NVIDIA has officially rolled out the mobile version of the GeForce RTX 3060 to gaming laptops, and it features the new architecture that delivers significant energy efficiency and performance improvements over the previous generations. It also introduces a range of new technologies geared towards enhancing your gaming experience.
This article highlights some of the best RTX 3060 laptops you can buy or pre-order today. If you’re getting or upgrading to a new gaming laptop, this list is tailor-made for you.
| Preview | Product | Processor | RAM | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gigabyte A5 K1 | AMD Ryzen 7 5800H | 16 GB (3200 MHz) | |
| ASUS TUF Dash 15 | Intel Core i7-11370H | 16 GB (3200 MHz) | |
| ASUS ROG Strix G15 G513 | AMD Ryzen 7 5800H | 16 GB (3200 MHz) | |
| MSI GF75 Thin | Intel Core i7-10750H | 16 GB (2666 MHz) | |
| MSI Stealth 15M | Intel Core i7-11375H | 16 GB (3200 MHz) | |
| Gigabyte AORUS 15P | Intel Core i7-10875H | 16 GB (2933 MHz) | |
| Gigabyte AERO 17 | Intel Core i7-10870H | 16 GB (2933 MHz) | |
| MSI GS66 Stealth | Intel Core i7-10750H | 16 GB (3200 MHz) |
Contents of this Page
Gigabyte A5 K1
|
Quick Specifications |
|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 5800H (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 4.4 GHz) |
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-P |
| RAM | 16 GB DDR4 3200 MHz |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD |
| Battery | 48.96 Wh |
| Screen Size | 15.6” |
| Display Resolution | Full HD (1080p) |
| Refresh Rate | 240 Hz |
| Connectivity | 3 x USB Type-A
1 x USB 3.2 Type-C 1 x HDMI 2.0 1 x Mini DisplayPort 1 x Combo Audio Jack 1 x microSD Card Reader 1 x LAN |
| Weight | 4.85 lbs |
The Gigabyte A5 K1 is arguably the best gaming laptop on this list based solely on price to performance. It houses an AMD Ryzen 5800H with a boost clock of up to 4.4 GHz paired with 16 GB of DDR4 3200 MHz to handle any intensive task you throw at it.
If you play fast-paced first-person shooters, you will appreciate the high refresh rate display on the A5 K1. This laptop can run Metro: Exodus on ultra settings with tessellation enabled at an impressive average of 92 FPS. It can also run the graphically-demanding game Control on the high preset settings at a remarkable 71 FPS average.
The only drawback of the A5 K1 is its unremarkable battery capacity. It could do a lot better in this department, especially since it features the Max-P configuration of the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060.
ASUS TUF Dash 15
| Quick Specifications | |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-11370H (4 cores, 8 threads, up to 4.8 GHz) |
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q |
| RAM | 16 GB DDR4 3200 MHz |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD |
| Battery | 76 Wh |
| Screen Size | 15.6” |
| Display Resolution | Full HD (1080p) |
| Refresh Rate | 144 Hz |
| Connectivity | 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
1 x USB Thunderbolt 4 Type-C 1 x HDMI 2.0b 1 x Combo Audio Jack 1 x LAN |
| Weight | 4.41 lbs |
The ASUS TUF Dash 15 is another gaming laptop that proposes excellent value for money. It features the latest-generation Intel Core i7-11370H and employs an energy-efficient and portable design for unmatched reliability.
The TUF Dash 15 houses a quad-core processor with eight threads, limiting its workstation potential. However, it delivers better single-core and dual-core performance compared to eight-core processors. It also features 16 GB of DDR4 3200 MHz RAM for seamless multi-tasking, making it an excellent gaming and desktop laptop.
Armoury Crate is pre-installed in the TUF Dash 15. It is a utility software that lets you customize system and lighting controls in one place. It has extensive options for personalizing aesthetic effects, creating game profiles, and adjusting audio settings to suit your preferences.
