The world of gaming laptops is a vast and competitive landscape, and finding the perfect machine can feel like an impossible quest. But what if you’re looking for a solid, reliable laptop that can handle modern games without breaking the bank? Then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of the best GTX 960M laptops that offer a compelling balance of performance and price, allowing you to enjoy a smooth and immersive gaming experience without sacrificing your budget.
This comprehensive guide will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each laptop, helping you make an informed decision. From sleek designs to powerful performance, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for an upgrade or a hardcore enthusiast seeking a budget-friendly option, our review and buying guide will equip you with all the information you need to find the perfect GTX 960M laptop for your gaming needs.
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An Overview of GTX 960M Laptops
The GTX 960M is a mid-range graphics card from NVIDIA’s Maxwell architecture, released in 2015. Designed for laptops, the 960M offered a significant performance boost over its predecessor, the GTX 860M, allowing users to enjoy smoother gameplay and higher frame rates in demanding games. While the GTX 960M is no longer the latest and greatest, it still holds its own for casual gamers and those looking for a budget-friendly option with solid performance.
One of the key strengths of the GTX 960M is its ability to handle modern games at respectable settings. While it might not be able to max out all the graphical bells and whistles, the 960M can still provide a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience at 1080p resolution and medium to high graphics settings. This makes it a great choice for gamers who prioritize a balance between performance and affordability.
Another advantage of GTX 960M laptops is their relatively low power consumption, which translates to longer battery life compared to higher-end gaming laptops. This is especially important for users who want to use their laptops for both gaming and productivity tasks without constantly worrying about draining the battery.
For those seeking the best GTX 960M laptops, it’s important to consider factors such as processor, RAM, and storage capacity. A powerful CPU and ample RAM will contribute to smoother overall performance, while a fast SSD will significantly improve loading times and system responsiveness.
Ultimately, the GTX 960M offers a solid gaming experience for a reasonable price point. It’s a great option for budget-conscious gamers who are looking for a well-rounded laptop capable of handling modern games without breaking the bank.
Best Gtx 960M Laptops – Reviews
Product 1: MSI GE62 Apache Pro-004
The MSI GE62 Apache Pro-004 is a powerful gaming laptop that features a GTX 960M graphics card, making it capable of handling most modern games at high settings. The laptop also comes with an Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 1TB hard drive, providing plenty of power for gaming and other demanding tasks. It features a beautiful 15.6-inch Full HD display that brings games to life with vibrant colors and sharp details. The laptop’s design is sleek and stylish, with a brushed aluminum finish.
However, the battery life is average, lasting only around 4 hours on a single charge. The keyboard is also a bit cramped, which can be an issue for some gamers. Overall, the MSI GE62 Apache Pro-004 is a solid gaming laptop that offers excellent performance at a reasonable price.
Product 2: ASUS ROG G501JW-DS71
The ASUS ROG G501JW-DS71 is another excellent option for gamers looking for a laptop with a GTX 960M. The laptop boasts a powerful Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 1TB hard drive, ensuring smooth gameplay. The 15.6-inch Full HD display features a 120Hz refresh rate, resulting in incredibly smooth and responsive gameplay. The laptop’s design is sleek and aggressive, with a brushed metal finish and a backlit keyboard.
Despite its impressive performance, the laptop is quite bulky and heavy. Battery life is also a concern, lasting only around 3-4 hours. Overall, the ASUS ROG G501JW-DS71 is a great choice for gamers who prioritize performance over portability and battery life.
Product 3: Acer Aspire V15 Nitro Black Edition
The Acer Aspire V15 Nitro Black Edition is a budget-friendly option that offers impressive performance for its price. The laptop features a GTX 960M graphics card, an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 1TB hard drive. The 15.6-inch Full HD display delivers sharp visuals and vibrant colors, making gaming immersive. The laptop’s design is sleek and stylish, with a brushed aluminum finish.
However, the keyboard is not as responsive as some other gaming laptops. Battery life is also a bit underwhelming, lasting only around 4 hours on a single charge. Overall, the Acer Aspire V15 Nitro Black Edition is a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers who are looking for a capable gaming laptop.
