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Best RTX 5080 laptop guide: now available to pre order

Helping you pick the best 50-series gaming laptop for your needs in 2025
Aaron Ritchie
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Best RTX 5080 laptop guide: now available to pre order
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You can now pre-order Nvidia RTX 5080 laptops on Newegg and Amazon, though it will be a few more weeks until you actually get your hands on the product as the release dates won't hit until late March/early April. These new high-end gaming and/or creative laptops comes with all the latest DLSS 4 tech, plus the new processor SKUs from AMD and Intel.

These look to be the premium laptops most sought after for those who want to play their games at maximum settings with no issues, though if you're after a truly frictionless experience, particularly when gaming at 4K resolution, then we'd recommend considering the RTX 5090 laptop range. Conversely if you don't think you need the amount of hardware on display here then you should also have a look at our best RTX 5070 Ti laptop guide.

The best RTX 5080 laptops 2025: an in-depth look

Best RTX 5080 laptop with 4K screen

Below are our current selections for best RTX 5080 gaming laptops and creator laptops. We've arranged these picks according to category and specification to help you best find the right one for your budget and needs. As time goes by and new models may be released, we'll be updating this page accordingly.

MSI Raider A18 HX (RTX 5080)

Specifications
  • CPU: Up to AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D
  • GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090
  • Memory: Up to 64GB DDR5 6400MHz RAM
  • Storage: Up to 2TB SSD
  • Max Refresh Rate: 240Hz
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2400
  • Panel Type: Mini-LED (100% DCI-P3, G-SYNC, ACR)
Pros
  • Very powerful CPU options
  • High TGP RTX 50-series GPUs
  • Fantastic, bright UHD+ mini-LED panel
Cons
  • Very expensive
  • Screen limited to 120Hz max refresh rate
  • Among the heavier laptops

The MSI Raider A18 HX is the latest iteration of the long-running Raider series, and it packs a serious punch, with the most powerful CPU options available, plus a high-TGP RTX 5080. The A-variant we've selected here comes with the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D – the most powerful AMD laptop CPU, which enjoys all the benefits of the 3D V-cache technology that gives such a performance boost to single-core performance, and therefore gaming. Alternatively the non-A MSI Raider 18 HX can be bought with an Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX processor if you'd prefer.

Whichever option you go for this is a powerhouse of a machine that run things very nicely at the native 4K resolution. Of course the downside of this is that the display is limited to 120Hz maximum refresh rate, compared to the higher refresh rates on some of the lower-res models. The other downside is the price – this is definitely not a cheap laptop, even by RTX 5080 standards, so if the price tag has you wincing you might want to check out the other options on this list instead.

Additionally, if you're after a cheaper 16-inch model and don't mind forgoing the fancier screen panel, then the MSI Vector 16 HX AI is an alternative option which looks very similar to the Raider but comes with a 1600p-size IPS panel and doesn't have quite the same build quality or additional features, though it's far from bad in these areas. The MSI Stealth 18 HX AI is another option that's thinner and lighter, though can't match the Raider or Vector in terms of TGP or the available processor SKUs.

The dual-resolution pick

Acer Predator Helios 18 AI (RTX 5080)

Specifications
  • CPU: Up to Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX
  • GPU: Up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090
  • Memory: Up to 192GB DDR5 6400MHz (4 slots)
  • Storage: Up to 6TB PCIe Gen5 SSD (M.2 3 slots)
  • Max Refresh Rate: 2560 x 1600 / 4K dual-mode (can switch to 1080p for higher refresh rate)
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1600
Pros
  • High TGP RTX 50-series GPUs
  • Ridiculously high 192GB DDR5 RAM ceiling
  • Dual-resolution display option (UHD+/FHD+)
Cons
  • FHD mode may look a bit low-res on an 18” screen
  • Expensive

The other 18 incher on this list is the new Predator Helios 18 AI. We'll have to see if the addition of ‘AI' to the name compared to previous generations is anything more than a gimmick to cash in on the buzzword of the year, but besides that it looks to be quite the impressive machine. Once again this laptop comes equipped with a range of Intel Core Ultra processors, including the Ultra 9 275HX at the top end. Arguably the most standout feature is the staggering memory capacity – offering up to 192GB of 6400MHz DDR5 RAM – which might make it of interest for high-end productivity users or those looking for a workstation machine besides just something to game on. Cooling is handled by Acer’s updated 6th generation AeroBlade fan system; these fans feature more and thinner blades compared to the previous generation, boosting cooling efficiency by an estimated 10%. Hopefully between this and the new processor technology we'll see less in the way of thermal throttling compared to those that plagued the high-end Intel 14th gen laptops.