The TUF Dash 15 sports a sleek chassis that slips easily into backpacks and meets military-grade durability standards. It features narrow bezels to maximize screen space and minimize distraction while immersed in gaming. Moreover, the display supports Adaptive-Sync to minimize stuttering and eliminate visual tearing for smooth gameplay. If you want to upgrade the hardware for future-proofing, the memory and storage slots are easily accessible beneath the bottom panel.
ASUS ROG Strix G15 G513
| Quick Specifications | |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 5800H (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 4.4 GHz) |
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-P |
| RAM | 16 GB DDR4 3200 MHz |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD |
| Battery | 90 Wh |
| Screen Size | 15.6” |
| Display Resolution | Full HD (1080p) |
| Refresh Rate | 144 Hz |
| Connectivity | 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C 1 x HDMI 2.0b 1 x Combo Audio Jack |
| Weight | 5.07 lbs |
The ASUS ROG Strix G15 G513 is a supercharged laptop that pairs one of the most powerful current-generation mobile processors from AMD Ryzen with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060. It also houses high-speed memory and a competition-grade display, allowing it to run most graphically-demanding games at decent frame rates without breaking a sweat.
In terms of design, the ROG Strix G15 G513 features subtle cut-outs and icons on the textured aluminum chassis, adding intrigue to the exterior. It illuminates accent lighting on the logo, keyboard, and the wraparound light bar.
Performance-wise, the ROG Strix G15 G513 can run Assassin’s Creed Valhalla on the very high preset settings at an impressive 61 FPS average. It can also run Cyberpunk 2077 on ultra settings at a respectable 53 FPS average.
Although the ROG Strix G15 G513 isn’t the most travel-friendly gaming laptop, it has a crosshatched grip along the bottom to make it easier to grab on the go. Like the TUF Dash 15, it also has Armoury Crate pre-installed to put essential lighting and system controls at your fingertips.
MSI GF75 Thin
| Quick Specifications | |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-10750H (6 cores, 12 threads, up to 5.0 GHz) |
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q |
| RAM | 16 GB DDR4 2666 MHz |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD |
| Battery | 51 Wh |
| Screen Size | 17.3” |
| Display Resolution | Full HD (1080p) |
| Refresh Rate | 144 Hz |
| Connectivity | 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C 1 x HDMI 2.0 1 x Combo Audio Jack 1 x LAN |
| Weight | 4.85 lbs |
The MSI GF75 Thin manages to fit powerful components and a large screen into a slim chassis. It houses the Intel Core i7-10750H with 16 GB of 2666 MHz RAM to complement the energy-efficient NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q.
The GF75 Thin takes full advantage of its high single-core frequency processor to deliver exceptional gaming performance. It also has a high refresh rate display to give you smooth visuals regardless of genre.
When it comes to aesthetics, the G75 Thin has an aluminum hair-brushed top finish that complements the futuristic design. It has narrow bezels, giving you an extensive view of the screen for unparalleled gameplay immersion.
One of the most unique features of the GF75 Thin is the integration of MSI App Player, a mobile gaming software developed under an exclusive partnership with BlueStacks. App Player leverages customized features to deliver a seamless gaming experience between your smartphone and laptop.
MSI Stealth 15M
| Quick Specifications | |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-11375H (4 cores, 8 threads, up to 5.0 GHz) |
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q |
| RAM | 16 GB DDR4 3200 MHz |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD |
| Battery | 52 Wh |
| Screen Size | 15.6” |
| Display Resolution | Full HD (1080p) |
| Refresh Rate | 144 Hz |
| Connectivity | 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C 1 x USB Thunderbolt 4 Type-C 1 x HDMI 2.0 1 x Combo Audio Jack |
| Weight | 3.73 lbs |
The MSI Stealth 15M is one of the thinnest and lightest gaming laptops on the market. It manages to fit an Intel Core i7-11375H, 16 GB of 3200 MHz RAM, and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q in a very compact frame.
The Stealth 15M strikes a perfect balance between performance and portability. Although its processor isn’t as powerful as some of the other options on this list, it delivers remarkable single-core performance for gaming. This laptop lets you experience real-time ray tracing and programmable shading anywhere you go.
