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10 Best Desktop Replacement Laptops in 2021

Alex Berg
2021-11-02
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Dell desktop replacement laptop

Its true that most laptop manufacturing companies are now producing high-end laptops capable of handling most resource-hungry programs and applications.

Despite that, there is no single laptop that can outdo a desktop computer when it comes to customization and performance.

However, if you are looking for portability, and you do not mind sacrificing some minor aspects of a standard computer, there are several laptops that can provide desktop-grade performance.

The first major factor that makes a laptop capable of perfectly replacing a desktop is performance. For example, suppose a professional gamer is going to dump a desktop for a laptop. In that case, it means that the laptop should handle high-end games like PUBG, Fortnite, etc. and multitask effectively.

I will like to mention that there is no perfect laptop that can replace a desktop computer for everyone.

Some people are looking for an ultrabook with an overclocked processor, while some people are looking for a laptop with gaming-grade specs with a massive screen and full-sized keyboards.

Since you are interested in a desktop replacement laptop, there are some major factors that you need to look out for: the processor, the GPU, the durability of the laptop and reviews from people that are currently using the laptop.

Contents

  • 10 Best Desktop Replacement Laptops in 2021
    • 1. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14
    • 2. Razer Blade 15 Base Model
    • 3. Acer Predator Helios 300
    • 4. Alienware M15 R4
    • 5. Dell G15 5510
    • 6. MSI GL66
    • 7. Acer Predator Triton 500
    • 8. Samsung Galaxy Book Pro
    • 9. Lenovo IdeaPad 5
    • 10. ASUS VivoBook 15
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Conclusion

10 Best Desktop Replacement Laptops in 2021

Most of us love desktop-level performance but value portability so much. The truth is, a full PC is not as ideal as a laptop when it comes to working on the go. But then, performance is all that matters in the end. This is where desktop replacement laptops come in.

There is a lot you can do with a bigger display, and if you can get an impressive 60Hz+ refresh rate as well, it will really count in your favor during intense gaming sessions or whenever you are running graphics-intensive programs.

I have made a list of some of the best-rated laptops that are suitable for you. Read on!

1. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14

the best desktop replacement laptop

Dell desktop replacement laptop
ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14
CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 4800HS (beat 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10750H), 8 Core processor up to 4.20 GHz
RAM: 16GB DDR DRAM
Storage: 1TB PCIe SSD
Display: 14 VR Ready FHD 1920 x 1080 pixels
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650
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PROS
  • Comfortable keyboard
  • Lightweight
  • Dual-channel high-bandwidth
  • Backlit keyboard
  • Ideal for multi-tasking
CONS
  • Might run noisy

To replace your old desktop with a great laptop, you dont have to spend thousands of dollars. With the ASUS Zephyrus, you get a high-performance desktop replacement laptop at a great price.

Firstly, the Zephyrus is built to last and can endure daily use. You should expect this laptop to last for a very long time because of its durable construction. You get excellent graphics and an HD display with the Intel Core 10th Gen processor.

Plus, it has handy extra features such as a backlit keyboard and a Virtual Reality headset. Despite a powerful CPU, the screen isnt as responsive as other gaming laptops. Although this laptop heats up and the fans get loud, the temperature remains low.

In addition to the noise, you will not experience any overheating problems. There wont be any space problem as well on the Zephyrus. The SSD drive has a whopping 1 TB of storage, so its fast and works well.

In addition to all these impressive specs, its also an ultrathin and lightweight device at 0.7mm. Due to its lightweight property, you can take it with you wherever you want.


2. Razer Blade 15 Base Model

Dell desktop replacement laptop
Razer Blade 15 Base Model
CPU: 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10750H 6-Core processor
RAM: Expandable 16GB dual-channel memory
Storage: 512GB PCIe SSD
Display: 15.6 144Hz Full HD
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 with Max-Q Design (8GB GDDR6 VRAM, Optimus Technology)
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PROS
  • Durable aluminum unibody frame
  • Supports cinematic-quality rendering
  • RGB backlit keyboard
  • Best for gaming
  • Crisp display
CONS
  • Heating problem

Designed with gamers in mind, the Razer Blade 15 Base Model has a powerful processor. With a processing speed of up to 5.0GHz, this laptops Intel Core i7 processor delivers top-notch processing.

The addition of aluminum and unibody design makes Razer Blade 15 a highly durable machine. With a thickness of only 0.78mm, this laptop is not only shockproof but also super thin, making it portable and durable at the same time.

