Unbelievable Performance at an Unbeatable Price - Gigabyte G5 Review

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Best Gaming Laptop for $400
3. NVIDIA RTX 3050 Graphics and DLSS
4. Comparison with RTX 3050 Gaming Laptops on Best Buy
5. Affordable Brand New RTX 3050 Laptops
6. Performance of a $400 Gaming Laptop in Games
7. testing Cyberpunk 2077 with DLSS
8. Comparing FPS Boost with Other RTX Laptops
9. Red Dead Redemption 2 Performance with DLSS
10. Control Performance with MSI's GF63
11. Performance Comparison with GTX 1660 Ti Laptop
12. Gaming Laptop Features and Build Quality
13. Lightweight Design and Chunky Charger
14. Keyboard and Touchpad Review
15. Port Selection and Connectivity
16. Screen Quality and Performance
17. Internal Upgradability and Dual Channel Memory
18. Battery Life and Speaker Quality
19. Performance Modes and Fan Control
20. CPU Performance in Cinebench
21. Webcam and Microphone Quality
22. Conclusion: Affordable Gaming Laptops are Improving

🔍 Introduction

In this article, we will delve into the world of affordable gaming laptops and explore the performance and features of a $400 gaming laptop. Despite its low price, this laptop boasts an Nvidia RTX 3050 graphics card, offering remarkable gaming capabilities. We will discuss the possibilities of achieving an FPS boost with DLSS technology and compare the laptop's performance with other RTX 3050 gaming laptops on the market. Additionally, we will explore the advantages and shortcomings of this budget-friendly gaming laptop in terms of build quality, design, connectivity, and more. Let's dive in!

💻 The Best Gaming Laptop for $400

Finding a gaming laptop with impressive specifications within a limited budget can be a daunting task. However, this $400 gaming laptop stands out as a prime contender. Equipped with a six-core Intel processor, Nvidia RTX 3050 graphics, 16GB of RAM, and a 144Hz screen, this laptop offers optimal gaming performance at an affordable price. While we will explore its gaming performance in detail later on, it is important to note that this laptop surpasses its price point and competes with higher-priced counterparts.

🎮 NVIDIA RTX 3050 Graphics and DLSS

The inclusion of Nvidia RTX 3050 graphics in this budget gaming laptop sets it apart from its competitors in the same price range. With the integration of DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) technology, gamers can experience a significant FPS boost in a wide range of games. DLSS leverages artificial intelligence to enhance rendering while maintaining high frame rates. We will analyze the performance of DLSS and its impact on gaming in the subsequent sections.

📊 Comparison with RTX 3050 Gaming Laptops on Best Buy

To provide context to the affordability of this $400 gaming laptop, it is essential to compare it to other RTX 3050 gaming laptops available on Best Buy. Currently, RTX 3050 gaming laptops start at $650 on Best Buy, demonstrating the significant savings achieved with the $400 price tag of this laptop. While some may argue that the laptop's price is a result of it being Second HAND, we will examine similar brand new options available in the market for a fair comparison.

🌟 Affordable Brand New RTX 3050 Laptops

Contrary to popular belief, it is indeed possible to find brand new gaming laptops with RTX 3050 graphics at a price point similar to this $400 laptop. Micro Center in the US recently had a Gateway laptop on sale for $399, proving that obtaining a brand new RTX 3050 laptop within a limited budget is feasible. Although the price of this Gateway laptop increased by $50, as sales go up and down daily, it is essential to stay updated with websites such as gaminglaptop.deals for the latest deals and savings on gaming laptops.

🎮 Performance of a $400 Gaming Laptop in Games

Now, let's assess the gaming performance of this $400 laptop. By conducting rigorous tests on popular games, we can determine how well it performs even with a limited budget. In the subsequent sections, we will explore the performance of this laptop in games such as Cyberpunk 2077, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Control.

Testing Cyberpunk 2077 with DLSS

Considering the inclusion of Nvidia RTX graphics, it only makes sense to utilize DLSS when gaming. By enabling DLSS in Cyberpunk 2077, we can experience a substantial FPS boost. While we lack data from other laptops with DLSS, we can observe a remarkable 50% FPS increase with this $400 gaming laptop. It is important to note that other RTX laptops may also exhibit similar performance improvements with DLSS, establishing DLSS as a Game-changing technology for enhancing gaming experiences.