The Stealth 15M sports an all-aluminum chassis with subtle gaming aesthetics. It is robust enough to endure everyday wear and tear even if you travel frequently.
Dragon Center lets you customize and optimize the Stealth 15M according to your preferences. You can even record your best gaming moments using the software.
Gigabyte AORUS 15P
| Quick Specifications | |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-10875H (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.1 GHz) |
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-P |
| RAM | 16 GB DDR4 2933 MHz |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD |
| Battery | 99 Wh |
| Screen Size | 15.6” |
| Display Resolution | Full HD (1080p) |
| Refresh Rate | 240 Hz |
| Connectivity | 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C 1 x HDMI 2.1 1 x Mini DisplayPort 1.4 1 x Combo Audio Jack 1 x UHS-II SD Card Reader 1 x LAN |
| Weight | 4.51 lbs |
The Gigabyte AORUS 15P offers plenty of features geared towards gaming. It houses no-compromise hardware and leverages the power of artificial intelligence to dynamically and automatically adjust the processor and graphics card voltage settings depending on the use case.
The AORUS 15P has a high refresh rate display that lets you experience smooth gaming visuals. It reduces motion blur and gives you a competitive edge in fast-paced titles like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Fortnite. If you prefer more visually-appealing games, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-P delivers cinematic-quality rendering through ray tracing.
Gigabyte AERO 17
| Quick Specifications | |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-10870H (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.0 GHz) |
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q |
| RAM | 16 GB DDR4 2933 MHz |
| Storage | 1 TB SSD |
| Battery | 99 Wh |
| Screen Size | 17.3” |
| Display Resolution | Full HD (1080p) |
| Refresh Rate | 300 Hz |
| Connectivity | 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
1 x USB Thunderbolt 3 Type-C 1 x HDMI 2.1 1 x Mini DisplayPort 1.4 1 x Headphone Output 1 x Microphone Input 1 x UHS-II SD Card Reader 1 x LAN |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs |
The Gigabyte AERO 17 is one of the first gaming laptops to come out with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q. It is a portable workstation integrated with some of the most powerful mobile hardware, including the Intel Core i7-10870H and 16 GB of 2933 MHz RAM. This laptop also performs exceptionally well for gaming, averaging 106 FPS in Shadow of the Tomb Raider. It is ideal for creative professionals who enjoy playing video games during breaks.
The AERO 17 features ultra-thin bezels to maximize screen real estate when designing or rendering. It also has a high refresh rate panel that gives you wide viewing angles, smooth visuals, and outstanding color accuracy. Although this laptop has a compact form factor, it is one of the heaviest laptops on this list, so you may want to check out other options if portability is a primary concern.
Like the AORUS 15P, the AERO 17 uses artificial intelligence to dynamically and automatically adjust processor and graphics card wattage settings depending on the use case for reliable performance.
MSI GS66 Stealth
| Quick Specifications | |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-10750H (6 cores, 12 threads, up to 5.0 GHz) |
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q |
| RAM | 16 GB DDR4 3200 MHz |
| Storage | 1 TB SSD |
| Battery | 99.9 Wh |
| Screen Size | 15.6” |
| Display Resolution | Full HD (1080p) |
| Refresh Rate | 240 Hz |
| Connectivity | 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
1 x USB Thunderbolt 3 Type-C 1 x USB 3.2 Type-C 1 x HDMI 2.0 1 x Combo Audio Jack 1 x LAN |
| Weight | 4.63 lbs |
The MSI GS66 Stealth is a low-profile gaming laptop that lets you experience smooth gameplay wherever you go. It houses an Intel Core i7-10750H with 16 GB of 3200 MHz RAM and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q to balance power and efficiency. The high single-core performance processor lets you take full advantage of the powerful graphics card.
If you play fast-paced games, the GS66 Stealth has a high refresh rate display to reduce motion blur and give you a competitive advantage. It lets you experience fluid visuals so you can react quickly when gaming.
