CES 2024 showcased a plethora of gaming laptops, revealing key trends shaping the market. This report highlights the most significant developments.
Diverse Design Language
While gaming laptops have always offered stylistic variety, this year felt particularly distinct. Manufacturers like Gigabyte and MSI are blurring the lines between productivity and gaming aesthetics. High-end models are striving for more than just raw power, resulting in a wider range of designs. Examples include the sleek, professional Gigabyte Aero series and the boldly branded MSI Titan 18 HX AI Dragonforged Edition. RGB lighting remains prevalent, with innovative implementations like Asus ROG Strix Scar's AniME Dot Matrix LED display adding dynamic visual flair. Expect a continued spectrum of designs, from large and powerful to thin and portable.
The Rise of AI Assistants
AI integration in laptops is advancing, with several vendors showcasing AI assistants capable of controlling PC settings without manual software intervention. One demonstration showed an MSI assistant automatically optimizing performance settings based on the specified game. While promising, the practical speed advantage over manual adjustments remains to be seen. Further evaluation of offline capabilities and overall functionality is necessary.
Innovative Display Technologies
Mini-LED technology is gaining traction, with Asus, MSI, and Gigabyte showcasing high-spec laptops featuring this display. These models boast over 1,100 local dimming zones for enhanced contrast and brightness, offering a compelling alternative to OLED, particularly regarding burn-in and sustained brightness.
Novelties also emerged, such as the return of the ASUS ROG Flow X13 with its USB4 eGPU support and the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable, featuring a unique rollable OLED display. While the rollable design presents initial concerns about durability, it represents a significant step in display innovation.
Ultrabooks Dominate the Gaming Landscape
Ultrabook-style gaming laptops are increasingly prevalent, with major manufacturers embracing this thin, light, and aesthetically minimalist design. Gigabyte's updated Aero line exemplifies this trend. These laptops offer a balance between portability and gaming capabilities, especially for users who don't require maximum settings on the latest titles. The power of modern integrated graphics, coupled with technologies like AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution and Intel XeSS, allows for surprisingly capable gaming performance, potentially reducing the need for dedicated lower-end GPUs like the RTX 4050M. Cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce Now further enhance this trend, providing viable gaming options without requiring dedicated gaming hardware.
CES 2024 revealed significant advancements in gaming laptops. The coming year promises further exploration of these trends. What innovations stood out to you? Share your thoughts below!
