Choosing the right graphics card for Minecraft
Minecraft is a game that you can play on any graphic card, even integrated graphics. These cards will give you 30-60 FPS on the lowest settings. However, you can get a higher FPS with a better graphics card, which also lets you enjoy better visuals and more features. If you're wondering what graphic card to buy for Minecraft, I have three recommendations: Integrated graphics, GTX 1650, and GTX 1660 Ti.
Integrated graphics
The easiest option for playing Minecraft is to use your computer's integrated graphics. Most modern laptops come with integrated graphics these days, so it shouldn't be hard to find a computer that has them. The problem is that they're only going to give you 30-60 FPS on the lowest settings in Minecraft. They're fine if all you want to do is play around and explore, but if you want a decent framerate then I would recommend upgrading to a different graphic card.
GTX 1650
If you don't mind spending about $700-1000 on a new laptop for gaming, then I would recommend getting the Nvidia GTX 1650. The GPU in these laptops should be enough to get up to 60 FPS on the lowest settings in Minecraft while still having enough power left over for games like Fortnite or PUBG if needed.
GTX 1660 Ti
For those who are willing to spend around $1000-1500 for a new laptop that can run Minecraft at high framerates, I would recommend getting the Nvidia GTX 1660 Ti or something equivalent like the AMD Radeon RX 570 or the Nvidia RTX 2060 6GB. These laptops should be able to run Minecraft at 60+ FPS at high settings without too much trouble while still being able to play other games as well without any problems whatsoever.
- Minecraft is playable on almost any computer
- if you want to play Minecraft at medium settings, get an Intel integrated graphics or a laptop with GTX 1650
- if you want to play Minecraft at high settings, get a laptop with GTX 1650 Ti or equivalent graphics card
Memory for Minecraft
The best RAM for playing Minecraft is determined by the amount of RAM. A minimum of 8GB will do the trick, but I would recommend 16GB or more if you can afford it.
Minimum (8 GB)
8GB will be enough for most people. If you plan on installing a bunch of mods and texture packs, you might need to upgrade to 16GB, but it's unlikely.
Recommended (16 GB)
If you're looking for the best experience possible, then 16GB is your number. You'll be able to use all of the available textures and mods with ease, plus it'll leave room for expansion as well. If you're not too picky about framerate – like me – then 16GB is perfect.
Best (32 GB)
32GB is overkill for Minecraft, but if you want the best of the best – this is what you need. You'll be able to install all of the textures and mods without worry of space limitations. This means that your game will run smoothly and look amazing.
get 8GB RAM if you're on a budget, 16GB if you want to play at high settings, 32GB if you want the best experience possible
The right display
IPS or TN?
For playing Minecraft, TN displays are perfectly acceptable. They are less expensive and generally provide better contrast. But IPS displays are also affordable these days – they provide much better viewing angles and color accuracy. For both FHD and 4K screens – I would recommend an IPS display over a TN one.
Refresh rate
You don't need high refresh rates for Minecraft unless you're trying to play at high resolutions with very high framerates. If you're not looking for that – there's no need to spend extra money on a fast-refresh rate display.
- if you're playing Minecraft, get an IPS display over a TN one for FHD and 4K screens
- TN displays are fine for lower resolutions and framerates, but get an IPS display for high resolutions
FAQ
What laptop can run Minecraft?
Any laptop should be able to run Minecraft without any issues, as long as it meets the system requirements.
How to choose the best laptop for Minecraft?
The best laptop for Minecraft depends on your budget, your gaming experience, and the type of gaming you plan on doing. For basic playing, any laptop with an integrated graphics card, 8GB RAM, and a FHD display should work fine. For a higher-end gaming experience, you should look for a laptop with at least a GTX 1650 graphics card, 16GB RAM, and an IPS display with a high refresh rate.
Which laptop is best for playing Minecraft?
The GIGABYTE AORUS 15 XE4 is one of the best laptops for playing Minecraft, as it meets all of the recommended specifications, including a GTX 1660 Ti graphics card, 32GB RAM, and an FHD IPS display with a high refresh rate.
