Dell announced the return of its XPS 14 and XPS 16 flagship laptops at CES 2026 following an ill-fated rebrand. Not only did Dell resurrect the XPS name, but it also completely redesigned the laptops to be used as the anchor in Dell's consumer portfolio.

They're thinner and lighter than ever, and they're equipped with the latest Intel "Panther Lake" mobile chips and new battery tech that makes them last way longer. They're certainly both enticing, but you only want one; this XPS 14 vs. XPS 16 comparison will help you make the right decision.

How do the new XPS 14 and 16's specifications compare?

Before jumping into a more detailed comparison between these two 2026 XPS laptops, here's a look at the specifications that make up the two PCs.

Can I buy the 2026 XPS 14 and XPS 16 models now?

Dell's new XPS 14 and XPS 16, announced at CES 2026, are now available to buy directly from Dell.

The XPS 14 is the more affordable option, at least to start, and you can pick up a model with an Intel Core Ultra 5 325 CPU, 16GB LPDDR5x RAM, 512GB SSD, and a 14-inch non-touch 1920x1200 (2K) display for $1,599 at Dell.

Dell offers plenty of configuration options, and you can go as high as $3,299 for a model with the faster Core Ultra X7 358H CPU, 64GB RAM, 4TB SSD, and 2.8K tandem OLED display. Plenty of options are available between those two extremes.

The XPS 16 starts at $1,749 at Dell for a model with the same exact setup as the introductory XPS 14 model, save for the larger 16-inch display. Going all out with the Core Ultra X7 CPU, 64GB RAM, 4TB SSD, and 3.2K tandem OLED display jumps the price to $3,449 at Dell.

For a lot of people, the approximate $150-200 price difference for the larger model will be negligible, making it easier to get the PC you want.

Are there any major differences between the XPS 14 and XPS 16 designs?

Dell made some major changes to the 2026 XPS design, which is good news for anyone who wasn't a fan of the haptic function row that appeared late in a former XPS life (and continued in the ill-fated Dell Premium PCs).

Both the XPS 14 and XPS 16 have returned to a physical function row above the keyboard, which remains lattice-free in both models. The haptic keyboard, which was seamlessly integrated in the palm rests in the older models, is now more defined to give users a better idea of where the pointer boundaries end.

Looking at the larger XPS 16, there's a fair amount of space on either side of the keyboard. The XPS 14 keeps it cropped a lot closer, thanks to its width measuring nearly two inches less than the XPS 16.

Both PCs are more slab-like than ever, and they're certainly reminiscent of Apple's MacBook hardware. That's not a bad thing; we've seen these PCs in person, and they're absolutely gorgeous.

The refreshed design language with CNC-machined aluminum and Gorilla Glass is apparent across both models, and there really aren't any major design or feature differences aside from sizing.

Both laptops offer the same 8MP webcam with 4K HDR support and Windows Hello for facial recognition. Both feature Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.0. Both have a quad-speaker setup with 10W total output and Dolby Atmos tuning. And both feature three Thunderbolt 4 ports and a 3.5mm audio combo jack.

Your choice will ultimately come down to how compact you'd like your laptop to be, as well as what size display you're most comfortable using when you aren't hooked up to an external monitor.

How do the XPS 14 and XPS 16 displays compare?

Dell is offering two display options each for the XPS 14 and XPS 16, and there are some notable differences aside from sizing.

The XPS 14's screen measures 14 inches (big surprise) and can be had in touch or non-touch configurations. The non-touch model is more affordable, but its IPS panel isn't as dazzling as the tandem OLED option and it has a lower 2K resolution.

It does, however, offer a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate. This allows the display to be incredibly smooth when it needs to be, and when it doesn't, it can drop the refresh rate to a standstill to help with battery life. The IPS screen jumps up to 500 nits of brightness.

The XPS 14's tandem OLED screen has a sharper 2.8K resolution, but it doesn't get quite as bright, and its variable refresh rate isn't quite as wide. It ranges from 20-120Hz.

On the XPS 16's side, the 16-inch display is also available in touch and non-touch options. The same 2K resolution, 1-120Hz refresh rate, and 500 nits brightness are available for the IPS option.

The tandem OLED XPS 16 display hikes the resolution to 3.2K, providing more pixels than the tandem OLED option in the XPS 14. It has a touch panel, a 20-120Hz refresh rate, and 400 nits brightness.

The upgrade from IPS non-touch to tandem OLED touch roughly costs the same across the XPS 14 and XPS 16. The tandem OLED screen upgrade itself is about $150, but because it's only available with certain performance hardware, it's more like a $600 jump compared to the introductory models.

Is the XPS 14 as powerful and efficient as the XPS 16?

Dell decided to offer the exact same performance hardware options across the XPS 14 and XPS 16. Configurations start with 16GB of LPDDR5x-7467MT/s RAM but can be upgraded to 32GB or 64GB of LPDDR5x-9600MT/s memory. RAM is soldered, so be sure to get what you foresee needing at checkout.

Similarly, both laptops start at a 512GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, but there are options for 1TB, 2TB, or 4TB straight from the factory.

The biggest change comes down to what's running graphics in these laptops. Dell is no longer offering a discrete NVIDIA GPU in either PC, a departure from the usual setup we've seen in previous generations. This change hinges on the update to Intel Core Ultra Series 3 (Panther Lake) mobile chips and their redesigned Arc integrated GPUs.

The Core Ultra 5 325 continues to rely on non-Arc integrated graphics, which is fine for anyone who doesn't get into specialized work or light gaming. However, the Core Ultra X7 385H features the new 12-core integrated Arc GPU that can deliver performance similar to the discrete NVIDIA RTX 4050 mobile chip. It even supports ray tracing and multi frame generation.

Because the XPS 14 and XPS 16 are available with the same performance options, the only difference might come down to thermal abilities. There's more space inside the XPS 16, and a less-cramped interior usually means less heat. I'll have more to share once we've tested both laptops side-by-side.

Similarly, I don't expect there to be a massive difference in battery life. Both XPS models feature a 70Wh battery. They're the first to use 900ED battery cells, which are significantly smaller and lighter than the usual fare. Dell says this new tech can help deliver more than 40 hours of local video playback on either PC; again, I'll have more to share once we've tested both.

Dell XPS 14 (2026) vs. XPS 16 (2026): Which should I buy?

Dell's flagship XPS 14 and XPS 16 models for 2026 have never been more comparable, and there's only a $150 price difference between the two introductory model sizes.

Sure, the XPS 16's tandem OLED display has a slightly higher resolution, and that might be a key in your decision. But with performance hardware options so similar between the two models, I suspect the final choice will come down to what size of PC you're more comfortable using.

Christmas and the holiday season are just around the corner, and your window to order gifts before the big day is quickly closing. But there's really no need to stress, especially if you're shopping for your favorite PC gamer.

Whether you're looking for some affordable stocking stuffers, a pricier gaming display, or just about anything else in between, we have you covered. Shopping for something under $50? You can't go wrong with the GameSir Nova Lite wireless controller or a new mouse mat from SteelSeries (seriously, they get worn out fast, and a new one is always appreciated).

If your PC gamer spends time on a gaming handheld, like a Steam Deck or ROG Ally, JSAUX's 6-in-1 dock is a perfect addition. Have a larger budget of around $100? You can land a great new gaming keyboard from HyperX, a new gaming headset from SteelSeries, or a new mouse from Logitech.

Why trust us? We spend countless hours testing, using, and reviewing PC gaming accessories, which allows us to keep close tabs on what's actually worth your money. That's helped us distill our gift guide down to 18 choices we're sure that PC gamers will love.

FAQ

Some might say I'm too passionate about laptop docking stations, especially after taking a look at the 5,000+ words I've used to cover in-depth the best Thunderbolt docks and hubs of the year. This stripped-back guide is an antidote, delivering the very best docking stations with the latest prices (including Black Friday discounts), without all the extra fluff.

My top pick for power users with Thunderbolt 5 is CalDigit's TS5, though the high price might turn some away. The standard TS5 is a great alternative, as is the Kensington SD7100T5 EQ Pro, which comes complete with a built-in M.2 SSD slot for quick and easy removable storage.

Razer's Thunderbolt 5 Dock Chroma is another Thunderbolt 5 dock with a built-in M.2 SSD slot, and there's also the Razer USB4 Dock to check out if you don't have Thunderbolt in your PC.

If you're still working with Thunderbolt 4, as I know many are, the Kensington SD5780T, UGreen Revodok Max 213, and CalDigit TS4 remain top options in 2025.

FAQ

There are seven accessories I recommend to everyone who owns a handheld gaming PC, mostly because these are the devices I regularly use with my own portable gaming machines.

My very first recommendation is the Tomtoc Carrying Case, since I personally have used it to carry my Steam Deck, Xbox Ally X, Legion Go 2, Nintendo Switch 2, and other devices in its protective embrace. I also love the shoulder strap, which frees up my hands when I'm on the move, and the spacious storage pockets for toting around other accessories.

Regardless of which handheld gaming PC you happen to own, each of the accessories below should work well with it.

Even on PC, most people play Call of Duty on a controller. There's been much debate about the strength of a controller over a mouse and keyboard, and even at the very highest level, players are on controllers.

In such a fast-paced shooter, having the right equipment not only keeps you competitive but can also give you the edge.

It's hard to recommend one single controller, since Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is on Xbox, PS5, and PC. There is no controller that's compatible with every platform. If you're on PC, I can't recommend anything as highly as the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K, which is pricey at $199.99, but has an unbeatable 8,000 Hz polling rate.

Reviews

• Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC review
• Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review
• GameSir G7 Pro review
• Razer Raiju V3 Pro review
• GameSir G7 HE review
• Scuf Valor Pro review

A good controller can change the game

I would argue that more than any other shooter, your controller really makes a difference in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. Even in the PvE modes, Endgame and Zombies, the pace is so fast, you need accuracy, reliability, and ideally, extra buttons, so your thumbs can keep focusing on aiming.

On a tech front, don't buy a controller in 2025 and beyond if it doesn't have at least Hall Effect sticks. TMR sticks are the latest evolution, and they're a little better, but both will avoid the dreaded stick drift and accurately record your movements.

Razer's latest pro controllers, the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC and Raiju V3 Pro, both have TMR sticks, but you don't have to spend $200. The GameSir G7 Pro is less than half the price, but still has the tech.

A topic gaining more traction of late is polling rate, but it only applies to folks playing on PC. On Xbox and PS5, the polling rate of any controller is capped at 250 Hz. On PC, there's theoretically no cap, with the leader right now the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K, with a class-leading 8,000 Hz polling rate.

To have a good competitive experience, you want at least 1,000 Hz on PC, which you can get from every controller featured here. GameSir, Scuf, and the Xbox version of the Wolverine V3 Pro all have 1,000 Hz polling on PC. The Razer Raiju V3 Pro tops out at 2,000.

FAQ

You're here for a recommendation on the best flight stick for flight simulators, not my life story. I've skipped any major exposition and Microsoft history lessons to jump into which joysticks and yokes are genuinely worth your money.

My top, no-nonsense suggestion for stick-controlled aircraft starts with Honeycomb's brand-new Foxtrot for PC, a Turtle Beach alternative for Xbox players, and Thrustmaster's entry-level pick. Otherwise, HOTAS and yoke recommendations from the same trio of brands better suit propeller-driven planes.

All of these flight sticks are compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator, both the 2020 reboot and its 2024 successor, so your only decision to make is which control style you prefer (and whether you have enough space to set it up). Happy flying!

If you're here, then you likely already know that mini PCs are an excellent way to play video games without having to spend as much money on a full-blown desktop or laptop. If you're not inclined to use a keyboard, then you need a reliable controller to game effectively.

Thankfully, any controller that works for a Windows laptop or desktop will work on a Windows mini PC. I've rounded up our absolute favorite options so you can get the best gaming controller for your mini PC setup.

I'll be upfront and tell you that the Xbox Wireless Controller, which has a starting price of $53.99 at Best Buy, is my pick for the best controller for mini PCs, but I've also included some other options for different budgets.

Game on your mini PC with a reliable controller

One thing I've learned over my years of PC gaming is that you really do need a reliable controller if you want the best gaming experience possible.

Sure, there are plenty of cheap controllers on the market, but some of them are designed horribly, aren't very responsive, tend to drift quickly, or might regularly drop the wireless connection mid-game.

First and foremost, I always recommend the Xbox Wireless Controller. Its well-spaced buttons, stable Bluetooth connection, large joysticks, and solid weight make it an excellent choice for playing on your mini PC.

Now, if you'd like something that doesn't dig as much into your wallet, then I recommend the GameSir Nova Lite, which is a far more affordable wireless controller with Hall Effect joysticks.

Anyone looking for the best experience available today and doesn't care about price should check out the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro. It offers Hall Effect joysticks, six remappable buttons, extremely responsive buttons, and a comfortable layout.

Mini PCs are exactly what they sound like: smaller versions of the traditional Windows desktop towers that you might be used to. Some shrink down to pint-sized cubes, while others retain a more familiar, albeit suped-up, shape with gamer aesthetics. Then, there's the unusual (but technically accurate) subcategory of PC gaming handhelds; miniature PCs with a twist, and all the more capable.

Even if you have heard of them, mini PCs are often mistaken for being entirely low-power devices with no real chance of handling any PC gaming. That isn't the case, and even in those examples, you can fall back on modern, low-latency cloud gaming if your home Internet connection is up to the task. We've tested our fair share, and these are the best mini PCs to consider if you're interested in gaming.

Quick list

Get the mini PC that fits your gaming needs best

Some of the best gaming laptops and desktops are expensive, but you can significantly reduce device costs by going with a reliable mini PC. As with any computer, you'll just want to make sure the device you purchase meets your specific use cases.

If you want to save a lot of money, you can get a relatively simple Windows mini PC, like the Beelink EQR6. It can run graphically simple games like some 2D platformers and some pixel art games. You can also play more graphically demanding AAA games on it via cloud gaming services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Meanwhile, if you're more interested in a compact computer with a powerful GPU that can play AAA games locally, devices like the HP Z2 Mini (G1a) and the ASUS ROG NUC (2025) make for some of the best mini PCs that suit your needs. Note that dedicated gaming mini PCs tend to be expensive, but part of what you're paying for is the compact form factor in addition to the solid gaming performance.

Of course, if you want a device that you can play on the go, the Xbox Ally X is the device to consider. It's basically a Windows 11 mini PC that has a 7-inch display, built-in controllers, and a battery. If you don't mind having a less powerful option that may or may not play every AAA game, the Steam Deck OLED is another handheld to consider.

If you're looking to buy a new laptop for yourself or someone else, there's a good chance you've considered Dell at least once. As one of the most popular brands for laptops and desktops, Dell's portfolio is stacked with a diverse array of devices.

Even if you know exactly what kind of laptop you need, it can still be difficult to find the Dell that fits the bill for a price you're comfortable paying. You can safely choose from our highest rated Windows laptops, of course, but you might be looking for something more specific, and Dell might offer the solution on its storefront.

So, whether you need the premium design and high-end features of the Dell 16 Premium, the overwhelming power of the Alienware 16 Area-51, the enterprise-grade security of the Dell Pro 14, or anything in between the lines, this is your ultimate guide to picking the absolute best Dell laptop for you.

Dell's complete 2025 PC rebrand explained

Dell's catalog used to be saturated with various sub-brands, including Inspiron, XPS, Latitude, Precision, Vostro, G-Series, and more. During CES 2025, though, Dell announced major rebranding across all of its devices, massively simplifying naming schemes in an effort to reduce customer confusion.

Long running and recognizable consumer brands like Inspiron and XPS are dead, replaced instead by simply "Dell." Business laptops that used to fall under the Latitude umbrella are now "Dell Pro," and powerful enterprise workstations are now "Dell Pro Max." All of Dell's gaming gear has been condensed underneath the Alienware brand, which itself has also simplified product names.

Underneath these wider brands, Dell also uses monikers like "Plus" and "Premium" to notate a device's position within the family, with numbers indicating screen size. For example, the Dell 15 is an entry-level 15-inch laptop, the Dell 14 Plus is a mid-range, 14-inch offering, and the Dell 16 Premium is a high-end, 16-inch flagship. You can apply the same logic to the other families, like: Dell Pro 14, Dell Pro 14 Plus, and Dell Pro 14 Premium.

In fact, Dell now uses this naming scheme across all of its devices, including mini PCs, desktop towers, and monitors, so you can get a Dell Pro Tower desktop or a Dell 32 Plus monitor. You can refer to the table above to visualize how all of this is broken down, because Dell somehow managed to make such a simple naming scheme confusing.

Dell's new branding no longer relies on average people knowing what "Inspiron" or "XPS" mean, but has the adverse side effect of making all of Dell's products blend together. The rebrand announcement was met with no small amount of criticism that Dell had given up any unique identity, and that point is especially valid when you consider HP's 2024 OmniBook and EliteBook rebrand — which is both more distinct and easier to understand at a glance.

Dell's consumer laptops explained

Dell's consumer offerings are largely divided into three categories: Dell, Dell Plus, and Dell Premium, with each family offering better performance, sleeker designs, more features, and higher price tags over the previous. These laptops will be Dell's most popular for regular people.

Dell

First, we have the "Base" family, or just "Dell." This group includes Dell's most affordable offerings, with simple designs and displays, fewer premium features, and budget-conscious price tags.

It starts with the Dell 15 from $399.99 at Dell.com, for those who need a value-driven laptop for casual computing. It's a good fit for those who rarely need a laptop, or for children needing a computer for school.

Then there's the Dell 14 from $699.99 at Dell.com, with a more modern 14-inch design and a more premium experience across the board, like a backlit keyboard. If you need more screen real estate, there's the Dell 16 from $699.99 at Dell.com.