Comparing FPS Boost with Other RTX Laptops

To better contextualize the performance of this $400 gaming laptop, we will compare it to other RTX laptops in terms of FPS boost. By assessing its performance in games like Red Dead Redemption 2 and Control, we can gauge the laptop's capabilities. Despite a 26% FPS boost and effective utilization of DLSS in Red Dead Redemption 2, the GTX 1660 Ti performs slightly better due to its inability to leverage DLSS. However, in games with FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) support, DLSS outweighs FSR in delivering optimal FPS augmentation.

Control Performance with MSI's GF63

By examining the gaming performance of this $400 laptop in Control, we can draw noteworthy conclusions. In comparison to MSI's GF63, which houses the same GPU but exhibits inferior build quality and higher price, the $400 gaming laptop yields a 25% faster performance. This emphasizes that performance is not solely determined by the GPU model, as factors such as power limits and optimizations significantly impact the overall gaming experience.

Performance Comparison with GTX 1660 Ti Laptop

To provide a comprehensive perspective, we will compare the gaming performance of this $400 laptop with a GTX 1660 Ti laptop. While the GTX 1660 Ti laptop consistently outperforms the $400 laptop, it is important to highlight the advantages unique to the RTX 3050, such as DLSS support. With DLSS enabled, the $400 laptop manages to achieve 60 FPS performance with high settings in Control, surpassing the capabilities of the GTX 1660 Ti.

🖥️ Gaming Laptop Features and Build Quality

Apart from gaming performance, it is crucial to evaluate the features and build quality of this $400 gaming laptop. Although the laptop's overall design may feel inexpensive due to its plastic construction, it possesses several notable qualities that elevate its value. The lid exhibits some flex, but it remains stable during typing Sessions. Surprisingly, the keyboard deck showcases commendable sturdiness, even under pressure. While opening the laptop with one finger may be challenging due to its back-weighted distribution, the build quality, considering its price range, can be considered satisfactory.

Lightweight Design and Chunky Charger

In terms of portability, this laptop offers a lightweight design compared to other models tested. Its slimness is complemented by the inclusion of a compact 150W charger. Despite its chunky appearance, this laptop delivers convenience without compromising on performance.

Keyboard and Touchpad Review

The keyboard provides a decent typing experience, albeit with a slightly mushy feel due to its removable nature. Additionally, users can enjoy the RGB backlighting feature, although the color range is limited. The touchpad, reminiscent of older laptop models, may appear slightly smaller when compared to newer laptops. Personal preferences regarding the left and right click buttons may vary, but the touchpad functions adequately for its intended purpose.

Port Selection and Connectivity

One of the laptop's significant strengths lies in its impressive array of ports and connectivity options. USB Type-A and C ports are available on both sides, accompanied by an SD card slot. Furthermore, the inclusion of a Mini DisplayPort adds versatility, which is not commonly found in many contemporary laptops. The absence of a MUX switch is worth noting, but the Mini DisplayPort directly connecting to the Nvidia graphics provides an additional FPS boost when connecting an external screen for enhanced gaming experiences.

Screen Quality and Performance

Inexpensive gaming laptops often compromise on screen quality, but the G5 defies expectations. Boasting approximately 90% sRGB coverage and 300 nits brightness, the laptop's screen quality aligns favorably with higher-priced counterparts. Despite potential flickering observed on camera, the screen presents a smooth visual experience in person. The brightness adjustment mechanism may utilize PWM, hindering response time measurement, but the resulting screen quality remains impressive for a laptop within this price range.

Internal Upgradability and Dual Channel Memory

Internally, this $400 gaming laptop surprises with its level of upgradability. Equipped with two RAM slots, two M.2 storage slots, space for a 2.5" SSD, and removable Wi-Fi and battery at the back, this laptop stands out from far more expensive alternatives. However, its upgradability also contributes to its thickness, which may be a tradeoff for those seeking a slimmer design.

