Adam Levell, Author at iTech Level

Can You Use Bluetooth Headphones for Gaming? Latency Explained (2026)

How much delay is too much?

Broadcast standards give a useful benchmark. The ATSC recommends keeping audio within about 45 ms behind the picture, and research on lip sync puts the point where most people notice a mismatch at around 40–45 ms. Standard Bluetooth is three to four times over that, which is why it feels “off” in fast games even when it’s fine for YouTube, where apps and TVs can delay the video to match.

Games can’t do that trick. Your inputs have to happen in real time, so the audio simply arrives late.

Latency by connection type

Connection	Typical delay	Good for competitive gaming?
Wired (3.5 mm or USB)	Effectively zero	Yes
2.4 GHz USB dongle (gaming headsets)	Very low; designed for gaming	Yes
Bluetooth LE Audio (LC3)	~20–30 ms codec latency; ~30–50 ms measured on the Sony XM6	Mostly, where supported
aptX Adaptive	~80 ms	Casual only
Standard Bluetooth (SBC / AAC)	~150–200 ms or more	No
LDAC (hi-res Bluetooth)	Similar to SBC or higher	No

Tip: if your headphones support several codecs, choose AAC or LC3 over LDAC for gaming. LDAC is great for music quality but has the most delay.

Can you use Bluetooth headphones on each platform?

PS5

No, not directly. The PS5 doesn’t support Bluetooth audio. Your options are to plug your headphones into the DualSense controller’s 3.5 mm jack, use a USB-dongle headset, or use a headset built on Sony’s PlayStation Link wireless tech, such as the PlayStation Pulse Elite, which Sony describes as lossless and ultra-low latency.

Xbox Series X|S

No. Xbox consoles don’t support Bluetooth audio either. Plug into the controller’s headset jack, or use a headset made for Xbox Wireless or with an Xbox-compatible dongle, such as the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X.

Nintendo Switch and Switch 2

Yes. The Switch gained Bluetooth audio in a 2021 update, and the Switch 2 supports it too, but expect standard Bluetooth delay. Wired is better for rhythm and action games. The Switch 2 doesn’t support Bluetooth microphones, so for GameChat use a USB-C dongle or wired headset: see our best headphones for Switch 2.

PC

Yes, but with a catch: when you use the headset mic over Bluetooth, Windows usually switches to a low-quality “headset” profile, and game audio sounds noticeably worse. A USB dongle headset or a separate desk mic avoids this.

Phones

Yes, and phones are where Bluetooth gaming works best. Many earbuds have a “game mode” that trims delay, and newer Android phones with LE Audio can get close to wired latency with compatible earbuds and headphones.

What about Sony’s WH-1000X headphones?

They’re some of the most popular headphones people try to game with. The short version: excellent wired, laggy over standard Bluetooth, and the headset mic doesn’t work over the cable. We cover each model in detail:

Sony WH-1000XM4 for gaming: honest review
Sony WH-1000XM5 and XM6 for gaming, including the XM6’s LE Audio gaming mode

Wireless headsets that are actually built for gaming

If you want wireless without the lag, these use a 2.4 GHz dongle or a console-specific wireless link instead of relying on Bluetooth for game audio:

Headset	Low-latency connection	Also has Bluetooth	Works with
Sony INZONE H9 II	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle	Yes, plus LE Audio	PC, PS5, Switch, mobile	Check price
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Gen 2	2.4 GHz dongle	Yes, and it can mix both at once	PC, PS5, Switch, mobile (7X version for Xbox)	Check price
PlayStation Pulse Elite	PlayStation Link (USB adapter)	Yes	PS5, PC, Mac, PlayStation Portal	Check price

The INZONE H9 II uses the same drivers as the Sony WH-1000XM6, so it’s the closest thing to “XM6 sound without the lag,” with a proper boom mic. The Arctis Nova 7’s ability to mix dongle audio with Bluetooth is handy if you take calls or use Discord on your phone while gaming.

How to reduce Bluetooth lag

Use the lowest-latency codec your devices share: LC3, then aptX Adaptive, then AAC. Avoid LDAC for gaming.
Turn on game mode in your earbuds’ app if it has one.
Keep the source close with nothing blocking the signal; dropouts and re-buffering add delay.
Turn off multipoint while gaming on headphones that lower codec quality or add buffering when two devices are connected.
Go wired for competitive play. Most headphones include a 3.5 mm cable; it’s the only zero-latency option on consoles.

