for professionals

Why it’s the best ring light for professionals: The Westcott 18-inch Bi-Coler LED Kit is the perfect, premium ring light for professional photographers. While it sits at the premium end of the price range alongside the Neewer RP19H, the Westcott 18-inch delivers powerful, professional-grade performance, and it’s packed into a smart design. It also comes with a carry case for easy transportation.

It has a key feature that sets it apart from its competitors, especially the RP19H: battery-powered operation. Two NP-F750 batteries are included to power the Westcott 18-inch, so you can use the ring light on location outdoors or in spaces without easy access to mains power. A pair of batteries lasts just over an hour and the kit includes a battery charger. You can also fit any NP-F batteries, which are the professional industry standard.

The Westcott 18-inch’s performance is fantastic too, with a high color rendering index of 97+, which ensures accurate color rendering which is all-important for portraiture and product photography. Its CRI is far better than the Godox LR120’s 90. In our testing, we were highly impressed with the lifelike colors. You can dial in the exact look you want thanks to adjustable color temperature (3200K to 5600K) and powerful brightness on par with the RP19H.

The Westcott 18-inch isn’t without its flaws as it doesn’t have multiple cold shoe mounts for videographers who want to attach accessories like microphones — which is something the RP19H features but the LR120 also lacks. However, for professionals who value portability, powerful output and color accuracy, this ring light is hard to beat. If you’re working across varied environments, especially without guaranteed access to mains, this is the best ring light you can buy.

• Read Nikita's full Westcott 18-inch Bi-Color review

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The best ring light for video calls

Why it’s the best ring light for video calls: If you want a ring light that will make you look professional on any call with a client or coworkers, the Rotolight Video Conferencing Kit offers everything you need. The kit includes a NEO 2 light, a desktop light stand, a 360° ball head, and four filters/diffusers.

Unlike bulky studio setups or budget ring lights, the Video Conferencing Kit strikes a fantastic balance between power, portability and performance. It’s similar in size to the Rotolight Ultimate Vlogging Kit but the Video Conferencing Kit offers more stability when stood up on a surface.

The included NEO 2 light panel offers bright, true-to-life illumination with an excellent color rendering index of 96, and adjustable color temperature ranging from 3150K to 6300K. It offers more versatility compared to the Ultimate Vlogging Kit which has a fixed color temperature (unless you use the included filters). Thanks to this, you can ensure your skin tone looks natural whether you’re in a dim home office or a well-lit coworking space.

It takes under five minutes to set up the kit too. The controls are also straightforward and intuitive, making it ideal for people who are new to ring lights and lighting gear. However, the ring light doesn’t include Bluetooth or come with a companion app, and it requires six disposable AA batteries. Meanwhile, the Ultimate Vlogging Kit requires just three — something to keep in mind if you’re an environmentally conscious person.

At the end of the day, if you want to look polished and your best on every Zoom, Google Meet or Teams call, the Video Conferencing Kit is a premium choice that’s well-worth the investment.

• Read Nikita's full Rotolight Video Conferencing Kit review

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The best ring light that isn't a ring light

Why it’s the best ring light that isn’t a ring light: While it is not technically a ring light, the Neewer 7-inch round panel light serves a very similar purpose and offers steady and consistent lighting for any home office or studio setup. It’s best used in a fixed position on a desk, as the weighted base makes it hard to move.

The light offers a lot of adjustment. The telescopic arm of the light extends to a maximum height of 33.1 inches, and the head of the light can move 180º horizontally and 210º vertically. It can be set at the perfect angle to create the best lighting for your needs, whether that’s a work call or a Twitch stream.

The brightness of the 84 LED lights is adjustable too. With a maximum illumination of 680Lux/0.5m, there are 10 levels of brightness adjustment. The color temperature has five levels of adjustment from 3000K to 6500K. This is controlled with the built-in control panel on the power cord.

There is a phone holder on the stand of the light, but this cannot be positioned directly in the centre of the light (like with a ring light) as it will cast a shadow. So it is best to use this as a primary lighting source and have a camera set up on another tripod or on your computer for desk work.

This creates more of a diffused look than a ring light. It casts more shadows, but can create a more natural look when used in instances such as work calls or online streaming.

• Read Ashley's full Neewer Basics R06 7-inch Panel Light review

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How to choose the best ring light for you

Firstly, you'll want to consider whether you want a ring light or a different type of light. Ring lights are the best for vlogging or beauty content, as they're primarily aimed at lighting faces. If you are doing lots of different types of video, you might want to look into a traditional light instead.

If you do want a ring light, with so many available at so many different price points, how do you choose which model is right for you?

Use cases

Think about how you want to use the ring light. Are you just capturing casual photos on your phone? Then, you won’t need to spend a lot of money. But what if you are producing a weekly video podcast or episode for your YouTube channel? Then, you’ll want to pay more for a ring light that gives you more options.

Features

Do you need a ring that lets you adjust the light’s color temperature or brightness? Or do you need the option of powering the ring light either by an AC adapter or using batteries? You'll probably need a stand, so does the ring light come with one? Do you need a smartphone holder or a camera mount, or both? All the lights above come with some kind of stand or tripod. There are also lights with variety of different phone and/or camera holders, and lights with different power methods.

Size

Additionally, consider the size of the light: some are quite small and portable, which means you can take them on the road with you; others are larger and heavier, which may weigh you down, especially if they have a tripod. We've included both large and small ring lights in this guide, so you can choose the right one for your needs.

