Why do you even need a 17-inch laptop? If you do not have an answer to this question, this discussion might not make a lot of sense to you. But, if you are aware of your needs, either as a professional gamer, engineering student, CAD professional, or a simpleton who simply wants to live with a behemoth, you must continue reading.
A 17-inch laptop isn’t a pushover. Instead, the amassing screen real estate is complemented by a bigger form factor, brighter display, and some additional processing meat. Not always though! Regardless of the features, you can get for a given price point, a 17-inch notebook is generally perfect for streaming, productivity work, academic indulgences, video editing, provided the hardware permits, large-scale accounting, and a lot more.
If it were to me, I would want my 17-inch behemoth to have at least 16 gigs of RAM, 4K resolution, RTX 20-series GPU, i7 processor, and so on and so forth. However, even a configuration like this will push the laptop right into the premium segment.
Best 17-Inch Laptop: Our Top Pick
If you do not wish to go through each review, I would suggest the Dell XPS 17 9710 as the top 17-inch laptop on the list. Loaded with a powerful H-series, 11th gen processor, latest RTX 30-series GPU, acceptable storage, and a decent chunk of RAM, the XPS 17 cannot get any better for the given price point.
Should sleekness for 17-inch laptops matter, the Dell XPS 17 is one of the more aesthetic versions on display.
 | BEST OVERALLDell XPS 17 | 4K, i7, RTX 3050, 16GBRAM & 512GB7 Hours battery & Touchscreen | CHECK PRICE → |
 | BEST FOR PREMIUM GAMINGMSI GS76 Stealth | 1080p, i9, 32GB RAM. RTX 3080 graphic, 2TB4 Hours batteryBest performance | CHECK PRICE → |
 | BEST PORTABLE LAPTOPLG Gram 17 | WQXGA, i7 processor,16GB RAM 1TB19.5 HoursLightest laptop | CHECK PRICE → |
 | BEST VALUEAsus TUF Gaming F17 | FHD, i7, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, RTX 3050i8 Hours batteryExceptional gaming power | CHECK PRICE → |
 | BEST WITH A QHD SCREENAsus ROG Zephyrus S17 | QHD, i7, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, RTX 30606 Hours batteryG-SYNC | CHECK PRICE → |
 | BEST COOLINGAlienware m17 R4 | FHD, i7, 16GB RAM, RTX 3060, 1TB SSD7 Hours batteryBest cooling power | CHECK PRICE → |
 | Gigabyte AERO 17 | FHD, i7, 16GB RAM, RTX 3060, 1TB SSD9 Hours batteryAI power for machine learning prototyping | CHECK PRICE → |
 | BEST FOR GAMERSRazer Blade Pro 17 | FHD, i7, 16GB RAM, RTX 3060, 512GB SSD6.5 HoursThunderbolt 3 | CHECK PRICE → |
 | BEST WITH AMDAcer Nitro 5 | FHD, Ryzen 5, 8GB RAM, GTX 1650, 512GB SSD9 Hours batteryCoolBoost technology | CHECK PRICE → |
 | BEST BUDGET LAPTOPAsus Vivobook S17 | FHD, AMD Ryzen 5, 8GB RAM 128GB + 1TB HDD10 HoursSizable Hard drive | CHECK PRICE → |
Affordability or the lack thereof is the biggest issue that you are ought to experience while shopping for a large notebook. You also might find it hard to correlate the features to your preferences and end up buying stuff out of impulse. For instance, if you are looking to identify the best 17-inch laptops for streaming, you might want to look for displays with smaller bezels.
However, bezels are something you hardly consider shopping for a notebook. This is the reason why this discussion is well-timed as I plan on taking up each unexplored aspect and associating it with laptop hunting.
Not just that, I will enumerate 10 of the best 17-inch laptops that money can buy, depending on their professional, personal, gaming, editing, streaming, and other relevant capabilities. Also, I would try and add some portable 17-inch laptops for the globetrotters but cannot promise anything as finding light and portable 17-inch notebook is probably the hardest thing to achieve.
Minimum Specifications List
Note: Regardless of where you purchase the laptop from, it is necessary to ensure that the notebook at least has the minimum set of features at its disposal. In fact, I have carefully selected laptops to review by keeping the minimum specification list as the evaluative base.