Product 4: Lenovo Y50-70
The Lenovo Y50-70 is a well-rounded gaming laptop that offers a balance of performance and portability. The laptop features a GTX 960M graphics card, an Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 1TB hard drive. The 15.6-inch Full HD display delivers vibrant colors and sharp visuals, making games enjoyable. The laptop’s design is sleek and modern, with a brushed aluminum finish.
The battery life is a bit underwhelming, lasting only around 4 hours on a single charge. The keyboard is also not as comfortable as some other gaming laptops. Overall, the Lenovo Y50-70 is a solid choice for gamers who are looking for a portable gaming laptop with good performance.
Product 5: Dell Inspiron 15 7000 Gaming
The Dell Inspiron 15 7000 Gaming is a great option for gamers who are looking for a laptop with a good balance of performance and features. The laptop features a GTX 960M graphics card, an Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 1TB hard drive. The 15.6-inch Full HD display delivers vibrant colors and sharp visuals, making games immersive. The laptop’s design is sleek and stylish, with a brushed aluminum finish.
However, the laptop is a bit bulky and heavy. Battery life is also a concern, lasting only around 3-4 hours. Overall, the Dell Inspiron 15 7000 Gaming is a solid choice for gamers who are looking for a well-rounded gaming laptop with good performance and features.
Why Choose a Laptop with a GTX 960m?
The GTX 960m is a powerful graphics card that was popular in laptops released around 2015-2017. While newer models exist, the GTX 960m still offers a compelling value proposition for gamers and creative professionals who need a balance of portability and performance.
The GTX 960m provides a significant performance boost over integrated graphics solutions, allowing you to run popular games at decent settings and achieve smooth gameplay. It also empowers you to tackle demanding tasks like video editing and 3D modeling with greater efficiency. While the GTX 960m might not be the most cutting-edge graphics card on the market, it still holds its own in the mid-range category, delivering a satisfying gaming experience and solid performance for a variety of demanding applications.
Beyond its performance advantages, the GTX 960m laptops offer a compelling blend of portability and power. These devices are often relatively lightweight and compact, making them perfect for students, professionals, and gamers who need a versatile machine for work and play.
If you’re looking for a powerful and portable laptop with solid gaming capabilities, the best GTX 960m laptops provide a compelling combination of affordability, performance, and portability.
Gtx 960M: The Best Choice for Gamers on the Go
The GTX 960M is a powerful and efficient graphics card that offers excellent performance for gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks. While it may not be the most powerful card on the market, it strikes a great balance between performance and power consumption. This makes it an ideal choice for gamers who want to enjoy their favorite games on the go.
Laptops with GTX 960M graphics cards are capable of running most modern games at decent settings. You can expect smooth gameplay at 1080p resolution, even with demanding titles. The 960M is a great option for gamers who are looking for a reliable and portable gaming experience.
This graphics card is also a great option for creative professionals who need a powerful machine for editing photos and videos. Its ability to handle demanding workloads makes it a versatile choice for both gamers and professionals.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a GTX 960M Laptop
When choosing a GTX 960M laptop, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. There are several factors to keep in mind, including:
- Processor: The processor plays a crucial role in overall system performance. It’s important to choose a laptop with a powerful processor that can handle demanding tasks. Intel Core i5 and i7 processors are good options.
- RAM: RAM is essential for multitasking and ensuring smooth performance. Aim for at least 8GB of RAM for a good gaming experience.
- Storage: The type and amount of storage will impact how quickly your laptop boots up and loads applications. A solid-state drive (SSD) offers faster performance than a hard disk drive (HDD).
- Display: The display is another important factor to consider. Choose a laptop with a high-resolution screen and a fast refresh rate for the best gaming experience.
Alternatives to the GTX 960M
While the GTX 960M is a solid choice for gamers, there are several other graphics cards available that offer different levels of performance. If you’re looking for more power, you might consider a laptop with a GTX 970M or GTX 980M graphics card.
However, these higher-end cards come with a higher price tag. If you’re on a tight budget, you could consider a laptop with a GTX 950M or a GTX 1050 graphics card. These cards offer a balance between performance and affordability.