The best ring lights: FAQs

From massive curved OLED displays for true immersion to smaller, budget-friendly screens with softer bends, my team of monitor experts and I have put the latest curved monitors to the test by using professional-grade equipment and spending weeks using them for work and play. That's all to help you find the right curve to upgrade your setup.

Currently, the best curved monitor we recommend is the MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36, a 34-inch ultrawide with true immersion for productivity and gaming. It's not our only recommendation, though, so if you're after a visual treat with curves galore, here's a look at the best curved monitors on the market today, along with our lab test results to help you make the right decision for your setup.

The best curved monitors you can buy today

The best curved monitor overall

The MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 stands out as the top pick for those who split time between productivity and creative work during the day and those long gaming sessions at night (or vice versa!). Its 34-inch (3440 x 1440) curved QD-OLED display, 360Hz refresh rate and 1800R curvature deliver immersive multitasking and ultra-smooth gameplay, whether that's cinematic-like single-player titles or high-stakes competitive games.

That 0.03ms response time eliminates ghosting and motion blur, making every game feel sharp and responsive. For professionals, our lab measured an exceptional Delta-E of 0.15 for color accuracy, so color grading and creative work look right out of the box. Plus, it helps that it comes with multiple display modes, from AdobeRGB to FPS, and yes, even Black and White mode.

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 Test Results

Slide through to see color coverage (sRGB/DCI-P3),
color accuracy (Delta-E) and brightness (SDR/HDR)

< Prev

sRGB volume

Next >

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36

166.3

050100150200

sRGB volume Data

Product	Value
MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36	166.3

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36

117.8

050100150200

DCI-P3 volume Data

Product	Value
MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36	117.8

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36

0.15

01

Delta-E (lower is better) Data

Product	Value
MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36	0.15

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36

280

075150225300

Peak brightness (SDR) Data

Product	Value
MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36	280

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36

278

075150225300

Peak brightness (HDR) Data

Product	Value
MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36	278

1 of 5

Connectivity is strong here, too, as the X36 offers a decent selection of ports, from HDMI 2.1 to DisplayPort 2.1a, supporting everything from gaming PCs to work laptops, and yes, even consoles. Even better, it isn't too bulky to move around, and you can adjust it to your liking with flexible tilt, swivel and pivots.

Sure, the premium price ($949) is hard to ignore, and like many OLEDs, we wish it boasted better brightness. Still, if you want an all-in-one curved monitor that excels at both serious gaming and professional tasks, the MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 is tough to beat. Just don’t expect it to fit a bargain budget.

• Read our full MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 review

The best value curved monitor

The Alienware AW3426DW is our pick for buyers who want the sharpest, most versatile curved monitor performance for a sensible price at just under $800, delivering a 34-inch ultrawide panel at 3440 x 1440 resolution and a fluid 280Hz refresh rate that makes both work and play feel immersive and responsive.

It may only be a minor upgrade over the previous Alienware AW3425DW, sticking with the same 1440p resolution, immersive 1800R curvature and overall design, but you're getting an even brighter display with an even higher 280hz refresh rate at the same price. So, improvements without the extra spend.

In our hands-on testing, that blistering 0.03ms response time kept fast-paced games crisp with virtually no motion blur, while measured brightness topped out around 300 nits in SDR and nearly 500 nits in HDR highlights. That's enough to make colors pop without washing out details. Color accuracy is genuinely good for the price, so whether you’re tackling creative projects or diving into Cyberpunk 2077, you get visuals that impress without midrange compromises.

Alienware AW3426DW Test Results

Slide through to see color coverage (sRGB/DCI-P3),
color accuracy (Delta-E) and brightness (SDR/HDR)

< Prev

sRGB volume

Next >

Alienware AW3426DW

187.6

050100150200

sRGB volume Data

Product	Value
Alienware AW3426DW	187.6

Alienware AW3426DW

132.9

050100150200

DCI-P3 volume Data

Product	Value
Alienware AW3426DW	132.9

Alienware AW3426DW

0.2

01

Delta-E (lower is better) Data

Product	Value
Alienware AW3426DW	0.2

Alienware AW3426DW

298

075150225300

Peak brightness (SDR) Data

Product	Value
Alienware AW3426DW	298

Alienware AW3426DW

327

0100200300400

Peak brightness (HDR) Data

Product	Value
Alienware AW3426DW	327

1 of 5

Where this Alienware stands out is sheer value: it trades just a bit of flagship spec (like the MSI MPG 341CQR’s 360Hz or Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10’s premium build and slightly better color accuracy) for a much lower price, while still delivering the high refresh rate and strong gaming performance that matter most to gamers. It’s also a practical pick if you want an all-in-one display that feels top-tier without the flagship price tag.

Take note: HDR brightness can be a touch dim compared to the brightest OLEDs, but unless you need the absolute best color volume or niche premium extras, the Alienware 34 280Hz QD-OLED offers the best bang for your buck in the world of curved monitors.

• Read our full Alienware AW3425DW QD-OLED review

The best OLED curved monitor

The Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10 is, quite simply, a beautiful display. You'll pay a premium for what you get, but its highly accurate colors, absorbing 800R curvature, fast 240Hz refresh rate and rapid 0.03ms response times to minimize ghosting and motion blur make it all the more worth it.

It's a beast for gaming, and its ultra-wide 21:9 aspect ratio on its sleek 34-inch (3440 x 1440) OLED display offers rich, detailed visuals no matter the title you play. But it's also amazing for work and productivity, as it arrives with a ton of ports. That includes two HDMI 2.1 ports, eARC for hooking up to sound systems, a USB-C power cable with 140W pass-through, Ethernet and even USB-A charging ports.

Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10 Test Results

Slide through to see color coverage (sRGB/DCI-P3),
color accuracy (Delta-E) and brightness (SDR/HDR)

< Prev

sRGB volume

Next >

Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10

156.4

050100150200

sRGB volume Data

Product	Value
Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10	156.4

Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10

110.8

050100150200

DCI-P3 volume Data

Product	Value
Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10	110.8

Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10

0.08

01

Delta-E (lower is better) Data

Product	Value
Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10	0.08

Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10

266

075150225300

Peak brightness (SDR) Data

Product	Value
Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10	266

Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10

194

075150225300

Peak brightness (HDR) Data

Product	Value
Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10	194

1 of 5

Throw all that into a premium-built monitor that doesn't hog all the space on your desk (even if it's heavy to move around, as expected), and the Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10 truly shines.

While it's a shame that its sRGB and DCI-P3 color volumes aren't as high as other monitors on this list (especially for its price) and its brightness is a tad dim, that doesn't take away from the magnificent visuals this OLED curved monitor offers. If you've got pennies to spare, the Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10 will impress.

• Read our full Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10 review

The best dual-resolution curved monitor

Monitors with dual resolutions are becoming quite the trend, and the Alienware 39 5K2K OLED (AW3926QW) is the best we've tested. So good, our monitor expert Tony gave it a full five stars, and there's very good reason behind that.

This 39-inch curved OLED gives you a stunning 5K (5120 x 2160) and WFHD (2560 x 1080) canvas with the power to switch between 165Hz and a blistering 330Hz refresh rate, respectively. That means you can edit photos, tackle spreadsheets and then jump into competitive shooters, all on one screen with a nice, immersive 1500R curvature.

Performance is as smooth as it gets: it delivers a lightning-fast 0.03ms response time, and in hands-on runs of Cyberpunk 2077, everything from high-detail exploration to frantic firefights stayed buttery smooth at both 165Hz and 330Hz. If you’re chasing top-tier motion clarity or hate even a hint of input lag, this panel delivers.

Alienware AW3926QW Test Results

Slide through to see color coverage (sRGB/DCI-P3),

color accuracy (Delta-E) and brightness (SDR/HDR)

< Prev

sRGB volume

Next >

Alienware AW3926QW

134.2

050100150200

%

sRGB volume Data

Product	Value
Alienware AW3926QW	134.2

Alienware AW3926QW

95.1

050100150200

%

DCI-P3 volume Data

Product	Value
Alienware AW3926QW	95.1

Alienware AW3926QW

0.24

01

Delta-E (lower is better) Data

Product	Value
Alienware AW3926QW	0.24

Alienware AW3926QW

243

075150225300

nits

Peak brightness (SDR) Data

Product	Value
Alienware AW3926QW	243

Alienware AW3926QW

301

0100200300400

nits

Peak brightness (HDR) Data

Product	Value
Alienware AW3926QW	301

1 of 5

That visual punch isn’t just about speed. In our testing, the AW3926QW hit around 301 nits in HDR and produced vivid, accurate colors in standard mode. Whether you’re color grading, watching HDR movies or simply enjoying razor-sharp text, you’re getting a display that lives up to its spec sheet. The combination of pixel density and OLED contrast makes creative tasks satisfying, and being able to switch resolutions on the fly is a treat.

This is quite the space hog, though. While our tester found the 22-pound display light enough to reposition, its 39-inch sweep demands serious desk space. If you want one curved OLED for both pixel-perfect work and ultra-smooth play, and your setup can handle the size and price, the AW3926QW is the definitive dual-role pick in our lineup.

• Read our full Alienware 39 5K2K OLED (AW3926QW) review

The best ultrawide curved monitor

Thanks to its sheer size, there’s absolutely no way the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 isn’t going to instantly command your attention. As the world’s first-ever 49-inch OLED gaming monitor, we don’t know if we’ve ever encountered a more immersive display.

Its feature set is borderline ridiculous, too. For an admittedly super pricey $1,800, you get a monitor with 1800R curvature to give you a wrap-around vision experience that makes it oh-so-easy to get lost in your favorite PC games. The panel’s lightning-quick 0.03ms response time and 240Hz refresh rate also make it a great option for hardcore first-person shooter fans with seriously deep pockets.

Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 Test Results

Slide through to see color coverage (sRGB/DCI-P3),
color accuracy (Delta-E) and brightness (SDR/HDR)

< Prev

sRGB volume

Next >

Samsung Odyssey OLED G9

194.5

050100150200

sRGB volume Data

Product	Value
Samsung Odyssey OLED G9	194.5

Samsung Odyssey OLED G9

137.8

050100150200

DCI-P3 volume Data

Product	Value
Samsung Odyssey OLED G9	137.8

Samsung Odyssey OLED G9

0.12

01

Delta-E (lower is better) Data

Product	Value
Samsung Odyssey OLED G9	0.12

Samsung Odyssey OLED G9

161

075150225300

Peak brightness (SDR) Data

Product	Value
Samsung Odyssey OLED G9	161

Samsung Odyssey OLED G9

236

075150225300

Peak brightness (HDR) Data

Product	Value
Samsung Odyssey OLED G9	236

1 of 5

Those stats are ludicrous, and we love the ambition and craft Samsung has poured into its stunning curved OLED monitor. The Odyssey OLED G9 is capable of producing peerlessly immersive experiences.