The GS66 Stealth comes in a matte black reinforced metal chassis that keeps it rigid. Whether you’re at home or in the office, this laptop can endure the wear and tear of daily use. It also comes with the Dragon Center software, where you can personalize the lighting and other settings to meet your preferences.
RTX 3060 Laptops Buyers Guide
Should You Upgrade Now if You Have an RTX 2060 or GTX 1060 Laptop?
If you’re upgrading from a previous-generation gaming laptop, consider the following benefits:
- NVIDIA has integrated several new gaming technologies into mobile graphics cards, including Dynamic Boost 2.0, WhisperMode 2.0, and Resizable BAR.
- The RTX 3060 is around 19% faster than the RTX 2060.
- The RTX 3060 is roughly 72% faster than the GTX 1060.
The benchmark results show that performance gains are much more significant if you’re upgrading from a GTX 1060. If you currently have an RTX 2060 laptop, it might be a good idea to keep it until the next generation.
NVIDIA Max-Q vs. Max-P
NVIDIA has two versions of mobile graphics systems integrated into gaming laptops: Max-Q and Max-P. It is a major consideration when choosing a laptop since it affects performance, but not many consumers know their differences, and retail listings rarely specify this information.
Max-Q is a term NVIDIA uses to characterize the design methodologies that allow graphics chips to fit into thin, quiet, and lightweight gaming laptops. Max-Q graphics systems are usually more efficient than their Max-P counterparts because they use less power. However, they run at lower clock speeds as a compromise, so you won’t be getting the best possible performance.
Max-P is a term laptop manufacturers sometimes use to identify laptops that do not use the Max-Q design. It stands for “max performance,” meaning Max-P graphics systems use full wattage and clock speeds. On the downside, these laptops are generally more power-hungry, bulky, and loud.
Processor
Some consumers place heavy emphasis on the processor when choosing a laptop. However, it should not trump all other considerations, especially with laptops that have powerful graphics systems. The laptops on this list, in particular, all feature the latest-generation processors to avoid bottlenecking the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060.
RAM
Gaming, rendering, and encoding are memory-intensive tasks that require the right components. Your laptop should have at least 16 GB of RAM to perform these tasks efficiently. Some laptops even offer memory upgrade options, allowing you to install up to 64 GB of RAM for future-proofing. You should also consider the clock speed, as some processors perform better when paired with high-speed memory.
Storage
Storage devices have come a long way, and very few people use hard disk drives nowadays. Unless you need massive storage space, hard drives offer much fewer benefits compared to solid-state drives. Case in point, all the laptops on this list use solid-state drives. The more appropriate question to ask would then be: how much storage space do you need?
Display
The display is a factor often overlooked by consumers, but it is a crucial factor if you value image quality or play fast-paced video games.
Resolution
Full HD (1080p) remains the optimal resolution for gaming laptops as it complements the average screen size to produce clear image quality. Moreover, higher resolutions like QHD (1440p) and 4K (2160p) are more taxing on the hardware, leading to lower frame rates or graphical fidelity in games.
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate must be considered if you play fast-paced video games. Defined as the number of times a display’s image is refreshed per second, a high refresh rate eliminates flicker to prevent eye fatigue and headache. The current standard for monitors and laptop displays is 75 Hz, while the products on this list have superior refresh rates that range from 144 Hz to 300 Hz.
Battery
Gaming laptops usually last only a few hours when performing intensive tasks like gaming, rendering, or encoding. You can keep a laptop plugged in to maximize hardware performance, but an outlet isn’t always accessible. Some gaming laptops also incorporate power-saving technologies like NVIDIA Max-Q to preserve battery life for an insignificant performance decrease.
Recap of the Best RTX 3060 Laptops
- Gigabyte A5 K1
- ASUS TUF Dash 15
- ASUS ROG Strix G15 G513
- MSI GF75 Thin
- MSI Stealth 15M
- Gigabyte AORUS 15P
- Gigabyte AERO 17
- MSI GS66 Stealth
Wrap Up
That concludes our list of the best RTX 3060 laptops on the market. Which ones piqued your interest the most? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
