As a developer working with Unreal Engine XR, finding the best laptop for your needs can be a daunting task. With the rapid advancement of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technology, you need a device that can handle the demands of these immersive experiences. In this guide, we will help you identify the essential features and requirements for a laptop that can support your work in this evolving field.
Our process for selecting the best laptop for Unreal Engine XR development involves reviewing an extensive spreadsheet of recent laptop releases, comparing specs, and analyzing both professional and user-generated reviews. We narrow down the top laptops based on topic-specific requirements and various price ranges, ensuring that you can find a device that meets your needs and budget. As someone who has dabbled in Unreal Engine XR development and observed the growing community of developers, I understand the importance of having a reliable and powerful laptop to bring your projects to life.
When working with Unreal Engine XR, you need a device with a powerful CPU, ample RAM, and a dedicated GPU to ensure smooth performance while running demanding applications like VR and AR simulations. Additionally, a high-quality display and comfortable keyboard are crucial for long hours of work. We will help you find the best laptop for Unreal Engine XR development, keeping in mind these requirements and other factors like portability and battery life, so you can focus on creating immersive experiences that push the boundaries of interactive entertainment.
Processor Power
laptops
The CPU market has been changing rapidly with Apple's own ARM-based M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max, and M2 system-on-chip modules offering exceptional single-core performance and battery life, while AMD has managed to take 20% of the CPU market with its 6th generation Ryzen processors, and we're still waiting for Intel's 13th-gen processors to reach laptops, where 12th generation is Intel's latest. Both Intel's and Apple's silicon chips adopted hybrid performance/efficiency core design (based on big.LITTLE). Ryzen models are best if you need a good battery life in a PC laptop.
Unreal Engine is available on Windows and macOS, so I'll include MacBooks in my recommendations; a PC laptop will do just fine if you're looking for a more affordable option. If you're looking for a gaming laptop – it's best to prioritize single-core performance since most games rely on it; however, you'll need at least 4 cores to avoid performance bottlenecks.
Clock speed is no longer the best indicator of how well an application will perform; instead, we should look at the CPU benchmarks such as PassMark or Cinebench R23 (or later). If you're looking for a budget option – don't expect high performance; instead, focus on getting the best price-to-performance ratio.
Here is a table of recommended processors and their average price tags:
| Processor | Average Price |
|---|---|
| i3-1115G4 | ~$400 |
| i5-10310U | ~$500 |
| i7-1180G7 | ~$1000 |
Powerful Graphics
With the latest iteration of Unreal Engine XR, game developers have more options than ever for creating immersive virtual worlds. From the Oculus Quest and Rift S to the HTC Vive and Windows Mixed Reality headsets, there are now countless possibilities when it comes to developing VR apps. But choosing the right graphics card for VR development isn't always easy.
Nvidia continues to dominate the laptop GPU market, with its RTX 30 series being the latest offerings. However, it's worth noting that Nvidia's new RTX 40 series cards are not yet available on laptops. They are expected to arrive in 2023, so keep an eye out. Additionally, due to desktop GPUs becoming more power-hungry in the past few years, the gap between power-limited notebook graphics and desktop graphics cards has widened. Lastly, Nvidia has also discontinued the Max-Q label for its RTX graphics cards, leaving it up to laptop manufacturers (OEMs) to determine the exact GPU wattage in their laptops. This means that there is a wide variance in graphics performance even in laptops with the same GPU chipset.
If you're looking for a MacBook, you can ignore this section since Apple has not yet released a laptop with an AMD graphics card that supports the latest APIs, thus you have to rely on integrated graphics. When it comes to VR development, the GPU is critical since it's used for both rendering and general-purpose computing (e.g. ray tracing). So, if you're looking for a high-end GPU, you'll need to buy a higher-end laptop such as a Razer Blade Pro; these laptops have better cooling systems and are more power efficient as they can deliver more power without overheating as quickly as lower-end laptops.