What specs do I need for Minecraft?
The minimum system requirements for running Minecraft are Windows 10, an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, an integrated graphics card, and a FHD display. However, for the best gaming experience, you should look for a laptop with a GTX 1650 graphics card, 16GB RAM, and an IPS display with a high refresh rate.
Can Minecraft run on a laptop?
Yes, as long as the laptop meets the system requirements.
Do I need a gaming laptop for Minecraft?
It depends on your gaming experience and the type of gaming you plan on doing. If you're looking for a more immersive gaming experience, then yes, you should look for a gaming laptop.
What laptops are best for playing Minecraft?
The GIGABYTE AORUS 15 XE4 is one of the best laptops for playing Minecraft, as it meets all of the recommended specifications, including a GTX 1660 Ti graphics card, 32GB RAM, and an FHD IPS display with a high refresh rate.
Does my laptop have enough RAM for Minecraft?
The minimum RAM requirement for Minecraft is 8GB. If your laptop has less than 8GB of RAM, then it won't be able to run Minecraft.
What kind of graphics card do I need for Minecraft?
The minimum graphics requirement for running Minecraft is an integrated graphics card. However, for the best gaming experience, you should look for a laptop with at least a GTX 1650 graphics card.
How to set up a laptop for Minecraft?
The setup process for Minecraft on a laptop is fairly simple. First, make sure that your laptop meets the system requirements for running Minecraft. Then download the game from the official website and follow the installation instructions. Once you have installed the game, you will be ready to start playing!
6 Best Laptops for Minecraft
ASUS Zenbook
Pros and cons
- Compact and lightweight design
- Bright display with good colors
- Soldered RAM, no expandability
- Runs hot on Performance profile
Alternatives
HP Victus 15 I
- Affordable price tag
- Intuitive keyboard and touchpad
- Mediocre display quality
- Average webcam quality
Dell G15
Pros and cons
- High performance 120 Hz display
- Plenty of storage space for your worlds
- Low contrast display
- No Thunderbolt port or storage card reader
Alternatives
Dell G15
- Robust CPU and GPU for seamless gaming.
- Bright QHD display option.
- Bulky and heavy.
- Short battery life.
ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14
Pros and cons
- Superb 120 Hz QHD display with vibrant colors
- Sleek and lightweight design
- Lower than average VRAM
- Variable performance with power mode
Alternatives
Lenovo Legion 5 Pro
- Robust and durable build quality
- Superior performance for gaming and other intensive tasks
- Bulky design and weight
- Loud fans and high temperatures when gaming
GIGABYTE AORUS 15 XE4
Pros and cons
- Highly Responsive 165Hz Display
- Lots of Connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 USB-A
- High Power Usage at Idle
- No Card Reader
Alternatives
ASUS ROG Strix G15
- High-Powered Processor and Graphics for smooth gaming.
- Robust Build Quality for long-lasting performance.
- Limited Connectivity options.
- Occasional Coil Whine in certain situations.
ASUS ROG Strix Scar
Pros and cons
- Sturdy build for durability
- Fast Wi-Fi for efficient connections
- Limited screen flexibility
- Heavier weight than expected
Alternatives
ASUS ROG Strix Scar G733CX-XS97
- Outstanding QHD panel with 240Hz
- TB4 and Wi-Fi 6E Connectivity
- No built-in webcam
- Occasional electronic noises
GIGABYTE AERO 16 YE5
Pros and cons
- High-contrast 4K OLED display for stunning visuals
- Thunderbolt 4 for expandability
- Hot and loud under load
- Glossy display attracts glare
Table of the Best Laptops for Minecraft
Laptop | Price (approx) |
ASUS Zenbook | $640 |
Dell G15 | $1090 |
ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 | $1320 |
GIGABYTE AORUS 15 XE4 | $1600 |
ASUS ROG Strix Scar | $2310 |
GIGABYTE AERO 16 YE5 | $2800 |