You can find the entire Dell Base family from $399.99 at Dell.com, including Intel and AMD variants of each device, but bear in mind these are low-end devices that frequently go on sale, so I wouldn't recommend picking one up at full retail price.

Dell Plus

Next, we have Dell Plus, the mid-range family — and, statistically speaking, you're most likely to end up with one of these laptops. Here, you'll start getting more premium metal designs, more features like touch and stylus input, and (of course), higher price tags.

That starts with the Dell 14 Plus from 799.99 at Dell.com, which is a Copilot+ PC with all the latest and greatest AI features in Windows 11. I reviewed the Dell 14 Plus (DB14255), and found it to be a reliable mid-range laptop... but with a disappointing screen.

There's also the Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 from $849.99 at Dell.com, which (as the name implies), is the Dell 14 Plus with a 360-degrees hinge and touch/stylus input.

If you need a larger, nicer screen, you can get the Dell 16 Plus from $849.99 at Dell.com, or get the more premium Dell 16 Plus 2-in-1 from $1,099.99 at Dell.com. You can peruse the entire Dell Plus family from $799.99 at Dell.com, and all of these laptops (apart from the 16 Plus 2-in-1) come in AMD and Intel flavors, with AMD models usually costing less.

Dell Premium

Finally, for those who are willing to shell out the big bucks for one of the most luxurious laptops available on the market, there's the Dell Premium family. These are Dell's flagship laptops, and pretty directly replace the previous Dell XPS brand.

There are two sizes, and both boast futuristic designs with borderless haptic touchpads, capacitive function rows, best-in-class OLED displays, and optional discrete NVIDIA graphics.

There's the Dell 14 Premium from $1,549.99 at Dell.com, and then the beefy Dell 16 Premium from $2,499.99 at Dell.com. Both laptops demand a high price, but they'll tick every box and then some.

My colleague, Rebecca Spear, reviewed the Dell 16 Premium and found it to be powerful and beautiful, but that minimalist design is also controversial. You can check out the Dell Premium family from $1,099.99 at Dell.com, as Dell actually still sells some older XPS devices, too (for those who want a high-end laptop without seriously breaking the bank).

Dell's Alienware gaming laptops explained

Alienware is one of the oldest and most iconic brands in PC gaming, so it makes sense that Dell abandoned its own "G-Series" gaming hardware and went all-in on Alienware. This is a small lineup, making it easy for gamers and creatives to pick the perfect, powerful laptop for them.

Alienware Aurora

First, we have Alienware Aurora. It's rare you can describe Alienware as "budget," but the Aurora family can get close with its pair of laptops.

There's the entry-level Alienware 16 Aurora from $1,099.99 at Dell.com, which more modest specs and a 16-inch, 120Hz display. Those who demand more power can get the higher-end Alienware 16X Aurora from $1,649.99 at Dell.com, which picks up right where the standard 16 Aurora leaves off with superior hardware.

I'm in the process of reviewing the Alienware 16X Aurora (and checking out the 16) right now, and my thoughts are positive so far. You can look at the Alienware Aurora family from $1,099.99 at Dell.com.

Alienware Area-51

Dell has revived the iconic "Area-51" branding for the latest generation of flagship Alienware gaming laptops, which aim to deliver the absolute best high-end PC gaming experience money can buy.

These laptops are chunky and heavy, but are packed with the most powerful Intel and NVIDIA hardware and a full suite of advanced features, including an optional RGB-lit mechanical keyboard. Of course, these laptops are expensive — but you won't find noticeably better mobile performance anywhere else.

There's the Alienware 16 Area-51 from $2,749.99 at Dell.com, for one. My colleague, Rebecca Spear, reviewed the Alienware 16 Area-51 and gave it an Editor's Choice award. Then there's the even more insane Alienware 18 Area-51 from $3,449.99 at Dell.com, which truly turns every dial up to 11.

You can check out the complete Alienware Area-51 family from $2,749.99 at Dell.com.

Dell's Pro and Pro Max business laptops explained

The Dell Pro and Dell Pro Max families are all laptops designed with businesses and professional users in mind. These laptops are rarely super exciting, focusing more on delivering the features, experiences, and security enterprise customers need more than flashy designs or fun additions.

Because of how expansive these families are, I've condensed what would be seven sections into three.

Dell Pro Essential & Dell Pro

At the bottom, we have Dell Pro Essential and simply Dell Pro, which are more affordable PCs tailored for small businesses and professionals on a budget. Like all Dell Pro laptops, they come equipped with Windows 11 Pro, and benefit from Dell's various enterprise-focused security features and more durable designs.

There's the Dell Pro 15 Essential from $449 at Dell.com, for example, as well as the Dell Pro 14 from $669 at Dell.com and the Dell Pro 16 from $779 at Dell.com. These laptops come in Intel and AMD variants, and are often bought in bulk by businesses to equip entire fleets of workers.

If you're looking to pick one up for yourself, be sure you actually need those "Pro" features (most people don't, and are better off saving more with a consumer-focused laptop). The Dell Pro Essential and Dell Pro family starts from $449 at Dell.com.

Dell Pro Plus & Dell Pro Premium

Go up a price bracket, and you'll find yourself looking at Dell Pro Plus laptops. These laptops are often AI PCs, with biometric authentication, improved performance, and more features that could help you work more efficiently.

This includes laptops like the Dell Pro 14 Plus from $1,289 at Dell.com, which also comes in Intel, AMD, and 2-in-1 options, or the Dell Pro 16 Plus from $1,259 at Dell.com, which boasts the tenkey number pad that some still value really highly. Dell even offers the Dell Pro 13 Plus from $1,699 at Dell.com, as smaller 13.3-inch displays are still popular among enterprise customers for work in the field.

Increase your budget again, and you'll be considering Dell Pro Premium devices, Dell's highest-end devices short of a workstation. These sleek laptops are meant for owners and executives that need the absolute best security, performance, and features, all of which you can find in the Dell Pro 14 Premium from $1,819 at Dell.com.

These are solid laptops whether you're an enterprise customer or not, but remember that you are paying extra for hardware, firmware, and software security and remote management features. The entire Dell Pro Plus and Dell Pro Premium family starts from $1,289 at Dell.com.

Dell Pro Max

Last, but certainly not least, we have the Dell Pro Max lineup, which are Dell's enterprise-focused workstations. These laptops are all about performance that can be portable, but these mobile beasts will spend a lot of time plugged in.

The Dell Pro Max family is actually quite large, with Base, Plus, and Premium variants, and plenty of options including Intel and AMD, NVIDIA discrete graphics, Linux instead of Windows, and much more. It starts with something like the Dell Pro Max 14 from $1,279 at Dell.com.

Prices can very quickly rise as you pack in more powerful hardware, like with the Dell Pro Max 16 Plus from $4,079 at Dell.com. For those that need a balance of power and luxury, there are laptops like the Dell Pro Max 16 Premium from $3,610 at Dell.com.

No matter the workstation you choose, none of these laptops are going to feel particularly light in your bag — but few laptops will handle heavy duty tasks like AI workloads and 3D modeling quite as well. You can check out the full Dell Pro Max family from $1,279 at Dell.com.

How to choose the best Dell laptop for you

Dell is a major player when it comes to Windows laptops, and choosing one from among dozens of options can be a daunting task. Fortunately, it is pretty easy to narrow down which Dell laptops are best suited for your life and work, whether you need a PC for home, want to game, go to school, or have specific professional needs.

To help narrow it down, here are some questions you can ask yourself (and the answers, according to our expertise).

What are you planning to do on your laptop?

This is an easier question to answer, and the answer will help inform other questions, such as how much power you need, what features you need, and what should be most important to you.

Most people use their laptops for web browsing, email, Microsoft Office, video conferencing, and entertainment like watching videos, listening to music, and even casual gaming.

All of Dell's laptops can do this, but you may not need to super high-end display of a Dell Premium laptop, or the security features of a Dell Pro laptop. An Alienware laptop might be overkill, and it'll be thicker and heavier (with worse battery life) than a more casual laptop.

If you do want to play video games, though, or know you need extra power for things like photo and video editing, CAD, development, and more, then you'll want a laptop with discrete graphics — like Dell Premium, Alienware, or Dell Pro Max.

For many people, a Dell Plus will be the perfect fit. Those who have a higher budget and want a nicer laptop can look at Dell Premium. Finally, those who need power can find that with Alienware.

How much are you willing to spend on a new laptop?

Once you know what you plan to do with your laptop, you should ask yourself what your budget is. Dell's new branding pretty neatly divides laptop families according to price, so just knowing how much you can spend will massively narrow things down.

Just because you can buy the most expensive Dell laptop doesn't mean you should. Spending more will get you more premium designs, upgraded features like better displays or enhanced audio, and greater performance — but it rarely guarantees better battery life, and luxury designs sometimes put form over function. The less you spend, the more you'll feel the compromises in the build quality and overall experience.

Don't just consider your budget, consider how often you'll use your laptop and how valuable it'll be in your day-to-day life. Will you rely on this laptop for work? It's worth investing in a machine that'll last longer and let you work quicker. Is this a laptop for your child, or something you'll only occasionally use for casual tasks? You can save some cash by getting a more streamlined machine.

When it comes to Dell Pro and Pro Max devices, remember that you're always spending more for those security and remote management features — and most people absolutely don't need to (regular laptops are plenty secure and private).

Do you have specific requirements for a work laptop?

If you're considering a laptop strictly for work, don't immediately assume you need a Dell Pro or Dell Pro Max device. As I mentioned before, those laptops are designed with enterprise customers in mind, and regular consumers are paying a premium for the advanced hardware, firmware, and software features that improve security, privacy, and remote management for IT departments.

These laptops are often bought in bulk by businesses for their employees. Even if an employee is expected or allowed to purchase their own laptop, they'll likely know exactly what security requirements need to be met.

Consider if you can find value in the additional features those laptops offer, such as if you're working with highly sensitive data. Also bear in mind that, because these laptops are designed with enterprise customers in mind, they have different focuses than consumer laptops — so you may find the display isn't great for watching movies, or the speakers aren't great for listening to music, or the GPU isn't the best for gaming, and so on.

Do you need an AI laptop?

This final question may not have an immediate answer. After all, what is an AI PC? Artificial intelligence is everywhere, and basically every modern computer can take advantage of many of these features, like Copilot, in some form or another. So, what sets the best AI laptops apart from a laptop that can use AI?

Mostly, it comes down to two things: Windows 11, and future proofing. For the former, Windows 11 has a "Copilot+ PC" designation for modern laptops with powerful Neural Processing Units (NPUs), which enable a variety of local, highly efficient AI features like enhancing your camera for video conferencing, creating a secure, private timeline of all your activity to quickly return to past documents or tasks, real-time captions and translations, enhanced photo and video editing, image generation, and more.

Most of these features aren't a "must-have" for most people, right now, but the point is that AI PCs have access to a lot of Windows 11 features that older PCs simply don't — and never will. That also plays into the second part: future proofing. AI laptops will continue to get all the latest and greatest software features, and the list is constantly growing.

That's true even outside of Windows' specific features. More and more companies are actively taking advantage of the NPUs inside AI laptops, enabling more features in apps millions of users use, including things like Adobe.

If you're investing in a new laptop and plan to use it for years, it's worth considering an AI laptop. Even if you won't use any of those features now, you'll be ready if a "killer feature" does release in the future. It also helps that AI laptops are available across most of Dell's portfolio, so you don't have to worry about breaking the bank.

What is the best Dell laptop?

If you wanted an immediate, catch-all answer for what the best Dell laptop is, you won't find it here. Laptops come in all shapes and sizes, and what people do with their laptops is complicated and varies from person to person.

I can give you my top three, though, based on what most people will look for in a laptop. That's starting with the Dell 14 Plus from $1,099.99 at Dell.com, which strikes a great balance. It's an all-metal AI laptop, and can be configured with a beautiful Mini LED display.

For those who want the best, there's the Dell 14 Premium from $1,549.99 at Dell.com. This laptop is beautiful no matter how you look at it, and can even be equipped with an NVIDIA GPU for improved performance.

For the gamers, there's the Alienware 16X Aurora from $1,649.99 at Dell.com. I'm still in the middle of testing this laptop, but I can already tell it's a mean performer — and the price feels just right for what you're getting.

As awesome as the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X handheld gaming PCs are, there's no denying that they run out of battery relatively fast. It's especially frustrating when you're on the go and your gaming session is cut short.

That's when it helps to have a 65W battery pack, like the Anker 20,000mAh Power Bank, so you can charge your handheld up while you play. Here are the best power banks for your Xbox Ally.

Recharge your Xbox Ally on the go

One of the best things about the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X is that they're easy to travel with. The only downside is that they tend to have relatively short battery lives, which is why I always bring a power bank with me if I take a handheld on a trip.

I recommend getting the Anker 20,000mAh power bank since it offers the convenience of having a built-in USB-C cable while also providing the necessary power output to charge an Xbox Ally handheld even when it's being played in Turbo mode.

Of course, if you'd prefer a more compact battery pack and are willing to pay a little more for it, then the INUI Mini Size power bank is a good fit for you. In addition to its high battery capacity and output, it has a USB-C cable that doubles as a wrist strap for easy carry.

Now, if affordability is first and foremost on your mind, you'll want to consider the INIU Power Bank 65W 25,000mAh. As you can see, it's made by the same company that makes our compact pick, but it isn't nearly as small and has a lower price point.

Finally, If you're the kind of person who tends to bring several electronics with you on the go and wants a power bank that can charge them back up quickly, then you should consider the Anker 733. It not only has a battery inside of it, but it also can be plugged directly into a wall to provide two USB-C 65W ports.

The Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X handheld gaming PCs are here, and they're rather lovely. The more powerful Xbox Ally X boasts prowess across AAA photorealistic titles, and the regular Xbox Ally is no slouch either, able to run well-optimized 3D games while crushing 2D games with ease.

Like any self-respecting PC gaming handheld, the Xbox Ally range is complemented with accessories. Whether we're talking specifically about compatible power banks, MicroSD cards, or carry cases, here are the best Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X accessories I personally use. And frankly, these are the best accessories for practically any PC gaming handheld on the market right now, and I've tested that each of them is fully compatible as well with the Lenovo Legion Go, Steam Deck, and the previous ASUS ROG Ally.

The Best Xbox Ally Accessories everyone should own

If I had to suggest one of these above all others, it would be the Tomtoc Arccos case. No, I'm not sponsored by Tomtoc, but I was so impressed when I randomly picked up the Arccos case originally for my previous-gen ASUS ROG Ally, I ended up buying both a backpack and a travel rucksack from them. The company just makes seriously great products, with high-quality materials at affordable prices. The sheer amount of storage you can get on that thing is immense, as it seems to expand to your needs like magic.

If you want more reassurance, though, consider the new JSAUX hard shell "Max" carrying case instead. The Tomtoc case does have good inserts for protection, but the hard shell configuration on the JSAUX option is hard to beat if you want maximum protection.

Naturally, having some extra storage can't hurt either. I have a SanDisk UHS-I MicroSD card, and I've found no real issues with it, although if you did want to store additional and perhaps more demanding games, you could consider the more expensive Lexar UHS-II. The Xbox Ally base model is perhaps going to be best aimed at 2D games and more heavily optimized 3D games anyway, likely not requiring a UHS-II SD card. If you did want to push your experience to the max, the Lexar UHS-II model on the Xbox Ally X might be best for you.

The IVANKY dock is also fantastic. The Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X don't really have official accessories announced as of yet, with even strong players like JSAUX quiet on what, if any, accessories it plans to offer. The existing IVANKY dock isn't necessarily designed for the Xbox Ally range, but I've been testing it all week with this dock, and haven't had any issues whatsoever. It fits decently well in the dock, the connectivity has been flawless, and it's also quite subtle in its design, fitting nicely into any entertainment center setup. I may change this entry, though, as more "official" docks emerge in the coming months.

If you have any further questions about good Xbox Ally accessories and the like, be sure to hit the comments, and I will answer them for you, or recommend alternatives if necessary!

The ASUS Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are an Xbox fan's best friend.

These handheld gaming consoles combine the sheer horsepower of the ASUS Ally and ASUS Ally X with the power of Xbox Cloud Gaming and Xbox Play Anywhere, so players can enjoy hundreds of Xbox titles on the go with the best framerates and resolutions out there.

However, they have one crucial drawback, and that is storage space. With only an internal SSD of 512GB for Xbox Ally and 1TB Xbox Ally X, modern AAA games will eat up storage in no time, leaving little room for anything else.

To prevent this, it is vital to upgrade these handhelds' storage spaces with microSD cards, and we've scoured the internet to find the best ones out there.

We will be spotlighting microSD cards that offer tons of storage space, and ones that trade space for faster reading speeds for players who want to squeeze the best loading times and framerates out of their games as much as possible.

Upgrade your Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X with more space

Trying to manually replace a ROG Ally/ROG Ally X's internal SSD can be an extremely complicated, costly, and risky way to upgrade an Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X's storage space that could backfire badly, especially if you don't know what you're doing.

By contrast, microSDs are far easier to install more space as you simply need to insert them into an Xbox Ally/Xbox Ally X's dedicated microSD card slot, and don't require skills in dismantling machines. Not to mention, microSDs are cheaper than buying new internal SSDs.

Furthermore, microSD cards aren't just for increasing a gaming handheld's storage capacity. They can also help boost a game's performance if they have a high transfer reading/writing speed by increasing their framerate to make it feel nicer to play and cut down on loading times to quicken their pacing.

When it comes to the best microSD memory that achieves a perfect balance between transfer speeds and storage size, our vote goes to the SanDisk Extreme microSD.