Best 17-inch Laptops in the Market: Top 10 Picks
I reviewed close to 30 laptops and evaluated each model across a wide range of parameters, including display, processing capabilities, storage speed and capacity, battery life, connectivity, and more.
Upon testing each model extensively for at least a week, I have finally come up with a list of top 10 17-inch laptop picks that have the brain and brawn, best suited for your varied requirements.
1. Dell XPS 17 9710
PROS
- 11th gen CPU
- Latest graphics support
- Sharp display
- Excellent sunlight visibility
- Smaller than expected chassis
CONS
- Not the best cooling setup
- Restricted refresh rate
- CPU- Intel i7-11800H
- RAM- 16GB
- Display- 17-inch 4K
- Graphics- RTX 3050
- Storage- 512GB SSD
- Battery Life- Up to 7 Hours
Review
The XPS 17 9710 appropriately takes the first stop on the list. The specs sheet, loaded with 11th gen chipset, RTX 30-series GPU, and more, is worth investing in but I was surprised by the sleek yet aesthetic form factor on display.
Design and Display
This metal-clad 17-inch laptop is made of aluminum and features a scratch-resistant chassis. Plus, it weighs a tad less than 5 pounds, making it one of the portable options on the list. The 17-inch screen features 4K paneling and nifty touchscreen support.
Internals
There is 16GB RAM for you to work with followed by 512GB of NVMe-compatible storage space. Most importantly, you get the best speeds for the given chunk of system memory, something that is expected to come in handy for 3D modelling, rendering, and more.
Productivity
The Octa-Core i7-11800H chipset is fast enough and can hold its own if you seek powerful gaming performances. Not to mention the discrete NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics with 4GB DDR6 VRAM for faster rendering and better gaming performance.
Other productivity-specific traits include the availability of Windows 10 Pro OS, Wireless AX, 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports, USB-C port, and a decent enough battery life that extends up to 7 hours.
1. Dell XPS 17 9710
2. MSI GS76 Stealth
PROS
- Ultrafast Intel Core i9 CPU
- Massive storage
- Latest mobile graphics
- Best VR gaming laptop
- State-of-art RAM allotment
CONS
- Overkill for most games
- Pricey
- CPU- Intel Core i9-11900H
- RAM- 32GB
- Display- 17.3-inch FHD
- Graphics- RTX 3080
- Storage- 2TB SSD
- Battery Life- Up to 4 Hours
Review
Considering the myriad preferences of professional gamers and workstation-fanatics, I choose to include the MSI GS76 Stealth on the list. While the premium specs sheet deserves multiple mentions, it is the massive storage support that comes forth as a standout feature.
Design and Display
The 5.4-pound MSI GS76 Stealth is rugged and durable. However, it is the efficient cooling setup and placement of vents that make it worth buying for diverse gaming-specific requirements. The 17-inch display with Full HD resolution is perfect for gaming, courtesy of the maximum refresh rate of 360Hz and overall response time of 3ms.
Internals
The dual-socketed, 32GB RAM module takes care of every professional task and game that you can find. Also, storing the files, programs, and apps is hardly an issue considering the availability of the 2TB solid-state drive.
Productivity
The 11th generation Intel Core i9 processor seems like overkill for even professional users but it is expected to make a difference as a future-proof computing resource. Also, you have the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 graphics that is capable of running games like Days Gone and Resident Evil Village at ultra 1080p settings, hitting 102fps and 170fps, respectively.
In addition to the mentioned specs, you also get access to 4-hour battery backup, powerful speakers, backlit keyboard, multiple USB ports, Wi-Fi AX standard, and even the Windows 10 Pro OS that comes with VR ready support, out of the box.
2. MSI GS76 Stealth
3. LG Gram 17
PROS
- 11th gen chipset
- Top-rated battery life
- Significant storage capacity
- Fast chunk of system memory
- Light and portable
CONS
- Not meant for professional gaming
- Not fit for 3D rendering and workstation-like processes
- CPU- Intel i7-1165G7
- RAM- 16GB
- Display- 17-inch WQXGA
- Graphics- Intel Xe
- Storage- 1TB SSD
- Battery Life- Up to 19.5 Hours
Review
As mentioned, finding a light and portable laptop that features a massive screen isn’t easy. However, the LG Gram 17 makes it possible by enclosing some of the best features within a light form factor.