Battery Life and Speaker Quality

The laptop's small 49Wh battery struggles to provide extended usage, only lasting slightly over three hours during YouTube video playback tests. Considering the laptop's affordable price, this limited battery life remains justifiable. Gaming sessions place a higher load on the battery, resulting in significantly reduced FPS and a less playable experience. Consequently, it is advisable to rely on external power sources whenever possible. Additionally, the laptop's speakers exhibit poor audio quality, delivering muffled and tinny sound without adequate bass performance.

Performance Modes and Fan Control

Software utilities allow users to select from different performance modes, catering to individual preferences. Additionally, fan controls enable users to regulate cooling mechanisms according to their requirements. While this $400 laptop runs hot under certain circumstances, a repaste may rectify the issue. Despite experiencing thermal throttling during combined CPU and GPU stress tests, the keyboard deck only becomes slightly warm, ensuring comfortable usage. The fan noise remains relatively manageable compared to other laptops, contributing to a less intrusive gaming experience.

CPU Performance in Cinebench

The $400 gaming laptop demonstrates competitive CPU performance, particularly when benchmarked against laptops equipped with Intel's i5-11400H processor. Lenovo's Legion 5i, positioned as a premium laptop, and ASUS TUF F15, often available at $700 or even $500 during sales, serve as suitable comparisons. Considering the dollar-to-performance ratio, the $400 gaming laptop emerges as a compelling option against its counterparts.

Webcam and Microphone Quality

Equipped with a 720p camera, the laptop delivers a standard video experience. The accompanying microphones capture adequate audio, noticeable while typing on the keyboard. While the quality may not be exceptional, it satisfies the basic requirements for video calls and conferences.

🎉 Conclusion: Affordable Gaming Laptops are Improving

In conclusion, the $400 gaming laptop in question offers remarkable performance and features for its price range. Despite certain compromises in build quality, speaker performance, and battery life, this laptop excels in gaming capabilities, thanks to the inclusion of Nvidia RTX 3050 graphics and the DLSS technology. It competes favorably with higher-priced options and showcases impressive screen quality, upgradability, and connectivity. The advancements achieved by affordable gaming laptops signify notable progress in making budget-friendly options more viable for gamers on a limited budget. As technology continues to advance, gaming laptops at lower price points are becoming increasingly impressive and appealing.

Resources: gaminglaptop.deals

Highlights

• The $400 gaming laptop offers impressive gaming performance with Nvidia RTX 3050 graphics.
• DLSS technology provides a significant FPS boost in games.
• Brand new RTX 3050 laptops can be found within the same price range.
• The $400 laptop performs well in games like Cyberpunk 2077, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Control.
• The build quality, connectivity options, and screen quality of the laptop are commendable considering the price.
• The laptop showcases upgradability and competitive CPU performance.
• Certain compromises are noticeable in speaker quality, battery life, and plastic build.

FAQs

Q: Can I achieve good gaming performance with a $400 gaming laptop? A: Yes, the $400 gaming laptop offers impressive gaming performance, especially with the inclusion of Nvidia RTX 3050 graphics and DLSS technology.

Q: Are there any brand new RTX 3050 laptops available within the $400 price range? A: Yes, brand new RTX 3050 laptops can be found within the $400 price range, as demonstrated by recent sales from Micro Center.

Q: How does the $400 gaming laptop compare to higher-priced options with similar specifications? A: The $400 gaming laptop competes favorably with higher-priced options, showcasing similar or even better gaming performance and features.

Q: What are the notable strengths and weaknesses of the $400 gaming laptop? A: The laptop excels in gaming performance, screen quality, connectivity, upgradability, and CPU performance. However, it compromises on speaker quality, battery life, and build materials.

Q: Can the $400 gaming laptop handle resource-intensive games like Cyberpunk 2077? A: Yes, the $400 gaming laptop performs well in resource-intensive games like Cyberpunk 2077, especially when DLSS technology is enabled.

Q: How does the $400 gaming laptop compare to laptops with GTX 1660 Ti graphics? A: While the GTX 1660 Ti may outperform the $400 gaming laptop, the latter's inclusion of DLSS technology provides an edge in certain games.

Q: Is the $400 gaming laptop suitable for tasks other than gaming? A: Yes, the laptop offers decent performance and features beyond gaming, making it suitable for general tasks like browsing, content creation, and video conferencing.