To say that Baldur's Gate 3's launch has been an unexpected phenomenon for everyone involved, including the developers, is an understatement. It continues to garner north of 100,000 active players daily and remains a mainstay on bestseller lists globally on Steam. Other platforms such as MacOS, PlayStation, and Xbox further cement this lead for the multi-platform title.
The Best Gaming Laptops for 2024
The best gaming laptop for you will come down to budget, expected performance, and workload. Let's dive in and find your new gaming laptop.
With some of the highest levels of customizability available to players thanks to 12 classes, 46 subclasses, and hundreds of hours of gameplay, Baldur's Gate 3 is expected to remain a popular title for the foreseeable future as gamers explore the dense word of the turn-based RPG title. While the title is available on multiple platforms currently, there is only one that can run it with unlocked frames per second (FPS) along with the highest graphics presets making a PC or a gaming laptop the only weapon of choice currently available to users wanting to get the best visual experience possible.
Baldur's Gate 3 System Requirements
Baldur's Gate 3 has the following specs published by developer Larian Studios on Steam:
Minimum Requirements
- Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
- OS: Windows 10 64-bit
- Processor: Intel I5 4690 / AMD FX 8350
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Graphics: Nvidia GTX 970 / RX 480 (4GB+ of VRAM)
- DirectX: Version 11
- Storage: 150 GB available space
- Additional Notes: SSD required
At the recommended end, however, there is a better CPU recommendation as well as a more mid-range GPU requirement that shows up in the form of an 8GB+ VRAM requirement and a beefier Nvidia/AMD GPU suggestion with SSD storage requirements remaining unchanged and relatively modest for a 2024 PC or Laptop.
Recommended Requirements
- Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
- OS: Windows 10 64-bit
- Processor: Intel Core i7 8700K / AMD Ryzen 5 3600
- Memory: 16 GB RAM
- Graphics: Nvidia 2060 Super / RX 5700 XT (8GB+ of VRAM)
- DirectX: Version 11
- Storage: 150 GB available space
- Additional Notes: SSD required
Baldur's Gate 3 System Requirements (Via Steam)
It must be noted that gaming laptops have thermal and power limits that kick in far before their respective PC counterparts do. As a result, they tend to be considerably slower than comparable PCs with the same configuration thanks to these limitations, meaning that one might want to consider getting a gaming laptop that is somewhat faster than the minimum and recommended specs, respectively, if they are looking for a smooth experience while playing Baldur's Gate 3.
The team at Game ZXC has hand-picked some of the best gaming laptops that meet or exceed the recommended specifications for Baldur's Gate 3, focusing on a decent GPU and CPU combo and covering the storage and memory requirements.
Game ZXC's Picks for the Best Gaming Laptops To Play Baldur’s Gate 3
Acer Predator Helios 16 PH16-71-72YG
Acer Predator Helios 16 provides high-end specifications for under $1500 and an outstanding display for enthusiasts. The 240Hz screen makes sure users are getting those fluid movements on the screen while the i7 13700HX and RTX 4070 combo ensures the games can reach a high framerate consistently.
- Operating System
- Windows 11
- CPU
- Intel Core i7 13700HX
- GPU
- Nvidia Geforce RTX 4070
- RAM
- 16GB DDR5
- Storage
- 1TB PCI-E SSD
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 16", 2560x1600
- Brand
- Acer
- Model
- Predator Helios 16 PH16-71-72YG
- Display type
- IPS
- Connectivity
- WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1 or above
- Excellent CPU-GPU config for a reasonable price
- High refresh rate G-Sync compatible display
- RGB-backlit keyboard
- High power consumption
The Acer Predator Helios 16 is packed with incredibly capable hardware for modern gaming requirements. Whether it's just Baldur's Gate 3 or any other modern title, the Helios 16 doesn't struggle a bit. Powered by the high-performance Core i7 13700HX processor, it gets a sufficient number of cores for gaming while also keeping adequate room for background applications. Not only does it boast high-clock speeds that get a lot of love from games, but it also helps in intensive CPU applications.