Design and Display
The metal-clad, LG Gram 17 weighs less than 3 pounds and makes way for an alluring 17-inch screen. While the overall screen resolution stands at 2560 x 1600 pixels, it is the 99 percent wide color gamut that makes it one of the best resources for creative professionals.
Internals
The 16GB, low-power RAM module is fast and doesn’t dissipate a lot of heat. Also, the LG Gram 17 has the 1TB SSD at its disposal for storing most files, apps, and resources with ease.
Productivity
At the core, LG Gram 17 houses the 11th gen i7-1165G7 processor with exceptional graphics and support for the integrated Intel Xe GPU. Also, the excellent turbo clock speed assumed by this quad-core chipset allows you to handle most applications and professional tasks, easily enough.
Apart from the mentioned specs, you also get access to the HDMI port, Type-A slot, and Type-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 functionality. Also, this laptop promises close to 20 hours of battery backup, followed by Alexa compatibility.
3. LG Gram 17
4. Asus TUF Gaming F17
PROS
- Fast and dependable processor
- High-speed RAM
- Top-of-the-line GPU
- Excellent visual quality
- Military-grade construction
CONS
- Can get extremely hot at times
- One of the heavies gadgets on the list
- CPU- Intel i7-11800H
- RAM- 16GB
- Display- 17.3-inch FHD
- Graphics- RTX 3050Ti
- Storage- 512GB
- Battery Life- Up to 8 Hours
Review
The Asus TUF Gaming F17 is one of the more reasonably priced laptops on the list, especially if you are a gamer. As compared to the older variants, this 2021-model promises better gaming performance, courtesy of discrete graphics.
Design and Display
At 5.73 pounds, the Asus TUF Gaming F17 is quite a heavy laptop. However, the structural enhancements are in line with desktop-specific users, courtesy of the metal and plastic-clad chassis, durable backlit keyboard, and adroitly placed heat dissipating vents.
The sizable display is bright and color accurate. The resolution for the same is fixed at 1920×1080 pixels. Also, the screen exhibits a 144Hz rate for minimal tearing and stutters.
Internals
The 16GB RAM is capable of processing data, files, and cache particulars are 3200MHz. The ultrafast chunk of system memory is ably assisted by the 512GB solid-state drive that stores and retrieves files, at blinding speeds.
Productivity
The 11th gen Intel Core i7 processor comes equipped with 8 cores, making it good enough for 3D rendering, video editing, illustrations, machine learning prototyping, and more. Next, you get access to the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU that can handle most games like Resident Evil Village, Outrides, and more at ultra 1080p.
The graphics card is way more powerful than the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 that I previously identified on the older variant.
The Asus TUF Gaming F17 is also available with an AMD processor at the core. Plus, you get access to the entire connectivity gamut followed by 8 hours of steady battery backup.
4. Asus TUF Gaming F17
5. Asus ROG Zephyrus S17
PROS
- Innovative G-Sync technology for better graphics deployment
- Excellent thermal setup
- Durable backlit keyboard
- High-speed RAM
- Excellent visuals
CONS
- Heavy
- Not the fastest SSD module
- CPU- Intel Core i7-11800H
- RAM- 16GB
- Display- 17.3-inch QHD
- Graphics- RTX 3060
- Storage- 1TB SSD
- Battery Life- Up to 6 Hours
Review
The Asus ROG Zephyrus S17 doesn’t restrict you with a 4K resolution and 60Hz refresh and instead envisions a more gamer-friendly setup.
Design and Display
The new Asus ROG Zephyrus S17 weighs close to 6 pounds and features a metal-clad form factor with plastic undertones. What matters though is the 17.3-inch screen that assumes an overall resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels. The display is perfect for gaming as it allows you to manage visuals up to 165fps, without having to experience any sort of tearing.
Plus, you get access to the G-Sync technology that allows you to work with the integrated processor for low-end tasks whilst beckoning the discrete GPU, if and when needed.
