We all know that the common stereotype among PC gamers is that they never leave the house. Now this is probably true for some- but everyone has to go outside at some point in time. And when that happens, PC gamers should be able to take their gaming experience with them! But are laptops ready for the demand today's PC games put on system requirements?



Laptop Options For Gamers

Thanks to the technology unveiled in recent years, gamers are now getting higher performance in smaller packages. This has enabled the manufacturing industry to offer better performing laptops at cheaper prices.

Processors are now sporting Duo-Core technology, which is a fancy phrase for the use of two processors. This allows for more processing to be done in a multitasking environment- meaning smaller clock rates on processors are needed, which in turn produces less heat. (And as laptop owners know, heat will destroy a laptop quicker than anything)

Next in line we have hard drives, which have seen less innovation in the laptop industry. Hard drives are still remaining in the 5,200 RPM areas, as compared to the 7,200 RPM that most desktop computers can enjoy. This means less performance, but because of heat and space issues, laptop owners usually just have to deal with this flaw in laptop gaming.

When it comes to the graphics card, gamers tend to splurge on the best video card available. But as gamers will soon find out, laptops have less options in this area. This is because laptops are smaller in design, and the latest graphics cards run too hot or are too bulky to fit in a laptop's design.

Downfalls For Mobile Gamers

Battery life is the most controversial flaw for any laptop user. If a laptop uses more performance, it will thus have less battery life. This is sad for laptop gamers, who will sometimes see only an hour or two of laptop life before having to recharge. This is compared to the 10 or more hours that normal laptop users can enjoy.

Next, gaming laptops are rather small and provide poor mouse support. A laptop gamer will find that playing games on a touchpad just isn't worth the effort. Carrying a USB mouse around can work in most situations, but it's a hassle and finding a good place to put the mouse may pose as a problem.

Final Thoughts On Gaming Laptops

As mobile gaming becomes ever more popular, we can only hope that the hardware increases in both performance and heat dissipation. But as current trends go, you'll be shelling out more money for a laptop that is statistically less productive and has a lesser life longevity. Remember that if you do indeed opt for a gaming laptop, you should buy a cooling fan to help protect your investment.