Ultimately, the best graphics card for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. By carefully considering your options, you can choose the best laptop for your gaming needs.
The Best GTX 960M Laptops: A Buying Guide
The GTX 960M is a popular graphics card that was released in 2015. It was a step up from the GTX 860M and offered better performance for gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks. While newer GPUs have since taken its place, the GTX 960M still provides a solid gaming experience, especially for those on a budget. If you’re looking for a laptop with a GTX 960M, you have a few things to consider before making your purchase.
1. Performance
The GTX 960M is a mid-range GPU, so it won’t be able to run the latest games at the highest settings. However, it can still deliver a smooth gaming experience at lower settings or with a lower resolution. If you’re planning on playing demanding games, you’ll want to make sure the laptop you choose has a powerful CPU to help out the GPU. If you plan on playing less demanding games or playing games at lower settings, a laptop with a GTX 960M will be more than sufficient. It’s important to note that the GTX 960M can handle most games released in 2015 and 2016 at 1080p resolution and medium settings.
It’s also worth considering the amount of VRAM available. The GTX 960M typically comes with 2GB of VRAM, but some models have 4GB. Having more VRAM is beneficial for running games at higher resolutions or with more demanding graphics settings. You can also check benchmarks to see how the GTX 960M performs in specific games.
2. CPU
The CPU is equally important as the GPU when it comes to gaming performance. A powerful CPU can help to improve frame rates and reduce stuttering. When choosing a laptop with a GTX 960M, you’ll want to make sure it’s paired with a decent CPU. You can check the benchmark results of the CPU and compare them to other CPUs to get an idea of its performance. A good CPU will allow you to take advantage of the GTX 960M’s full potential.
For the best experience, you’ll want to look for a laptop with at least a Core i5 or i7 processor. These CPUs will be able to handle the demanding nature of modern games, even when paired with a GTX 960M. However, if you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to get away with a Core i3 processor. It’s crucial to balance the CPU and GPU to achieve optimal gaming performance.
3. RAM
RAM is important for all types of computing, but it’s especially important for gaming. More RAM allows your computer to store more data in its active memory, which can lead to faster loading times and smoother gameplay. When choosing a laptop with a GTX 960M, you’ll want to make sure it has at least 8GB of RAM. If you’re planning on doing other tasks besides gaming, such as video editing or streaming, you may want to consider getting a laptop with 16GB of RAM.
It’s important to consider the type of RAM as well. DDR4 RAM is faster and more efficient than DDR3 RAM, and it’s generally found in newer laptops. Ensure that the laptop you choose has enough RAM to handle the demands of the games you want to play. If you’re unsure about how much RAM you need, you can always check the system requirements for the games you’re interested in.
4. Display
The display is another important factor to consider when choosing a laptop for gaming. You’ll want a display with a high refresh rate and a fast response time to minimize screen tearing and input lag. The best displays for gaming have a refresh rate of 120Hz or higher and a response time of 5ms or less. However, laptops with GTX 960M are likely to have a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
The resolution is also important. A higher resolution display will provide a sharper picture, but it will also put more strain on the GPU. If you’re on a budget, you can get away with a 1080p display, but if you can afford it, a 1440p or 4K display will provide a more immersive gaming experience. You can also look for a laptop with an IPS panel, which offers wider viewing angles and better color accuracy than TN panels.
5. Storage
Storage is important for storing games, applications, and other files. You’ll want a laptop with enough storage space to hold all of your games. The most common types of storage used in laptops are HDDs and SSDs. HDDs are cheaper but slower than SSDs. SSDs are more expensive but faster, which can significantly improve loading times and overall performance.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can get away with an HDD. However, if you can afford it, an SSD will provide a much better gaming experience. If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, you can get a laptop with a hybrid storage solution, such as a small SSD for the operating system and frequently used programs and a large HDD for storage.
6. Battery Life
Battery life is a concern for all laptop users, but it’s especially important for gamers. You’ll want a laptop with a battery that can last for several hours on a single charge so that you can take your gaming on the go. The battery life of laptops with GTX 960M typically ranges from 4 to 6 hours.
