CES 2025 Unveils Latest Gaming Laptop Trends

CES never disappoints when it comes to showcasing the latest in laptop technology, and this year was no different, especially for gaming laptops. My exploration across the bustling show floor, packed suites, and vibrant showrooms revealed several key trends shaping the gaming laptop landscape for the year. Here's a deep dive into what's driving the evolution of gaming laptops in 2023.

A Huge Diversity of Designs

Gaming laptops have traditionally showcased a variety of designs, but this year's offerings seemed to push the envelope even further. Brands like Gigabyte and MSI are not only enhancing the aesthetics but also blurring the lines between gaming and productivity laptops. High-end models are now expected to offer more than just superior hardware.

Expect a broader spectrum of gaming laptops this year. From the sleek, professional-looking Gigabyte Aero series to the visually striking MSI Titan 18 HX AI Dragonforged Edition with its bold graphics, there's something for every taste. RGB lighting remains a staple, with innovations like the Asus ROG Strix Scar series' AniME Dot Matrix LED display, which can show animations and text, adding a unique flair.

While there's no groundbreaking reinvention, look forward to an exciting mix of traditional and novel designs, from hefty powerhouses to slim, lightweight models.

AI Assistants are Coming

Last year, AI integration in laptops was a hot topic, but the implementations were often underwhelming. This year, however, we saw significant strides with vendors unveiling AI Assistants designed to streamline PC control without the need for manual software adjustments.

For instance, MSI showcased a demo where the AI Assistant adjusted performance settings based on the user's game preferences. While I remain skeptical about its efficiency compared to manual adjustments, the potential for seamless, offline operation is intriguing. We'll need to see how these features perform once they're rolled out.

Mini-LED, Rollable Displays and Other Novelties

Mini-LED technology is making a notable impact in the gaming laptop arena. Asus, MSI, and Gigabyte displayed Mini-LED laptops with top-tier specifications and prices. These models boast over 1,100 local dimming zones, reducing blooming and enhancing contrast, alongside impressive brightness and color vibrancy. While OLED still holds the edge in contrast, Mini-LED's resistance to burn-in and higher sustained brightness make it a compelling choice.

Innovative displays were also on show. The ASUS ROG Flow X13, now back with USB4 eGPU support, promises enhanced performance. Meanwhile, Asus showcased its Zenbook Duo, a dual-screen productivity laptop. However, Lenovo stole the spotlight with the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable, the first notebook with a rollable OLED display. Though its extendable screen may raise durability concerns, it's a pioneering step in laptop design.

Ultrabooks Continue to Rise, Even for Gaming

Ultrabooks are increasingly prevalent, even in gaming line-ups. Major manufacturers are embracing the thin, light, and premium design ethos, as seen in Gigabyte's revamped Aero series. These laptops cater to gamers who prioritize portability and productivity without needing the highest graphical settings.

The latest processors from AMD and Intel, combined with technologies like AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution and Intel XeSS, allow these ultrabooks to handle demanding games effectively. For casual gamers, this might be all the power needed, potentially rendering lower-end GPUs like the RTX 4050M less necessary.

Cloud gaming services such as Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce Now further enhance the appeal of these ultrabooks, offering robust gaming experiences without the need for dedicated gaming hardware.

This year's CES showcased a plethora of exciting developments in the gaming laptop sector. Stay tuned as we continue to explore and report on these trends throughout the year. What caught your eye? Share your thoughts in the comments below!