Paired with it is the popular Geforce RTX 4070 GPU that is unparalleled for its price-to-performance ratio. This laptop edition GPU features 8GB of GDDR6 VRAM, capable of maxing out graphics settings at both 1080p and 1440p resolution. Therefore, it's safe to say that the 1600p IPS display of Helios 16 won't be too hard for this GPU. The high refresh rate of 240Hz and G-Sync compatibility further enhance the smoothness of the gameplay, making sure users have a pleasurable gaming experience.
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From the premium exterior to the interior components, the laptop is a beautifully crafted machine, featuring an RGB keyboard, sturdy build quality, and excellent connectivity features, including Wi-Fi 6E, multiple USB Type A and C ports, and a Thunderbolt 4 port for high-bandwidth devices.
ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2023)
Overkill Processor Meets Mid-Range Gaming Laptop
The ASUS ROG Strix G16 is designed for smooth gameplay and efficient multitasking. The computer sports a 13th-generation Intel Core i9-13980HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU. These allow high frame rates for a smooth gaming experience even at 2560x1600 resolution. For faster load times and efficient multitasking, the laptop includes 32GB of DDR5 memory and a 1TB PCIe SSD.
The Strix G16 also features ROG Intelligent Cooling, with liquid metal on the CPU. The laptop's QHD 240Hz panel ensures clear, fast visuals and is DCI-P3 compliant.
- Operating System
- Windows 11
- CPU
- Intel Core i9-13980HX
- GPU
- RTX 4070
- RAM
- 32GB DDR5
- Storage
- 1TB PCI-E 4.0 SSD
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 16'' QHD, 240Hz
- Brand
- ASUS
- Model
- G614JI-XS96
- Battery
- 90WHr
- Camera
- 720P HD Camera
- Weight
- 2.50Kg
- Display type
- Nebula Display
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Comes with a very capable and fast 24-core Core i9 13980HX CPU
- Comes with excellent networking under the hood
- Has an excellent ROG Nebula 2K 240Hz HDR display
- Missing a numpad despite being a larger 16'' model
- Significantly more powerful than is required for Baldur's Gate 3
The 2023 version of the ASUS ROG Strix G16 gaming laptop (G614JI-XS96) is an excellent gaming laptop that punches above its weight in two important categories. It offers an impressive 2K, 240Hz ROG Nebula display with HDR in tow and sports the highest-end 13th-generation Intel CPU for gaming laptops currently: the Intel Core i9 13980HX.
With plenty of storage thanks to the bundled 1TB PCI-E 4.0 SSD, as well as 32GB of DDR5 RAM, the Strix G16 exceeds requirements for both storage and memory, allowing the ROG Strix G16 to push for a considerably better gaming experience than some of its counterparts that offer dated storage and limited RAM in 2024.
The RTX 4070 comes with 8GB of VRAM, sitting exactly where Larian has suggested is recommended for the game. This should allow it to max out the title on the gorgeous Nebula HDR display. This, coupled with the fact that with a turn-based title, users might be a bit more flexible with lower frame rates in combat than some of the non-turn-based titles such as FPS games means that gamers should be able to push settings to a maximum or even game on an external 4K gaming monitor without a large performance dip.
Note:A newer model that sports the RTX 4060 and a 14th-generation Core i9 CPU might alternatively be a better, more balanced alternative to the higher-end 2023 SKU for gamers looking to get the newest model possible at MSRP.
GIGABYTE AORUS 7 9KF
GIGABYTE AORUS 7 9KF boasts an impressive 360Hz refresh rate display paired to a mid-range gaming laptop configuration that targets MOBA players in particular given its particular configuration.
It comes well-equipped in the memory and storage department for its price range and leverages a capable Intel Core i5 CPU with a mid-range RTX 4060 in a configuration that should hold its own with most, if not all upcoming titles in the near future.