There are two display options to choose from: the familiar 2560 x 1600 screen with a 240Hz maximum refresh rate, or a dual-mode screen that can alternate between a 4K 120Hz mode and a 1920 x 1080 240Hz mode. The keyboard has been upgraded to the MagKey 4.0 system, allowing for replaceable WASD and arrow keys with included mechanical options for customization. Connectivity and peripheral support have also been improved, with the USB-C ports now supporting Thunderbolt 5, a full-sized SD card reader replacing the older mini slot, and the audio system upgraded from two to six speakers, promising significantly enhanced sound quality (we hope).

Best 14-inch RTX 5080 laptop

ASUS ROG ASUS Zephyrus G14 (2025)

Specifications
  • CPU: Up to AMD Ryzen AI HX 370
  • GPU: Up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080
  • Memory: Up to 32GB LPDDR5X 7500MHz
  • Storage: unknown
  • Max Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • Resolution: 3K
  • Panel Type: OLED (100% DCI-P3, G-SYNC)
  • Weight: 1.5kg
Pros
  • 3K OLED screen with 100% DCI-P3 coverage
  • 120Hz refresh rate & excellent response times
  • Slimline & lightweight
  • Looks great
Cons
  • GPU limited to 115W TGP
  • Expensive

The ASUS Zephyrus series are characterised by sleek, slimline chassis which makes them ideal MacBook/Microsoft surface replacement devices for productivity users, as well as great gaming laptops. The 2025 edition retains the chassis design introduced with last year's overhaul, offering a remarkably lightweight and ultra-thin profile that looks great, with the aforementioned programmable LED display on the lid, if that’s your thing. The line includes the 16-inch G16 and the 14-inch G14, and it’s the latter we’re most excited about, as it is consistently among the best 14″ gaming laptops released each year.

The downside of the slimmer chassis is reduced power, in particular for the graphics card, and lower wattage to this component means less FPS in game. We know that the 16-inch variant caps its TGP (Total Graphics Power) at 115W, compared to the Strix SCAR’s more robust 175W. Despite its slim form factor, the Zephyrus lineup still features advanced cooling solutions though, including Vapor Chamber and liquid metal thermal compounds, ensuring efficient heat management. If you’re looking for an RTX 5080 loadout or better you’ll be limited to Intel CPUs only with the G16, with Ryzen processors being available up to the RTX 5070. The G14 however comes with an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor as standard, and we’re excited to see how this performs.

The G14 specifically boast a 3K OLED display, offering stunning visuals with G-Sync compatibility, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz (the G16 goes up to 240Hz with a 2.5K display). All models feature WiFi 7 for faster and more stable online performance.

Best value pick

Dream Machines RT5080 16NA20 (300Hz QHD+)

Pros
  • Very powerful CPU options
  • High TGP RTX 50-series GPUs
  • Lots of power for your money
  • Compatible with external liquid cooling option
  • 300Hz refresh rate
Cons
  • Build quality & aesthetics not up there with other brands
  • No OLED or Mini-LED panel options
  • Limited to WiFi 6E

Dream Machines are a gaming laptop company that you may not have heard of but who have been producing powerful, but affordable products, for several years now. Much like XMG, Eluktronics, and Schenker, most of their laptops are based on a Tongfang chassis, with some models (including this one) being compatible with an external liquid cooler that lets you push the wattage on the CPU and GPU higher (with the highly customizable internal settings) and/or enjoy high-end gaming with quieter fan speeds. 

These laptops primarily focus on affordable functionality and raw performance, rather than aesthetics, resulting in machines that may not stand out in terms of design, additional features (the WiFi module is limited to WiFi 6E instead of the newer WiFi 7 for instance), or premium build quality, but they deliver impressive performance under the hood. This particular model is priced between $500 and $1,500 lower than the other models on this list, making it a highly cost-effective choice. Alongside the high TGP graphics card you can get up to the top-of the line AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D processor, although cheaper loadouts are also available if you want to save more cash.

While the display options here don't include the high-end Mini-LED or OLED panels seen in some competing brands this year, the 16-inch IPS screen with a 1600p resolution is still an excellent choice. It also boasts an impressive 300Hz maximum refresh rate – the highest among the laptops listed here.For those in Europe, the XMG NEO 16 is another solid alternative, which comes with very similar specs, features, and design.

Also consider

HP Omen 16 MAX

Specifications
  • CPU: Up to Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX
  • GPU: Up to Nvidia RTX 5090
  • Memory: Up to 64GB DDR5 5600MHz
  • Storage: unknown
  • Max Refresh Rate: 240Hz
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1600
  • Panel Type: IPS/OLED
Pros
  • Powerful GPU options
  • Slimline & lightweight
  • Relatively affordable
Cons
  • Keyboard could be better

2025 sees the introduction of a new laptop from the good people at HP: The Omen 16 MAX. The chassis, primarily made of aluminum, is similar to that of the standard HP Omen but now comes with a thin lightbar that runs horizontally below the trackpad. You can opt for either an OLED or (less expensive) IPS panel, capable of a 240Hz maximum refresh rate. It’s another Intel-only laptop that can be equipped with up to the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, along with Nvidia 50-series GPU options that include the RTX 5080, 5090, and lower SKU graphics cards.