It lives up to its name of being extremely reliable with a superb transfer reading speed of 190MB/s that can be found in its 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB variants.

If you wish to forgo storage space and want to boost your games' performance, then we recommend the USH-II Lexar Professional Gold microSD Memory Card. They have the fastest transfer speeds on the market (up to 280MB/s), and their storage spaces range from 128GB to 256GB.

If you want to upgrade your Xbox Ally/Xbox Ally X with the most storage space possible, then we recommend the 1.5TB PNY PRO Elite Prime UHS-I microSD or the 2TB SanDisk Extreme microSD, whichever you can afford.

With this wide selection of microSDs available, along with SanDisk's homemade Xbox Ally microSDs, you will have no shortage of methods to upgrade your Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X's storage unit and enjoy installing dozens of your favorite games onto them without running out of space anytime soon.

Xbox Ally microSD FAQ

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Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, roughly 10 years after its launch. That means that the operating system (OS) will no longer receive essential security updates, at least unless you take the necessary steps to receive an extra year of support.

👉 Related: How to use Windows 10 ESU to keep getting updates after October 2025

Even if you do enable an extra year of support via the Extended Security Update (ESU) program, your Windows 10 PC will eventually become unsecured due to a lack of necessary security fixes.

That means the time is nigh to update to a new PC running Windows 11, assuming that your PC doesn't support an update to Windows 11 from Windows 10, or assuming that you don't want to attempt a workaround to get Windows 11 working on an unsupported PC.

In any case, you're probably wondering which laptop works best as a replacement for your Windows 10 PC. While you can always check out our list of top-rated Windows laptops for general buying advice, I've put together a more focused guide right here to help you choose.

Keep in mind that Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days and competing promotions from other retailers kick off on October 7 (or earlier), making it a perfect time to save big on a new Windows 11 laptop.

Best Windows 11 laptops for general users

In this section, I'm focusing on Windows users who don't need a discrete GPU for gaming or specialized work, who don't need additional security measures for the business world, and who just want a quality laptop for general productivity, entertainment, streaming, etc.

Lenovo's Yoga 9i (Gen 10) is currently the Windows Central team's top pick when it comes to the best Windows laptops of 2025. The convertible design is flawless, and the two halves are joined by a rotating soundbar hinge with stellar audio quality.

Add a 2.8K or 4K touch display with OLED panel, strong Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) performance, and access to Copilot+ AI tools in Windows 11, and you have a winner.

Windows Central Editor-in-Chief Daniel Rubino remarks:

"It perfectly showcases everything that the ultimate Windows (non-gaming) laptop represents. Amazing audio, display, keyboard, touchpad, design, and a 2-in-1 with pen support. The Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 (Gen 10) does it all."

Prices at Lenovo's website usually start at about $1,599.99, but I'm seeing discounts of up to 23% at the time of my most recent update.

The ASUS Zenbook A14, featuring Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus chipset with Neural Processing Unit (NPU) powerful enough to handle Copilot+ AI tools, is an ultralight 14-inch laptop that I love to recommend.

Battery life is exceptional, it has a generous selection of ports, the keyboard and touchpad are tops, and the best part? It often drops to about $600 at Best Buy with frequent promotions.

Windows Central laptop expert Zachary Boddy reviewed the Zenbook A14, noting:

"It starts with that lovely minimalist design, but not the kind of reductive minimalism that uses aesthetics to justify stripping away features. No, this is the kind of minimalist design that makes full use of absolutely every element of the laptop, and you're not losing out on features or build quality to achieve that super-light design."

This is one of my top recommendations if you'd like to replace your old Windows 10 laptop with a Snapdragon X PC.

Samsung's laptops remain underrated in 2025. The Galaxy Book5 Pro, available in 14- and 16-inch sizes, is a super-thin PC with a gorgeous AMOLED display, strong performance from the Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) chips, and around 17 hours of battery life, as tested, when going about regular tasks.

The keyboard and touchpad are comfy, the design is flawless, and you get a decent selection of ports, including a microSD card reader. In her Galaxy Book5 Pro review, Editor Rebecca Spear says:

"Not only does it have a refined style, but it offers excellent performance to keep up with your daily workloads. The AI Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processor offers better NPU performance than the previous Series 1 processor, and the Intel Arc graphics card is more than capable of handling creative programs and even some gaming. Plus, the gorgeous AMOLED touchscreen really shows off movies and art projects to great effect."

This AI PC is often on sale, and a 14-inch model with a 3K AMOLED display and Core Ultra 7 CPU can usually be found for about $1,349 at Best Buy.

Best Windows 11 laptops for PC gamers

The PC gaming world is all about discrete GPUs, strong processors, capable cooling, and fast displays. These requirements all come together (nearly) perfectly in the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10).

Its redesigned chassis, bulked up a bit to accommodate the new NVIDIA RTX 5000 Laptop GPUs, is covered in RGB lighting, and it has the cooling capacity to prevent throttling. Its OLED display is bright and accurate, and its QHD+ resolution hits a 240Hz refresh rate with 0.5ms response time.

You can add up to an NVIDIA RTX 5090 Laptop GPU to go along with the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX for extreme gaming performance.

In their Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10) review, Zachary Boddy said:

"The performance is unmatched, the thermals are cool and breezy, the OLED display is among the best I've tested... Pit the Legion Pro 7i against a rampaging truck, and I feel this laptop may emerge from that confrontation the victor with how sturdily it's built."

At the time of my most recent update, prices start at $2,449.99 at Lenovo after a 15% discount.

The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 for 2025 wasn't exactly a straightforward upgrade over the stellar 2024 version, but the new model remains an easy recommendation for anyone who wants to game on a more compact PC.

Long story short: it hasn't changed much, and that's not a bad thing unless you're particularly concerned about a slightly heavier and thicker body to accommodate the latest performance hardware.

Our laptop expert, Zachary Boddy, had this to say in their ROG Zephyrus G14 (2025) review:

"ASUS knows it struck gold, and didn't mess too much with the winning formula of the ROG Zephyrus G14 for 2025. Much of the hardware is identical, but this laptop is now smarter and more powerful... and thicker, heavier, and more expensive. Not everyone will love that added mass, but there's no denying the Zephyrus G14 is still one of the most impressive and premium 14-inch gaming laptops you can buy."

The new model has the latest AMD Ryzen AI and NVIDIA RTX 50-series hardware for the best performance possible. Prices start at about $1,799 at Best Buy, and there are many different configurations available.

The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 is all about balancing portability and power, whereas the Strix G16 is more about opening up the throttle as much as possible.

Zachary Boddy, in their ROG Strix G16 (2025) review, remarked:

"The ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2025, AMD) isn't revolutionary by any means, but it is a really good, well-rounded gaming laptop with an excellent keyboard and fantastic, reliable performance. It's also priced well, and it's sure to go on sale in the coming months, too."

It's available with a 16-inch QHD+ display at 240Hz, and you can configure it with up to an AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D CPU and NVIDIA RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU. It's a great alternative to the Legion Pro 7i, thanks to more affordable pricing.

You can find this awesome laptop starting at about $1,999 at Best Buy.

Best Windows 11 laptops for AI

The Surface Laptop 7 is the best AI laptop on the market with a Snapdragon X chipset inside, mostly thanks to its impressive balance of form, performance, and battery life.

Senior Editor Zac Bowden, in his Surface Laptop 7 review, said:

"It's basically perfect. It's peak clamshell form factor. Of course, some minor areas could still be improved, but those are more subjective changes rather than objective ones. Things like adding an OLED screen is something that sounds like an upgrade on paper, but the IPS panel in here is already excellent and doesn't run the risk of any burn-in."

This is the perfect antidote to something like the MacBook Air for Windows users, delivering a thin and light PC that runs Copilot+ AI tools locally thanks to the NPU.

The Surface Laptop 7 is enjoying major discounts at Best Buy at the time of my most recent update, with prices starting at $869.

Looking for an AI PC that's more versatile than the Surface Laptop 7? HP's OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 is a successor to the awesome Spectre x360, and it doubles down on the premium design with a thinner and lighter chassis.

It features a 14-inch OLED touch display with perfect color, the keyboard and touchpad are outstanding, and battery life is quite generous, with more than 9 hours of life during regular use, as tested.

The laptop runs on Intel's Core Ultra (Series 2) chips, complete with an NPU powerful enough to handle Copilot+ AI tools in Windows 11. Our own Zachary Boddy reviewed the OmniBook Ultra Flip 14, stating:

"This device embraces everything I love to see in premium Windows laptops — it looks good, it's incredibly thin and light, the OLED display is bright, colorful, and smooth, it runs great and can even play games, and it lasts all day no matter what I throw at it."

Check out a model with a 3K OLED display and Core Ultra 7 CPU for about $1,599 at Best Buy.

Lenovo's Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) is one of my top picks when it comes to the best laptops with bright screens, all thanks to a gorgeous 4K OLED display that hits up to 750 nits brightness.

Its Intel Core Ultra 7 258V CPU includes an NPU with enough juice for Copilot+ AI tools in Windows 11, and it otherwise delivers strong everyday performance and around 6 hours of real-world battery life. That's not a bad tradeoff for the brightness and display resolution.

Zachary Boddy reviewed the Yoga Slim 9i 14 (Gen 10), saying:

"There were no surprises here, and I mean that in the best way possible. The design is just as premium as it needed to be, the display is every bit as stunning and magnificent as Lenovo claimed it would be, the performance and core experience is exactly what a high-end Windows laptop should deliver."

A model with a 4K OLED display, Core Ultra 7 CPU, 32GB of RAM, and 1TB SSD costs about $1,999 at Best Buy.

Best Windows 11 laptops for professionals

The EliteBook Ultra 14 (G1i) is a part of HP's massive laptop overhaul, and it's a top contender for any professionals who need extra security and durability in a thin and light design.

HP's Wolf Security suite keeps the PC secure, while its NPU allows access to Copilot+ AI tools. Performance from the Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) chips is more than enough for a standard workflow. The 14-inch display comes with a crisp 2.8K resolution, and the OLED panel delivers perfect contrast and deep color.

Windows Central's Zachary Boddy reviewed the EliteBook Ultra 14 (G1i), remarking:

"This device may not be aimed at regular consumers, but it still has all the fixings you expect from an ultra-premium flagship. The modern and refined design, the smooth and colorful OLED display, and true all-day battery life are all here. You'll also enjoy one of the best keyboard and touchpad combinations on any laptop you can buy right now, and that attention to quality extends to every other hardware feature (and there are a lot of them)."

HP is offering up to 57% off these PCs at the time of my latest update, dropping introductory prices down to just $1,599.

Microsoft perfected its Surface Pro with this latest version, complete with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite chips with an NPU powerful enough to handle Copilot+ AI tools. It might not be a dedicated business PC like the others in this section, but it will certainly do a great job for any busy professional.

The 2-in-1 form factor means it works as a tablet or as a notebook, and the 13-inch display with OLED panel and 2.8K resolution is a treat. This is the PC to get if you want the best of Windows 11.

Windows Central Editor-in-Chief Daniel Rubino reviewed the Surface Pro 11, stating:

"Having witnessed the evolution of every Surface Pro version and yearning for a device that excels in performance and battery life akin to the best Windows laptops (and even MacBooks), Microsoft has undeniably nailed it with the Surface Pro 11, making it a strong recommendation."

Prices start at just $799 at Best Buy, and there are plenty of models available to check out.

The ThinkPad brand is synonymous with the business lifestyle, and Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 (Gen 10) is the best version yet. The convertible PC is sleek, lightweight, and durable; it has an outstanding keyboard, and Lenovo has baked in tons of extra AI and security measures.

Lenovo offers myriad customization options, including 5G connectivity, haptic touchpad, and inking compatibility, all alongside the usual run of Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) CPUs with an NPU powerful enough for Copilot+.

In Zachary Boddy's ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 (Gen 10) review, they noted:

"What this is, though, is a damn good laptop. Boring doesn't always mean bad, and the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 (Gen 10) takes the same versatile, ultra-durable design of yesteryear and pairs it with more powerful and more efficient hardware. The result is a capable convertible Windows laptop that's perfect for working on the go, especially with optional 5G connectivity. It's expensive, but all ThinkPads are — just wait for the inevitable sales from Lenovo, they'll happen."

Lenovo has slashed prices by up to 24% at the time of my latest update, and you can configure your own model starting at $1,437.

Windows 10 End-of-Life FAQ

There's a lot of confusion surrounding Windows 10's End-of-Life transition, and I'm here to help answer common questions.

After months of waiting, we finally learned that the Xbox Ally and its premium variant, the Xbox Ally X, are both launching on October 16, 2025.

We're still a few weeks out from release, but if you're excited about getting your hands on one of these devices, then you've come to the right place.

The Xbox Ally handhelds are available for preorder at Best Buy.

Should I get the Xbox Ally or the Xbox Ally X?

Before I explain the differences between these two Windows handhelds, take a gander at the specs.

It's important to note that the white Xbox Ally and the more premium black Xbox Ally X serve different gaming needs.

If you're on a budget, then the white Xbox Ally handheld will be more within your price range, due to its more modest specs. Since these devices haven't been released yet, we haven't been able to conduct testing to see how different the performance is between the two devices, but we'll do this as soon as possible.

If you want the best handheld performance, you'll want to go with the Xbox Ally X. Its Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor features eight cores and 16 threads compared to the four cores and eight threads in the base Xbox Ally's Ryzen Z2 A processor. Plus, having more RAM and storage space helps the system work better overall for a smoother gaming experience. It also has a 33% larger battery capacity, which could help it last longer unplugged if the system is designed well.

Outside of the casing color, memory, storage, and the processors, many of the features between these two devices are the same.

They both offer grips that were inspired by the official Xbox Wireless Controller, have 7-inch FHD IPS touchscreens, provide the same dual amp speakers, and feature the same Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.

One other major difference, though, is that the base Xbox Ally has two USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports while the Xbox Ally X has a USB4 Type-C with Thunderbolt 4 and then a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2.

In case you didn't already know, despite both having a USB-C connection, a USB4 Thunderbolt 4 port offers much faster speeds for video, data, and power delivery.

What can an Xbox Ally handheld do?

The Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are both Windows 11 devices, meaning that they function much like a gaming laptop, but with controllers instead of a keyboard and touchpad.

What this means is that you'll be able to access a wide range of gaming services and programs on this device. For instance, you could play games via Steam, Epic Game Store, Battle.net, Xbox App, and more, as long as the Xbox Ally handheld meets a game's system requirements.

To help with this, Microsoft recently revealed a new Handheld Compatibility Program, which will mark compatible games with either "Handheld Optimized" or "Mostly Compatible."

On top of that, Microsoft has created Windows Performance Fit indicators to explain how well a game will run on Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X. These can either be "Should play well" or "Should play great."

Together, this dual-part compatibility system will help you figure out which games to purchase for your Xbox Ally handheld.

If you have a compatible dock, you can play your games using a connected controller from the comfort of your couch. Alternatively, you can connect the handheld to a monitor and use it like a regular computer.

Outside of gaming, the Xbox Ally handhelds can be used to run most PC programs. If you connect a keyboard to them, like this Artcietty Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard ($34.43 at Amazon), you can even type up documents or browse the internet like you would on a laptop.

ASUS and Razer each updated their most portable gaming laptops for 2025, adding NVIDIA's latest RTX 5000 Laptop GPUs and powerful AMD Ryzen AI 300 CPUs. Both laptops are sleek and powerful, but you only want one.

Now that we've reviewed both PCs here at Windows Central, I can offer some in-depth buying advice for those who can't decide between the two models.

I've taken into account everything from pricing, design, and display quality to performance and battery life to help you make the right decision between the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2025) and the Razer Blade 14 (2025).

ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2025) vs. Razer Blade 14 (2025): Specs and availability

Before I get into a cost analysis, it's worth taking a look at the specs available in each laptop.

Razer's Blade 14 (2025) typically starts at $2,299.99 for a model with an AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 processor, NVIDIA RTX 5060 Laptop GPU, 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM, and a 2.8K OLED display at 120Hz.

Upgrading to an RTX 5070 Laptop GPU also kicks the RAM up to 32GB automatically. With otherwise similar specs, you're looking at paying about $2,699.99 at Razer.

Razer offers Black and Mercury color finishes. For the latter, Razer adds another $300 to the total, at least unless you opt for the RTX 5070 Laptop GPU. At the time of writing, Razer is offering 14% off the prices I listed here, making them seem not quite so steep.

The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2025) typically starts at about $1,799.99 for a model with an AMD Ryzen 9 270 CPU, NVIDIA RTX 5060 Laptop GPU, 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM, and a 2.8K OLED display at 120Hz.

Barring any sales, that's considerably cheaper than the entry-level Blade 14, although the G14's Ryzen 9 270 CPU has two fewer cores, a higher default TDP, and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) with 16 TOPS (compared to 50 TOPS from Ryzen AI 300 chips).

Nevertheless, you can get the same GPU, display, storage, and memory in the G14 for about $500 less than the Blade 14. Even better, at the time of writing, the introductory Zephyrus G14 is $450 off at Best Buy, dropping the price to just $1,349.99. These sales are rather common.

Looking at a Zephyrus G14 with Ryzen 9 270 CPU and RTX 5070 Laptop GPU, it costs about $600 less than the Razer Blade 14 with the same GPU.

G14 models with an RTX 5070 Ti and an upgraded AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU typically cost about $2,399.99, which is still more affordable than a Blade 14 with RTX 5070 (non-Ti) and a less powerful CPU.

Zephyrus G14 models with an RTX 5080 jump to about $3,169.99; the Blade 14 tops out at an RTX 5070. It's clear that the Blade 14 costs a lot more than the Zephyrus G14, so is it worth all that extra dough?