To compare GPUs across different vendors and generations, many rely on 3DMark, though this isn't ideal as it doesn't take into account the effect of CPU frequency scaling on performance. Instead, it's best to use real-world benchmarks such as those found in video review sites such as Unbox Therapy or Linus Tech Tips.
Now, if you're looking for a gaming laptop – don't expect it to be cheap; if your budget is limited – look for a mid-range gaming laptop with a Nvidia GTX 1650/AMD RX 560X. These will provide good performance at a reasonable price point while still being upgradeable to a faster graphics card down the line if your needs change.
Below is a list of recommended GPUs for VR development with Unreal Engine XR based on performance and battery life:
- Minimum: GeForce GTX 1650
- Recommended: GeForce RTX 3050
- High-end: GeForce RTX 2060
Optimal RAM.
Laptop RAM can make or break your development workflow with Unreal Engine XR, so it’s important to get the right configuration. Fortunately, in the past few years, the RAM market has seen a tremendous amount of development and improvements that have brought more options to the table at different price points.
Most mid-range laptops come with 16 GB of RAM and high-end models often have 32 GB or more. Both Intel and AMD CPUs support DDR4 and DDR5 RAM, with DDR5 still being quite expensive and not yet mature as a technology.
For game development with Unreal Engine XR, it’s not particularly demanding, but it’s still a good idea to get as much RAM as you can afford. The minimum you should go for is 16 GB, and 32 GB would be ideal for most projects. When shopping for RAM, pay attention to its frequency and latency. While DDR5 is faster than DDR4, the difference in performance will be negligible when choosing between two laptops with the same amount of RAM – for example, 4 GB of DDR4 vs. DDR5.
Also consider the upgradability of the laptop you’re looking at; some laptops have easy access to RAM slots while others require disassembly of nearly the entire machine to upgrade the memory module.
Here are our recommended RAM configurations for various budgets:
| Budget | Recommended RAM |
|---|---|
| Low | 8 GB |
| Mid-range | 16 GB |
| High-end | 32 GB |
If your budget allows, go for ECC memory, as this type of memory is less prone to errors and will improve stability and performance.
XR Laptop FAQs
Q: What laptop is best for Unreal Engine XR development?
The best laptop for Unreal Engine XR development will depend on your specific needs and budget. However, some popular options in 2023 include the Acer Predator Helios 16 Ph16-71 Ph16-71-71av, HP Victus, Dell G15, ASUS TUF F15 FX507ZM-ES74, ASUS ROG Strix G15 G513RM, Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16, and Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16. These laptops offer a balance of power, graphics capabilities, and price that make them suitable for Unreal Engine XR development.
What are the recommended laptop specs for Unreal Engine XR development?
The recommended laptop specs for Unreal Engine XR development include a processor with at least an i5-10310U, 16 GB of memory, and a graphics card such as the GeForce RTX 3050 or higher. These specifications will ensure smooth performance and the ability to handle the demands of developing XR experiences in Unreal Engine.
Can I develop with Unreal Engine XR on a laptop?
Absolutely! Unreal Engine XR development is possible on a laptop, especially with the advancements in hardware technology. Laptops now offer powerful processors, ample memory, and dedicated graphics cards that can handle the demands of developing XR experiences. However, it's essential to choose a laptop with the recommended specs to ensure optimal performance.
Which graphics card is best for Unreal Engine XR development?
For Unreal Engine XR development, it is recommended to have a graphics card with at least a GeForce RTX 3050 or higher. These graphics cards offer the necessary power and capabilities to handle the demanding graphical requirements of XR development. The GeForce RTX 3050 provides a balance between price and performance, making it an excellent choice for developers on a budget.
How much RAM is needed for Unreal Engine XR development on a laptop?
The recommended amount of RAM for Unreal Engine XR development on a laptop is 16 GB. This amount of memory will provide enough room for the operating system, the Unreal Engine editor, and your project files. With 16 GB of RAM, you will be able to work on your XR development tasks smoothly without experiencing significant performance bottlenecks.