Internals
Multitasking and gaming processes are skillfully managed by the 16GB RAM. However, it is the 1TB SSD that makes file storing, retrieving, and loading faster than usual, owing to the PCIe Gen 4 technology.
Productivity
The Intel i7-11800H SoC is fast and works in tandem with the RTX 3060 GPU, precisely for managing most 3D rendering, gaming, designing, and other demanding tasks with ease. Apart from the mentioned specs, the Asus ROG Zephyrus S17 also comes equipped with an intelligent cooling setup with a grizzly compound acting as the coolant.
Finally, you also get access to high-speed wireless and wired connectivity suite, an impactful webcam, and an overall battery backup of up to 6 hours.
5. Asus ROG Zephyrus S17
6. Alienware M17 R4
PROS
- High-speed processor
- Efficient graphics card
- Sizable storage capacity
- Stellar display
- Minimal heating
CONS
- Higher price
- Not the most durable build quality
- CPU- Intel Core i7-10870H
- RAM- 16GB
- Display- 17.3-inch FHD
- Graphics- RTX 3060
- Storage- 1TB SSD
- Battery Life- Up to 7 Hours
Review
Managing even the best 17-inch gaming laptop becomes tedious in absence of a reliable thermal cooling setup. This is where the Alienware m17 R4 comes into the mix, featuring the innovative Cryo-tech support with heat pipes, vapor chamber integration, and airflow design.
Design and Display
The Alienware m17 R4 doesn’t try to be portable as the metal-clad form factor weighs over 5.50 pounds. However, this laptop offers the best 17-inch display with 1920 x 1080 pixels to show for, more than makes up for this minor pothole.
Not to mention the 100 percent color gamut for advanced visuals followed by the innovative G-Sync technology that streamlines graphic usage, rather significantly.
Internals
Next in line is the 16GB RAM for efficient multitasking followed by the 1TB solid-state drive, which loads the games, files, and the Windows 10 OS in virtually no time.
Productivity
At the core, you have the 10th gen Intel Core i7 processor that can reach a maximum clock speed of up to 5.0GHz. Plus, you get access to the revolutionary RTX 3060 graphics card for better gaming performances. Also, this product makes way for Wi-Fi AX support followed by an improved keyboard.
6. Alienware M17 R4
7. Gigabyte AERO 17
PROS
- Gamer-friendly display
- Excellent connectivity suite
- Powerful Nahimic speakers
- Class-leading SoC
- High-end GPU
CONS
- Heavy
- Battery lasts for mere 4 hours on relentless usage
- CPU- Intel Core i7-10870H
- RAM- 16GB
- Display- 17.3-inch FHD
- Graphics- RTX 3060
- Storage- 1TB
- Battery Life- Up to 9 Hours
Review
The AERO 17 is the gaming laptop that you should consider buying if you are more invested in a holistic specs sheet instead of specific gaming and processing prowess.
Design and Display
The Gigabyte AERO 17 flaunts a standard form factor but rides on the power of a17.3 inches, full HD display. The overall resolution of 1920 x 1080 is perfectly complemented by the 300 Hz refresh, Pantone-certified paneling, and slimmer bezels.
Internals
At the core, you have the 16GB RAM module that works hand in hand with the 1TB PCIe-certified SSD. The existing memory allocation makes multitasking and file management easier than expected.
Productivity
The Intel Core i7-10870H chipset is a force to reckon with that works in tandem with the RTX 3060 graphics card for better rendering and gaming performances. Plus, the existing processing configuration also allows you to experience ray tracing attributes, especially for indulging in games like Control and Battlefield V.
However, the Gigabyte AERO 17 is the most relevant notebook in the market if you seek a 300 Hz refresh, Thunderbolt 3 support, next-gen thermal design, AI-enhancing rendering support, and close to 9 hours of backup, all under one roof.
7. Gigabyte AERO 17
8. Razer Blade Pro 17
PROS
- Stellar display
- Dual-socketed RAM
- Wi-Fi AX support
- Durable form factor
- Thunderbolt 3 support
CONS
- Heavy
- Middling battery backup
- CPU- Intel Core i7-10875H
- RAM- 16GB
- Display- 17.3-inch FHD
- Graphics- RTX 3060
- Storage- 512GB
- Battery Life- Up to 6.5 Hours
Review
The Razer Blade Pro 17 is one of the best laptops for gamers, especially if you are invested in lag-free game-playing more than anything else.