Both gaming laptops are built to maximize portability

The Razer Blade 14 and ROG Zephyrus G14 have nearly identical dimensions, with the former having just a slightly larger footprint and a bit of extra weight.

The Blade 14 has been refined to be about 11% smaller than the 2024 model, improving aesthetics without nerfing performance. The G14, on the other hand, is thicker and heavier than its direct predecessor. Regardless, these are both some of the most portable gaming laptops on the market.

Diving into the important areas of design, the Blade 14 boasts six speakers with THX Spatial tuning. The G14 isn't to be outdone. As Windows Central laptop expert Zachary Boddy stated in their ROG Zephyrus G14 review, "the fantastic six-speaker system (with Dolby Atmos spatial audio) that blows most other laptops out of the water — including the Razer Blade 14's new six-speaker sound system."

Both laptops feature the latest Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 standards for easy and fast, reliable connectivity, and both laptops have a front-facing 1080p webcam with an IR sensor for Windows Hello. Neither laptop has a proximity sensor for human presence detection.

Razer's Blade 14 keyboard isn't as comfortable as the one in the G14. It has shallow key travel, but its two-stage RGB lighting for each key looks great. The mechanical touchpad is massive and responsive.

ASUS didn't mess with the keyboard in the 2025 G14, and that's a good thing, according to our reviewer. As Boddy says, "The layout is comfortable and spacious, the keys are clicky and responsive, you get extra macro keys and per-key RGB lighting — it's a nice keyboard."

There's no haptic touchpad here either, with input relying on traditional mechanical means.

As for the laptop's exterior, Razer uses its usual anodization and electrochemical bonding process with a matte Black or Mercury aluminum finish. A Razer logo is planted in the middle of the lid.

The Zephyrus G14's aluminum chassis is also available in light and dark colorways, and it has the ASUS slash lighting effect across the lid. It's certainly more noticeable than the Blade 14, but you can always disable everything for a more professional look.

As for ports, ASUS offers just one USB4 port, while the Blade 14 offers two. ASUS partly makes up for it by adding a USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2) port. Each laptop also has two USB-A 3.2 (Gen 2), HDMI 2.1, a UHS-II microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio combo jack.

OLED displays are standard in both laptops

A gaming laptop's display is a crucial part of its design and of your final decision. Both laptops feature a 14-inch screen with a 2880x1800 (2.8K) resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.

They both use an OLED panel with awesome color and perfect contrast; both hit 100% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut, and both reach about 400 nits of brightness. Because the laptops use NVIDIA GPUs, the displays come with G-Sync and Advanced Optimus support, together reducing screen tearing and improving battery life.

Where the Zephyrus G14 pulls ahead, however, is with its support of Dolby Vision. Razer didn't license its screens to have the HDR technology, and whether or not the image optimizations are crucial in your buying decision is up to you.

Both screens use Pulse-Width Modulation (PWM) for dimming, so if you're sensitive to flickering, you might want to avoid both laptops completely.

The ROG Zephyrus G14 has more performance hardware options

ASUS decided to offer nearly the full range of NVIDIA's Blackwell laptop GPUs in the 2025 Zephyrus G14. The RTX 5060 is the most affordable option, through to the most expensive RTX 5080 option. Razer sticks with the RTX 5060 and the RTX 5070 Laptop GPUs in the Blade 14.

The same goes for the CPU. The G14 comes with either a Ryzen 9 270 or Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. The latter chip is more powerful than the Ryzen AI 9 365 CPU available in the Blade 14, as you can see in the benchmark charts below.

Having tested both gaming laptops first-hand, my colleague Zachary Boddy came to the conclusion that the performance difference is negligible between the RTX 5070 in the Blade 14 and the RTX 5070 Ti in the G14.

They tested four games and saw similar frame rates with in-game settings maxed out and Frame Generation disabled. However, with Frame Gen enabled, the G14 and its 5070 Ti pulled well ahead. As Boddy explains:

Basically, the Zephyrus G14 with its 5070 Ti is much better suited to handling NVIDIA's latest performance boosts. It also comes with an RTX 5080, but I recommend against trying to squeeze that much power from such a slim laptop.

With both laptops capable of handling GPU power beyond 100W (110W Max TGP on the G14 and 115W on the Blade 14), and with both laptops offering a similar battery capacity, DC runtimes aren't too different.

You can expect an average of about six hours of life from either laptop, but that drops if you're into heavy gaming. You can also expect a larger performance throttling from the Razer laptop. As Boddy explains in their Blade 14 (2025) review:

"On battery power, expect to lose around 30% and 37% of your CPU and GPU performance, respectively — that's a sizeable bump down, but it's again better than a lot of larger gaming laptops."

So while the Blade 14 can deliver slightly longer battery life, the G14 will throttle a lot less when it's unplugged.

ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2025) vs. Razer Blade 14 (2025): Which should you buy?

Your final decision between the ROG Zephyrus G14 and the Blade 14 will likely come down to pricing. Razer's laptops are never affordable, and the ROG Zephyrus G14 really highlights the difference.

Considering you can buy the ROG Zephyrus G14 with a more powerful Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU and RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU for less than a Blade 14 with an RTX 5070 (non-Ti), you'll have to decide if the Blade 14's strengths are really worth the extra money.

Yes, Razer's hardware continues to represent the pinnacle of premium gaming laptop design, but ASUS has made great progress in recent years. The 2025 Zephyrus G14 might not be quite as impressive from an aesthetic standpoint, but it beats the Blade 14 where it matters most: performance and pricing.

If you're interested in how the older models compare, check out my Zephyrus G14 (2024) vs. Razer Blade 14 (2024) analysis. Hint: I come to the same general conclusion as with the newer models.

HP's massive laptop rebrand of 2024 has delivered us the OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 and the OmniBook X Flip 14, two convertible PCs from the new consumer portfolio.

While the laptops share a lot of similar performance hardware specs, the Ultra Flip 14 is definitely positioned as the top-tier OmniBook, with the X Flip 14 arriving as a close second.

That means you can expect improvements to the camera, speakers, and overall design from the Ultra Flip 14. But just because the Ultra Flip 14 has the superior features doesn't mean it's the right choice for you, especially since it costs quite a bit more than the X Flip 14.

I'm here to break down the similarities and differences between the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 and X Flip 14 to help you buy the right PC.

HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 vs. X Flip 14: Specs and availability

HP's OmniBook Ultra Flip 14, as the more premium offering, is unsurprisingly the more expensive option. Prices normally start at $1,1449.99 if you're shopping at HP, and that's for a model with an Intel Core Ultra 5 226V CPU, 16GB of RAM, 512GB SSD, and 2.8K OLED touch display.

At the time of writing, HP is offering a $450 discount, dropping the price to $999.99. As usual at HP, there are a ton of configuration options available, allowing you to bump up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 288V CPU, 32GB of RAM, and a 2TB SSD.

You can also find OmniBook Ultra Flip models at Best Buy. If HP doesn't have a running discount while you're shopping, chances are high that Best Buy will have a deal for you.

The HP OmniBook X Flip 14, as mentioned, is the more affordable laptop. Prices start as low as $999.99 at HP for a model with an Intel Core Ultra 5 226V CPU, 16GB of RAM, 512GB SSD, and FHD+ IPS touch display.

At the time of writing, this introductory model is marked down by $300, which comes out to $699.99 at HP. As with the OmniBook Ultra Flip 14, Best Buy is another great place to shop for the OmniBook X Flip.

Best Buy deal pricing, at the time of writing, starts at $699.99, and that's for an Intel model with a 1TB SSD. The regular price for an AMD model at Best Buy is $849.99, making it the cheapest option out of the bunch when there are no ongoing sales.

It's worth mentioning here that HP also offers a 16-inch version of the OmniBook X Flip. It features AMD Ryzen AI 300 and Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) CPUs and, of course, the option for a larger OLED touch display.

While I'm not comparing the 16-inch model here, you can check out the full lineup of OmniBook X PCs at HP's official site.

The OmniBook Ultra Flip is the Spectre x360's successor

Just because HP rebranded its laptops doesn't mean its new PCs are completely original.

The OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 is a continuation of the premium Spectre x360 laptops, and that's evident as soon as you take a close look at the design.

👉 Related: HP OmniBook X vs. OmniBook Ultra: Snapdragon X or Ryzen AI 300 in your AI PC?

From the angled rear corners that house ports to the sleek edging, I can see the x360's influence. HP refined the new laptop, shaving off a couple of millimeters of thickness and about 0.2 pounds (0.09kg) of weight.

As Windows Central's Zachary Boddy states in their OmniBook Ultra 14 review:

"Overall build quality is still flawless, every bit exuding the premium feeling this laptop's price tag demands. HP still uses a healthy mixture of recycled and reused materials, including aluminum and plastic, and it clearly hasn't impacted the caliber or reliability of this hardware in the slightest. The HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 may be a little on the reserved side design-wise, but it survives the gauntlet that is the premium Windows laptop segment."

The OmniBook X Flip 14 arrives with a less intricate design, lacking the cut rear corners and weighing slightly more than the Ultra Flip 14.

Our own Zachary Boddy also reviewed the OmniBook X Flip 14, remarking:

"Most companies use androgenous designs across their entire budget and mid-range lineups, and HP is the same. The OmniBook X Flip 14 is your standard Windows laptop clad in aluminum, with dual 360-degrees hinges to support those 2-in-1 features."

Is that necessarily a bad thing? Not for a lot of users, especially when you consider the price difference. The OmniBook X Flip 14 is a fine laptop; it's simply not as fancy as the Ultra Flip 14.

The OmniBook Ultra Flip costs more, but its features outshine the X Flip

You'll find the biggest differences between these two PCs once you start digging into the features.

The OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 makes up some of the price difference by offering a higher-res 9MP camera (compared to 5MP in the X Flip 14), four speakers (compared to two), and a superior keyboard/touchpad setup.

HP decided to keep a similar chiclet-style keyboard from the Spectre x360, as well as a large glass haptic touchpad. I still use the last Spectre x360 generation as a daily driver, and I can attest that the typing and pointing hardware is top-notch. You get the same experience from the Ultra Flip 14.

HP, for some reason, moved to a "lattice-less" keyboard on the X Flip 14, removing the spacing between the keys. Some might like this design, but for many it will cause typing errors as fingers accidentally tap other keys.

The X Flip 14 also lacks a haptic touchpad. The traditional pointer with moving parts works fine, and only those who have worked with a haptic touchpad in the past will notice a difference.

As Zachary Boddy mentions in their X Flip 14 review, the webcam, microphones, and speakers all do a great job when compared to other laptops from the same price range. They're just not as good as the options in the Ultra Flip 14.

The OmniBook Ultra Flip 14's display didn't change compared to its Spectre x360 predecessor, but that's not a bad thing.

All models come with a 14-inch OLED panel at a 2880x1800 (2.8K) resolution, 48-120Hz variable refresh rate, 0.2ms response time, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 600 support, and about 400 nits maximum brightness with SDR content.

Testing the display, it hit 100% sRGB and DCI-P3 color reproduction, falling back to 93% for the AdobeRGB gamut.

The OmniBook X Flip 14 has a similar 14-inch OLED display option available to configure as the Ultra Flip 14; however, it's a $130 upcharge.

Most models fall back to a less impressive IPS panel with a 1920x1200 (FHD+) resolution, touch functionality, and 400 nits brightness. All panels support inking.

As Zachary Boddy points out in their OmniBook X Flip 14 review:

"This laptop shines the most on the lower end of its price range, where it's equipped with a 1200p IPS LCD display. It's not nearly as fancy, but you'll save yourself a decent chunk of change and get better battery life. That's also the display you'll find on all the configurations at Best Buy and the models that most often go on sale."

One last thing: connectivity. The Ultra Flip 14 features two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a USB-C 3.2 (10Gbps) port. It also boasts Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for fast and reliable connections.

The OmniBook X Flip 14 has dual USB-A (10Gbps), HDMI 2.1, 3.5mm audio jack, USB-C 3.2 (10Gbps), and either a Thunderbolt 4 (Intel) or a USB4 (AMD) connection. You're less likely to have to use a Thunderbolt dock with the X Flip 14, although having two Thunderbolt ports on the Ultra Flip may be preferred depending on your workflow.

How to choose between power and battery life

The OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 is available with a range of Intel's Core Ultra (Series 2) mobile chips, which include up to Intel's Arc 140V integrated graphics and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) running at 48 TOPS.

That's enough to grant it access to local Copilot+ AI tools in Windows 11, and HP has also piled on several of its own AI enhancements.

Things like gesture controls, smart power modes, upgraded Human Presence Detection (HPD), camera and sound optimizations, and even Wolf Security tools — they're all here.

👉 Related: Best Windows laptops in 2025

The Intel Core Ultra 7 258V in our review model impressed, with Zachary Boddy stating:

"That is to say, this laptop runs like a dream. It's not a powerhouse workstation for heavy-duty creative work or hardcore gaming, of course, but it's a stellar performer considering its compact stature and flexible design. Intel Evo certification guarantees short waits when booting up, waking from sleep, or logging in, as well as fantastic standby endurance."

Battery life is also a perk. According to Windows Battery Report, our review unit averaged 9 hours of real-world runtimes. That's more than enough to get you through a workday without plugging in.

The OmniBook X Flip 14 is a similar story. It has access to Copilot+ tools and most of the same HP AI enhancements whether you choose an Intel Core Ultra or an AMD Ryzen AI 300 CPU, but the performance and battery life differ.

If you go with AMD, you'll get a bit more raw power, especially if you're often involved in CPU-intensive tasks. However, battery life isn't as good. You can still expect "all-day" runtimes, but the Intel models will give you more time before needing to be plugged in.

The drawback? Not quite as much raw power in the Intel chips as in the AMD chips. Keep in mind that either CPU choice is going to be more than enough power for your standard productivity tasks, including web browsing, email, and Microsoft Office.

HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 vs. OmniBook X Flip 14: Which should you buy?

Making the right choice between these two well-rated AI laptops ultimately comes down to how much you're willing to spend.

Considering the X Flip 14 can usually be found for hundreds of dollars less than the OmniBook Ultra Flip 14, I assume that many users will easily come to terms with some of its shortcomings.

👉 Related: How to choose the best HP laptop: OmniBook, EliteBook, OMEN, ZBook, and more

I do, however, recommend checking out the OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 first. It received a higher review score and a Windows Central Editor's Choice award, and it's an all-around superior PC.

If you can't find it for a reasonable price or simply don't want to pay extra for features that don't really impact performance or battery life, give the OmniBook X Flip 14 a glance.

It's much better suited to casual use, and the fact that you can usually find it for far less than $1,000 only sweetens the deal.

The Steam Deck kicked off a PC gaming handheld revolution when Valve launched the device on February 25, 2022, but since then, several other handhelds have come to market, including the ROG Xbox Ally (Xbox Ally), announced at Xbox Games Showcase 2025.

It's worth noting that the Steam Deck has an LCD model and two OLED models. Meanwhile, the Xbox Ally is a base model, but there is also a more powerful Xbox Ally X with more premium specs.

RELATED: Xbox Ally review | Xbox Ally X review | Steam Deck review

Even though the Steam Deck and the base Xbox Ally were created a few years apart, they have a lot more in common than you might initially expect.

I've taken time to compare their specs, displays, controls, operating systems, and batteries to see which one comes out on top. Here's what I've learned.

Xbox Ally vs Steam Deck: Specs

Before we dive into comparisons, take a look at the specs for the two Xbox Ally models and three Steam Deck models.

Now that you've had a look for yourself, I'll dive into different areas and discuss what each device's features and specs mean for you as a handheld owner.

Because they are the most similar, I'll largely compare the white Xbox Ally (Z2 A) to the Steam Deck, rather than comparing the more premium Xbox Ally X (AI Z2 Extreme) to Valve's handheld models.

Xbox Ally vs Steam Deck: Price

PRICE WINNER: The starting Steam Deck LCD is the most affordable device. But the Xbox Ally is more comparable to the 512GB Steam Deck OLED, and the two are priced similarly. They offer tradeoffs, though. If you want a nicer display and touchpads go for the Steam Deck. If you want higher resolution and better grips, go for the Xbox Ally.

Since it launched, the Steam Deck has basically been able to keep its crown as the most affordable PC gaming handheld. The reason for this is that other handhelds have typically had nicer specs and better screens than the Steam Deck, thereby raising their prices.

Currently, you can order a Steam Deck LCD with 256GB SSD for $399.00, a Steam Deck OLED with 512GB SSD for $549.00, or a Steam Deck OLED with 1TB SSD for $649.00 at Steam.

Meanwhile, the Xbox Ally with its Z2 A process, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD sells for $599.99; and the Xbox Ally X with its AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB RAM, and 1TB SSD sells for $999.99.

As you can see, the Steam Deck LCD is the most affordable handheld of the lot. Meanwhile, Xbox Ally's specs are most akin to the 512GB Steam Deck OLED, but Valve's handheld is $50 less and has the OLED display. Just note that the Xbox Ally offers other nice features, including a higher refresh rate, higher resolution, and better grips.

The Xbox Ally launched on Oct 16, 2024, and is currently available at major tech retailers like Best Buy.

Xbox Ally vs Steam Deck: Performance and storage

PERFORMANCE WINNER: This is somewhat of a tie, but with tradeoffs. The white Xbox Ally's processor is comparable to the processor in the Steam Deck LCD and Steam Deck OLED, so their performance tends to be relatively similar, but it can vary with certain games that haven't been optimized for SteamOS.

The base Xbox Ally (the white one) is more comparable to the Steam Deck LCD and Steam Deck OLED than you might initially think.

Both the LCD and OLED versions of the Steam Deck utilize an AMD APU (accelerated processing unit) based on Zen 2 and RDNA2 architecture.

