Since the 1990s, the most hardcore gamers have traditionally opted for PCs and laptops. Not only did this allow them to dive deeper into their favourite games, even creating things like mods, but PC gaming also offered the ability to tinker with hardware. Many PC gamers enjoy improving their hardware by adding new parts.
They also enjoy playing a diverse range of games. Some of the world’s most competitive eSports focus on PC hits, from FPSs like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive to MOBAs like Dota 2. Though console gamers are also present, most gamers associate these titles with PCs.
Beyond the scope of hyper-visible eSports hits, PC gamers also have access to other titles. Casino games, for example, are often played via browser. Slots are a popular choice, offering dozens of formats and hundreds of themes for them to choose from. Straight from a laptop or PC, players can spin the reel.
The same is true for DCCGs. These types of card games have taken off over the last decade, including new hits like Hearthstone and Marvel Snap. Though traditionally played in person, PCs are now the preferred format for many DCCG competitors.
One of the most unique developments in the world of PC gaming is the rise of AI-driven laptops and PCs. These powerful devices are designed to handle even more complex processing challenges. Both their hardware and software are advanced, and designed to handle machine-learning tasks.
If you’ve been considering an AI-driven laptop to improve your gaming experience, here are some of the products you should keep an eye on.
The metrics
The best AI-driven laptops and PCs have a performance-focused processor. Some of the best for AI-driven tasks are Intel Core i7 and i9—but you’ll have other options, too. Along with the processor, focus on the device’s graphics card—the higher, the better.
But keep a look out for storage, as the same is true for RAM. Better storage relates to faster loading times and general responsiveness—which are hugely important for gamers who need to avoid even a millisecond of lag. The NVMe SSDs are considered the best in the industry in 2024.
Alienware Aurora R14
In terms of actual products, the Alienware Aurora R14 is one of the best choices for AI-driven gaming. That’s because it has all of the most advanced hardware features, including a graphics card from NVIDIA GeForce, an Intel Core i9 processor, and 32GB of RAM. That’s fast, accurate, and advanced gaming at its best.
MSI Trident X
This PC is a little bit different in that it focuses on being more compact. Oftentimes, the more advanced the PC, the bulkier the hardware becomes. That’s not the case with the MSI Trident X. Despite its compact size, it has the Intel Core i9 processor, NVIDIA GeForce Graphics Card, and 32GB of storage—all the same as the Alienware Aurora, just in a slightly more manageable package.
HP Omen Obelisk
With the HP Omen Obelisk, the focus is on customisation. The AI-driven PC includes all the same features as the other two products—even down to the brands used. However, it also offers tool-free access to the interior, which makes both maintenance and upgrading a breeze. Unsurprisingly, it also has a glass side window that makes observing the hardware enjoyable.
HP Spectre x360 14
If you need to get more out of your AI-driven PC than gaming sessions, then the HP Spectre is a great option. (Although it’s a laptop—not a PC.) Its robust features will take your gaming sessions to the next level while also handling other types of demanding tasks, from graphic design to video editing. The sheer range of options makes this one popular for anyone who also needs a professional device.
ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14
This option is slightly more affordable than others on the list—though you’ll notice the more limited features. Specifically, it has less storage than the other AI-driven PCs, along with a slightly less powerful processor. But it still packs a huge punch into its space-saving laptop hardware, which makes it a solid option for most gamers.
