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
1.HP Victus 15
HP Victus 15: Affordable gaming laptop with trade-offs.- Strong entry-level gaming performance
- Solid productivity capabilities
- Affordable for a gaming laptop
- Subpar display and webcam quality
- Excessive pre-installed software
- Review unit has single-channel RAM configuration
Summary
The HP Victus 15 provides a budget-friendly option for gaming, with strong entry-level performance and solid productivity capabilities. However, compromises are made in areas such as display quality, webcam performance, and pre-installed software.
Alternatives
HP Victus
- First-class processor (i5-12450H)
- Backlit keyboard
- Run-of-the-mill graphics card (GTX 1650)
- Average memory amount (32GB)
2.HP Victus
HP Victus delivers smooth gaming performance, but falls short on display quality and screen tearing reduction.- Delivers smooth gameplay at 1080p.
- Fast SSD.
- User-replaceable memory and storage.
- Good port selection.
- No variable refresh rate (VRR) to reduce screen tearing.
- Slow response time on the display.
Summary
The HP Victus laptop is a great choice for gamers, with powerful hardware that can handle demanding AAA titles at 1080p. It also has a fast SSD and good connectivity options. However, its display suffers from slow response times and lacks support for variable refresh rate, which may result in noticeable ghosting and screen tearing.
Reviews
Alternatives
HP Victus
- Delivers smooth gameplay at 1080p.
- Fast SSD.
- No variable refresh rate to reduce screen tearing.
- Slow response time on the display.
3.ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53
Powerful budget laptop for gaming with some drawbacks.- Superb 1080p gaming performance
- Strong productivity capabilities
- Great price point
- Poor webcam, touchpad, and speaker quality
- Some games may appear washed out on the display
Summary
The Asus TUF Gaming F15 is a budget-friendly laptop that excels in 1080p gaming and productivity tasks. However, it falls short in terms of webcam and speaker quality, and some games may appear washed out on the display.
Alternatives
ASUS TUF Dash F15
- Lightweight and well-built
- Good battery life and USB-C charging support
- Quirks affecting everyday ergonomics
- Ports squeezed together on the left edge
4.Lenovo Legion 5i Pro 16
Lenovo Legion 5i Pro 16: A powerful and stylish gaming laptop with impressive performance and plenty of ports.- Stylish, sleek form factor
- Gorgeous display
- Strong performance
- Quiet fans
- Webcam quality is poor
- No biometrics
- SSD is slightly slower than competition
Summary
The Lenovo Legion 5i Pro 16 is a sleek and stylish gaming laptop that offers strong performance and a beautiful display. It features a plethora of ports and quiet fans, but its webcam quality is lacking and it lacks biometric features. The SSD is also slightly slower compared to its competitors.
Reviews
Alternatives
HP Omen 17
- Competent processor (i9-12900HX)
- Splendid graphics card (RTX 3080 Ti)
- Middle-of-the-road memory amount (32GB)
- Weighty (6.16 lbs)
5.Dell G16
Dell G16: A solid gaming laptop with a stunning display, easy upgradability, and good cooling, but falls short in power efficiency and lacks Thunderbolt 4 connectivity.- Relatively affordable
- Stunning IPS panel with high refresh rate and accurate colors
- Easy accessibility for RAM and SSD upgrades
- Good cooling system
- Heavier and thicker than competitors
- Lacks Thunderbolt 4 on basic configurations
- No SD card reader
- Very short battery life
Summary
The Dell G16 7630 is a worthy consideration in the gaming laptop market, thanks to its impressive IPS panel with high refresh rate and accurate colors, along with its robust cooling system and easy accessibility for future upgrades. However, it is heavier and thicker than its competitors, lacks Thunderbolt 4 on basic configurations, and has a very short battery life.
Reviews
Alternatives
ASUS ROG Strix G15
- High CPU and GPU performance
- Good workmanship and design
- Skimpy connectivity
- Occasional coil whine in certain situations
6.Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16: A powerful laptop for Unreal Engine XR development.- Strong overall performance
- Big, bright, and fast display
- Per-key RGB lighting
- Some flex to keyboard deck
- Poor battery life
Summary
The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16 is a mid-priced powerhouse, equipped with a 13th-gen Core i9 CPU and RTX 4090 graphics. It offers strong overall performance, a big and vibrant display, and per-key RGB lighting, making it a great choice for Unreal Engine XR development.
Alternatives
HP Omen 17
- QHD display with 165 Hz
- Advanced Optimus technology
- High noise level
- Clattery case
7.HP Omen 17
HP Omen 17: High-end gaming laptop with powerful performance and impressive display, but suffers from high noise level and short battery life.- QHD display with 165 Hz
- Advanced Optimus
- Expandable working memory
- PCIe-4 SSD (space for a second SSD)
Summary
The HP Omen 17 is a high-end gaming laptop with a powerful Core i9-13900HX and GeForce RTX 4090, making it suitable for video processing, rendering, and QHD gaming. It features a QHD display with 165 Hz, expandable working memory, and Thunderbolt 4 with Power Delivery. However, it falls slightly below average in terms of performance for a RTX 4080, has a high noise level, clattery case, and meager battery life.
Reviews
Alternatives
HP Omen
- QHD display with 165 Hz
- Advanced Optimus technology
- Slightly below-average performance for a RTX 4080
Table of the Best Laptops for Development with Unreal Engine XR
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
| HP Victus 15 | $710 |
| HP Victus | $939 |
| ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53 | $1,100 |
| Lenovo Legion 5i Pro 16 | $1,300 |
| Dell G16 | $1,510 |
| Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16 | $3,390 |
| HP Omen 17 | $4,290 |