In June 2025, AMD released the specs on the Z2 A APU found in the Xbox Ally, and this is how we learned that it is actually also based on the rather old AMD Zen 2 and RDNA2 architecture that the Steam Deck's APU uses (thanks, PC Gamer).

What this means is that the Steam Deck LCD, Steam Deck OLED, and base Xbox Ally offer very similar APU performance to each other. Something to note is that despite this, game performance can differ between Steam Deck and Xbox Ally, depending on whether or not a game has been optimized for SteamOS. If a game hasn't been optimized there is potential for it to work better on Xbox Ally, but it varies from game to game.

Of course, there are also other component differences to consider.

For one thing, the Steam Deck does not support VRR (variable refresh rate), but the Xbox Ally does. As such, game visuals likely have smoother motion clarity on the Xbox Ally screen, but only if the game doesn't run choppy on the Z2 A processor to begin with.

System performance can also be affected by memory and storage capacities. Having more memory can help the system access game file data faster, resulting in quicker load times.

Meanwhile, having more game storage space means that you don't have to rearrange, delete, or archive data as much. Additionally, if a handheld's storage is too full, it can slow the system down, so it's better to have a larger SSD for gaming.

The Xbox Ally's 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB SSD are respectable capacities for a gaming device. This makes the ROG Xbox Ally most comparable to the Steam Deck OLED 512GB (and its 16GB LPDDR5 RAM).

What it really comes down to is that the Steam Deck plays certain games better than Xbox Ally, and then the Xbox Ally plays certain non-Steam Deck optimized games better than the Steam Deck.

Xbox Ally vs Steam Deck: Display

DISPLAY WINNER: There are some tradeoffs here. The Xbox Ally's 7-inch IPS display has higher resolution, a higher refresh rate, and supports VRR. So, it's a better gaming display overall, even if it isn't an OLED.

The Xbox Ally has a 7-inch IPS touchscreen that reaches up to FHD (1920 x1080) resolution, offers up to a 120Hz refresh rate, and supports VRR (variable refresh rate).

Meanwhile, the Steam Deck LCD has a 7-inch touchscreen with lower 1280 x 800 resolution, and only offers up to 60Hz. The Steam Deck OLED has a 7.4-inch touchscreen with the same low 1280 x 800 resolution, but a slightly higher 90Hz. Neither supports VRR.

This being the case, the Xbox Ally display's features provide crisper detail and better motion clarity than the Steam Deck LCD or Steam Deck OLED screens.

RELATED: IPS LCD vs OLED vs tandem OLED vs QD-OLED vs QLED vs AMOLED vs Mini LED: Which is the best display?

Of course, the Steam Deck OLED has a much nicer color gamut, true black point, and contrast than the Xbox Ally's display. Still, when it comes to gaming, motion clarity and crisp detail are more important, in my opinion.

That all said, it would have been nicer if the Xbox Ally had an OLED option. I'm guessing that if the Xbox Ally sells well, we will see an Xbox Ally OLED down the line.

Xbox Ally vs Steam Deck: Buttons, joysticks, and grip

CONTROLS AND GRIPS WINNER: The Xbox Ally has an Xbox controller-like layout with far more comfortable grips. However, the Steam Deck offers two touchpads for added control in certain games. I prefer the Xbox layout, but both options are good for specific use cases. If nothing else, the more pronounced grips give the Xbox Ally an edge when it comes to ergonomics.

In some ways, you can compare the Xbox Ally's button layout to an Xbox controller and the Steam Deck's layout to a PlayStation controller.

The Xbox Ally has offset joysticks, large ABXY buttons, bumpers, triggers, a D-Pad, and a dedicated Xbox button. Many people find the offset joysticks far more comfortable to use than the PS5 or Steam Deck's inline joysticks.

However, the Steam Deck does have those two haptic touchpads under either joystick, and this gives players more minute control in FPS games or game menus.

In the end, you'll have to determine whether the kinds of games you play would benefit more from touchpads or not. Some do, some don't.

Now, let's discuss grips and hand comfort. Some people absolutely love the Steam Deck grips, but others find the device too clunky and uncomfortable.

Meanwhile, the Xbox Ally has far more pronounced grips than most other mainstream PC gaming handhelds on the market. Due to this, it's more comfortable to hold for longer gaming sessions.

Xbox Ally vs Steam Deck: Compatible games & Operating system

SOFTWARE WINNER: This will depend on your preferences. If you want a device that behaves more like a console, you'll want the Steam Deck with its simple SteamOS interface. However, if you want a device that gives you the freedom of a Windows laptop, then the Xbox Ally will be the better choice.

One of the biggest differences between these handhelds is that the Steam Deck runs the Linux-based SteamOS while the Xbox Ally runs Windows 11.

Many people prefer to use SteamOS because it offers a simplified interface that feels a lot like using a console. Meanwhile, Windows 11 handhelds behave more like laptops, which means they offer more freedom right out of the box, but they can be more difficult to navigate.

For instance, upon opening your Xbox Ally, you can open a browser tab and access Steam, Epic Game Store, Battle.net, and much more. But the Steam Deck is tied more directly to your Steam account.

Now, the Xbox Ally introduces a new "Xbox full screen experience," which minimizes some background Windows tasks and turns others off completely while you game. It was also designed to feel more like a console menu, but it isn't as nice as SteamOS. You can easily exit this mode to go to full Windows 11 and use the device like a normal PC.

If you want to access various gaming services other than Steam on a Steam Deck, you'll need to install and use Decky Loader or something similar.

Any Linux enthusiast will tell you that SteamOS offers a lot of freedom, and this is true as long as you know how to use it. Fortunately, there are numerous tutorials and helpful videos available to assist you in customizing your SteamOS device.

Of course, you could always put SteamOS on your Windows PC gaming handheld, if you want to.

Xbox Ally vs Steam Deck: Battery life

BATTERY WINNER: Despite the Xbox Ally having a larger battery capacity, the Steam Deck OLED is more efficient and can last longer in play sessions.

One of the biggest struggle areas for gaming handhelds is battery life. Most of these devices really don't last all that long, especially not when running graphically demanding or processor-intensive titles.

Typically, the Steam Deck has been found to last between two and eight hours, depending on system settings and the kinds of games being played.

The Xbox Ally has a 60Whr battery, whereas the Steam Deck LCD has a 40Whr battery, and the Steam Deck OLED has a 50Whr battery.

But battery capacity isn't the only determining factor for a handheld's battery life. Your device will run longer if it's on lower settings, playing simpler games, and if the device is designed more efficiently. It turns out the Steam Deck tends to last longer than the Xbox Ally while playing certain games.

I was able to get around seven hours and six minutes of playtime out of the Xbox Ally while playing the 2D pixel-art platformer, Celeste, which is still very good, though.

Honestly, if you want your handheld to last longer, you might want to invest in one of the best power banks for ROG Ally or one of the best Steam Deck power banks.

Xbox Ally vs Steam Deck: Which should I buy?

BEST OVERALL: This will largely come down to a matter of preference, but for most people, the OLED display, longer battery life, lower price, and simple SteamOS interface make the Steam Deck OLED or Steam Deck LCD the more appealing choice. If you value higher refresh rates, higher resolution, and ergonomic grips, you should consider the Xbox Ally.

There are several tradeoffs when considering the Xbox Ally against the Steam Deck. However, the Steam Deck remains a more appealing choice overall. This is due to its lower price point, OLED display, touchpads, and, of course, the SteamOS interface that feels far more console-like and easy to navigate.

Now, that's not to say that the Xbox Ally is a bad handheld, but the Xbox full-screen experience isn't as convenient as SteamOS, and many people find Windows frustrating to navigate on handhelds, even with Microsoft's recent handheld optimizations. However, the Xbox Ally does offer a higher refresh rate, a higher resolution, VRR, and those comfortable grips, so if those are more appealing to you, it's a handheld to consider.

When I first did our ASUS ROG Ally X review, I walked away feeling very impressed with this device. It offered some very nice improvements over the original ASUS ROG Ally gaming handheld.

Now that I've conducted an Xbox Ally X review and an Xbox Ally review, I've seen firsthand how they seeks to improve the Windows handheld experience even further.

I've taken time to compare the Xbox Ally X against the ROG Ally X, and there are some serious differences you're going to want to know about. Let's get started.

By the way, you might also want to check out my Xbox Ally vs ROG Ally comparison, which shows how the white handhelds match up to each other.

Xbox Ally X vs ROG Ally X: Specs

To start things off, take a look at the Xbox Ally X and ROG Ally X specs to see how they compare and differ.

Now that you've taken a gander at the specs, let's go through these handhelds' similarities and differences to discuss how these features will affect you as a potential handheld owner.

Xbox Ally X vs ROG Ally X: Price

PRICE WINNER: The original ROG Ally X doesn't cost as much as the Xbox Ally X, but still offers good gaming performance overall, even if it's not as powerful as the Xbox Ally X.

The Xbox Ally X with its new AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme and notable grips sells for $999.99, which is high-priced, hard pill to swallow.

Meanwhile, the Ally X classic offers two configurations: A 1TB option that sells for $899.99 at Best Buy or a 2TB option that sells for $999.99 at Best Buy, so it is possible to spend less on the older handheld.

It's worth noting that the ROG Ally X handhelds have gone up in price by $100 in the last few months, likely due to the US-China tariff situation. We'll have to wait and see if the price will ever come back down.

Historically, the ROG Ally X has regularly gone on sale during big deal events like Black Friday, Amazon Prime Day, and other deal times. As such, it might be possible to get the Ally X at a lower price if you buy at the right time.

Xbox Ally X vs ROG Ally X: Performance and storage

PERFORMANCE WINNER: The new Xbox Ally X runs games better due to its next-gen AI Z2 Extreme processor and its Windows-reducing capabilities.

The Xbox Ally X utilizes an AI Z2 Extreme APU (accelerated processing unit), which is the next-gen offering compared to the ROG Ally X's Z1 Extreme.

AMD states that the Z2 Extreme is supposed to have better performance by at least 10-15%, which isn't all that much. But when coupled with the Xbox Ally X's other new features, it creates a notably better device that runs games more smoothly overall.

I personally found that going into AMD Software and turning on the HYPR-RX performance profile seriously increases graphics performance on the Xbox Ally X. So, you'll want to take advantage of that if you get this new handheld.

Of course, the Xbox Ally X doesn't just have the Z2 Extreme, but rather the AI Z2 Extreme, so that does mean that the Xbox Ally X is technically an AI PC, complete with an NPU (neural processing unit) on the SoC (system on a chip).

In case you didn't know, an NPU takes some of the load off of the CPU (central processing unit) and GPU (graphics processing unit) so that a system can run more efficiently. This usually results in a device offering better performance overall.

Now, many people will point out that AI PCs typically aren't meant for gaming, but this is a special case since we are dealing with a handheld rather than one of the best gaming laptops or best gaming desktops.

AI PC laptops are known for trading off performance for a lighter design and better battery life, and those are the kinds of things you typically want for one of the best gaming handhelds.

Before the Xbox Ally X came along, the only mainline AI PC gaming handhelds on the market were the MSI Claw 8 AI+ and 7 AI+, and these devices have both impressed us greatly, as seen in my MSI Claw 8 AI+ review.

The big difference between the Claw 8 AI+ and Xbox Ally X is that MSI's handheld has an Intel APU (accelerated processing unit) rather than an AMD one.

Now that we've discussed the processor, let's take a look at the other specs that can affect performance.

Both the Ally X and Xbox Ally X have 24GB RAM, so they're similar in that way. However, the Ally X has more storage options since users can choose between a 1TB SSD configuration or a more expensive 2TB SSD configuration.

As of right now, the Xbox Ally X is only available with a 1TB SSD. However, I have verified that it is easy to upgrade the SSD, and there are also WD_BLACK SSDs that have been exclusively designed for Xbox Ally X if you want to upgrade.

Of course, both devices also have a microSD card slot, so you can easily add more game file space using one of the best ROG Ally microSD cards.

Xbox Ally X vs ROG Ally X: Display

DISPLAY WINNER: We have a tie since the Xbox Ally X and Ally X both use a 7-inch IPS touchscreen that supports VRR and up to 120Hz.

I was really hoping that the Xbox Ally X would have an OLED display, but it seemingly uses the same screen or a very similar panel to what the ROG Ally X uses.

Both have a 7-inch IPS FHD touchscreen that supports up to 120Hz refresh rate and also supports VRR to help game visuals look smoother.

RELATED: IPS LCD vs OLED vs tandem OLED vs QD-OLED vs QLED vs AMOLED vs Mini LED: Which is the best display?

I've used my Ally X for hundreds of hours and the Xbox Ally X for dozens of hours. I can say that while these screens aren't the most impressive ones I've ever seen, they more than do the job. Colors look vibrant, and details are very crisp.

Who knows. Maybe we'll get an Xbox Ally X OLED sometime down the road.

Xbox Ally X vs ROG Ally X: Buttons, joysticks, and grip

CONTROLS AND GRIPS WINNER: The Xbox Ally X has many of the same buttons, but the vastly improved grips and Xbox button make it the better device.

I've previously compared the original ROG Ally X layout to an Xbox controller, so it's not too surprising that the Xbox Ally X layout isn't all that different from the Ally X.

They both have large ABXY buttons, joysticks, triggers, bumpers, and a menu button. However, the new Xbox Ally X has an Xbox button in place of the Ally X's Armoury Crate button.

Design-wise, the one huge difference is that the new Xbox Ally X has contoured grips that are far more pronounced than the original Ally X. I can tell you from personal experience that the Xbox Ally X is more comfortable to hold during long gaming sessions.

Xbox Ally X vs ROG Ally X: Compatible games & Operating system

SOFTWARE WINNER: While both are Windows devices, the Xbox Ally X will have an Xbox full-screen mode that should help the system feel more like a console. This lead is temporary since this new mode is probably going to come to ROG Ally X down the line as well.

It's important to note that both the ASUS ROG Ally X and the new Xbox Ally X run Windows 11, so they can both access Steam, Xbox app, Battle.net, and much more.

As seen at Microsoft blog, the company is planning on releasing a Gamepad layout update to Windows that should make it easier to navigate around the operating system using a controller.

As one example, buttons will be mapped to each of the options on the login pin menu, so you won't have to touch the screen unless you want to.

If Windows Gamepad layout is implemented correctly, this could solve many of the problems people have with using Windows on a handheld.

Additionally, the Xbox Ally X's new Xbox full-screen experience minimizes background Windows programs and turns off others to help the system run more smoothly. In other words, it makes the Windows handheld feel more like a console interface.

The Xbox full-screen experience also helps improve performance and lengthens the handheld's battery life, but it does need to be refined further before it can be anywhere near the level of the much-preferred Steam Deck interface.

That said, users can customize settings, remap buttons, and launch games right from a handy Xbox program.

Meanwhile, the ROG Ally X has a software called Armoury Crate that also provides many of these helpful features. For instance, I highly recommend going in and adjusting VRAM on ROG Ally X or maybe even enabling AFMF 2 to increase performance.

One of the frustrating things about Xbox Ally X and ROG Ally X is that I have to go into a program called AMD Software to further enable some settings. It would be better if these were all contained in Armoury Crate so I didn't have to go to both programs to get the handhelds to work the way I want.

Xbox Ally X vs ROG Ally X: Battery life

BATTERY WINNER: Despite having the same 80Whr battery capacity, the original ROG Ally X, was actually able to last a little longer in my testing.

While both the Xbox Ally X and Ally X have a 80Whr battery, it seems the overall system's power need pulls more from the battery than the ROG Ally X's does.

Officially, Xbox states that the Xbox Ally X will reduce idle power consumption by one third.

In my own testing, the ROG Ally X classic managed to run Cyberpunk 2077 on the Steam Deck preset for two hours and 10 minutes while the new Xbox Ally X ran it for an hour and 53 minutes. It's not a huge difference, but the Xbox Ally X did run out of battery faster.

Something to note is that most PC gaming handhelds really don't have the best battery life, so getting around two hours is pretty typical with AAA games.

However, if you change to lower settings and play less graphically demanding or processor-stressing games you can get the Ally X to last for a few hours.

Xbox Ally X vs ROG Ally X: Which should I buy?

BEST OVERALL: The Xbox Ally X is the better-performing handheld overall with its next-gen processor and improved grips. As such, it is the device we recommend most for people who want the best playing experience. However, the ROG Ally X is still a fantastic device that works very well and doesn't cost as much.

I have loved my ROG Ally X and can easily recommend it to anyone looking for one of the best PC gaming handhelds on the market right now. However, if you're willing to spend the high price for it, the Xbox Ally X, offers an even better playing experience.

In the end, if you want the less expensive option or something you can buy right now, you should consider the Ally X. But if you want the latest and greatest handheld, you should get the Xbox Ally X.

The contoured grips, Xbox full-screen experience, and AI Z2 Extreme processor make it the more compelling premium gaming handheld of the two.

The ASUS ROG Ally originally released in 2023 as one of the very first Windows gaming handhelds developed by a mainstream OEM (original equipment manufacturer). Now that a couple of years have passed, the ROG Xbox Ally (or Xbox Ally) has shown up (announced during Xbox Games Showcase 2025) as a relatively similar device, but with some key differences.

I've compared and contrasted these gaming handhelds against each other on this page to help you see how they match up. Let's dive in.

By the way, it's worth noting that there is also a more powerful Xbox Ally X that is comparable to the ASUS ROG Ally X. If you want to learn more about those devices, check out my Xbox Ally X vs ROG Ally X comparison.

Xbox Ally vs ROG Ally: Specs

I'll dive in and discuss the similarities and differences between the Xbox ROG Ally and the original ASUS ROG Ally, but first, take a look at the known specs of these devices.