Is a gaming laptop suitable for Unreal Engine XR development?
Yes, a gaming laptop can be suitable for Unreal Engine XR development. Gaming laptops are designed to handle demanding graphics and processing tasks, which aligns well with the requirements of XR development. Many gaming laptops also come with dedicated graphics cards, ample memory, and high-performance processors, making them well-suited for developing XR experiences in Unreal Engine.
Are there specific laptop requirements for Unreal Engine XR development?
Yes, there are specific laptop requirements for Unreal Engine XR development. The recommended specifications include a processor with at least an i5-10310U, 16 GB of RAM, and a graphics card such as the GeForce RTX 3050 or higher. These requirements ensure that your laptop can handle the demands of developing XR experiences in Unreal Engine efficiently.
Can I use a MacBook for Unreal Engine XR development?
While MacBook laptops are known for their sleek design and user-friendly interface, they may not be the best choice for Unreal Engine XR development. Unreal Engine is primarily optimized for Windows systems, and some features and functionality may be limited on macOS. Additionally, the hardware specifications of MacBooks may not meet the recommended requirements for efficient XR development. It is recommended to use a Windows-based laptop with the specified requirements for optimal performance.
What CPU is recommended for Unreal Engine XR development on a laptop?
The recommended CPU for Unreal Engine XR development on a laptop is at least an i5-10310U. However, if you have a higher budget and require more processing power, an i7-1180G7 or higher would be even better. The CPU plays a crucial role in handling the calculations and processing required for XR development, so having a capable processor will contribute to a smoother development experience.
What storage capacity is recommended for Unreal Engine XR development on a laptop?
The recommended storage capacity for Unreal Engine XR development on a laptop depends on the size of your project and the amount of additional data you plan to store. However, it is generally recommended to have at least 500 GB of storage. This will provide enough space for the Unreal Engine editor, your project files, and other necessary software. If you anticipate working on larger projects or storing a significant amount of media, opting for a 1 TB or higher storage capacity would be beneficial.
7 Best Laptops for Development with Unreal Engine XR
$6801.acer Nitro 5
Development with Unreal Engine XR laptop- Superb processor (Ryzen 7 6800H)
- Excellent graphics card (RTX 3070 Ti)
- Great display (15.6)
- One of most affordable laptops with an AMD Ryzen 7 processor
- Run-of-the-mill memory amount (32GB)
- No IPS Panel (worse viewing angles)
Alternatives
HP Victus 15t
- Low price
- Variety of CPU options
- Weak GPU yields unsatisfactory frame rates
- Screen only so-so despite 144Hz refresh rate
2.HP Victus
HP Victus: A Powerful Gaming Laptop for Unreal Engine XR Development- Delivers smooth gameplay at 1080p.
- Fast SSD.
- User-replaceable memory and storage.
- Good port selection.
- No variable refresh rate to reduce screen tearing.
- Some performance loss on CPU under load.
Summary
The HP Victus 15 is a powerful gaming laptop that offers smooth gameplay at 1080p and a fast SSD. It's equipped with Intel 12th Gen. CPUs and NVIDIA discrete graphics, making it a great choice for development with Unreal Engine XR. However, it lacks variable refresh rate and may experience some performance loss on the CPU under heavy load.
Reviews
Alternatives
Acer Nitro 5
- Low price
- Steady mainstream gaming performance with 12th Gen CPU and GeForce RTX 3050 Ti
- Core i5 CPU and 512GB of storage are somewhat limited for gaming
- Middling build quality
3.ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53
ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53: Powerful budget laptop for gaming, but lacks in webcam and speakers.- Superb 1080p gaming performance
- Strong productivity capabilities
- Great price
- Poor webcam, touchpad, and speakers
- Some games appear washed out on display
Summary
The ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53 is a budget-friendly gaming laptop that delivers excellent performance for gaming and productivity tasks. However, its webcam and speakers leave much to be desired.