This one's been on the market for a while, but it still delivers the highest specs around. That also means you can grab it for far less than its launch price, as we've seen it on sale for $899! If you take the plunge, it won't disappoint, but just be sure to make plenty of room on your desk.

• See our full Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 review

The best smart curved monitor

Curved monitors are fantastic for productivity and gaming, but the LG UltraGear 45GX90SA adds yet another element: binge watching. This massive 45-inch OLED monitor leads a "double life" thanks to its smart TV capabilities, courtesy of webOS. It even comes with a dedicated remote!

It's an all-in-one monitor that will have you switching from spreadsheets to immersive gaming to Netflix, and it could easily become your main screen for everything. What's more, its 3440 x 1440-pixel OLED panel offers some impressive brightness and strong color accuracy, so expect everything you stream, play or work on to offer up gorgeous visuals.

LG UltraGear 45GX90SA Test Results

Slide through to see color coverage (sRGB/DCI-P3),
color accuracy (Delta-E) and brightness (SDR/HDR)

< Prev

sRGB volume

Next >

LG UltraGear 45GX90SA

107.5

050100150200

sRGB volume Data

Product	Value
LG UltraGear 45GX90SA	107.5

LG UltraGear 45GX90SA

79.2

050100150200

DCI-P3 volume Data

Product	Value
LG UltraGear 45GX90SA	79.2

LG UltraGear 45GX90SA

0.21

01

Delta-E (lower is better) Data

Product	Value
LG UltraGear 45GX90SA	0.21

LG UltraGear 45GX90SA

207

075150225300

Peak brightness (SDR) Data

Product	Value
LG UltraGear 45GX90SA	207

LG UltraGear 45GX90SA

284

075150225300

Peak brightness (HDR) Data

Product	Value
LG UltraGear 45GX90SA	284

1 of 5

It isn't just about TV, though. Gaming performance is mesmerizing, thanks to a deep 800R curve that maximizes immersion and an OLED panel that delivers inky blacks and vibrant colors. Plus, the screen boasts a blistering 240Hz refresh rate and a 0.03ms response time, so expect super smooth gameplay.

It's one pricey curved monitor at $1,699, so it's worth grabbing this if you catch it on sale. Also note that its built-in speakers sound tinny without much bass. But if you're saving up for a massive curved display, the LG UltraGear 45GX90SA is a fantastic shout.

• Read our full LG UltraGear 45GX90SA review

Curved monitor lab test results

With every curved monitor that lands at our desks, we run tests using our own calibrated color spectrophotometers to measure a screen's color coverage, color accuracy and brightness.

Now, just because one display has a better color gamut range than another, it doesn't mean it's automatically the better choice. After all, it may not have as high a refresh rate or as low a response time. However, if color or brightness matters to you, then it's worth knowing just how well each panel performs, according to our lab tests.

Check out our versus table below to compare the curved monitor you have your eye on with the rest.

Best Curved Monitors Lab Test Results

Slide through to see color coverage (sRGB/DCI-P3), color accuracy (Delta-E) and brightness (SDR/HDR)

Versus Comparison Data

Attribute	MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36	Alienware AW3426DW	Lenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10	Alienware AW3926QW	Samsung Odyssey OLED G9	LG UltraGear 45GX90SA
sRGB volume	166.3	187.6	156.4	134.2	194.5	107.5
DCI-P3 volume	117.8	132.9	110.8	95.1	137.8	79.2
Delta-E (lower is better)	0.15	0.2	0.08	0.24	0.12	0.21
Peak brightness (SDR)	280	298	266	243	161	207
Peak brightness (HDR)	278	327	194	301	236	284

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36Alienware AW3426DWLenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10Alienware AW3926QWSamsung Odyssey OLED G9LG UltraGear 45GX90SA

VS

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36Alienware AW3426DWLenovo Legion Pro 34WD-10Alienware AW3926QWSamsung Odyssey OLED G9LG UltraGear 45GX90SA

sRGB volume (%)

166.3

187.6+13%

DCI-P3 volume (%)

117.8

132.9+13%

Delta-E (lower is better)

0.15

0.2+33%

Peak brightness (SDR) (nits)

280

298+6%

Peak brightness (HDR) (nits)

278

327+18%

Also tested

At Tom's Guide, we test the latest monitors to hit the market, and we get plenty of curved monitors to review. Our guide shows the best we've tested, but there are others that may suit your needs better and that we highly recommend, despite some of their downsides.

Check out all the other curved monitors we've reviewed here.

Best Curved Monitors: Frequently Asked Questions

How to choose the best curved monitor for you

Finding the best curved monitor to suit your needs can be a little daunting if you don't know exactly the type of PC display you want... other than, y'know, it's curved. There are key details to look out for with any panel, regardless of its level of curvature.

We evaluate, score and rank every curved monitor on the same basic criteria, which start with size and resolution. In most cases, more is always better: the larger the display and the higher the resolution, the more you can see/the sharper the image will be.

Screen brightness is another important element to consider. In 2026, you definitely want a curved monitor that supports HDR (High Dynamic Range) content, and generally speaking, the more nits a panel produces, the brighter it will be in real-world usage.

How we test curved monitors

When we're on the hunt for the best curved monitors, we thoroughly put every panel through its paces during our reviews with our Klein K 10-A colorimeter, which we then pair with testing software. This high-quality scope allows us to measure a monitor's brightness levels, color accuracy and color gamut range.