Now that you've seen the known specs, continue reading to get a better understanding of what these components and features mean for you as a potential handheld owner.

Xbox Ally vs ROG Ally: Price

PRICE WINNER: The Xbox Ally technically has a lower starting price than the ROG Ally, now that the starting ROG Ally model is no longer selling in stores.

The Xbox Ally with its Ryzen Z2 A processor sells for $599.99 at major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.

Previously, the ASUS ROG Ally came in two configurations: A Z1 Extreme version that sold for $699 and then later a Z1 (non-Extreme) version with a $599.99 MSRP.

However, the Z1 (non-Extreme) devices have largely sold out of stock at several retailers and aren't as widely available as they once were, so you're likely only going to be able to buy the $699.99 Z1 Extreme configuration unless you buy used.

When I last checked, the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme was selling for $649.99 at Best Buy.

This device has also frequently gone on sale during big deal events like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and more. So, you might be able to grab it or the Xbox Ally at a great discount if you buy during a sale.

Xbox Ally vs ROG Ally: Performance and storage

PERFORMANCE WINNER: The original ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme) offers better performance than the new Xbox Ally (Z2 A) in every way.

Despite having one of the next-gen AMD Z2 Ryzen APUs, the Xbox Ally is actually designed to offer performance that's more on the level of the Steam Deck, which is less powerful than the ROG Ally classic.

As an explainer, the Ryzen Z2 A in the Xbox Ally uses Zen 2 architecture, with a CPU that has four cores and 8 threads, and 8 GPU cores, similar to the Steam Deck AMD APU.

RELATED: Xbox Ally vs Steam Deck comparison

Meanwhile, the ROG Ally's Z1 Extreme uses Zen 4 architecture, has a CPU with six cores and 12 threads, but only has 4 GPU cores.

In my Xbox Ally testing, I discovered that the Xbox Ally got far lower scores than the ROG Ally in every benchmark I ran it through. So if you want something that can handle more of the latest games, you're better off with the ROG Ally or the Xbox Ally X.

In my ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme) review, I was impressed by how smoothly many PC games ran on this device, but it still cannot handle some more graphically intensive games that haven't been optimized for handhelds.

Both the Xbox ROG Ally and the ASUS ROG Ally offer 512GB SSD with 16GB RAM, so there don't seem to be any memory or storage differences that could affect performance at this point.

However, the new Xbox Ally does have a more common M.2 2280 SSD slot compared to the Ally's M.2 2230 SSD slot, so the new device's storage should be easier to upgrade.

That said, I have installed a larger capacity SSD into my ROG Ally's M.2 2230 slot. There are a few 2230 SSDs to choose from that will serve your needs really well, if you want to go through this process.

Additionally, both handhelds offer microSD card slots in case you want to add additional storage without opening the device.

Xbox Ally vs ROG Ally: Display

DISPLAY WINNER: We have a tie. Both the ROG Ally and the newer Xbox ROG Ally seem to utilize similar, if not the same, 7-inch IPS touchscreens.

Both the Ally and the Xbox Ally have a 7-inch IPS touchscreen that reaches up to FHD resolution, offers up to a 120Hz refresh rate, and supports VRR (variable refresh rate) for smoother gaming.

I know from my own ROG Ally experiences and testing that this handheld's screen doesn't have the very best color gamut, but it does display game visuals with respectable color and crisp detail. As such, I'm expecting the same from the Xbox ROG Ally.

RELATED: IPS LCD vs OLED vs tandem OLED vs QD-OLED vs QLED vs AMOLED vs Mini LED: Which is the best display?

It's a little disappointing that the Xbox Ally screen isn't an OLED, but keeping it as an IPS display does keep the cost of the device down.

Xbox Ally vs ROG Ally: Buttons, joysticks, and grip

CONTROLS AND GRIPS WINNER: The Xbox Ally has the same overall button layout, but also has far more pronounced built-in grips, which makes the device more comfortable to hold than the original ROG Ally.

It was already easy to compare the original ROG Ally layout to the Xbox controller, due to its large ABXY buttons, offset joysticks, bumpers, triggers, menu, and view button.

Now, the new Xbox Ally has a very similar layout to the Ally, only with a dedicated Xbox button in place of the ASUS Armoury Crate button.

Despite the grips not looking as ergonomic as the Xbox controller, the original ROG Ally is still a decently comfortable gaming handheld to hold due to the grip shape.

That said, the new Xbox Ally has far more pronounced grips that make for more comfortable and convenient gaming sessions.

Unlike some other gaming handhelds like Nintendo Switch 2 and Lenovo Legion Go 2, both the ROG Ally and Xbox ROG Ally do not have detachable controllers, nor do they have built-in kickstands.

Xbox Ally vs ROG Ally: Compatible games & Operating system

SOFTWARE WINNER: The Xbox Ally has an edge because of its ability to reduce Windows tasks in the background to make the device more efficient. But this will likely also come to ROG Ally soon.

It's important to note that both the ASUS ROG Ally and the new Xbox Ally run Windows 11, so they are capable of accessing the same programs and services that a gaming laptop can.

This means you can easily go to Steam, Xbox app, Epic Games Store, Battle.net, and many more.

Microsoft is also planning on releasing a new Gamepad layout that will make it easier to navigate Windows using controller buttons. For instance, the login pin menu will have 1 assigned to D-Pad up (as seen in Microsoft Insider Preview Build).

Depending on how Windows Gamepad layout is implemented, it could solve a lot of the issues people have using Windows on a gaming handheld.

One of the key differences between these handhelds is that the ROG Ally has an Armoury Crate button while the Xbox Ally has an Xbox button. Both programs can be used to launch games, adjust settings, and more.

However, the Xbox Ally has a new Xbox full-screen experience that turns off or reduces Windows background tasks so the handheld can run more efficiently while you play your games.

Xbox states that this leads to "more memory, higher framerates, and a fully immersive experience for players—all made possible by the versatility and freedom of Windows 11."

The Xbox button on the new Xbox Ally quickly gives players access to an enhanced Game Bar overlay that makes it easy to open programs, chat, or adjust settings and accessibility features.

In my own experience, I can say the Xbox full-screen experience does improve things, but it seriously needs to be refined further before it feels as intuitive and convenient as the Steam Deck interface.

I can say that I have a love-hate relationship with Armoury Crate.

On the one hand, the program is somewhat clunky and doesn't always offer all of the settings adjustments that I want. For instance, I have to open AMD Software if I want to enable certain AMD graphics features.

That all said, of the many gaming handhelds I've tested and used, ROG Ally and Xbox Ally's Armoury Crate does provide the most customization options to help me set up the handheld just the way I want it.

Xbox Ally vs ROG Ally: Battery life

BATTERY WINNER: The new Xbox Ally offers longer battery life since it has a larger 60Whr battery capacity than the original Ally's 40Whr battery and has new energy-saving features.

The ROG Ally has a 40Whr battery that is capable of lasting up to four hours on low settings when playing less demanding games. However, it tends to run out of juice in less than an hour if it's playing more graphically intensive titles and on max TDP (thermal design power).

Of course, another option is to swap out the ROG Ally's battery for a better one. If you're interested, you can check out my ROG Ally battery upgrade guide for more info.

Meanwhile, Xbox Ally has a larger 60Whr battery capacity, and I was able to get it to last for roughly seven hours and six minutes while playing less demanding games. When I ran Cyberpunk 2077, the Xbox Ally only lasted about an hour and 48 minutes.

That said, many gaming handhelds really don't have very long battery life, so it might be in your best interest to get a power bank for ROG Ally or play your device while it is charging and docked to a TV.

Xbox Ally vs ROG Ally: Which should I buy?

BEST OVERALL: Even though the Xbox Ally has a new Z2 A processor and a larger capacity battery, the original ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme) can run a wider range of games than the Xbox Ally.

Both the ROG Ally and Xbox Ally are good devices, but there are a few trade-offs between them. The original ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme) is more powerful than the Xbox ROG Ally with its Z2 A processor, so if you want to play more graphically demanding titles, it's the better pick.

The Xbox ROG Ally does have better battery life due to its larger capacity and ability to save power by turning off certain Windows 11 features in its Xbox mode. I also cannot argue with the improved grips on the Xbox Ally, which make this device easier to hold during gaming sessions. But it feels like less value for your money overall. That could change if you happen to grab one during a sale.

Oblivion Remastered is out and being enjoyed by countless gamers, but many are finding that the new Unreal Engine 5 graphics aren't playing nice with older PC hardware.

For most gamers looking to upgrade to a new desktop gaming PC without having to do any work, I recommend Lenovo's Legion Tower 7i (Gen 8). It's competitively priced, it's built to a high standard, and it's available with up to an NVIDIA RTX 4080 Super GPU.

Not quite what you need? Hundreds of hours of desktop PC testing at Windows Central gives me five other top-rated options perfect for playing Elder Scrolls: Oblivion Remastered.

The Quick List

The best desktop gaming PCs for Oblivion Remastered in 2025

Best overall desktop gaming PC for Oblivion Remastered

Lenovo's Legion Tower 7i (Gen 8) is my top pick for most users, but only if they aren't in search of NVIDIA's latest RTX 5000 GPUs.

While you won't get access to DLSS 4's Multi Frame Generation, you will save quite a bit of money; RTX 50-series GPUs don't come cheap, and the desktops that house them aren't as affordable.

Windows Central's Zachary Boddy reviewed the Legion Tower 7i (Gen 8), remarking:

"Want to play all the best PC games? Have a burning desire to crank every setting to its highest? Planning on enjoying those games on a crisp, high-resolution gaming monitor or TV? If you answered yes to all these questions and are looking for a gaming PC to accommodate you, the Lenovo Legion Tower 7i (Gen 8) may just be the best mainstream, pre-built gaming PC you can buy right now."

Lenovo's desktop gaming PC is available with up to an NVIDIA RTX 4080 SUPER for awesome performance, but models start with a more modest RTX 4070 Ti with 12GB of VRAM.

The GPUs are paired with up to an Intel Core i9-14900KF CPU, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 2TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD.

Models start at about $2,200 thanks to near-permanent discounts at Lenovo, and there's plenty of room to scale up as needed.

👉 Read our full Lenovo Legion Tower 7i (Gen 8) review

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Runner-up desktop gaming PC for Oblivion Remastered

HP's OMEN 35L is an easy runner-up to the Legion Tower 7i thanks to its selection of the latest NVIDIA hardware.

You can configure models with up to an RTX 5080 GPU, but there are plenty of other options, including an AMD Radeon RX 7600.

All GPUs can be paired with up to an Intel Core i7-14700F CPU, 64GB of Kingston FURY DDR5 RAM, and dual 2TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs.

Windows Central's Zachary Boddy reviewed the HP OMEN 35L, noting:

"Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) isn't the slam dunk for gamers Intel may want you to think it is, but it doesn't stop the OMEN 35L from shredding through anything you can throw at it. While it may be tempting to wait and see what companies can do with new hardware from AMD and NVIDIA (I understand completely), the OMEN 35L is one of the easiest pre-built systems for me to recommend right now."

The PC's 35-liter case is a lot more compact than my top pick, but the internal layout is clean and organized. And I have to hand it to HP when it comes to making upgrades fairly easy.

Standard parts are used in most places, the PSU is modular, and there's space inside to fit the biggest GPUs on the market.

Prices start at about $1,400 at HP, but there are frequent discounts to check out.

👉 Read our full HP OMEN 35L review

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Best boutique desktop gaming PC for Oblivion Remastered

While I haven't yet put together an official review of the Maingear MG-1 on Windows Central, that will change in the near future.

In the meantime, trust that I've had plenty of experience with this custom-built PC. Maingear makes an awesome product, and it's backed up by strong in-house support.

The real draw here is the extensive customization options and the precision assembly. When I pulled apart the MG-1 for the first time, cable management and overall attention to detail were superior to the custom PC I put together myself.

Maingear lets you select everything from the performance hardware to the fans and cables, and it uses the same parts you'd buy separately; no proprietary designs here.

Prices start at about $1,339 for models with an RTX 4060 and AMD Ryzen 5 7600X, but a jump to a model with an RTX 5060 Ti (16GB) and Ryzen 5 9600X only adds about $400.

Either model will run Oblivion Remastered, but there's plenty of room to spec up — all the way to a Ryzen 9 9950X3D and RTX 5090 — as your budget allows.

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Best compact desktop gaming PC for Oblivion Remastered

This tiny PC won't allow you to get the most out of its performance hardware due to thermal constraints, but with an RTX 4070 and Intel Core i9-13900KF inside, it'll easily handle Oblivion Remastered and most other AAA games at 1440p.

It measures in at 12.72 x 11.3 x 4.53 inches, giving it just enough space to house the desktop GPU. Future upgrades beyond the RAM and SSD won't be as easy as with a full-size PC, but that won't matter for lots of users.

Editor Rebecca Spear reviewed the ASUS ROG G22CH, saying:

"If you want something ready to go when you get it and won't take up that much room, then the ASUS ROG G22CH-DB978 is an excellent choice. Its powerful CPU and GPU can handle any intensive gaming tasks you throw at it while producing high FPS and smooth gameplay. The fans run a bit loud, which also helps keep the system running efficiently."

You can pick up a model with a Core i7-13700F CPU, RTX 4070 GPU, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD for about $1,650 at Amazon, and there are a number of other configs available if you desire a different setup.

👉 Read our full ASUS ROG G22CH review

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Best mini desktop gaming PC for Oblivion Remastered

The ASUS ROG G22CH might be compact, but the ROG NUC 970 takes it one step further with its mini PC frame.

ASUS actually uses laptop hardware inside due to the tight thermal constraints, but with an RTX 4070 Laptop GPU and a Core Ultra 9 185H CPU, you'll be able to enjoy Oblivion Remastered without issue.

Windows Central Editor Rebecca Spear reviewed the ASUS ROG NUC 970, remarking:

"The ASUS ROG NUC 970 is a very powerful mini PC that can handle modern gaming easily, thanks to its Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and RTX 4070 L graphics card. While it uses laptop components, it has far more ports than most gaming laptops offer and doesn't take up a lot of room. Being able to stand it upright or lay it down adds to its convenience."

The 4070/Ultra 9 combo comes with 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, totaling about $1,722 at Amazon. If you'd like to spend less, there's also an ROG NUC 760 with an RTX 4060 Laptop GPU and Ultra 7 155H CPU for about $1,297.

If you love the idea of something super portable but don't exactly want a mini PC, be sure to check out my roundup of the best gaming laptops for Oblivion Remastered.

👉 Read our full ASUS ROG NUC 970 review

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Best custom pre-built desktop gaming PC for Oblivion Remastered

iBuyPower sits somewhere between the mass-produced mainstream desktop gaming PCs and custom boutique builds when it comes to quality and hardware.

I reviewed the iBuyPower Slate 8 Mesh custom pre-built and came away impressed, although I was disappointed by the non-modular PSU and stock fan curve.

"iBuyPower's Slate 8 Mesh gets a lot right. The build has clean cable management and came assembled with no issues. The parts used in the build are mostly pieces you can buy on your own, save for the PSU and CPU cooler, which can be replaced after purchase. There's no bloatware installed, allowing you to choose exactly what sort of RGB software you want to use."

Those issues are remedied with iBuyPower's customizable configurations, but for a more expedited buying process, there are plenty of models already built and for sale at Best Buy starting at about $1,250.

With plenty of hardware options, including modern Intel or AMD CPUs and up to an NVIDIA RTX 5070 Ti, there should be a PC with a competitive price for any level of user who wants to enjoy Oblivion Remastered.

👉 Read our full iBuyPower Slate 8 Mesh review

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Honorable mentions

Don't see quite what you need in my top six picks? These honorable mentions might be more to your liking.

• Dell XPS Desktop 8960: The XPS Desktop isn't a gaming PC, but it is available with up to an RTX 4070 GPU and a 14th Gen Intel Core i9-14900K CPU. If you prefer a sleeper build that won't receive future updates, you can find it for about $2,380 at Amazon. 👉 Read our full Dell XPS Desktop (8960) review
• HP OMEN 45L: The OMEN 45L is a huge desktop gaming PC with a unique Cryo Chamber on top that lowers temps throughout. It's available with up to an RTX 5090 GPU and Core Ultra 9 285K CPU, but prices start at about $3,030 at HP. 👉 Read our full HP OMEN 45L review

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How we test desktop gaming PCs at Windows Central

The Windows Central team is always in the process of testing and reviewing new hardware, and everything we touch goes through a similar process.

For pre-built desktop gaming PCs, it usually starts with checking out the build quality. Attention to detail, cable management, and assembly are all analyzed. You generally want a PC that works flawlessly out of the box, and we take care to ensure that's possible.

From there, we take a look at the case and its airflow capabilities, port selection, and ease-of-use when it comes to repairs and upgrades. If a pre-built PC is using proprietary hardware that might get in the way of future tweaks, we'll let you know.

👉 Related: How we test and review at Windows Central

How well the hardware performs is also taken into account, and we take extra care to compare metrics when testing compact or mini PCs that don't have as much top-end performance potential.

System noise, power supply quality, and included software impressions are mixed into the overall recipe, giving you a full and clear idea of what to expect from the pre-built gaming PC in question.

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How to choose the best desktop gaming PC for Oblivion Remastered

Choosing the right PC for you will ultimately come down to how much you're willing to spend, how much space you have for a gaming PC, and what level of performance you're expecting.

Any of the PCs I've included above will run the Elder Scrolls Oblivion remake. Although my top pick doesn't offer NVIDIA's RTX 50-series GPUs, the Legion Tower 7i (Gen 8) is competitively priced, built to a high standard, and comes with up to an RTX 4080 SUPER for outstanding performance.

