If you are looking for a laptop to use both for work and gaming, should you buy a workstation or gaming laptop? Each type of laptop has its pros and cons. Undoubtedly, two kinds of laptops can be an investment.
This high price tag reflects the equipment found in these machines, such as graphics cards in workstation laptops that allows users to execute a plethora of design and graphic related tasks such as CAD, 3D modeling, rendering, and more. On the other hand, gaming laptops typically have graphics cards that are designed to support games and may not be suitable for professional design work. In this post, we will discuss the difference between workstation laptops and gaming laptops and share the best three models of each type available on the market.
Difference Between Workstation Laptops and Gaming Laptops
The significant difference between workstation laptops and gaming laptops are CPU and GPU. These laptops are specifically built to carry out specific tasks. Let us take a detailed look at each in detail.
What is a Workstation Laptop?
Workstation laptops are known for their CPUs and GPUs. The standard workstation model performs better than a typical laptop. That’s because it features a powerful GPU, a considerable RAM, and ample storage. The laptop features the drivers that are optimized for large and complex software. This is why these laptops are commonly used by professionals.
Workstation laptops have Intel Xeon Processors, which ensures that no issue occurs while you are running graphics software. The latest workstation models have the ability to handle a significant amount of data seamlessly. Additionally, they are a perfect option for all kinds of tasks that require graphic cards.
What is a Gaming Laptop?
Gaming Laptops are designed to support games software. However, these laptops do not feature a strong GPU that can run graphics-related software. Workstation laptops, on the other hand, can be used for both work and gaming purposes.
On the other hand, gaming laptops are a good option for business travelers because they are both portable and convenient. The other advantage of these laptops is that they come with a reasonable price tag. So, if you are looking for a decent GPU at an affordable price and don’t need to run sophisticated design software, then a gaming laptop may be for you.
Best Workstation Laptops
1. Lenovo ThinkPad P53 Workstation Laptop
Lenovo’s P series offers a range of advanced features that help you execute professional tasks seamlessly. P53 is one of its latest models. Design-wise, this mobile workstation is quite slim and dark. Located right below the arrow keys is a fingerprint sensor. You can find multiple ports on both sides of the device, with a few ports available on the rear end.
This model has a 15.6-inch HD+ display unit that works wonders for those who need a laptop for graphic designing. The device has up to 128GB memory. Despite featuring a bright display, Lenovo ThinkPad P53 Workstation Laptop has a battery that lasts up to 13 hours. The keyboard can resist liquid spills. This model comes equipped with advanced security features, such as an Optional IR Camera, Discrete Trusted Platform Module, Kensington Lock Slot, etc. On the downside, the weight of this laptop starts at 5.5lbs, which affects the portability of the laptop.
2. Dell Precision 5530 Intel Core i7-8850H Mobile Workstation
Dell Precision 5530 features a light and sleek design. The successor to the 5520 model, Dell Precision 5530 Mobile Workstation comes equipped with some advanced components. The unit supports Xeon 6 and Intel Core Processors. The model features HDMI 2 port and storage options that make the 5530 Intel Core i708850H an ultimate choice for professionals. The 15.6-inch display, combined with 1920×1080 resolution guarantees an excellent viewing experience.
3. HP 17.3 ZBook 17 G5 VR ready Workstation
HP 17.3 ZBook 17 G5 VR ready Workstation is a perfect model for all kinds of graphic designing projects. This 17.3-inch device can be used for CAD, engineering operations, 3D rendering, and more. The brand claims to have more than 50 million configurations available. It has 8GB RAM. The surprising part is that you can expand the storage of this unit up to 10TB. That being said, the HP ZBook 17 G5 will support the high-quality game software seamlessly.
Best Gaming Laptops
1. Razor Blade 15
Brilliant performance, good battery life, and amazing build quality are the three qualities that make Razor Blade 15 an ideal gaming laptop. The model features Intel i7 CPU and a whopping 16 GB RAM that could be extended up to 64 GB.
2. Asus TUF A15
Asus TUF A15 is designed specifically for the budget-conscious audience. The company has worked on the build quality and design to produce a great gaming laptop for the price. With a 15.6-inch display, Asus TUF A15 features an excellent design and an RGB lit keyboard. Like its sibling, this TUF variant is known for its military-grade protection.
The honeycomb design is a big advantage of this model. The vents will keep the model cool even if you play for hours. The well-spaced, RGB lit keyboard is the speciality of the product. It was quite surprising to have an RGB-enabled gaming laptop for this price. Performance-wise, Asus TUF A15 delivers good user experience. It features 8GB of memory, which is enough to store a couple of high-quality games. In addition to games, you can run multiple apps simultaneously.
3. MSI GS65 Stealth 2019
MSI GS65 Stealth gaming laptop delivers an excellent performance, premium design, and good battery life for an affordable price. The model features the same black and golden color design (like its siblings). Weighing only 4.39 pounds, you can use MSI GS65 Stealth as your travel buddy and a perfect gaming companion.
What you should Know Before Buying a Workstation Laptop
The first thing to consider when buying a workstation laptop is its use. Do you just need it for presentation, spreadsheets, documents, and other such basic work? For simple tasks, the standard laptop will work. However, if you need it for graphic design and some demanding jobs, then you need to check its GPU and software. A good workstation laptop should have:
- 16GB RAM
- Multiple ports
- HD+ Displays
- Strong Graphics Card
- 14-inch screens
These days, 2-in-1 workstation laptops are getting popular. They are compact, lightweight, and portable. Moreover, they are known for high battery life.
What you should Know Before Buying a Gaming Laptop
Gaming laptops feature the same specifications as the standard desktop. The only difference between the two is the gaming laptop features a high-quality Graphics Card. Now, each gaming laptop comes equipped with a set of unique features. It’s best to conduct your own research to find a premium gaming laptop for your specific requirements. The best gaming laptop features:
- Strong graphics card
- The full-screen resolution, which is 1920×1080
- 144Hz refresh rate
- Intel i7 (and better) processor
- 8GB to 16GB RAM
- SSD and HDD storage
- Waterproof keyboard
Gaming laptops require a significant amount of space since you are going to install game software. Besides, you must choose a model that offers the best resolution.
FAQs
Can you use workstation laptops for gaming?
Workstations laptops have a strong GPU, which also makes them compatible with gaming software. So, it is possible to use workstation laptops for games.
Will 8GB RAM suffice for gaming?
Yes, 8GB RAM is enough to store games on your laptop. However, we recommend 16GB RAM if you want the best experience.
Is a workstation or gaming laptop better?
When it comes to workstation laptop vs gaming laptop, both workstation and gaming laptops offer a range of features. A laptop for workstation is the best option as it supports graphic & designing work as well as gaming. However, gaming laptops are more affordable and more portable.
Final Thoughts
Both workstation and gaming laptops are known for their amazing display, considerable memory, and advanced security features. If you would like to save some bucks, then we recommend the gaming laptop. Mobile workstation, on the other hand, might be a little expensive, but it comes with a range of advanced features.
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