Specs from the makers, side by side

Every figure below comes from the manufacturer’s own spec page, taken from our earbuds and headphones spec database. “Not stated” means the maker doesn’t publish it, not that the feature is missing.

Model	Battery	Weight	Latency (maker)	Connection	Maker doesn’t state
PlayStation PULSE Elite	30 h	Not stated	"ultra-low latency" (no figure)	PlayStation Link USB adapter + Bluetooth (simultaneous)	Bluetooth version, codecs, weight, latency figure
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2	50+ h	Not stated	Not stated	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle + Bluetooth (simultaneous)	Bluetooth version, weight, latency (page truncated for mic/weight)
Sony INZONE H9 II	ANC off: 30 h	260 (without mic)	"ultra-low-latency" 2.4 GHz (no figure)	2.4 GHz dongle + Bluetooth + wired; Bluetooth 5.3	battery with NC on, latency figure, multipoint
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2	50+ h	Not stated	Not stated	2.4 GHz + Bluetooth (simultaneous)	Bluetooth version, weight, latency (page truncated)

Frequently asked questions

Is Bluetooth good for gaming?

For casual and story games, yes. For fast competitive games, standard Bluetooth’s 150–200 ms delay is noticeable. Use wired, a 2.4 GHz dongle headset, or Bluetooth LE Audio where your device supports it.

Do Bluetooth headphones have lag in games?

Yes. Standard Bluetooth (SBC or AAC) typically adds about 150–200 ms, while LE Audio’s LC3 codec cuts that to roughly 20–50 ms depending on the device.

Why doesn’t the PS5 support Bluetooth headphones?

Sony and Microsoft left Bluetooth audio out of the PS5 and Xbox mainly because of latency and bandwidth. Standard Bluetooth is too slow for game audio, so they use their own low-latency wireless systems instead.

Can I use AirPods or other earbuds for gaming?

On a phone, tablet or Switch, yes, with standard Bluetooth delay. On PS5 and Xbox, not directly, because those consoles don’t support Bluetooth audio.

What is the lowest-latency wireless option for gaming?

A headset with a 2.4 GHz USB dongle or a console-specific link like PlayStation Link. These are designed for gaming and avoid Bluetooth’s delay.

What does game mode on earbuds do?

It lowers audio delay so sound stays closer to what’s on screen. Samsung, for example, says Game Mode on Galaxy Buds reduces audio latency. It usually works best on the brand’s own phones, so turn it on in the earbuds’ app for games and videos; for music you can leave it off.

Lightest 17-Inch Laptops (2026): Lightweight and Thin Picks, Ranked by Weight

The lightest 17-inch laptops, ranked by weight

#	Laptop	Weight	Thickness	Screen	Best for
1	LG gram 17 (2025, Core Ultra 7)	~3.0–3.1 lb / 1.35–1.42 kg	~0.74 in / 19 mm	17″ 2560×1600	Lightest overall, all-day battery	Check price
2	LG gram Pro 17 (2025, RTX 5050)	3.26 lb / 1.47 kg	0.57 in / 14.5 mm	17″ 2560×1600, 144 Hz	Lightest 17-inch with NVIDIA graphics	Check price
3	LG gram Max 17 (2026, Core Ultra 7 355)	3.39 lb / 1.54 kg	0.52 in / 13.3 mm (thinnest point)	17″ 2560×1600 touch	Newest light 17-inch, easiest to find new	Check price
4	LG gram Pro 17 (2026, RTX 5050)	3.83 lb / 1.74 kg	0.66 in / 16.7 mm	17″ 2560×1600, 30–120 Hz	Newest light 17-inch with NVIDIA graphics	Check price
5	HP 17 (17-cn series)	~4.5 lb / 2.05 kg	Not listed	17.3″ 1920×1080	Budget big screen	Check price
6	ASUS Vivobook 17 (X1704 / F1704)	~4.6 lb / 2.1 kg	~0.78 in / 20 mm	17.3″ 1920×1080	Budget big screen with a numpad	Check price

Before you buy: check the seller, the exact model number and the warranty, and compare prices before you order.