It doesn't have access to DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation, but you'll save money compared to one of Team Green's latest cards. Prices generally start at about $2,200.

For those who do want a pre-built with NVIDIA's RTX 50-series cards, the HP OMEN 35L is an attractive runner-up. It has a clean interior layout, the case doesn't take up as much space, and HP has a ton of configuration options. Prices start at about $1,400 at HP.

Maingear's MG-1 is my top recommendation for any PC enthusiast who wants a high-performance system that feels like it was built at home.

Maingear's attention to detail is impressive, and the use of standard parts you can buy on the open market makes future upgrades as simple as possible. There's a wide range of hardware (including the latest from Intel, NVIDIA, and AMD), and prices start at about $1,339.

You might also find what you need from iBuyPower's Slate 8 Mesh lineup. These custom PCs come in a variety of configurations, with the most affordable starting at about $1,250.

Don't have much space in your gaming room? ASUS has you covered with its ROG G22CH and ROG NUC 970.

The former features desktop hardware in a compact chassis; you can get an RTX 4070 and Core i7 for about $1,650. The latter is a smaller mini PC that uses laptop-class hardware, and you can generally find it starting around $1,297 at Amazon.

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Best desktop gaming PCs for Oblivion Remastered: FAQ

Not sure if Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered is the right game for you? Here are some answers to top questions surrounding Bethesda's brilliant remake.

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Oblivion Remastered is here, and the awesome remake's overhauled graphics for Unreal Engine 5 aren't easy on PC hardware.

Many gamers are looking to get in on the RPG action, and a new gaming laptop could be the best avenue, especially if you prefer to take your favorite titles everywhere you go.

To get the most out of Elder Scrolls Oblivion, I recommend the new Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10). It's available with the latest Intel and NVIDIA RTX 50-series hardware, and it comes with a slick redesign for improved cooling.

Out of the 30 laptops we've reviewed recently — making up hundreds of hours of testing — I've selected four other top gaming laptops and a handful of honorable mentions perfect for playing Oblivion Remastered.

The Quick List

The best gaming laptops for Elder Scrolls Oblivion in 2025

Best overall gaming laptop for Oblivion Remastered

Windows Central's Zachary Boddy has Lenovo's successor to last year's best gaming laptop in for testing, and it's proving to be an exceptional PC for those who crave a ton of power and a 16-inch design.

Boddy remarks in their Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10) hands-on analysis:

"Apart from moving away from rear-mounted ports, I like every change Lenovo made with the redesigned Legion Pro 7i. Performance and thermals were excellent in my early testing, and the new OLED display looked marvelous."

One of the biggest changes, as Boddy notes, is the redesigned rear edge that now houses an expanded thermal system for the NVIDIA RTX 5000 laptop GPUs rather than a lineup of ports.

The laptop is a bit bigger than its predecessor in terms of footprint, although it's about 8% lighter. All models have an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU inside, and you can choose between an RTX 5070 Ti, RTX 5080, or RTX 5090 Laptop GPU.

I strongly recommend NOT buying the RTX 5090 model; our testing has shown that it's hardly more powerful than the RTX 5080, and the massive price difference is in no way justifiable. The RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5080 Laptop GPUs will handle Oblivion Remastered just fine.

The Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10)'s 16-inch display comes with an OLED panel, and it's stacked with a 240Hz refresh rate, G-Sync and Advanced Optimus support, Dolby Vision, and DisplayHDR True Black 1000 certification.

👉 Read our Lenovo Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10) hands-on impressions

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Best compact gaming laptop for Oblivion Remastered

ASUS might have revealed an updated ROG Zephyrus G14 for 2025, but until it officially launches, the 2024 model is standing by as an awesome 14-inch gaming laptop.

Windows Central laptop expert Zachary Boddy reviewed the ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024), stating:

"ASUS has redesigned its Zephyrus G14 with a beautiful, slim, light aluminum chassis. It's ridiculously portable and doesn't skimp on the power, so it can play any modern game without breaking a sweat. There's an absurd level of quality and polish here for an ASUS ROG machine, but such a thin chassis leads to more heat, meaning the Zephyrus G14 can't push its hardware to the max."

As is the case with all 14-inch gaming laptops, you're sacrificing some top-level performance due to the compact size. But with an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4070 Laptop inside, it'll handle the demand of Oblivion Remastered.

ASUS cut no corners with the display. It has an OLED panel with a 2880x1800 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate (perfect for the performance hardware), 0.2ms response time, and 500 nits brightness.

The model I recommend first, with the RTX 4070, costs about $2,000 at Best Buy. If that's too much for your budget, you can fall back to a $1,600 model with an RTX 4060 Laptop GPU and the same Ryzen 9 CPU.

👉 Read our full ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024) review

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Best budget gaming laptop for Oblivion Remastered

The best gaming laptops range greatly in price, and shopping in the budget area usually means you have to make peace with some compromises.

Lenovo's LOQ 15 is a good example, coming in at about $1,000 for a model with an AMD Ryzen 7 7435HS CPU, NVIDIA RTX 4060 Laptop GPU, 16GB of upgradeable DDR5 RAM, and a replaceable 512GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD.

Although the Windows Central team hasn't tested this exact model, we have plenty of experience with Lenovo laptops; look no further than our Legion Pro 5i (Gen 9) review or our Legion 5i (Gen 9) review. They're built well, and Lenovo balances power to ensure there's no throttling.

Senior Editor Ben Wilson did review an Intel LOQ 15 model, but wasn't too impressed with the Intel CPU and GPU combination. That, at least, is fixed with the Ryzen and NVIDIA combination I'm highlighting here; it has a 4.6-star buyer rating with more than 275 reviews at Best Buy.

You won't be able to max out Oblivion Remastered settings, but you will be able to enjoy the game somewhere near the middle specs, allowing you to take full advantage of the 144Hz FHD display.

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Best premium gaming laptop for Oblivion Remastered

The Blade 16 has been refreshed for 2025, and it now includes NVIDIA's RTX 50-series Laptop GPUs (up to an RTX 5090) and up to an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU. These specs will crush Oblivion Remastered and any other AAA games.

Despite the powerful new hardware, Razer somehow managed to significantly trim down the size, making it the thinnest Blade 16 ever released. That does, of course, mean that you won't see the absolute best performance from the hardware, but the mobility tradeoff will make sense for gamers on the move.

Windows Central's Zachary Boddy reviewed the Blade 16 for 2025, noting:

"Razer genuinely improved the Blade 16 by leaps and bounds in a single generation. Of course, there are still changes I'd love to see in future iterations, like a glass display, haptic touchpad, and more of the features we've seen in premium Ultrabooks.

"Those aside, though, the new Blade 16 is thinner and lighter than ever, but runs cooler and matches or exceeds the performance of its chunkier predecessor. This laptop finally feels like its hardware matches the exorbitant price tag again."

Battery life isn't great, but that's not unexpected and aligns with most other gaming laptops on the market. You can find the Blade 16 for 2025 starting at about $3,000 at Razer.

👉 Read our full Razer Blade 16 (2025) review

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Best 18-inch gaming laptop for Oblivion Remastered

I'm currently in the end-stage of reviewing the ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 18 (G835L), and I can confidently say it's an awesome laptop for anyone who wants more of a desktop replacement than a mobile companion.

The 18-inch device is dripping in high-end features, including an AniMe Vision LED panel on the lid, halo RGB lighting on the base, Thunderbolt 5 ports, a mini-LED display, and an overhauled cooling system now with three fans.

ASUS offers up to an NVIDIA RTX 5090 Laptop GPU, but I strongly recommend against the top-tier card. There's a $1,100 price difference between it and the RTX 5080, and I've discovered that the 5090 hardly performs any better.

I recommend sticking with the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU and either an RTX 5070 Ti — starting at $2,700 — or the RTX 5080 model starting at $3,400. At the time of writing, models are available for pre-order.

No matter the performance hardware configuration, you get an incredible 18-inch mini-LED display with a 2560x1600 (QHD+) resolution, 2,000+ individual dimming zones, 240Hz refresh rate, and about 1,200 nits brightness. It's the part I've loved most so far during my testing.

👉 Read our ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 18 (G835L) hands-on impressions

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Honorable mentions

At Windows Central, we're always busy testing the latest gaming hardware, and I have some bonus recommendations to make for those looking to enjoy Elder Scrolls Oblivion Remastered on a modern device.

I've included some gaming handhelds as well as some other more affordable gaming laptops with which we have experience.

• MSI Claw 8 AI+: This Intel gaming handheld annihilated its AMD rivals in our testing, making it a top option for Oblivion Remastered on the go. The biggest downside is its availability, but you can track it at Best Buy. 👉 Read our full MSI Claw 8 AI+ review
• ASUS ROG Ally: The ROG Ally is the best gaming handheld for most people, and it'll handle Oblivion Remastered as long as you aren't looking to max in-game settings. You can find it for about $650 at Best Buy. 👉 Read our full ASUS ROG Ally review
• Alienware m16 R2: Alienware's m16 R2 is one of our favorite gaming laptops, but it's being phased out for its successor, the Alienware 16 Area-51. Until then, you might be able to snag a discounted m16 R2 at Best Buy; Dell is sold out. 👉 Read our full Alienware m16 R2 review
• Razer Blade 18: If you prefer an 18-inch display, top-end hardware, and a slim chassis, the Blade 18 should be the right choice. The new Blade 18 model for 2025 should be available soon; you can check it out at Razer. 👉 Read our full Razer Blade 18 (2024) review
• Lenovo Legion Pro 5i: This mid-range gaming laptop starts at about $1,500 and provides a nice balance between Lenovo's budget and high-end PCs. 👉 Read our full Lenovo Legion Pro 5i (Gen 9) review
• Acer Nitro V 15: The Nitro V 15 comes with a 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13620H CPU, NVIDIA RTX 4060 GPU, and a 15.6-inch FHD display with a 144Hz refresh rate. It seems to be permanently discounted to $890 at Best Buy. 👉 Read the Tom's Hardware Nitro V 15 review

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How we test gaming laptops

The Windows Central team is always busy testing the latest laptops, and they all undergo a similar process.

Laptops are "adopted" during the review period, allowing us to get a clear sense of how well they work in real-world situations.

For gaming laptops, that means we analyze camera quality, typing and pointing experience, port layout and selection, audio quality, and more.

👀 How we test and review laptops at Windows Central

Displays are measured using a colorimeter, allowing us to get accurate readings for brightness and color reproduction across sRGB, AdobeRGB, and DCI-P3 gamuts.

Because performance is of the utmost importance when it comes to gaming, laptops are tested using synthetic benchmarks — Geekbench, Cinebench, CrossMark, PCMark, 3DMark, CrystalDiskMark, and more — as well as actual games.

We can then compare results with other laptops to ensure that pricing is in line with market norms.

Finally, battery life is measured using a mix of synthetic rundown tests and real-world usage results. This allows us to give a clearer idea of how much runtime to expect on a charge.

How to choose the best gaming laptop for Elder Scrolls Oblivion

Lenovo's Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10) is the laptop I recommend for most people who want to enjoy Oblivion Remastered.

It's equipped with NVIDIA's RTX 50-series Laptop GPUs and an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU; even with the RTX 5070 Ti, it'll handle the game with settings cranked up. The price, starting at around $3,100, will likely be the deciding factor, and I've included other options that cost quite a bit less.

The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 with an RTX 4060 Laptop GPU and AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS CPU costs about $1,600, and you can add even more performance with an RTX 4070 for about $2,000.

I love recommending the 14-inch gaming laptop to anyone who often travels with their PC, but it'll do a bang-up job for practically anyone who wants to enjoy the Oblivion remake.

For those who are really looking to stretch their dollar, Lenovo's LOQ 15 with an AMD Ryzen 7 7435HS CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4060 Laptop GPU costs about $1,000. It doesn't have the same high-end features as my other picks, but you definitely won't overspend.

And for those with truly deep pockets, the Razer Blade 16 (2025) and the ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 18 (G835L) can deliver the latest AMD, Intel, and NVIDIA hardware and the features you'd expect from a premium PC.

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Best gaming laptops for Oblivion Remastered: FAQ

Not sure if Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered is the right game for you? Here are some answers to top questions surrounding Bethesda's brilliant remake.

You can learn more at our Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered PC specs guide.

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HP is one of the world's top-selling laptop brands, and its expertise covers everything from budget consumer PCs to secure business devices to high-end gaming laptops.

A visit to HP's storefront reveals countless different makes and models, and attempting to find the perfect Windows laptop for your needs isn't always easy.

And because HP's laptop brands recently underwent a shift, it can be harder to decipher what's made for business, what's made for regular users, and what's made for gaming.

I'm here to decipher all of HP's new laptop brands while making some suggestions for which names are the best for certain types of users.

HP's huge 2024 PC rebrand explained

HP's laptop ecosystem has changed a lot in the last year following a near-complete rebranding in May 2024.

Recognizable brands like Spectre (since 2012), Envy (since 2009), and Pavilion (since 1995) have been retired, although you can still find models for sale from before the shakeup; they're slowly being phased out.

It plays out like this: OmniBook is the new umbrella term for HP's consumer laptops. Spectre, Envy, and Pavilion now fall under this name, and HP has differentiated models with letters and numbers.

For example, the high-end Spectre lineup is now known as OmniBook Ultra, with OmniBook X sitting one tier below.

Envy and Pavilion laptops are now split into OmniBook 7, 5, and 3. The laptops get more affordable as the numbers get smaller.

In the same vein on the commercial side: HP's EliteBook laptops come in Ultra, X, 8, and 6 versions. The budget business PCs are called ProBook with 4 and 2 versions.

HP's gaming laptops haven't been rebranded, so the usual OMEN and Victus lineups are still in place.

The HP rebrand coincided with the launch of Copilot+ PCs, which brought a considerable amount of new Qualcomm Snapdragon X-powered laptops with AI tools built into Windows 11.

This wasn't an accident. As HP stated in its press release from May 2024:

"[…] as AI PCs quickly transform the personal computing landscape, we saw an opportunity to take increasingly complex technology and communicate it in a strikingly simple way.”

The rebrand is the right move for the sake of simplicity, and "OmniBook" already has a history at HP dating back to 1993.

HP's OmniBook lineup of consumer laptops

HP's simplification focus sees consumer laptops like Spectre, Pavilion, and the standard "HP Laptop" brand become OmniBook.

While it might seem at first more difficult to differentiate models, HP's numbering and lettering system is straightforward.

HP OmniBook Ultra and Ultra Flip

The OmniBook Ultra, as the top tier, is expected to deliver the best mix of design, features, display, performance, and battery life. These laptops also come with the highest price tags.

HP offers both notebook and convertible (with the Flip name added) OmniBook Ultra laptops, and at least for now, they're all sized at 14 inches. By default, they come with an OLED display.

Former Windows Central writer Zachary Boddy reviewed the OmniBook Ultra Flip 14, calling it a worthy successor to the Spectre x360 and handing it an Editor's Choice award.

All of the new OmniBook Ultra laptops are AI PCs, and the modern Intel and AMD hardware options have enough Neural Processing Unit (NPU) power to handle Copilot+ tools built into Windows 11.

If you want one of the absolute best consumer laptops HP offers, the OmniBook Ultra and OmniBook Ultra Flip laptops should be your first consideration.

HP OmniBook X

HP's OmniBook X laptops are available with Qualcomm Snapdragon X Systems-on-Chip (SoC) as well as modern Intel and AMD CPU options.

The launch of Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus SoCs is what kicked off the Copilot+ PC AI revolution, and the ARM64 chips are snappy with awesome efficiency.

As long as you're OK with some of the limitations around Windows on ARM, OmniBook X laptops should be a top choice for those who value battery life and competitive pricing.

And if you do want a standard Windows experience, the AMD and Intel models are standing by. All have access to Copilot+ AI tools.

Be sure to check out my comparison of HP OmniBook X vs. OmniBook Ultra to get a better idea of which PC is better for you.

HP OmniBook 7, 5, 3

After OmniBook Ultra and OmniBook X, HP splits its more affordable laptops into OmniBook 7, 5, and 3 lineups.

OmniBook 7 is one step down from Ultra/X, with prices currently starting at about $1,199. They're full AI PCs with Intel Core Ultra and AMD Ryzen chips, and they have enough NPU power to be included under the Copilot+ umbrella.

OmniBook 7 is available in notebook and convertible models, with the latter taking on the "Flip" name, just like OmniBook Ultra.

OmniBook 5 laptops are one step down, with prices starting at about $899. They're equipped with Snapdragon, Intel, and AMD processors, and most (but not all) have an NPU with enough power for Copilot+.

OmniBook 3 laptops are slowly taking over for the HP Essential lineup, and it's where you'll find some of the most affordable HP PCs around. They range in size from 14 inches up to 17.3 inches, with a mix of AMD, Intel, and Snapdragon hardware.

HP's gaming laptops

Whereas HP's consumer line underwent some major changes in the past year, the company has preserved its OMEN and Victus gaming brands.

For OMEN, the brand is now spread out into four different sectors, including OMEN MAX, OMEN Slim, OMEN Transcend, and regular OMEN.

HP OMEN MAX

This most recent addition to the OMEN gaming laptop lineup is designed for gamers who want the absolutely best features and performance.

The OMEN MAX is a 16-inch device with up to a QHD+ OLED display with a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.2ms response time.

You can configure it with up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX or AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 375 CPU and NVIDIA RTX 5090 Laptop GPU, as well as up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM and a 2TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD.

HP OMEN Transcend

OMEN Transcend laptops sit somewhere between the standard OMEN and OMEN MAX stables, designed to deliver high-end features and strong performance in a slim chassis that's easier to carry around.