Further, it supports HD screens with precise details and vibrant colors. In addition, it has a frequent refresh rate so that gaming is more enjoyable. SSD storage is 512 GB on the Razer Blade, which should satisfy most users.

Additionally, it is highly customizable, and you will get multiple storage options and other features which are upgradable. There arent too many noises coming from this laptops fans. While this is true, the laptop can still become quite warm when used for an extended period.


3. Acer Predator Helios 300

Dell desktop replacement laptop
Acer Predator Helios 300
CPU: 9th Generation Intel Core i7-9750H 6-Core Processor (Up to 4.5 GHz)
RAM: 16 GB DDR4 2666MHz
Storage: 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD (2 x PCIe M. 2 Slots | 1 Slot Open for Easy Upgrades)
Display: 15.6 Full HD (1920 x 1080) Widescreen LED-backlit IPS display (144Hz Refresh Rate, 3ms Overdrive Response Time, 300nit Brightness & 72% NTSC)
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Graphics with 6 GB of dedicated GDDR6 VRAM
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PROS
  • 4 zone RGB keyboard
  • Extensive connectivity
  • Better audio quality
  • Smooth performance
CONS
  • Battery life is average

Acers Predator series of gaming laptops have long been popular. Gaming enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the latest addition from Acer, the Predator Helios 300. An Nvidia RTX 3060 graphics card is paired with an Intel i7-11800H chipset to achieve high efficiency.

Featuring 6GB of GDDR6 VRAM under the hood, this GPU can run any game on the market. A 15.6-inch Full HD IPS Panel combines with a refresh rate of 144Hz for an impressive display.

When you play high-end games that support improved refresh rates, you can feel the smoothness of the laptop. Furthermore, this panel is compatible with 100% sRGB. Aside from its good color accuracy, the device can also run other productivity programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Solidworks, etc.

There is 16GB of RAM built-in, but you can easily expand the RAM by adding a second stick. Besides that, it supports Windows 10 Home and has 512GB of SSD storage.

With the multi-color backlit keyboard, the usability and attractiveness of the device are enhanced. In addition to the three USB ports, it has a Thunderbolt 4 port and headphone jack. It also offers a quad exhaust on the sides and rear for a high-quality build.

The laptop comes with a high price tag, but it provides good specs.


4. Alienware M15 R4

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Dell desktop replacement laptop
Alienware M15 R4
CPU: Intel Core i7-10750H (10th Gen)
RAM: 16GB
Storage: 1TB SSD
Display: 15.6 Inch 4K UHD 60Hz 1ms 400-nits OLED
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER 8GB GDDR6
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PROS
  • Dual-exhaust airflow design
  • Excellent color gamut
  • Improved keyboard
  • Stutter-free gameplay
CONS
  • Feels bulky

The Alienware M15 R4 is another solid laptop, and there are no exceptions here. Good thermals are essential to keep any gaming laptop from overheating.

Alienware M15 has a dedicated vapor chamber between the CPU and copper heat pipes, making it one of the more sophisticated cooling systems. The Intel Core i7-10870 processor offers six cores and up to 5.0GHz clock speed in Turbo boost mode to power this device.

When it comes to the construction, its typical Alienware, with a solid build and durable frames. An RGB-backed 4-zone keyboard with 1mm travel space and anti-ghosting technology takes gaming to the next level.

It is suitable for gaming as it comes with 100% sRGB coverage that also supports additional productivity tasks. Despite its weight of 5.50 lbs., the gaming machine is a complete package.

Additionally, 16GB of DDR4 memory provides a transfer rate of 2933MHz. A 1TB hard drive offers sufficient space for larger files.


5. Dell G15 5510

Dell desktop replacement laptop
Dell G15 5510
CPU: 10th Generation Intel Core i7-10870H (16MB Cache, up to 5.0 GHz, 8 cores)
RAM: 16GB 2933MHz DDR4
Storage: 512 GB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
Display: 15.6 inch FHD (1920 x 1080) 120Hz 250 nits WVA Anti- Glare LED Backlit Narrow Border Display
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 with 6 GB GDDR6
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PROS
  • Game Shift technology
  • Narrow border display
  • Solid performance
  • Anti-glare screen
CONS
  • Low battery life

Dell G15 5510 is among the top names that might appear to many peoples minds while talking about the best desktop replacement laptops. It is a powerful machine that offers a 120Hz refresh rate.

Intel Core i7-10870H processor with a maximum clock speed of 5.0GHz and adopts a Hexa-core CPU is used for processing tasks. Additionally, this model includes RTX 3060 graphics with an additional 6GB of memory for effective performance.