Alternatives
ASUS TUF Dash F15
- Lightweight and well-built
- Good variety of screen options
- Quirks affecting everyday ergonomics
- Most ports squeezed together on the left edge
4.Lenovo Legion 5i Pro 16
Lenovo Legion 5i Pro 16: A Powerful and Stylish Laptop for Unreal Engine XR Development.- Stylish and sleek form factor
- Gorgeous display
- Strong performance
- Quiet fans
- Webcam quality is poor
- No biometrics for added security
- SSD is slightly slower than competition
Summary
The Lenovo Legion 5i Pro 16 is a stylish and powerful laptop that offers great performance and plenty of ports for Unreal Engine XR development. With its sleek form factor, gorgeous display, and quiet fans, it provides a refined aesthetic and a comfortable user experience. However, the webcam quality is disappointing, and there are no biometrics for added security. Additionally, the SSD is slightly slower compared to its competition.
Reviews
Alternatives
$1,430MSI Cyborg 15
- Able to play at the highest 1080p settings
- Peppy processor for the money
- Display is dim and disappointing
- Sharp chassis edge can dig into wrists during typing
5.ASUS ROG Strix G15
Unleash your development potential with the high-performance ASUS ROG Strix G15.- High-performance CPU and GPU
- Good workmanship and design
- Good display
- Stable construction
- Skimpy connectivity
- Coil whine in certain situations
Summary
The ASUS ROG Strix G15 is a powerful gaming laptop equipped with an RTX 3000 GPU and a Ryzen 5000 CPU, making it an excellent choice for development with Unreal Engine XR. With its high-performance components, good workmanship, and user-friendly maintenance, it offers a great development experience. However, it has skimpy connectivity and may experience coil whine in certain situations.
Reviews
Alternatives
$1,800HP Envy 16
- Plenty of CPU and GPU power
- New 120Hz screen refresh rate
- Merely adequate base screen
- Optional OLED has fewer pixels than before
6.Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16: A powerful and affordable gaming laptop with a sleek design, impressive performance, and a few minor drawbacks.- Strong overall performance
- Display is big, bright and fast
- Per-key RGB lighting
- Some flex to keyboard deck
- Poor battery life
Summary
The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16 is a gaming laptop that offers strong overall performance and a big, bright, and fast display. It features a sleek design with per-key RGB lighting, but has some flex to the keyboard deck and poor battery life.
Alternatives
HP Omen
- Slim and portable build for a 16-inch laptop
- Midrange gaming performance at a reasonable price
- All-AMD configuration outpaced by Intel- and Nvidia-based competitors
- Unimpressive 144Hz refresh rate and full HD resolution
7.HP Omen 17
Powerful gaming laptop with great display and expandable memory, but falls short in performance and battery life.- QHD display with 165 Hz
- Expandable working memory
- Individual key illumination
- Thunderbolt 4 with Power Delivery
- Slightly below-average performance for a RTX 4080
- High noise level
- Clattery case
- Meager battery life
Summary
The HP Omen 17 is a high-end gaming laptop with a QHD display and powerful hardware, making it suitable for video processing, rendering, and gaming. It offers expandable memory, individual key illumination, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, but it falls short in terms of performance for its RTX 4080 and has a high noise level and meager battery life.
Reviews
Alternatives
HP Omen
- QHD display with 165 Hz
- Expandable working memory
- Slightly below-average performance for a RTX 4080
- High noise level
Table of the Best Laptops for Development with Unreal Engine XR
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
| acer Nitro 5 | $680 |
| HP Victus | $939 |
| ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53 | $1,100 |
| Lenovo Legion 5i Pro 16 | $1,300 |
| ASUS ROG Strix G15 | $1,750 |
| Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16 | $3,390 |
| HP Omen 17 | $4,290 |
