Do gaming laptops perform better plugged in? If you're looking to get the absolute most out of your gaming laptop you've likely asked yourself the same question.
Gaming laptops are categorised by their impressive power, graphics cards, and high refresh rate displays, all designed to be taken on the go and deliver the goods when it comes to even the most demanding games.
But does plugging a gaming laptop into a power supply give you an extra boost? Here's everything you need to know.
Do gaming laptops perform better plugged in?
The answer is complicated here, as you'll often find many people arguing both sides.
On the one side, you could argue that performance is based more on the 'performance mode' of the laptop - be it balanced, power-saving or high-performance.
This would mean that gaming laptop performance is very much down to which setting we have the machine on.
On the opposite side, some argue that the graphics cards in gaming laptops require a higher voltage to work well, meaning that plugging in has its benefits.
From where we're standing, we think there's more to improving performance than simply plugging in a gaming laptop, although do it may result in less heat build-up which can happen when the laptop runs purely on the battery, according to this report.
So do they perform better when plugged in? There's some merit to suggest they do, but from what we've encountered it's on a case by case basis.
What can you do to increase gaming laptop performance?
There are a number of things you can do that may make a more meaningful impact on performance.
Cooling is vital for gaming laptops, especially as they can run hot under such demanding conditions. Making sure vents, and fans are clean will improve airflow in addition to ensuring that the laptop isn't smothered.
Cooling stands are a good call to pair with the best gaming laptops and should keep your machine running optimally.
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You can also use performance-boosting apps that can identify where your system may be hindering your gaming experience, and you can, of course, make sure your setting is on the best performance.
One sure-fire way to ensure you're getting the best performance is to get the best gaming laptop you can find!
It may sound like an obvious one, but with the new Ryzen 6000 and new additions from some of the biggest brands heading our way this year, 2022 could be the best time to upgrade.
Be sure to check out the Lenovo Legion 5 Pro, the Acer Nitro 5, and Razer Blade 14 which are all set to hit shelves soon.
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