• Brightness is measured in nits, or candela per square metre (cd/m2). More nits equate to higher brightness levels, and in real-world viewing terms, this leads to more vivid colors and a clearer, more realistic overall image.
• Color is the other big concern for displays, whether they’re curved or not. Monitors that produce a greater range of colors have a larger color gamut, as measured under the sRGB or DCI-P3 color standards. This is presented as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating more colors.
• Color accuracy is the other main aspect when it comes to color reproduction, which lets us measure how closely a monitor can reproduce certain shades. This is presented as a Delta-E rating, which indicates the level of deviation from perfect. Zero is a perfect score, while higher numbers indicate lower accuracy.
• HDR (High Dynamic Range) presents its own testing challenges, as new standards allow curved monitors to offer higher peak luminance than our standard tests will register. If you're in any doubt, make sure you read an individual review for a fuller discussion of these issues, and how an individual curved monitor will handle HDR.

For more basic, budget-focused monitors, we still expect a display backlight to produce between 200 and 300 nits of brightness, though HDR screens often exceed that easily with a far higher maximum brightness. Not that brightness levels alone produce great curved monitors. After all, certain screens will wash out colors or offer inconsistent backlight levels that vary in some portions of the display panel (normally in the corners). "Backlight bleed" isn't something to worry about with OLED screens, though, as they can turn off every single one of their pixels to produce perfect black levels.

We also test a display's response time using a Leo Bodnar input lag tester. This advanced gadget measures how long it takes a signal to travel from a source device to the monitor and show up on the screen. Measured in milliseconds, this number is most useful for gamers or for those users who need immediate onscreen feedback from any input.

Lastly, every monitor we test is also used for web browsing, streaming videos and gaming, as well as the writing of the review itself. Our anecdotal testing often allows us to note the specific quirks of a display that lab testing might sometimes miss, whether it's challenges in scaling content, backlight issues or color reproduction.

But which one is right for you? With all the CPUs and GPUs, screen sizes ranging from 13 to 18 inches, battery life and budget to think about, there's a lot that goes into shopping for a gaming laptop. That's where our team of laptop experts and I come in, with years of experience testing, benchmarking and, of course, playing games on a wide range of rigs to help you find the best gaming laptop for you.

Our top recommendation right now is the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14, as this lightweight 14-inch gaming laptop packs a punch in performance and visuals with its gorgeous OLED display. For pure performance power? The mighty Razer Blade 16 (2026) is worth considering. If it's a value-worthy purchase that still delivers excellent gaming performance, the HP HyperX Omen 15 should be right up your alley.

There's more to consider, and this guide will help you find the best gaming laptops for all types of gamers. Read on for our in-depth reviews and testing.

The best gaming laptops you can buy today

As the RAM crisis continues, gaming laptops have become a lot more expensive than they once were. As with the best graphics cards, even the latest laptops with great but entry-level specs can set you back well over $1,000 / £1,000, so value is more important than ever. While also showcasing the best gaming laptops we've tested with top-end performance, we've kept the cost in mind to help you find a gaming machine that's worth every penny.

The best gaming laptop overall

As the headline of my review suggests, I took the new Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 on a 5,000-mile journey with me. And from firing up Cyberpunk the first time and seeing that silky smooth OLED gameplay, I already knew this was going to be the gaming laptop I'd recommend to everyone who asked me.

A lot of it remains the same — an identical gorgeous CNC-milled aluminum finish that gives serious MacBook Pro vibes, a stellar typing and clicking experience with a tactile keyboard and glass touchpad, and that delicious 14-inch 2880 x 1800 OLED display.

But inside, Asus has vastly increased the horsepower pairing to an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and up to an Nvidia RTX 5080. These together unlock a true beast in both prosumer productivity and (most importantly) monstrous gaming performance.

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080) Gaming Tests

1080p|Max Settings|DLSS Off

< Prev

Cyberpunk 2077

Next >

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

49

015304560

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	49

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

47

015304560

FPS

Black Myth Wukong Data

Product	Value
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	47

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

129

037.575112.5150

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	129

1 of 3

Turn on DLSS 4 with multi-frame gen, and I was playing Cyberpunk at over 140 frames per second with max settings. When I remembered just the size and weight of this machine, it felt a little mind-bending to see just what it can do.

That being said, Asus hasn't managed to overcome the poor battery life of the G14's predecessor. Don't get me wrong, it did get an additional 45 minutes of playtime in my testing. But just like any gaming laptop, make sure you run games near a power outlet.

But with all that being said, this is a gaming laptop that doesn't forget about the "laptop" part of the equation, and that's why it keeps its position at the top of this list.

• Read our full Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2025) review

The best gaming laptop for value

As gaming laptop prices surge, HP's all-new HyperX Omen 15 has come to take the pressure off with a value-friendly machine that still delivers amazing performance in a well-built, subtly stylish design. That is, if you go for the starting configuration that we've seen on sale for $1,099. For anyone looking for their first gaming laptop, or looking for an upgrade with its higher-tier specs, look no further.

Under the hood, you can go all the way up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 CPU and RTX 5070 GPU that delivered 79 fps in Forza Horizon 6 (1080p, Extreme settings) in our real-world tests. After hours of racing, we never once felt bottlenecked by the hardware. For true value, though, the configurations with an RTX 5050 or RTX 5060 with an Intel Core i5-14500HX or AMD Ryzen 7 8745HX processor will still let you play the latest PC games at 1080p and 1440p at the right settings.

