Looking for a fresh gaming laptop but unsure what to pick.
Looking for a fresh gaming laptop but unsure what to pick.
Hi everyone,
A while back I purchased a medium to lower-end gaming laptop (ASUS ROG) that I really enjoyed using. It performed well during gaming sessions, especially for games like Elder Scrolls Online and World of Tanks. However, after about nine months, I noticed something unusual: when I ran multiple programs or opened games with high settings, the screen would briefly dim. Eventually, I discovered it was due to the laptop switching to battery power instead of charging properly. This happened even though it was plugged in all the time. I also found out that a recent Windows security update might have contributed to the problem.
I read about troubleshooting steps and one recommendation was to restore the system. That worked and resolved the issue. But after a year, it came back—this time it didn’t fix itself. The only solution was to charge it fully and wait a few hours before it would start charging again. I tried reinstalling drivers, cleaning the battery, and even performed a hard reset, but nothing helped. Eventually, I had to do a complete factory reset. From then on, the laptop stopped working reliably, especially when the internet connection dropped.
I contacted ASUS for support, but since it was out of warranty, they didn’t assist much. Many other users reported similar problems online, and I was hesitant to switch again. Eventually, I decided to look for a more stable option. Now I’m searching for a better gaming laptop with a larger screen, solid build quality, and better cooling performance. I don’t need portability and am open to finding a good deal—ideally between $2 and $2.5k.
My main concern is whether this issue persists in newer models. If it does, I’m cautious about buying another ASUS or even a Dell (I’ve considered Alienware). I also tend to read negative reviews, which has made me wary of certain brands. I’d appreciate advice on more reliable brands and build options. I’m looking for something with at least 32GB RAM—preferably i7/i9 or AMD Ryzen 9 7000 series—and a good graphics card like GeForce 4070 or 4080, or equivalent.
I’ve seen the Alienware M18 with an AMD build (available on Best Buy for around $2k) and I’m open to suggestions and any online offers. Thanks for your help with CPU and GPU choices, and let me know about any known problems with specific models or brands.
The display quality should be fine. An 8GB GPU seems sufficient for the setup.
Think about the framework if you have time to wait?
Set up a Framework Laptop 16 (AMD Ryzen™ 7040 Series)
Pick from AMD or Intel choices, set your memory and storage, OS, and other settings. Options include DIY or ready-made builds.
frame.work
I’m eager to move forward, but I also have some design projects waiting. My main worries are whether the GPU power limits at 150W will work with a 4080 model and if it’s worth the trade-off. I was considering MSI mainly for its screen quality and Intel choice, though I think the Alienware’s larger chassis could offer better cooling.
I’d appreciate hearing what others think about these options.
4070 alternative with enhanced RAM and 16-core CPU:
https://www.amazon.com/EXCaliberPC-G713P...th=1&psc=1
4080 upgrade with 32GB RAM:
https://www.amazon.com/ASUS-Display-GeFo...th=1&psc=1
I chose the alienware model with 4080 and 32 RAM. I understand the display quality isn’t top-notch, but I’m cautious about buying an ASUS since my previous experience was positive, even though that device looked great and handled temperatures well.
I’m hoping I won’t be let down. We’ll find out soon enough.
Thank you for taking the time to consider this for me.