Design and Display
This gaming behemoth is meticulously crafted and weighs a tad higher than the 6-pound mark. Not just that, it is the 17.3 inches, FHD screen that makes quite an impression, courtesy of the 300 Hz refresh limit.
Internals
Razer paves the way for 16GB high-speed RAM and the sizable, 512GB, NVMe-compatible SSD. The existing SSD is best known for booting up the Windows 10 OS in no time.
Productivity
The Intel Core i7-10875H SoC cpis worth investing in, led by 8 cores and an excellent single-core clock speed. Not to mention the RTX 3060 graphics card that is more than capable of handling every demanding game with perfection.
Apart from the mentioned specs, you also get access to a vapor chamber cooling support, an excellent array of ports and connectivity-specific traits, and a Chroma backlit keyboard.
8. Razer Blade Pro 17
9. Acer Nitro 5
PROS
- Sharp display
- MU-MIMO support for wireless connections
- High-speed RAM
- Powerful CPU
- CoolBoost technology
CONS
- Runs hotter than usual
- Bulkier than usual
- CPU- AMD Ryzen 5 5600H
- RAM- 8GB
- Display- 17.3-inch FHD
- Graphics- GTX 1650
- Storage- 512GB SSD
- Battery Life- Up to 9 Hours
Review
If you are on the lookout for an affordable, AMD-powered, best 17-inch gaming laptop, the Acer Nitro 5 is arguably the best investment to make.
Design and Display
The Acer Nitro 5 weighs a tad less than 6 pounds. However, the plastic-clad chassis is pretty durable and capable of handling the occasional bumps and bruises. As far as the display configuration is concerned, the 17.3-inch Full HD screen is handy enough for most creative tasks and gamer-friendly indulgences.
Internals
There is 8GB RAM to work with, which performs adequately when gaming and professional workload are concerned. Also, for the given price point, this works as a reliable mobile workstation and comes equipped with 512GB of the high-speed module.
Productivity
I was overjoyed by the inclusion of the AMD Ryzen 5 chipset, which is a good choice considering the inclination towards this low-cost mobile workstation. However, for the given price, you get access to the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650, instead of the expected RTX 2080 or even a max-Q variant of the RTX-series graphics card.
The massive screen real-estate, excellent color gamut, and the inclusion of upgradable memory slots with an option for the hard drive bay make this a laptop worth investing in.
9. Acer Nitro 5
10. Asus VivoBook S17
PROS
- Cost-effective
- Minimal heating
- Perfect typing experience
- Wide range of USB-C ports
- Brilliant display
CONS
- Not fit for gaming
- Lacks Wireless 6 support
- CPU- AMD Ryzen 5 5500U
- RAM- 8GB
- Display- 17.3-inch FHD
- Graphics- AMD Radeon Graphics
- Storage- 128GB SSD + 1TB HDD
- Battery Life- Up to 10 Hours
Review
The new and improved Asus VivoBook S17 is one of the best 17-inch laptops on the list, provided you are looking for an affordable, sub-$700 machine.
Design and Display
When it comes to aesthetics, the Vivobook exhibits a pretty balanced form factor, primarily made of metal. As far as the weight is concerned, this 5.07-pound laptop is still pretty light considering the 17.3-inch screen. The 1080p display is adequately bright and comprises thinner bezels.
The backlit keyboard, pertaining to this laptop is yet another structural marvel, featuring 1.4mm travel and excellent durability.
Internals
As far as the system memory is concerned, you get 8GB DDR4 RAM that works alongside a dual-storage module. While the Windows 10 OS resides on the 128GB SSD, static files, games, applications make way to the 1TB hard disk drive.
Productivity
The AMD Ryzen 5 CPU is a low-power variant that doesn’t heat up significantly. Also, you get access to the AMD Radeon integrated graphics that takes good care of the visuals.
10. Asus VivoBook S17
Buying Guide: How to Select the perfect 17-inch Laptop?