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070) Gaming Tests

Benchmark performance settings:
1080p|Max Settings|DLSS Off

< Prev

Cyberpunk 2077

Next >

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)

35

010203040

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	35

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)

126

037.575112.5150

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	126

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)

29

07.51522.530

FPS

Red Dead Redemption 2 Data

Product	Value
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	29

1 of 3

You’re also getting a gorgeous OLED display on par with what you’ll find in the best laptops out there. Otherwise, the 2K (1920 x 1200) IPS display will still make games pop with color and give you extra resolution for details at 1200p. For the price, the HyperX Omen 15 delivers value where it counts.

Of course, you do have to live with some compromises. The fans get very loud during gaming sessions, and you’ll want to stay plugged in, as you can only expect around 1 hour and 13 minutes of battery during real gaming. Plus, the system ships with a frustrating amount of bloatware and preloaded promotions that you’ll probably want to uninstall immediately.

That being said, our reviewer, Arif, found himself reaching for the Omen 15 instead of a PS5 for a week. It’s clear this is a value champ for anyone who wants premium visuals and solid performance without blowing the budget, as long as you grab this during a sale (it usually is) to make the most out of your wallet.

• Read our full HP HyperX Omen 15 review

The best premium gaming laptop

For top-of-the-line specs in a supremely slim, lightweight and premium gaming laptop, set your sights on the Razer Blade 16 (2026). Just from the look of it, it's hardly surprising our reviewer, Tony Polanco, said it's one of the "loveliest-looking gaming laptops" around. Just make sure your bank account is prepared for its high cost.

Razer's latest 16-inch beast comes in a fantastically thin, portable design, but still leaves room for its vivid and bright 16-inch 2.5K (2560 x 1600) OLED display with a wicked-fast 240Hz refresh rate and 0.2ms response time, bringing out the best in visually stunning titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and fast-paced competitive shooters like Counter-Strike. It is quite glossy, though, so it's best used in darker rooms.

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090) Gaming Tests

1080p|Max Settings|DLSS Off

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Cyberpunk 2077

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Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

65

020406080

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	65

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

58

015304560

FPS

Black Myth Wukong Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	58

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

182

050100150200

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	182

1 of 3

Expect to crank up the settings to max, especially with the higher configurations available for the Blade 16. With the Intel Core Ultra 9 358H chipset and RTX 5090 GPU in the model we tested, this gaming laptop was reaching above 70 fps at 1440p resolution without DLSS 4 turned on, and that was with maxed-out graphics settings in AAA titles. No matter the game, this machine can make it shine.

Interestingly, another big perk is Blade 16's battery life. Gaming laptops aren't known to last too long, even when not gaming, but you can expect close to 13 hours of battery for productivity, which is an impressive feat (though still expect just under 2 hours while gaming).

When put under pressure, we noticed the Blade 16 gets loud and hot, likely due to its slim profile. Keep that in mind, and you'll find a premium gaming laptop that will last you for years to come. That is, if you have the funds, considering it can cost you up to $5,599 with the best specs. At the very least, prices start at $2,399 for lower configurations.

• Read our full Razer Blade 16 (2026) review

The best ultraportable gaming laptop

Put simply, this is the power of roughly an RTX 4070 gaming laptop in something the size of a tablet. The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is a Microsoft Surface Pro that ingested a whole lot of caffeine, and it's one of my favorite gaming systems ever. And now, for all you Death Stranding fans out there, there's the Asus ROG Flow Z13 Kojima Edition, and it boasts the highest configuration you can get for this marvelous gaming 2-in-1.

At just 11.8 x 8 x 0.6 inches, it's easily the smallest system on this list, and I know when I say the words "integrated graphics," a lot of you reading this guide will recoil in horror. But stick with me. AMD's Strix Halo chips are a true marvel in gaming performance.

I'm talking Cyberpunk 2077 at a solid 30 FPS and Red Dead Redemption 2 at 60 FPS (at the right settings, no less). If you turn on FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) tech for frame generation and resolution scaling, you can easily get these games running at over 100 FPS. And they look really rather pretty on that 500-nit display with a vibrant 82% DCI-P3 color gamut. But going the integrated route reveals two key superpowers here: battery life and versatility of play.

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S) Gaming Tests

1080p|Max Settings|FSR Off

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Cyberpunk 2077

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Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

13

03.757.511.2515

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	13

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

21

07.51522.530

FPS

Black Myth Wukong Data

Product	Value
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	21

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

70

020406080

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	70

1 of 3

Most of the laptops on this list will struggle to make it much further past the one-hour mark when disconnected from the charger. At over two hours in our lab testing, that integrated GPU knows how to slow sip that battery juice and keep you playing for longer (of course, mileage varies based on what kind of games you're playing).

Then there's the versatility. This is a 2-in-1, after all, and while the keyboard attachment feels shockingly good to play on, with good key depth and tactility, you could just ditch it altogether, pull out a Bluetooth controller, and play on your own dedicated superpowered tablet, too!

So long as you're prepared for a couple of other tablet-esque frustrations, like the limited number of ports and the price tag attached to this, there's nothing better for ultraportable gaming right now.

• Read our Asus ROG Flow Z13 (2025) review

The best 16-inch gaming laptop

The Alienware 16 Area-51 2026 is a marvelous upgrade over last year's still-excellent Area-51, now boasting an absolutely outstanding glare-free OLED panel. It may only be a minor update, but with the latest Intel CPU and graphics card from Nvidia, it's quickly become our favorite 16-inch gaming laptop right now.

This beast is built for gamers who want a roomy, immersive 16-inch (2560x1600) OLED display that cuts the glare and delivers a blistering 240Hz refresh rate right at your desk. As we've seen throughout testing, that big, anti-glare panel makes games look stunning and motion feel great.