OMEN Transcend laptops come in 14- and 16-inch sizes, and they run on Intel Core Ultra CPUs and NVIDIA RTX 50-series Laptop GPUs.

Transcend laptops generally cost more than their standard OMEN counterparts due to the more portable design.

HP OMEN and OMEN Slim

OMEN is HP's core lineup of gaming laptops, designed to deliver strong performance and a great set of features at a lower price than MAX and Transcend.

HP OMEN comes in 14- and 16-inch sizes, and they're configurable with the latest Intel and AMD CPUs. NVIDIA's RTX 50-series laptop GPUs are also available.

OMEN is where I recommend most PC gamers look first, as it generally offers the best balance of price, performance, and features. If you like OMEN but want something just a bit more portable, OMEN Slim might be more to your liking.

HP Victus

Victus PCs are usually the most affordable way to land one of HP's gaming laptops, but they come with some concessions.

Build quality is generally not as impressive as OMEN, with some extra corners cut on complementary hardware (webcam, speakers, ports, etc.).

However, with prices starting at about $1,099 (with frequest discounts), you can shop without overspending on a laptop that will run most modern games.

You can find Victus gaming laptops in 15.6-inch sizes, and there are Intel or AMD CPU options available with NVIDIA RTX GPUs.

HP's business and enterprise laptops

The business side of HP's laptop portfolio underwent some big changes as well, and the new lineup for mainline business users now consists of EliteBook, EliteBook X, and EliteBook Ultra.

There's also HP's Zbook brand, which hasn't changed and still represents the most powerful mobile workstations the company has to offer.

And for budget shoppers, HP ProBook remains the go-to selection.

HP EliteBook Ultra, EliteBook X, and more

HP's new EliteBook business laptops are available with Intel, Qualcomm, and AMD CPUs, giving you plenty of options when it comes time to configure. They're designed for busy professionals who need extra security measures, a more durable design, long battery life, and snappy performance.

EliteBook X, at the time of my latest update, represents the latest hardware and design. You can get these PCs in notebook or convertible form factors, and as usual at HP, there are a ton of config options available.

HP's ProBooks are a staple for many business users, and they're available in countless different configurations. Modern Intel chips go into many of these PCs, buy you can also select AMD Ryzen CPUs. Most are AI PCs with a powerful NPU inside.

ProBook sizes ranger from 14 to 16 inches, and they're only available as notebooks.

HP's mobile workstations

Beyond laptops made for general use by professionals, HP has a lineup of ZBook mobile workstations that push performance to a level suitable for creators and developers.

The ZBook lineup wasn't part of HP's big 2024 rebrand, so the mobile workstations remain mostly the same.

That is to say, they're the best option for anyone who wants a secure and durable PC with exceptional CPU performance, more potent graphics, and high-res displays with accurate color reproduction.

The ZBook portfolio consists of a few different models, providing plenty of different configurations for all types of users.

HP ZBook

ZBook is split up into several different tiers, including ZBook X, ZBook Fury, ZBook Ultra, ZBook Power, and ZBook 8. They range from 14 inches up to 18 inches, and they pack in the latest CPUs from Intel and AMD.

Because there are mobile workstations made to replace a desktop, they also feature NVIDIA RTX PRO discrete graphics and AMD Radeon integrated GPUs.

Prices for these laptops climb incredibly high, but it's the same with any other brand of laptop that's offering this much performance, security, and ISV certification. However, ZBook 8 and ZBook Power seem to often be the most affordable options.

In any case, HP usually has these laptops on sale for thousands less than normal, so it's never a bad idea to check in and see how much you can save.

How to choose the right HP laptop

HP offers a full lineup of laptops for all types of users, and attempting to shop around in a sea of laptops isn't always conducive to finding the best option for you.

Here's a quick rundown of each of HP's laptop brands, as well as the user to whom they're intended.

• HP OmniBook: These consumer laptops are perfect for general users who don't need added business or enterprise features, and who don't plan on gaming. There's a wide range of features and prices available, and many fall under the AI PC umbrella.
• HP OMEN: HP's gaming brand is home to OMEN MAX, OMEN Transcend, OMEN Slim, and OMEN laptops, complete with displays and performance hardware aimed at powering your favorite games.
• HP Victus: HP's budget gaming might be the right choice if you want to game but don't have as much to spend. All models have a discrete GPU and a display with a high refresh rate.
• HP EliteBook: These business and enterprise laptops come with extra security and management features, stellar battery life, strong durability, and displays that are easy on the eyes. Many fall under the AI PC umbrella.
• HP ZBook: For creators, designers, and developers on the go, ZBook mobile workstations should be a top option. They're extremely powerful, they have specialized displays, and they're generally packed with high-end features.
• HP ProBook: These business laptops are usually the most affordable for pros, offering extra security and management features without the high prices seen in EliteBook and ZBook.

I recommend you head into the shopping process with a clear idea of what you'll be using the laptop for, as well as how much you want to spend.

With those two conditions in mind, you can start delving through HP's laptop lineup to pick the perfect PC.

For what purpose are you using your laptop?

You always want to have a clear idea in mind of how you'll be using your new laptop.

Most people will simply want a laptop that can handle office tasks, web browsing, productivity, homework, streaming, and other general purposes.

In that case, OmniBook deserves a look first, with EliteBook close behind for those who lean more into the professional world, where security is extra important.

Want something that will primarily be used for gaming? OMEN and Victus laptops should be considered first, with the latter being the cheapest gaming laptops from HP's table.

Need something that offers desktop-class performance in a mobile package? Often using specialized design and development software? ZBook has what you need.

What is your laptop budget?

Setting a budget and sticking to it is always recommended, and your expectations will change depending on the laptop brand you've designated as being your best option.

OmniBook, ProBook, and Victus laptops are among the most affordable, so cash-strapped shoppers should start there.

Professionals and gamers with EliteBook and OMEN in mind should be prepared to spend more, as the additional security and performance hardware doesn't come cheap.

And if you're shopping for a ZBook mobile workstation, you will quickly see prices climb into the thousands as you add more power and more features.

Do you really need an AI PC?

HP offers a relatively wide selection of AI PCs, but whether or not you need one is up to you.

If you want access to Copilot+ tools in Windows 11, I recommend opting for a Snapdragon X, Intel Core Ultra (Series 2/3), or AMD Ryzen AI 300/400 CPU with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of more than 40 TOPS of local AI power.

OmniBook and EliteBook lineups should be the first stop for an excellent AI laptop with access to Copilot+. For anyone working with or developing AI on a more regular basis, one of HP's ZBook workstations with a discrete NVIDIA GPU should be strongly considered.

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

NVIDIA officially announced its RTX 5060 Ti and RTX 5060 GPUs on April 15, bringing the RTX 5000 stable up to six cards total.

The RTX 5060 Ti, available in 8GB and 16GB VRAM variants, is now available, with the RTX 5060 coming sometime in May.

The 8GB 5060 Ti arrives with a $379 MSRP, while the 16GB version costs $429. Next month's RTX 5060 with 8GB of VRAM has a $299 MSRP.

Whether or not prices remain around those marks remains to be seen, as most of NVIDIA's GPUs have inflated in price since launch.

Considering how sparse stock has been for NVIDIA's other RTX 50-series GPUs already on the market, the affordable XX60 cards will undoubtedly be hard to nab.

I've put together this guide to help you land one of the new GPUs on launch day and beyond.

Where to buy NVIDIA RTX 5060 Ti in the US

As always, I recommend you check out the major online retailers first.

They're most likely to have stock to sell, with listing already up and ready to go ahead of launch day.

If you're in the United States, Best Buy, Newegg, B&H, Adorama, and Amazon should be your first stops.

• Best Buy: ASUS RTX 5060 Ti GPUs are now listed.
• Newegg: Listings from ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI, Zotac and more are live.
• B&H: No listings yet as of April 16 at 8AM EST, but that should change.
• Adorama: No listings as of April 16 at 8AM EST, but that should change.
• Amazon: No listing as of April 16 at 8AM EST, but launch day should have options.

Where to buy NVIDIA RTX 5060 Ti in the UK

Online retailers like Amazon are always good to check for RTX 5060 Ti stock, but Overclockers, Scan, and Ebuyer are better bets if you're in the UK.

• Overclockers UK: Listings live for RTX 5060 Ti from ASUS, Gainward, Gigabyte, Inno3D, MSI, Palit, and Zotac.
• Scan: RTX 5060 Ti listings available from ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI, Zotac, and more.
• Ebuyer: RTX 5060 Ti listings live from ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI, and more.
• Amazon: No listings yet, but check back often on launch day.

Where can I find the lowest RTX 5060 Ti prices?

Despite NVIDIA setting a $429 MSRP for the 16GB RTX 5060 Ti and a $379 MSRP for the 8GB version, third-party GPU makers don't have to stick to that price.

It's the same story I've seen with practically all GPUs launched in 2025 from AMD and NVIDIA.

Newegg seems to currently be the best bet for US shoppers who want to buy on launch day. I've put together a quick list of specific cards and their prices to help you narrow down your spending.

This isn't a complete list, so I urge you to check out Newegg for other options.

PNY's Dual OC RTX 5060 Ti with 16GB of VRAM seems to be the best deal, as it sticks to the MSRP set by NVIDIA.

You will have to pay about $20 for shipping, but that still keeps the price lower than the next RTX 5060 Ti, which costs about $479.99.

NVIDIA RTX 5060 Ti listings have also begun showing up at Best Buy, and I've given them the same price comparison treatment as Newegg's GPUs above.

Should you buy an RTX 5060 Ti?

NVIDIA made some big performance claims in its 5060 Ti launch package, showing how the new card's exclusive DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation (MFG) can double frame rates in demanding games compared to the 4060 Ti.

Now that third-party RTX 5060 Ti reviews are live, I can offer some better buying advice.

It seems like the general consensus from most critics is that the 16GB RTX 5060 Ti is a meaningful upgrade for anyone still holding onto an older GPU.

It's capable of handling 1080p and 1440p with ease, and DLSS 4 improvements made a significant difference in demanding titles.

However, the current tech market is in upheaval, mostly due to tariffs and global tensions, and actually buying one of NVIDIA's new cards at MSRP is a rare occurrence. My charts above clearly demonstrate the price inflation.

👉 Related: Why NVIDIA's RTX 5060 Ti launch could be a disaster

As for the 8GB model, it should be avoided if at all possible. The 16GB RTX 5060 Ti's MSRP is only $50 more, and those extra 8GB of RAM will make a massive difference now and in the future.

With all cards seemingly undergoing price inflation, the 16GB model continues to make more sense for all gamers.

What about pre-built PCs with an NVIDIA RTX 5060 Ti?

NVIDIA's RTX 5060 Ti GPUs will no doubt sell out fast, but, as always, you have a second chance at nabbing one of the cards in a pre-built gaming PC.

Maingear has notably added the RTX 5060 Ti to its MG-1 gaming PC. It's fully customizable right down to the cables, allowing you to get exactly what you want.

I'll continue to add more pre-built PCs with the RTX 5060 Ti as I find them.

AMD launched its RX 9000 GPUs on March 6, 2025, and despite a promise of wide availability, the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT sold out within an hour of release.

That doesn't mean you won't be able to land the new AMD GPUs sometime in the future. And when that time comes, I want you to have picked the right Radeon card.

I'm taking a look at pricing, availability, and performance at 1440p and 4K to help you make the right decision for your gaming PC.

AMD Radeon RX 9070 vs. RX 9070 XT: Specs

Before jumping into pricing, availability, and performance, it's worth checking out the raw specs of the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT.

Note that some numbers will change based on the GPU. AMD didn't launch any reference cards for this generation, leaving it up to third-party partners to create their own GPUs around the chip.

That means you'll see some discrepancies between cards, but rest assured that you can expect at least the same level of performance that AMD shared in its official reveal presentation.

AMD Radeon RX 9070 vs. RX 9070 XT: Price and availability

The RX 9070 XT is the new flagship hardware for the RDNA 4 generation. It launched at a higher $600 MSRP than its $550 RX 9070 sibling.

As is the case with NVIDIA's RTX 5000 cards, not all RDNA 4 GPUs follow the MSRP.

Because AMD left it up to third-party hardware partners to manufacture the cards around the GPU, there's a range of prices available.

Launch day saw a few options hit the MSRP, but the bulk are above the suggested pricing. What's worse, the original MSRP might not stick around too long.

As reported by Videocardz, there are rumors that RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT prices will go up now that the first waves delivered to retailers ahead of launch have sold out.

Considering that NVIDIA hasn't stuck to MSRP either, AMD should remain the more budget-friendly option.

The RX 9070 XT's MSRP is $150 lower than the RTX 5070 Ti, for example, and that margin should remain roughly the same.

As for availability, the usual big online retailers like Best Buy, Newegg, B&H, and Amazon are your best bet to find an RX 9000 GPU for sale.

Stock is expected to be replenished regularly, and I recommend checking out my guide on where to buy Radeon RX 9000 GPUs for easy links and extra information.

Those in need of a full system refresh might want to check out pre-built PCs with the RX 9000 GPUs inside.

AMD Radeon RX 9070 vs. RX 9070 XT: 1440p and 4K performance

It's no secret that the RX 9070 XT is the more powerful card, but how big of a difference is there compared to the RX 9070?

Numbers will change slightly depending on the model of GPU you desire (or can find for sale at a reasonable price), but AMD's official graphs give a good idea of the expected performance.

At 1440p Ultra, the RX 9070 is anywhere from 6% to 27% better than the RX 7900 GRE (from the RDNA 3 generation) in a variety of modern games.

The RX 9070 XT, on the other hand, ranges from 23% to 44% better than the RX 7900 GRE under the same settings.

Our friends at Tom's Hardware reviewed the RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 at the same time, offering a better look at how the cards compare.

Rasterization performance at 1440p Ultra unsurprisingly favors the RX 9070 XT with an average of 97.5 FPS across 16 games. However, the RX 9070 only drops to an 86.6 FPS average.

At 4K Ultra, the margin is even smaller. The RX 9070 XT averages 60 FPS, while the RX 9070 averages 52.2 FPS. If you're someone who can't dip below a 4K resolution, the RX 9070 XT is the better buy.

Rasterization is only half the equation. AMD made some massive improvements to ray tracing in RDNA 4, pulling itself closer to what NVIDIA can offer.

AMD says its RX 9070 is anywhere from 11% to 34% better than the RX 7900 GRE at 4K Ultra with ray tracing enabled. The RX 9070 XT sits between 36% and 66% better compared to the same card.

At 1440p Ultra, the RX 9070 sits between a 13% and 39% improvement in ray tracing compared to the RX 7900 GRE. The RX 9070 XT sits between 34% and 68% better than the 7900 GRE.

Turning to ray tracing performance results provided by Tom's Hardware, the RX 9070 XT averages 42.7 FPS at 4K Ultra. The RX 9070 averages 35.9 FPS.

At 1440p, the RX 9070 XT climbs to 80.9 FPS, while the RX 9070 hits a 69.3 FPS average with ray tracing enabled.

If you're keen on using ray tracing, the RX 9070 XT is clearly the better buy, especially if you're using a 4K monitor. At 1440p, the RX 9070 puts up a stronger fight with ray tracing enabled.

What is FSR 4?

FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) is AMD's upscaling answer to NVIDIA DLSS.

Arriving alongside both of the RX 9000 GPUs is FSR 4. While previous versions relied on spatial algorithms, the updated version has made the switch to machine learning.

The major takeaways here involve performance and quality. FSR has always been about boosting frame rates in compatible games, but FSR 4 is the biggest leap forward yet.

Not only does FSR 4 more than quadruple frame rates in some games at 4K, but it's also now much better at providing small but high-quality details.

Because of the superior AI performance from the RX 9070 XT, it should be the better option for FSR 4.

FSR 4 adoption in games is still limited, with just more than 30 games supporting it at launch. More than 75 more games are expected to jump on board in 2025.

AMD Radeon RX 9070 vs. RX 9070 XT: Which should you buy?

The $50 MSRP difference between the RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 might not stick around for long, making this comparison more difficult.

However, if I assume that the two RDNA 4 GPU prices climb at roughly the same rate, I can offer the same informed buying advice.

AMD's performance claims aren't far off the mark, which has led RX 9000 reviews to be largely positive.

If you're a 4K gamer, I strongly recommend splurging for the RX 9070 XT, especially if you're a fan of ray tracing.

Even if you're content with 1440p, the RX 9070 XT offers considerably better performance than its RX 9070 counterpart. Note that you will need at least a 750W PSU, potentially adding to the total upgrade cost.

That's not to say the RX 9070 isn't a strong contender for QHD monitors. It also requires a lower 650W PSU, potentially negating one of the extra upgrade costs.

Pre-built desktop PCs with the RTX 5070 Ti GPU inside might be your best way to get the new hardware. NVIDIA's mid-range 5070 Ti launched on February 20 at 9 AM EST, and, as expected, individual cards sold out almost immediately. It's the same situation I saw with the RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 launch, with limited availability and scalpers sucking up a lot of the hardware that did make it to retail outlets.

You're not alone if you didn't manage to snag a standalone RTX 5070 Ti on launch day (or the days following), and I have an alternate solution. Pre-built gaming PCs might not be exactly what you were looking for, but they generally stay in stock longer and offer a better chance of getting the new GPU sooner rather than later.

I found some pre-built RTX 5070 Ti PCs worth sharing on launch day, and I'll keep the list updated as more options become available.

Best RTX 5070 Ti pre-built PCs

Most of these pre-built PCs launched alongside the standalone RTX 5070 Ti GPUs, but some are still listed as "Coming soon." I've been sure to note availability for each PC, and you can click through to check it out even if it's not yet ready to sell.