When it comes to powerhouse laptops, the Intel i7 series stands tall. But with so many options, how do you choose the best i7 laptop? Fear not, as our expert team at outsidergaming.com has dedicated over 40 hours to research, ensuring you get the most comprehensive review in the Buying Guides category. We’ve sifted through the tech jargon and marketing fluff to bring you the crème de la crème of i7 laptops.
TL;DR: Key Takeaways of the Best i7 Laptops
- Unmatched processing power for multitasking and high-end tasks
- Varied choices for gamers, professionals, and everyday users
- Considerations for battery life, display quality, and build
- Insider tips on spotting the best deals and avoiding common pitfalls
Razer Blade 15 Advanced Gaming Laptop | Best Performance in Gaming Laptops
The Razer Blade 15 Advanced is a powerhouse gaming laptop that doesn’t compromise on performance or style. It’s the perfect choice for gamers who demand the best in terms of graphics, speed, and display. If budget is not a constraint and you’re looking for a laptop that can handle the latest games with ease, the Razer Blade 15 Advanced is an excellent choice.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ High-Performance Components ✅ 144Hz Refresh Rate Display ✅ Build Quality ✅ RGB Lighting ✅ Advanced Cooling System | ❌ Price ❌ Battery Life |
Acer Nitro 5 AN517-54-79L1 | Best Budget Gaming Laptop
The Acer Nitro 5 is a great entry-level gaming laptop that offers an excellent balance between cost and performance. It’s an ideal choice for gamers who are just starting out or those who need a capable machine on a budget. With its large screen and robust cooling system, it’s a solid performer for most modern games.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Cost-Effective ✅ Large Display ✅ Cooling Technology ✅ Expandable Storage ✅ Connectivity Options | ❌ Bulkier Design ❌ Average Battery Life |
HP Newest Pavilion 15.6” | Best All-Rounder for Students and Professionals
The HP Newest Pavilion 15.6” is a well-rounded laptop that’s suitable for a variety of users. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone who enjoys light gaming and streaming, this laptop’s touchscreen and sound quality make it a pleasure to use. It’s a smart choice for those who need a reliable all-rounder.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Versatile Performance ✅ Touchscreen Display ✅ Audio Quality ✅ Stylish Design ✅ HP Fast Charge | ❌ Graphics Performance ❌ Plastic Build |
Dell Latitude 7480 | Best for Business on the Go
The Dell Latitude 7480 is a dependable workhorse designed for the business user who values security, manageability, and reliability. Its portability and battery life make it an excellent choice for professionals on the go. If your work involves a lot of travel or you need a laptop that can last through long meetings, the Latitude 7480 is a strong contender.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Business-Oriented Features ✅ Portability ✅ Battery Life ✅ Display Quality ✅ Solid State Drive | ❌ Not for Gaming ❌ No HDMI Port |
MSI Cyborg 15 Gaming Laptop | Great Value for Mid-Range Gaming
The MSI Cyborg 15 is a solid mid-range gaming laptop that offers good value for money. It’s designed for gamers who need reliable performance but don’t want to break the bank. With its high refresh rate display and effective cooling system, it’s built to provide a great gaming experience.
| Pros: | Cons: |
| ✅ Gaming-Focused Design ✅ Display ✅ Cooling System ✅ Keyboard ✅ Performance | ❌ Battery Life ❌ Design Might Not Suit All |
What Makes an i7 Laptop the Best?
An i7 laptop isn’t just about a fast processor. It’s a symphony of high-end components working in harmony to deliver a seamless computing experience. From lightning-fast SSDs to top-tier graphics cards, the best i7 laptops are built for those who demand excellence.
7 Critical Buying Criteria for i7 Laptops
Before you commit to a new i7 laptop, it’s crucial to weigh several factors that can impact your satisfaction and the device’s performance. Here are seven buying criteria to guide your decision:
- Processor Generation and Speed
Look for the latest generation of i7 processors to ensure top performance and future-proofing. Clock speed, measured in GHz, also affects how quickly your laptop can process tasks. - RAM and Storage
Consider laptops with at least 8GB of RAM, though 16GB or more is ideal for heavy multitasking and professional work. For storage, SSDs offer faster performance than HDDs and are now standard in most new laptops. - Graphics Capabilities
If you’re into gaming or use graphic-intensive applications, a dedicated GPU from NVIDIA or AMD is preferable. Integrated graphics are sufficient for general use and some light media creation. - Display Quality
A higher resolution display (at least Full HD) with good color accuracy is important for a better viewing experience, especially if you’re into content creation or enjoy streaming media. - Battery Life
For those who need to work on the go, long battery life is a must. Check for laptops that offer at least 8 hours of battery life under typical usage conditions. - Build Quality and Portability
A well-built laptop can withstand the rigors of daily use and travel. If portability is a priority, look for lighter laptops with a slim profile. - Brand and Warranty
Choose a reputable brand that offers reliable customer support and a warranty that covers at least one year of use to protect your investment.
5 Tests to Conduct Before Buying an i7 Laptop
Before finalizing your i7 laptop purchase, it’s wise to perform a series of checks to ensure you’re getting a quality device. Here are five tests to help you assess the laptop’s capabilities:
- Performance Test
Run benchmarking software to test the CPU, GPU, and RAM performance. This will give you an idea of how the laptop handles stress and processing tasks. - Display Check
Examine the screen for any dead pixels and color uniformity. Play a high-resolution video to test the display’s color accuracy and brightness. - Keyboard and Touchpad Responsiveness
Type a document or navigate the web to ensure the keyboard and touchpad are responsive and comfortable to use. Check for key travel and any lag in the touchpad. - Sound Quality Assessment
Listen to a piece of music or a video to evaluate the speaker quality. Check for clarity, volume, and any distortion at higher volume levels. - Battery Life Evaluation
Conduct a battery rundown test by fully charging the laptop and using it for your typical tasks until it shuts down. This will give you a real-world understanding of battery life.
Enhancing Your Laptop Experience
For those who use their i7 laptops for content creation, such as blogging or video production, effective marketing of your work is crucial. Consider using advanced tools that offer personalized email marketing solutions, allowing you to reach your audience with tailored newsletters. This can help you engage your subscribers and promote your content more efficiently, integrating seamlessly with your overall digital strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I prioritize when choosing the best i7 laptop?
Focus on the laptop’s overall performance, including RAM and graphics capabilities, battery life, display quality, and build. Your priorities may vary based on whether you need the laptop for gaming, professional work, or general use. - Are i7 laptops worth the investment for gaming?
Yes, i7 laptops with the right GPU can provide an excellent gaming experience. Look for models with dedicated graphics cards and high refresh rate displays for the best performance. - Can I find a good i7 laptop on a budget?
Absolutely. While i7 laptops are often premium, there are budget-friendly options that don’t sacrifice too much on performance. Keep an eye out for sales and older models for the best deals. - How does the i7 compare to other processors for creative work like video editing?
The i7 is a strong choice for creative work, offering a good balance of performance and price. It can handle demanding applications like video editing software efficiently, especially when paired with sufficient RAM and a solid GPU. - What are the common issues to look out for in an i7 laptop?
Be aware of potential overheating, especially in thinner models, and check for any throttling that may affect performance. Also, consider the quality of the build and the manufacturer’s customer service reputation.