Returning to PC gaming, tired of consoles. Questions and concerns.
Returning to PC gaming, tired of consoles. Questions and concerns.
Hello everyone. I own two entry-level gaming laptops from MSI. The top model comes with these specifications:
16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Nvidia 1660 TI graphics, an i7-9750h processor at 2.6GHz.
These machines handle games I like such as Diablo 3 (hopefully 4 if possible), Witcher 3, and World of Warcraft Classic/retail.
Regarding newer titles, I’m curious about how they’ll perform with these specs—like Diablo 4, Hogwarts Legacy, or Elden Ring. Are there any options to enable sleep mode without using the power button (I close the lid with a monitor)? Should I stick with a 1080p display for gaming, considering the age of my graphics card?
For extra USB ports, I only have two and would like a good 3.0 USB hub that offers more ports. Lastly, I need recommendations for controllers. I currently use Xbox Series controllers but also considered PS4 or PS5, possibly wireless options. Any suggestions would be really helpful.
You should be able to enjoy any game at acceptable framerates when using suitable graphics settings at 1080p. I recommend having a cooling pad for your laptop. Laptops often fail early because the dedicated graphics remain hot for too long. You can adjust the power settings in Windows so it wakes up when you move the mouse or press a key. There are many USB 3.0 hubs on the market. I’m not very experienced with them, but I know you might need one that provides its own power if you plan to connect several devices. I favor a wired Xbox One controller because wireless options perform poorly—wireless adapters often fail, the button breaks, and Bluetooth either doesn’t connect or responds unreliably.
Absolutely! Speaking of wired controllers, I already have one nearby and plan to try it out. Just make sure to hide the cord, haha. I also have a cooling pad, but if you have any suggestions for a great or affordable option, let me know.
Because you own two laptops, test each one to check its performance.
However, many users report issues with gaming laptops.
Typically, these problems occur when gaming while connected.
A frequent reason is thermal throttling.
Laptop coolers need to be compact and lightweight.
They are also generally less powerful.
If you monitor temperatures using tools like HWMonitor or HWinfo, you’ll see the CPU’s current, minimum, and maximum temps.
For Intel processors, a maximum temperature of 100°C indicates throttling.
The CPU reduces its clock speed and power consumption to safeguard itself until conditions improve.
At a lower speed, your CPU might be operating at full capacity.
What options do you have?
Ensure the cooler’s airflow is unobstructed and the fan is running.
Use Windows balanced power mode instead of performance mode.
Set a minimum CPU performance level around 20%.
It may seem odd, but adjusting the advanced settings in Windows Balanced Power to a maximum of 90% rather than the default 100% can help.
You might not notice a drop in performance.
For optimal gaming, a dedicated desktop might be preferable.
I intend to get a desktop next year just to make it through this one with what I have. =) Also, notes recorded! Thanks! =)