Finding the best laptop is all about striking the perfect balance between muscle and magic. While most 15-inch laptops are good enough for gaming and productive tasks, investing in a 17-inch laptop allows you to make the best use of the bigger screen real-estate, especially for gaming and streaming.
But then, your method of hunting for 17-inch laptops should be different as compared to the smaller variants. Here are some of the factors that you need to prioritize to make 17-inch laptop selection easier for you:
Display
It is the screen size that matters most. If you are planning to invest in a big laptop, you would want to get a display with slimmer bezels, so as to make the best use of the massive real estate. As a rule of thumb, you should not consider laptops with a screen-to-chassis ratio of less than 80 percent.
The resolution could be anywhere between Full HD, 2K, or 4K depending on the budget and I would also recommend laptops with wider viewing angles and anti-glare support.
Also, if you are looking for exceptional gaming performance, I would recommend an expansive color gamut pertaining to the large screen. Finally, resolution might be great to experience but not exactly recommended for gamers.
Processor
Your choice of CPU could determine the speed with which the laptop would run. As a matter of fact, a 10th generation Intel core i5 should be more than enough for basic tasks whereas you would want to look for at least an i7 processor for gaming and professional tasks.
Also, you should look for good deals on AMD-powered variants as they are pretty underrated but extremely powerful and usable for content creators. Plus, a reliable SoC guarantees the inclusion of a sizable chunk of RAM and decent file storing support to go with the same.
Graphics
If you want a 17-inch laptop only for streaming and academic indulgences, an integrated graphics card like the Intel Iris Plus would suffice. However, for gamers, I would suggest laptops with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060, RTX 2060, or any GTX 16-series variant.
Also, if you are more involved in the professional workspace, NVIDIA Quadro with error correction support is a better bet. However, laptops with NVIDIA Quadro or even the RTX 30-series graphics cards, come at a price.
Portability
Here is one feature that you hardly find on 17-inch laptops. However, if you are a globetrotter, then you wouldn’t mind investing in laptops that weigh less than 4 pounds. While finding one might be tedious as the big screen often comes housed in an expansive chassis, you can consider the LG Gram 17 if portability is one of your priorities.
On top of that, you should also focus on decent battery backup, which is often an underplayed feature in 17-inch laptops.
Connectivity
As far as functional connectivity is concerned, you should always be on the lookout for a USB-C port, Wireless 6, Thunderbolt 3, Mini DisplayPort, and other relevant specs.
Thermals
Lastly, if you plan on investing in the best 17-inch laptops, I would recommend a casual look at its thermal setup or rather the cooking technology. As a 17-inch behemoth doesn’t always offer a long battery life, having a reliable cooling setup can ensure better power efficiency, more so for the creative professionals or gamers who have already invested in a laptop with powerful gaming hardware.
Verdict
Unless you plan on purchasing a MacBook Pro 16 as a way to experience content, games, and apps on a big screen, a 17-inch Windows-powered machine would do just fine. However, if the entire discussion still leaves you confused and you have the budget to shell out, the Dell XPS 17 seems like the best option to go with.
However, if you seek an all-inclusive notebook with a budget, the Acer Nitro 5 seems like a relevant choice, which can be purchased at a lesser price provided you grab some timely deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q1. What are the best 17-inch laptops to buy?
A1. As per extensive tests and detailed evaluations, I feel that the XPS 17, as mentioned in this discussion, is the best 17-inch laptop to invest in. -
Q2. Are 17-inch laptops worth it?
A2. Yes, they can be quite handy to professional gamers, voracious streamers, and content creators who need to manage multiple tabs at once. -
Q3. What is the cheapest 17-inch laptop?
A3. The Asus VivoBook S17 is the cheapest 17-inch laptop on the list. However, despite the sub-$700 price point, you can try and look for better deals to get hold of the same during the prime day or any other electronics festival. -
Q4. Which laptop has the biggest screen?
A4. I feel that the Dell XPS has the largest 17-inch screen real estate as despite being a standard laptop, the slimmer bezels readily give an impression of a smaller form factor and therefore, a large screen. -
Q5. Is Full HD resolution good enough for 17-inch laptops?
A5. While 1080p resolution on a 17-inch big screen might translate into modest pixel density, it is more than adequate if the screen has slimmer bezels and an anti-reflective panel.