Regarding the design, it has a strong body construction similar to typical Dell laptops. Gaming on the RGB-enabled backlit keyboard is even more enjoyable. There are 16GB DDR4 RAM modules with a 2933 MHz transfer rate that delivers fast speed.

It comes with 512GB of SSD storage for saving large files. The laptops excellent hardware and sufficient RAM & storage make it an appealing purchase. In comparison to other gaming laptops in this category, this one is on the heavy side.

Wi-Fi 6 is supported, as well as all the essential connectivity ports. Overall, it is a decent gaming option with extensive storage and RAM. On the other hand, its battery is ordinary, lasting no more than 3-4 hours. For such a price tag, the Dell G15 laptop is an excellent value.


6. MSI GL66

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Dell desktop replacement laptop
MSI GL66
CPU: Intel Core i7-11800H 2.4 GHz
RAM: 16GB DDR4
Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD
Display: 15.6 144Hz 3ms FHD 1080p 1920 x 1080 pixels
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070
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PROS
  • High performance
  • 144Hz refresh rate
  • Several ports
  • Customized keys
CONS
  • Costly

Despite having top-notch specifications, the MSI GL66 is available at an affordable price. Its popularity is primarily because of its low price and high features.

It includes an RTX 3070 GPU that does not utilize the full power of 130W. Due to this, the GPU performance gets reduced, and its effect can be observed when running graphics-intensive tasks. Nonetheless, the processor is still capable of handling a wide range of functions.

Performance is driven by an intel Core i7-11800H processor. The chipset provides a 2.3GHz base clock speed and a 4.6GHz overclocking speed.

There is no doubt that it is a highly efficient chip designed to provide excellent performance. In addition, the Nvidia RTX 3070 graphics card has an 8GB VRAM for graphics performance without excessive power that shows outstanding performance while gaming.

With Cooler Boost Technology, several fans and heating pipes ensure optimal thermal distribution. Further, the laptop comes with a Full HD display measuring 15.6 inches and a 1920 x 1080 pixels resolution. It offers an immersive visual experience because of the 144Hz refresh rate.


7. Acer Predator Triton 500

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Dell desktop replacement laptop
Acer Predator Triton 500
CPU: 10th Generation Intel Core i7-10750H 6-Core Processor (Up to 5.0GHz)
RAM: 16GB DDR4 2933MHz
Storage: 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD (2 x PCIe M.2 Slots with 1 Slot Open for Easy Upgrades)
Display: 15.6 Full HD 300Hz 3ms 300 nits (1920 x 1080) widescreen LED-backlit IPS
GPU: Overclockable NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Super Graphics with Max-Q Design & 8 GB of dedicated GDDR6 VRAM
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PROS
  • NVIDIA G-SYNC technology
  • High-end performance
  • Customizable lighting
  • Widescreen display
  • 300Hz refresh rate
CONS
  • Poor battery life

The Triton 500 is another top-class laptop by Acer from the Predator series that you can use as a desktop replacement option. Triton 500 allows you to stream your gameplay live if youre a hardcore gamer with no lag.

It has RGB backlighting, which gives a unique experience while gaming. While technically, this only simplifies gaming at night, its aesthetic value is immeasurable for a gamer.

Plus, the body is black and bold, which will surely catch anyones eye. The Triton 500 delivers speed and power as well, making it a perfect high-end laptop.

A Core i7-10750H processor with 4.5GHz clock speed and 16 GB RAM makes it possible to stream and run all your favorite games, play multiple tabs, and watch movies without any hassles.

However, what makes this laptop stand out is its display. The 300 Hz display responds within 3ms. Crisp, clear images are possible thanks to the large screen and 6GB RTX 2070 graphics.


8. Samsung Galaxy Book Pro

Dell desktop replacement laptop
Samsung Galaxy Book Pro
CPU: Intel i7 11th Gen
RAM: 16GB
Storage: 512GB SSD
Display: 15.6 AMOLED
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PROS
  • Excellent AMOLED screen
  • Long-lasting battery
  • High performance
  • Sleek design
  • Lightweight
CONS
  • The keyboard is not comfortable

Samsung is the worlds largest supplier of laptops, as you may be aware. Among all the top-performing laptops available today, Samsung Galaxy Book Pro is one of the most elegant desktop replacement laptops.

With a 1920 x 1080p, the laptops display has a 15.6-inch Full HD AMOLED panel. Displays like this are made possible by OLED technology, which produces vivid colors and wide viewing angles. If you expect Samsung to deliver a great panel, you will not be disappointed.

