Which graphics card do I need for gaming?

It depends on the games and settings you want. Entry-level cards such as the GTX 1650 handle popular esports titles at 1080p, while RTX-series cards are better for newer, more demanding games. Check each game's published system requirements.

Are refurbished gaming laptops reliable?

Gaming laptops run hotter than office laptops, so cooling is the key check. Every gaming laptop we sell is stress-tested under load, and its fans and heatsinks are cleaned before listing. It is covered by the warranty on its product page.

Can I use a gaming laptop for work and study?

Yes. Gaming laptops are also great for video editing, 3D modelling and engineering software. The trade-offs are weight and battery life, which are usually worse than on a business laptop.

Refurbished Gaming Laptops — RTX & GTX Graphics

Refurbished Gaming Laptops

Refurbished gaming laptops with dedicated graphics, tested under sustained load before they're listed. Gaming laptops work hard, so we pay extra attention to cooling, fans and thermal performance during refurbishment.

Dedicated NVIDIA or AMD graphics on every gaming laptop

Stress-tested under load to check cooling and stability

Fans and heatsinks cleaned of dust during refurbishment

Graphics card, RAM and storage listed clearly on every page

Buying a refurbished gaming laptop

A gaming laptop is really a small, powerful workstation: a fast processor, a dedicated graphics card and a cooling system designed to handle both. Buying refurbished can put a much more capable machine within your budget — as long as you know what to check.

The graphics card comes first

The dedicated graphics card (GPU) has the biggest effect on gaming performance. NVIDIA's GTX cards, such as the GTX 1650, are entry-level options for lighter and competitive games at 1080p. RTX cards add more performance and support features like ray tracing and DLSS in compatible games. Always compare your chosen GPU with the published requirements of the games you want to play.

Then processor, RAM and storage

Processor: a recent Intel Core i5/i7 H-series or AMD Ryzen 5/7 H-series chip. "H" processors are designed for higher sustained performance than the low-power "U" chips found in thin office laptops.
RAM: 16GB is the comfortable minimum for modern games.
Storage: an SSD is essential. Games are large, so 512GB or more is useful — or plan to add a second drive if the laptop has a free slot.

Screen refresh rate

Many gaming laptops have high-refresh displays (120Hz, 144Hz or more), which make fast-moving games look smoother. It's worth having if your graphics card can deliver high frame rates.

Cooling is the key check

Gaming laptops generate a lot of heat. Dust build-up or dried thermal paste causes throttling, where performance drops to keep temperatures safe. During our refurbishment process, every gaming laptop has its cooling system cleaned and is stress-tested under sustained load.

Look after it

Use it on a hard surface, keep the vents clear and consider a cooling stand for long sessions. Our laptop maintenance tips explain more.