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080) Gaming Tests

Benchmark performance settings:
1080p|Max Settings|DLSS Off

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Cyberpunk 2077

Next >

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

62

020406080

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	62

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

56

015304560

FPS

Black Myth Wukong Data

Product	Value
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	56

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

191

050100150200

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	191

1 of 3

Under the hood, you can configure it with up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus and an Nvidia RTX 5090 GPU. In our hands-on testing, the review unit’s RTX 5080 and high-end CPU combo cranked out an impressive 110 fps in Cyberpunk 2077 at native resolution and default graphics settings (that's with frame generation off). In short, this system can handle demanding gaming loads, from AAA PC gaming to fast-paced competitive play. In fact, it even beats the powerful Razer Blade 16 (2026) in a few games, and that boasts an RTX 5090 (with a less powerful CPU, though).

Of course, battery life is abysmal, at just over 1 hour when gaming and 3 hours and 33 minutes in our tests, and expect to leave this at your desk rather than traveling around with it, thanks to its hefty 7.4-pound weight. If you’re planning to travel with your gaming rig or game away from a power outlet, this is a limitation you’ll feel.

If you want a pure 16-inch gaming powerhouse that prioritizes visuals and performance, and you don’t mind staying plugged in, the Alienware 16 Area-51 is a pick that won't disappoint.

• Read our full Alienware 16 Area-51 (2026) review

The best 18-inch gaming laptop

There are plenty of big-screen gaming laptops to choose from, but it's rare to find one that can also fit in a normal backpack. That's where the Razer Blade 18 comes in — packing mightily powerful specs into a big yet slim chassis that can be carried around.

Yes, of course, it's going to be heavy at 6.9 pounds, and it comes with the standard hefty Razer price tag too. But for what you get, this is a seriously good option for serious gamers. With a sustained 280W of power delivered to the CPU and GPU, this is capable of some beasty frame rates with all the ray tracing goodness turned on.

Compared to the astronomically expensive MSI Titan 18 HX, the Blade wins out easily — Metro: Exodus is 9.5% faster on Extreme detail, Marvel Rivals is 20.8% faster on Ultra, and Assassin's Creed: Shadows is a whopping 24% faster at Ultra detail.

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090) Gaming Tests

1080p|Max Settings|DLSS Off

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Cyberpunk 2077

Next >

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

65

020406080

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	65

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

74

020406080

FPS

Black Myth Wukong Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	74

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

213

075150225300

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	213

1 of 3

Plus, a plethora of ports (including Thunderbolt 5) and a phenomenal 4K 240Hz display mean you can embrace DLSS 4 and multi-frame gen and not lose any of that buttery smoothness. And since it's Razer, the laptop parts also get plenty of TLC — the keyboard feels amazing to use with an ocean of a touchpad, the speakers are clear with nice bass, and thermal management is kept optimal with a massive vapor chamber.

Yes, that $5,000 price tag for the RTX 5090 version will sting, but for the ultimate large display experience on the go, this is the one to pick.

• Read our full Razer Blade 18 (2025) review

The best desktop replacement

Desktop replacements need to do three things well: be powerful (duh), have a great screen and nail the ergonomics. Not only does the HP Omen Max 16 tick the boxes on all three, but it also does so at a slightly lower price than the rest of the pack.

Yes, at a starting price of $3,000, that cost is still going to sting. But given you're looking at $4k upwards for systems of a similar spec, this is actually value for money for those who want as much of a desktop as possible without the space for a giant tower.

Performance-wise, you're looking at well over 60 FPS in all your favorite AAA titles at the highest settings, which can be multiplied with DLSS 4 and multi-frame gen (thanks to that RTX 5090), and the high wattage pumping through all the components (and strong heat dissipation) meant I got blistering fast sustained performance, too.

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080) Gaming Tests

1080p|Max Settings|DLSS Off

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Cyberpunk 2077

Next >

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

71

020406080

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	71

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

51

015304560

FPS

Black Myth Wukong Data

Product	Value
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	51

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

175

050100150200

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	175

1 of 3

Then let's talk about the screen up top — a gorgeous QHD+ OLED panel with a silky smooth 240Hz refresh rate. Normally, you're looking at Mini LED screens that can run this fast, and to see the flash flood of color of OLED this smooth is a treat for the eyes.

Of course, you're not here for the battery (it's a desktop replacement), so it should come as no real surprise that you're getting under 90 minutes of gameplay on one charge.

But there's no mistake about it, if you want the most performance possible to give a gaming desktop-esque experience without taking up too much space with a tower, the Omen Max 16 would be my choice. Oh, and the wealth of ports and that sleeker chassis give it pride of place on any desk (as well as unlocking great cooling).

• Read our full HP Omen Max 16 (2025) review

The best upgradeable gaming laptop

Gaming laptops are great and all, but I feel like you do miss out on one of the best bits of the best gaming PCs — the modularity and upgradeability. Seeing the ever-increasing spec demands of AAA titles in the next few years can be worrying, but none of that matters with the Framework Laptop 16.

Put simply, this is a gaming laptop that you can customize, repair and upgrade on your own time. And it's super simple, thanks to the expansion slots and a comprehensive guide to do so! This means while you get some top-notch options included (the RTX 5070 Ti in here is an impressive dedicated GPU for 1080p, 1440p and even some 4K gaming in our testing), you're not limited to it when new GPUs come out in the future.