Additionally, the laptop has 16GB of RAM, which is sufficient for a laptop in this price range. It includes 512GB of SSD storage for keeping large files. The long battery life is another notable feature of this device.

Company officials estimate that a single charge can last for up to 20 hours which is huge. Generally, you can expect your battery to last between 10-12 hours per day.


9. Lenovo IdeaPad 5

Dell desktop replacement laptop
Lenovo IdeaPad 5
CPU: Intel i7-1165G7, 4 cores, 8 threads, 2.8GHz
RAM: 12GB
Storage: 512GB SSD
Display: 15.6 LED-Backlit IPS Touch Screen FHD (1920 x 1080)
GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
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PROS
  • Reduced heat production
  • Fast start-up time
  • Smooth experience
  • Fingerprint reader
  • Less noise
CONS
  • Low battery life

IdeaPad 5 by Lenovo is another suitable choice as a desktop replacement laptop that has a touchscreen display of 15.6 inches with a 1920 x 1080 pixels resolution. Display angles are good, and the touchscreen is responsive.

A brightness of 250-nits makes it a bit dim, but it is sufficient to be seen indoors. This model uses Intels 11th generation Core i7 chipset, integrated with Intel Iris XE Graphics G7. As a general-purpose chipset, it is very energy-efficient and performs well.

With 12GB of DDR4 RAM, it offers flawless data performance. Considering the price range of the laptop, this is a reasonable amount of RAM. 512GB of SSD storage is adequate for storing big files and other essential documents. However, the device is constructed from plastic, but still, it is highly durable in the long run.

Further, IdeaPad 5 has an average battery life that lasts only for a few hours. Touchscreen displays consume more battery than non-touch displays. If you require a touchscreen-enabled laptop with a large display, this is a good option.


10. ASUS VivoBook 15

Dell desktop replacement laptop
ASUS VivoBook 15
CPU: 10th Gen Intel Core i3-1005G1 CPU (4M Cache, up to 3.4 GHz)
RAM: 8 GB DDR4
Storage: 128 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
Display: 15.6 inch Full HD (1920x1080)
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PROS
  • High screen-to-body ratio
  • Fingerprint sensor
  • ErgoLift hinges design
  • Compact design
  • Lightweight
CONS
  • Low-quality TN panel

Asus VivoBook 15 is another best desktop replacement laptop for users who are on a tight budget. You can use this unit every day without any problems. Although it isnt as powerful nor versatile as the other laptops on this list, it is incredibly affordable considering how much value it provides.

VivoBook 15 displays excellent aesthetics despite its affordable price tag, appealing to casual users. However, the device doesnt come with any flashy trimmings or vibrant colors.

The design is quite simple, featuring subdued colors and metallic branding. The VivoBook 15 has a 15.6-inch display and a sleek plastic finish for better durability.

Also, the screen is 1920 x 1080 pixels in resolution. Thanks to its nano-edges technology, the screen has an 88% ratio to the laptops body. However, you might not like its low-quality TN panel.

With its anti-glare screen, you can use the laptop in bright lighting conditions without a problem. In terms of color accuracy, the laptop translates colors in a pretty washed-out manner, so its not recommended if youre working with color-sensitive applications.

In addition to an Intel 10th Generation processor, this laptop also features integrated UHD graphics, 8 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of storage. These are only the basic specs to keep in mind. To the laptop, you can add a more powerful processor, storage, and storage as it is upgradable.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I expect desktop-level gaming performance from a laptop?

Not always. There are some major factors that contribute to a desktop-level gaming experience, which include the cooling technology of the desktop, which is always better than that of a laptop, and also the desktop-designed processor. Yet, there are laptops that can offer you competitive performance that will be similar.

Which is the top brand for desktop replacement laptops?

Picking the best brand can be a challenging task because user requirements differ. If you are interested in relatively cheap ultrabook devices, you should check out models from ASUS, HP and Lenovo.

How much should I spend on a desktop replacement laptop?

You might not need to spend up much, but I will recommend that you set apart a budget of $2000 if you do not want to go back to your desktop.

Which is the best CPU for a desktop replacement laptop?

Basically, you should go for any laptop with an Intel Core i7 or i9 processor. However, these two processors are not available for every budget. If your budget is limited, the least you should go for is Intel Core i5.

Conclusion

I hope you now have all the important details that you need to know about the laptops that are capable of replacing your desktop. While some are high-end laptops, some are budget laptops.

It all depends on the specifications of the laptop that you are looking for.