- Operating System
- Windows 11
- CPU
- Intel Core i5 12500H
- GPU
- Nvidia Geforce RTX 4060 Laptop
- RAM
- 16GB DDR4
- Storage
- 512GB SSD
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 17.3", 1920x1080p
- Brand
- Gigabyte
- Model
- Aorus 7 9KF-E3US513SH
- Battery
- 99Wh
- Network
- Wi-Fi 6E
- Keyboard
- RGB-backlit
- A 360Hz panel at an affordable price
- Big 17.3-inch display
- Good configuration for gaming on ultra settings
- Only 512GB of storage space
- Reaching 360 fps won't be possible in most games
The reason why gamers on the go would prefer larger laptops is simple - the bigger the screen is, the more a gamer can potentially see before it's too late. This is highly beneficial in esports games like CS2, Valorant, and other fast-paced shooters. Even though it's not going to be a deal-breaker for playing Baldur's Gate 3, users who also play competitively will benefit from the Gigabyte Aorus 7 9KF immensely. This laptop boasts a 17.3-inch display with 1080p resolution running at a incredibly high refresh rate of 360Hz.
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Not every game will be able to hit the 300+ fps mark as the software needs to be from the Tier 1 category as well. The laptop still gets a decently potent configuration for a price that no other laptop is able to match with a 360Hz display. The combination of the Core i5 12500H and RTX 4060 ensures gaming on ultra settings and 16GB RAM will not limit games or apps in performance. If possible, it's recommended to upgrade its storage, since most users find 512GB too small for storing their games.
MSI Katana 15 15.6" 144Hz FHD Gaming Laptop
The Best Value All-Rounder
The MSI Katana is an excellent budget-centric high-end gaming laptop that outperforms most of the high-end laptops in its price bracket while maintaining an efficient, value-for-money approach to offer the latest and greatest in PC hardware to its audience.
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Home
- CPU
- Intel® Core™ i7-13620H
- GPU
- GeForce RTX 4070 8GB GDDR6 Laptop GPU
- Storage
- 1TB PCI-E 4.0 SSD
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 15.6" FHD (1920 x 1080), IPS-Level 144Hz NTSC 45% Panel
- Speakers
- 2 x Speakers 2W
- Network
- Wi-Fi 6, Gigabit Ethernet
- Weight
- 4.96lb
- Brand
- MSI
- Power
- 240W Power Adapter
- Battery
- 3-cell 53.5Whr Li-Polymer
- Camera
- 720P Webcam
- Colors
- Black
- Memory
- 16GB DDR5 5200Mhz (8GB x 2)
- Ports
- USB A, USB C, HDMI, Audio Jack, Ethernet
- Dimensions
- 14.13 x10.20 x0.98 inches
- Form
- 15.6'
- Packs a mid-range 13th-generation Intel Core i7 CPU
- Offers plenty of RAM and SSD storage
- Sports a powerful RTX 4070 GPU
- The display is slightly underwhelming
- The internal battery is relatively weak
For users on a stricter budget looking for a powerful gaming laptop, the newer 2023 MSI Katana is offered at a massive discount over the competition, packing in a 13th generation Intel Core i7 CPU along with a powerful RTX 4070 GPU. It is limited somewhat thanks to its FHD 144Hz display, which could be a sore point for some users when they consider the power available to them otherwise, especially for Baldur's Gate 3.
The Katana offers 16GB of RAM and 1TB of fast PCI-E 4.0 SSD storage, making loading and playing the game through long sessions a relative breeze even as the RTX 4070 meets the recommended VRAM specs that Larian states are necessary for the RTX 4070. With a relatively weak battery in tow and a hefty power adapter, users looking for a portable experience on the Katana 15 might want to reconsider a gaming laptop that is focused on being a great desktop replacement in 2024 versus one that can be used for long periods on the go.
Gigabyte G5 KF
GIGABYTE G5 KF provides a powerful Alder Lake mid-range CPU with the RTX 4060 to conquer the gaming world on a budget. Its high refresh rate screen, LED-backlit keyboard, and sturdy build quality for a fair price make it a wonderful gaming laptop for budget gamers.
