Hey folks,
I’m searching for a gaming laptop for my partner, and since we’re based in the UK, I know some models might be harder to find. She’s not a hardcore gamer—mostly just enjoys some casual co-op games on her Steam Deck like It Takes Two, Divinity: Original Sin 2, and Guacamelee. The most demanding game she plays is Hogwarts Legacy, which doesn’t really run well on the Steam Deck.
I’m hoping to get some guidance on what CPU, GPU, and RAM setup would ensure the laptop lasts a solid 5 years without needing frequent upgrades. Are there any specific brands you trust or would recommend avoiding? Ideally, I’m looking for something under £500.
Thanks in advance! :)
3 Answers
Honestly, you’re not going to find something that runs Hogwarts Legacy well for under £500. You might want to budget closer to £800 for a decent setup. Even looking at second-hand options might not get you below that if you want something that can keep up.
If you’re looking for durability and good performance, focus on build quality first. Look for a laptop with a solid GPU, and consider getting something with at least an i7 processor for better longevity in gaming performance.
I’ve got a Lenovo Legion laptop that’s been great for gaming. I got the Pro 7i with a 4090, which is overkill for casual games, but I wanted something that’ll last. A lot of folks in the UK recommend Legion laptops for their reliability, though they can get pricey—currently, the cheapest I found is around £1,120. If you can stretch your budget a little, it might be worth considering!