However, battery life can vary depending on the laptop’s power settings, brightness, and other factors. You can maximize your battery life by adjusting these settings. You can also look for a laptop with a battery that can be swapped out or upgraded. This will allow you to replace the battery if it starts to wear down over time.
7. Price
Price is always a factor to consider when buying a laptop. The price of laptops with GTX 960M can vary widely depending on the specifications and features. If you’re on a tight budget, you can find laptops with GTX 960M for around $500. However, if you want a laptop with a better CPU, more RAM, and a better display, you’ll need to pay more.
It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping for a laptop. This will help you narrow down your choices and avoid overspending. Consider your priorities when setting your budget. If you’re primarily interested in gaming, you may be willing to spend more on a laptop with a powerful CPU and GPU. However, if you’re also looking for a laptop that can handle other tasks, such as productivity or multimedia, you may need to prioritize other features.
The best GTX 960M laptops will provide a great gaming experience at a reasonable price. When choosing a laptop, it’s important to consider all of the factors discussed above. By taking your time and carefully considering your needs, you can find the perfect laptop for your gaming needs.
FAQ
What is a GTX 960M and why should I care?
The GTX 960M is a mid-range graphics card from NVIDIA’s GeForce 900M series. It’s a powerful GPU that offers excellent performance for most games at 1080p resolution, especially with medium to high settings. This means you can enjoy a smooth gaming experience without sacrificing visual fidelity. A GTX 960M laptop will also be capable of handling demanding tasks like video editing and 3D modelling, making it a versatile choice for both work and play.
What are the key features of a GTX 960M laptop?
A GTX 960M laptop will typically have a dedicated graphics card with 2GB or 4GB of GDDR5 memory, providing ample power for demanding applications. These laptops also feature a robust CPU, usually a core i5 or i7, which ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks. Other common features include a high-resolution display, a comfortable keyboard, and a long battery life.
What are some of the best GTX 960M laptops available?
There are several excellent GTX 960M laptops available, each offering its own unique set of advantages. Some popular choices include the Acer Aspire V15 Nitro, the Dell Inspiron 15 7000 series, and the MSI GE62 Apache Pro. These laptops provide a balance of performance, features, and affordability, making them great options for gamers and creative professionals.
How much should I expect to spend on a GTX 960M laptop?
The price of a GTX 960M laptop can vary significantly based on the specific model and features. Generally, you can find good options for around $800 to $1200. However, high-end models with premium features, such as a high-refresh rate display or a larger SSD, can cost more.
What are the limitations of a GTX 960M laptop?
While the GTX 960M offers impressive performance, it’s not without its limitations. It may struggle to run the latest AAA games at the highest settings and resolutions, particularly with demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077. Additionally, GTX 960M laptops are generally thicker and heavier than ultra-thin laptops due to the need for cooling and a dedicated graphics card.
How do I choose the right GTX 960M laptop for my needs?
To choose the right GTX 960M laptop for you, consider your specific needs and budget. Think about the games you want to play, the software you use, and the features you prioritize. If you prioritize portability, look for a lighter laptop with a smaller screen. If you need powerful performance for demanding tasks, consider a model with a higher-end CPU and more RAM.
What are the alternatives to a GTX 960M laptop?
If you need a laptop with more gaming power, consider models with a GTX 970M or GTX 980M. These GPUs offer even higher performance for demanding games and applications. However, you’ll likely need to pay a premium for these options. If you’re on a tighter budget, look for laptops with integrated graphics, which offer less gaming power but are more affordable.
Final Words
In conclusion, choosing the right laptop with a GTX 960M graphics card can be a daunting task, but with this guide, you’re equipped to make an informed decision. We’ve highlighted the top performers in the market, considering factors like performance, price, and overall value. Whether you’re a gamer looking for a reliable machine to handle demanding titles or a creative professional needing a powerful device for editing, there’s a best GTX 960M laptop out there for you.
Remember, the best option ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. Carefully consider the factors we’ve discussed, read reviews from reputable sources, and explore the features of each model. Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently choose a laptop that delivers exceptional gaming and creative capabilities without breaking the bank.