- Operating System
- Windows 11
- CPU
- Intel Core i5 12500H
- GPU
- Nvidia Geforce RTX 4060 Laptop
- Storage
- 512GB SSD
- Battery
- 54Wh
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 15.6", 1920x1080p
- Network
- WiFi 6E
- Weight
- 4.59 lbs
- Brand
- Gigabyte
- Model
- G5 KF
- RAM
- 16GB DDR4
- Keyboard
- LED-backlit
- Priced significantly lower than laptops with similar configurations
- LED-backlit keyboard
- Ideal for most modern titles
- RAM and storage may require upgrade soon
- Poor battery life
Users who want to stick to the affordable side of the spectrum, shouldn't look anywhere except for the Gigabyte G5 KF, which is priced much lower than other gaming laptops with the same configuration. Not only does it meet the minimum and recommended requirements for Baldur's Gate 3, but it's also excellent for more intensive titles that require a powerful CPU and GPU architecture. The laptop uses the Intel Core i5 12500H processor paired with 8GB DDR4 RAM, and an RTX 4060 mobile GPU to carry out the gaming operations.
The Core i5 12500H is a wonderful and popular mobile CPU with 4 performance and 4 efficient cores that also have hyperthreading enabled. As for the GPU, the RTX 4060 needs no introduction as it is impressively power-efficient and supports Ray Tracing and DLSS 3.0 out of the box. The laptop's display is a standard 15.6" panel with a 1080p resolution that runs at 144Hz for highly fluid movements. It's certainly not the best display out there, but considering that the laptop has got a superb configuration for a price of less than $800, it's hard to complain.
Razer Blade 18 Gaming Laptop (RTX 4090)
Good Overkill
The Razer Blade 18 Gaming Laptop is a laptop that pushes the boundaries of what people can genuinely call a gaming laptop (but in a good way). Razer has no qualms about it, calling it the ultimate desktop replacement with a feature-packed offering that also comes with some of the most premium pricing on the market.
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Home
- CPU
- Intel Core i9-13950HX 24 Core Processor
- GPU
- RTX 4090 16GB GDDR6 175W
- Storage
- 2TB NVME (1+1TB SSD)
- Battery
- 91.7 WHr Li-Ion Battery
- Display (Size, Resolution)
- 2K (2560 x 1600), 18" 240 Hz IPS
- Camera
- 5MP Webcam (Windows Hello support)
- Speakers
- 2 Speaker, 4 Woofer Array
- Memory
- 32 GB DDR5 5600MHz
- Ports
- USB-A, USB-C, HDMI 2.1, SD Card, Ethernet
- Network
- Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, Ethernet 2.5G
- Weight
- 6.80 lbs
- Form
- 18''
- Brand
- Razer
- Model
- RZ09-0484UEH4-R3U1
- Power
- 330W AC Power Adapter
- Colors
- Black
- Dimensions
- 0.86" x 10.84" x 15.74"
- Sports a powerful RTX 4090 GPU with 175W TGP
- Exceeds all the hardware needs for Baldur's Gate 3 easily
- Has an excellent QHD+ 240Hz display with the goods to back its high refresh rate in gaming
- Priced considerably higher than the competition
- At 18 inches, this is more of a desktop replacement than a gaming-on-the-go laptop
The Razer Blade 18 Gaming Laptop (RTX 4090) can pretty much handle any modern game one can throw at it on its native 2K resolution at high FPS counts. This includes Baldur's Gate 3, where its RTX 4090 and Core i9 13950HX offerings along with 2TB of SSD storage and 32GB of fast DDR5 memory are more than sufficient.
With excellent audio, decent battery life, and a dedicated 3-fan cooling system on offer, the Blade 18 is built to impress and meet user needs at the highest level possible without making compromises. It does, however, come at a hefty cost, just pushing below $5000 for its top-of-the-line model, even as it borders more on desktop replacement territory than actually as a portable gaming laptop in most cases.
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With that being said, if one wants a powerful, no-compromise solution for Baldur's Gate 3, the Blade 18 has them covered. The cost, however, might not be something that would thrill most end-users, but the Blade's high-end solution is as premium as they come and is priced accordingly. It currently trades at a small $200 discount over MSRP at Amazon and for Best Buy's My Best Buy Plus members.
FAQ
Q: What platforms is Baldur's Gate 3 on right now?
Baldur's Gate 3 is currently available on PCs with a PS5 launch slated for September 2023.
Q: How much storage is needed for Baldur's Gate 3 on PC?
Baldur's Gate 3 has a recommended storage requirement of 150GB in free space. The developer, Larian Studios, also explicitly recommends SSD storage for game data.