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070) Gaming Tests

1080p|Max Settings|DLSS Off

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Cyberpunk 2077

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Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

38

010203040

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	38

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

35

010203040

FPS

Black Myth Wukong Data

Product	Value
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	35

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

132

037.575112.5150

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	132

1 of 3

And even if you go for the "DIY version" that you build yourself, it only takes 15 minutes to put together, and with the vast array of port options you can add to it, I managed to find the perfect arrangement of sockets and performance for me with the greatest of ease.

On the face of it, this is quite a chunky option, and to get the downsides out of the way, the screen up top is a little dim, and those keyboard deck panels can slide around a little.

But for the chance to be able to upgrade, repair or even switch the ways you use it through the super easy modularity of the Laptop 16 makes these gripes fade into the background in my experience.

• Read our full Framework Laptop 16 (2025) review

Performance test results compared

When you're buying a gaming laptop, you want to know how well it can run the best PC games.

That's why we run every gaming laptop we review through a series of performance tests in 3DMark and a number of games, including Assassin's Creed Shadows, Doom: The Dark Ages, Black Myth: Wukong, Cyberpunk 2077 and Grand Theft Auto V.

In 3DMark, we run several tests on each laptop, including Fire Strike, Time Spy, Fire Strike Ultra, Time Spy Extreme, Speed Way, Steel Nomad, and Port Royal. Each of these benchmarks shows how well a laptop can handle graphics, and the higher the number, the better.

Here's how each laptop compares. Take note: not all benchmarks could be performed for each laptop, but here's a general look at how they scored.

Best Gaming Laptops 3DMark Benchmarks

Slide through to see different results from our 3DMark tests

< Prev

3DMark Fire Stirke

Next >

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

37411

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

36218

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

32769

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

31779

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

30564

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)

26259

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

18985

010,00020,00030,00040,000

3DMark Fire Stirke Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	37411
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	36218
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	32769
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	31779
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	N/A
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	30564
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	26259
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	18985

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

15527

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

14641

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

10376

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

14737

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

11082

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

7988

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)

7332

05,00010,00015,00020,000

3DMark Fire Stirke Ultra Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	15527
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	14641
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	10376
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	14737
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	11082
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	7988
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	7332
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	N/A

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

12061

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

10662

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

8252

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

10216

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

8157

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

6100

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)

5668

03,7507,50011,25015,000

3DMark Time Spy Extreme Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	12061
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	10662
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	8252
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	10216
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	8157
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	6100
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	5668
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	N/A

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

16285

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

15715

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

10376

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

13558

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

11167

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

8676

05,00010,00015,00020,000

3DMark Port Royal Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	16285
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	15715
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	10376
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	13558
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	11167
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	8676
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	N/A
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	N/A

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

65

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

65

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

71

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

62

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

49

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

38

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)

35

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

13

020406080

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	65
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	65
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	71
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	62
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	49
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	38
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	35
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	13

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

74

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

58

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

51

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

56

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

47

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

35

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)

30

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

21

020406080

FPS

Black Myth Wukong Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	74
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	58
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	51
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	56
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	47
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	35
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	30
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	21

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

213

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

182

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

175

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

191

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

129

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

132

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)

126

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

70

075150225300

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	213
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	182
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	175
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	191
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	129
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	132
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	126
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	70

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)

2886

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

1600

07501,5002,2503,000

3DMark Speed Way Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	N/A
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	N/A
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	N/A
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	N/A
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	N/A
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	N/A
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	2886
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	1600

1 of 8

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Battery benchmarks: comparison

We run every laptop we review through battery tests, which measure how long it can last on a full charge, both while gaming and while doing less demanding work like browsing the web.

Below you'll find a chart of how long these laptops last while gaming using the PCMark 10 benchmark tool. This is typically far less time than they would use while just browsing the web, so while these battery times are the most conservative, when doing less demanding work, you can generally expect between 8 and 12 hours of battery life from these laptops on a full charge.

Ultimately, what you do on your laptop, how bright you set the screen and what power settings you use will all affect how long your laptop lasts before running out of juice — but this chart will help you compare and find the best gaming laptop for your needs.

Gaming Battery Life Test Results

Using the PCMark 10 benchmark tool, here's how long each gaming laptop lasts while gaming

Battery life (hh:mm:ss)

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

01:56:00

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

01:41:30

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

01:23:00

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

01:45:00

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

02:09:00

HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)

01:13:00

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

01:02:00

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8050S)

02:15:00

0123

hours

Battery life (hh:mm:ss) Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	1.9333333333333333
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	1.6916666666666667
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	1.3833333333333333
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	1.75
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	2.15
HP HyperX Omen 15 (RTX 5070)	1.2166666666666668
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	1.0333333333333334
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8050S)	2.25

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Also tested

Our computing experts at Tom's Guide review dozens of gaming laptops every year, and while some may have their faults, they could suit your needs or budget. So, have a look at the other machines we've tested.

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Best Gaming Laptops: Frequently Asked Questions

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How we test gaming laptops

To find the best gaming laptop, we run every machine through a rigorous suite of benchmarks and real-world tests to gauge how it will perform during everyday use. We measure the average brightness and color quality of each laptop's display using our in-house light meter and colorimeter.

For general performance, we run our machines through tests that include Geekbench 6 (CPU performance), as well as various 3DMark tests to measure graphics capabilities. We also run a file transfer test to measure how fast a machine's hard drive is, and a custom battery test that has the machine browse the internet over Wi-Fi until it runs out of juice.

We also run benchmarks for popular games such as Assassin's Creed Shadows, Black Myth: Wukong and Red Dead Redemption 2 on every gaming laptop we test. For more information on our testing process, check out our guide to how we test.

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