How to choose the best laptop graphics

Once primarily associated with gaming, graphics processing units (GPUs) are essential for a variety of tasks. While high-powered graphics cards remain crucial for smooth gameplay, even basic everyday tasks benefit from a capable GPU. From running complex design software to seamlessly streaming high-definition videos, the right graphics card can significantly enhance your laptop experience. The key to unlocking this potential lies in choosing the best graphics settings for your needs.

Choosing the right settings can lead to a smoother, more visually pleasing experience. More importantly, you can optimise your laptop’s performance, whether you want to extend battery life for everyday use or squeeze out every ounce of power for demanding tasks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain how to choose the best laptop graphics to help you get the most out of your machine.

How to choose the best laptop graphics

Laptops come with a variety of graphics options, and selecting the right one depends on what you’ll be using your laptop for. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider:

Understanding integrated and discrete graphics

Laptops typically have two graphics options:

Integrated graphics: These are built into the CPU and are suitable for basic tasks like web browsing, watching videos, and light photo editing. They’re not powerful enough for demanding tasks like gaming, 3D modelling, or video editing.

Discrete graphics (dedicated GPU): These are separate cards offering significantly more processing power for graphics-intensive applications. They come with their own dedicated video memory (VRAM) for smoother performance and can handle more graphics-intensive tasks.

Consider your needs

Basic tasks (web browsing, email)
Integrated graphics are sufficient for basic tasks. These are typically integrated into the CPU and are designed to handle everyday computing needs such as web browsing, email, word processing, and streaming videos. Examples include Intel UHD Graphics and AMD Radeon Vega Graphics integrated into the CPU.

Moderate tasks (photo editing, casual gaming)
For tasks like photo editing and casual gaming, a mid-range discrete GPU is recommended as it provides smoother performance and better overall graphical quality. Look for GPUs from the NVIDIA GeForce GTX or AMD Radeon RX series. These GPUs offer a great balance between performance and affordability, making them suitable for moderate graphical tasks. They can handle applications like Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and gaming at medium to high settings for most modern titles.

Demanding tasks (3D modelling, video editing, high-end gaming)
High-end discrete GPUs are ideal for demanding tasks such as 3D modelling, video editing, and high-end gaming. These GPUs offer significantly higher performance and are capable of handling intensive graphical workloads with ease. Consider GPUs from the NVIDIA GeForce RTX or AMD Radeon RX high-performance series. These GPUs feature advanced technologies like ray tracing and AI-based rendering, making them particularly well-suited for professional applications and high-res gaming at maximum settings.

Other important factors to consider

Video RAM (VRAM): In simple terms, VRAM is a type of RAM for graphics cards. These is dedicated memory used to store the pixels and other graphics data as a frame buffer to be rendered on a computer monitor. More VRAM allows for storing complex textures and handling higher resolutions. 4GB is a good starting point, with 8GB or more recommended for demanding tasks and gaming.

Display: A good display complements powerful graphics. Look for a resolution of at least 1920×1080 (Full HD) and consider higher resolutions like 4K for exceptional detail. Colour accuracy is also crucial for creative work.

Finding the right balance

Powerful graphics cards come at a cost, impacting both battery life and portability on laptops. If you prioritise portability and need a laptop that is lightweight with a longer battery life, opting for an integrated graphics solution might suffice. However, if you require more graphical horsepower for demanding tasks such as 3D modelling, video editing, or high-end gaming, a discrete GPU is essential. 

Discrete GPUs, while consuming more power and taking up additional space, offer significantly higher performance compared to integrated graphics. They enable smoother rendering, faster frame rates, and support for advanced graphical features, making them indispensable for professional applications and demanding games where graphical fidelity and performance are paramount.

In short, the role of graphics processing units (GPUs) in laptops has evolved beyond gaming to become indispensable for a range of tasks. Picking the right one is crucial for good performance and user experience.