This is all kept cool in part by the new thermal system the company has developed alongside Intel called ‘Fan Cleaner’ which, as you might have guessed, reduces the build-up of dust on the blades by automatically reversing the fan rotation after four hours of use (though you can customize the interval). We’ll have to see how effective this actually is when the first reviews come out. What we do know to be effective however is the vapor chamber cooling that is also incorporated, alongside a new ‘cryo compound’ cooler that apparently works like liquid metal cooling but with less risk of leaks. The port selection isn’t much to shout about, with two USB-C and two USB-A ports, a 3.5mm audio combo jack, 2.5 Gbps ethernet socket, and HDMI 2.1 socket – and that’s it. The keyboard is apparently the same, slightly squishy RGB surround board that was found in the HP Omen Transcend of 2024, which doesn’t look that great in our opinion, but performs respectably.

RTX 5080 laptop vs 4080 laptop: specs & performance

As we were hoping from this new generation, the RTX 5080 laptop variant sees an increase in VRAM from 12GB to 16GB (33% more), with it also having the latest GDDR7 rather than the GDDR6 of last year’s models. The CUDA core increase is disappointingly modest however: with only 3% more than the RTX 4080 laptop GPU had (7,680 from 7,424). Based entirely on these specs, you’d expect the RTX 5080 to perform better at 4K resolution than its predecessor thanks to the increase in VRAM, though at lower resolutions where VRAM matters less the uplift might not be so impressive.

From what we know about performance, ahead of independent third party testing, there’s been some controversy with how Nvidia have presented the figures. Basically Nvidia originally claimed massive uplift in their CES keynote, but this includes the benefits generated by the new DLSS 4 (not applicable to every game) rather than raw, hardware driven performance (we’ll talk more about DLSS 4 below). More recently Nvidia has revealed that with DLSS disabled, the performance uplift of the desktop RTX 5080 is more like c.15%, with the other cards in the range managing between c.20-25%. We haven’t yet seen anything pertaining to the raw performance of the laptop GPU, but given the small CUDA core uplift, 15% might be the best we can hope for.

Nvidia 50-series performance-enhancing tech

Whether you be running a desktop or laptop Nvidia 50-series setup, you’ll have access to the following technological advancements.

DLSS 4 & Multi-Frame Generation

The fourth generation of Nvidia’s pioneering Deep Learning Super Sampling technology is set to boost performance even more than the preceding DLSS did with its Frame Generation tech. Although uplift changes significantly from game to game, if DLSS 2 tech roughly doubled FPS performance on average compared to just raw rendering performance, and DLSS 3 with Frame generation roughly tripled the performance, DLSS 4 with Multi-Frame Generation looks set to quadruple it. DLSS has been a truly game-changing technology for PC gamers, however not everyone is a fan of enabling it, due to the slight artefacting it cat sometimes cause, plus lag in fast-paced twitch shooters, hence the controversy over Nvidia focusing on DLSS-driven performance over actual hardware-driven FPS uplift.

Source: Nvidia

Reflex 2 & Frame Warp

The first generation of Nvidia Reflex technology was an impressive way to reduce lag in those games that supported it – basically developers that worked this tech into their game’s development process could allow you enable it to better synchronize the CPY and GPU rendering, resulting in snappier gameplay, particularly noticeable in fast-paced shooters. Reflex 2 seeks to expand further upon this with the introduction of Frame Warp technology. You can see Frame Warp in action in the below video.

When will you be able to buy RTX 5080 laptops?

As you can see in the below image, Nvidia stated that laptops equipped with GeForce RTX 5080 GPUs would start hitting the shelves in March, 2025. We’ve no seen this to be confirmed with the first MSI 50-series laptops releasing on the 31st March – right at the end of the month. Most of the other models from other brands however seem to be landing at some point in April.

Source: Nvidia

How much do RTX 5080 laptops cost?

Nvidia revealed in their presentation at CES 2025 that RTX 5080 laptops will cost at least $2,199. The cheapest we’ve seen listed so far is $2,499, and that’s the Dream Machines RT5080. The most expensive we’ve seen so far is the MSI Titan 18 HX AI, which can retail for $4,999 – now that’s a lot of money!

About the Author

Aaron Ritchie

Aaron's laptop knowledge makes him the go-to guy on PC Guide. But he still finds time for features, deals and much more.