For power users, professionals, and avid gamers, a 17-inch laptop is often the perfect choice. It combines a larger display ideal for multitasking or entertainment with the performance needed for demanding tasks. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?
This guide will walk you through the essential criteria for choosing a 17-inch laptop and highlight our top picks for 2024. Whether you’re a creative professional, a gamer, or just someone who needs a big, versatile screen, we’ve got you covered.
What to Look for in a 17 Inch Laptop
Before selecting your laptop, it’s essential to understand the key factors that will influence your overall experience. Here are the top criteria to consider when shopping for a 17-inch device:
Performance
The heart of any laptop is its performance. For large-screen laptops, you’ll often find high-end specs suitable for intensive tasks.
- Processor (CPU): Look for powerful processors, like Intel Core i7 or i9, or AMD Ryzen 7 and 9, for smooth multitasking.
- Graphics (GPU): Gamers and creative professionals should prioritize laptops with dedicated GPUs (e.g., NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 series or AMD Radeon RX series).
Display Quality
With a bigger screen comes the opportunity for a more immersive visual experience. Always look for these display features:
- Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080) is the minimum, but 4K displays offer incredible sharpness.
- Brightness and Color Accuracy: Professionals involved in design or video editing should focus on display accuracy, measured in color gamuts like sRGB or DCI-P3 coverage.
Battery Life
The larger size generally means larger batteries, but with power-hungry components, battery life can vary. Choose a model offering at least 5 hours of real-world usage if portability matters to you.
Build and Portability
While 17-inch laptops are larger and heavier, designs vary widely. Look for slimmer, lightweight models that don’t compromise on performance if you’re frequently on the move.
Connectivity and Inputs
Ensure your laptop includes the right ports for peripherals like USB-C, Thunderbolt, HDMI, and an SD card slot if required.
Price
Finally, set a budget. Prices for 17-inch laptops range from $1,000 for mid-range models to $4,000+ for high-performance gaming and creator-focused machines.
Now that you know what to look for, here are our curated selections for 2024’s best 17-inch laptops.
Top Picks for the Best 17 Inch Laptops in 2024
1. Dell XPS 17 (2024)
Best For: Creative professionals and multimedia editing.
Highlights:
- Processor: 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900H
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
- Display: 17-inch UHD+ (3840×2400), 100% AdobeRGB coverage
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours
The Dell XPS 17 remains a top-notch laptop for creators. Its 4K+ display delivers stunning color accuracy, making it perfect for video editors and photographers. Combine this with exceptional build quality and premium performance, and you’ve got a powerhouse suited for any creative workflow.
Pros:
- Beautiful 4K+ display with great color precision.
- Compact and lightweight (for a 17-inch model).
- Excellent battery performance.
Cons:
- Expensive for those on a budget.
- Lacks enough ports for some users without adapters.
2. MSI GE76 Raider
Best For: Gamers seeking ultimate performance. Price on Amazon: $1,249.99
Highlights:
- Processor: Intel Core i7-12700H
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti
- Display: 17.3-inch Full HD, 360Hz refresh rate
- Battery Life: Up to 3-4 hours for normal usage
When it comes to gaming laptops, the MSI GE76 Raider takes center stage. With its blazing fast performance and high-refresh-rate screen, it’s designed to offer gamers an edge in competitive play.
Pros:
- Exceptional gaming performance.
- Highly responsive display with a 360Hz refresh rate.
- RGB lighting for a customizable aesthetic.
Cons:
- Bulkier than competitors.
- Short battery life when gaming.
3. LG Gram 17
Best For: Professionals who need portability.
Highlights:
- Processor: Intel Evo 12th Gen Core i7
- Graphics Card: Integrated Intel Iris Xe
- Display: 17-inch WQXGA (2560×1600), anti-glare
- Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
If portability is your top priority, the LG Gram 17 is a top choice. Weighing just under 3 pounds, it’s shockingly light for a laptop of its size. Despite its portability, it offers great battery life and a sharp WQXGA display perfect for work on the go.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and portable.
- Long-lasting battery for all-day usage.
- Crisp, detailed display.
Cons:
- Limited GPU power for heavy tasks.
- Slightly higher price for the specs offered.
4. Razer Blade 17
Best For: High-end gaming and all-round performance.
Highlights:
- Processor: Intel Core i9-12900H
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti
- Display: 17.3-inch 4K 144Hz display
- Battery Life: Approximately 4-5 hours
For those who want a combination of high-end gaming capabilities and a sleek, professional design, the Razer Blade 17 is unbeatable. Its sharp 4K display is equally suitable for beautiful gaming visuals or detailed creative projects.
Pros:
- Sleek, durable design.
- One of the best displays on the market.
- Outstanding gaming performance.
Cons:
- Pricey for non-gamers.
- Gets warm under heavy use.
Comparison Table
| Laptop | Processor | Graphics | Display | Battery Life | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dell XPS 17 | Intel Core i9-13900H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 | UHD+ 4K, AdobeRGB | Up to 8 hours | Creative professionals |
| MSI GE76 Raider | Intel Core i7-12700H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti | Full HD, 360Hz | 3-4 hours | Gamers |
| LG Gram 17 | Intel Evo 12th Gen Core i7 | Intel Iris Xe | WQXGA 2560×1600 | Up to 12 hours | Portability and work |
| Razer Blade 17 | Intel Core i9-12900H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti | 4K 144Hz | 4-5 hours | High-end gaming |
Which Laptop Should You Choose?
With so many impressive options, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs:
- Creative Professionals: Go for the Dell XPS 17 for its 4K+ display and powerful performance.
- Gamers: Pick the MSI GE76 Raider if you value ultra-smooth gaming, or the Razer Blade 17 for a blend of performance and design.
- Portability Seekers: The LG Gram 17 is unbeatable if you’re frequently on the move.