Newer isn’t lighter: LG’s 2026 17-inch models weigh more

LG has made the lightest 17-inch laptops for years, but its 2026 models gained weight. According to LG’s own spec pages, the 2026 17-inch model without a dedicated GPU (sold in the US as the gram Max 17, model 17Z90UB elsewhere) weighs 1,539 g (3.39 lb), and the 2026 gram Pro 17 with an RTX 5050 (17Z90UR) weighs 1,739 g (3.83 lb).

Model	2025	2026	Change
17-inch, integrated graphics	gram 17: ~3.0–3.1 lb	gram Max 17: 3.39 lb	about 0.3 lb heavier
17-inch with RTX 5050	gram Pro 17: 3.26 lb	gram Pro 17: 3.83 lb	about 0.6 lb heavier

The 2026 RTX model adds a touchscreen that runs from 30 to 120 Hz, so you get something for the extra weight. But if the lowest weight is the reason you’re buying a gram, a 2025 model is lighter, if you can find one new.

1. LG gram 17 (2025): the lightest 17-inch laptop

LG lists the 2025 gram 17 Core Ultra 7 configuration at 3.12 lb, and Notebookcheck lists the Lunar Lake (Core Ultra 7 258V) version at about 1.39 kg (3.06 lb). For comparison, a 13-inch MacBook Air weighs about 2.7 lb, so you get a 17-inch 2560×1600 screen for roughly the weight of a small ultrabook.

Screen: 17-inch, 2560×1600 (16:10), with touchscreen options
Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 (Core Ultra 7 258V on the Copilot+ versions)
Battery: 77 Wh; LG quotes up to 20 hours of video playback on the Core Ultra 7 model
Thickness: about 0.74 in

Good to know: it’s light partly because of a magnesium-alloy chassis that flexes more than heavier aluminium laptops, and it uses integrated graphics, so it’s built for work, study and streaming rather than gaming. It’s also getting harder to find new, so check the seller.

Buy it if: you want the lightest big screen you can carry every day and can find one at a fair price.
Skip it if: you need a dedicated GPU for games or creative work (see the gram Pro 17 below).

2. LG gram Pro 17 (2025): the lightest 17-inch laptop with an RTX GPU

LG marketed the 2025 gram Pro 17 as the world’s lightest 17-inch laptop with NVIDIA RTX graphics. According to LG’s spec sheet, the RTX 5050 model weighs 3.26 lb (1.47 kg) and is just 0.57 in (14.5 mm) thick. Most 17-inch laptops with dedicated graphics weigh 5–6 lb or more.

Screen: 17-inch IPS, 2560×1600, 144 Hz variable refresh rate
Processor and graphics: Intel Core Ultra 9 285H with an NVIDIA RTX 5050 (8 GB GDDR7)
Memory and storage: 32 GB LPDDR5X; dual SSD slots
Battery: 90 Wh; LG quotes up to 27 hours of video playback

Good to know: an RTX 5050 in a thin chassis is an entry-level gaming and creator GPU. It handles photo and video editing and lighter 1080p gaming, but it isn’t a replacement for a full gaming laptop (see the gaming section below).

Buy it if: you want a big, light laptop that can also edit video or play games casually.
Skip it if: you mainly need battery life and portability. The regular gram 17 is lighter.

3. LG gram Max 17 (2026): the newest light 17-inch

The gram Max 17 is LG’s 2026 17-inch laptop without a dedicated GPU, with an Intel Core Ultra 7 355 (Panther Lake) processor. LG lists the model at 1,539 g (3.39 lb) and 13.3 mm at its thinnest point, with a 77 Wh battery and a 17-inch 2560×1600 touchscreen. That’s slightly heavier than the 2025 gram 17, but still more than a pound lighter than mainstream 17-inch laptops.

Buy it if: you want a current-generation light 17-inch laptop that’s easier to find new than the 2025 models.
Skip it if: you can find a 2025 gram 17 new at a fair price; it’s a little lighter.

4. LG gram Pro 17 (2026): light, with an RTX 5050

The 2026 gram Pro 17 (17Z90UR) pairs an Intel Core Ultra 9 with an NVIDIA RTX 5050 Laptop GPU. According to LG, it weighs 1,739 g (3.83 lb) and is 16.7 mm thick, with a 90 Wh battery and a 17-inch 2560×1600 touchscreen that runs from 30 to 120 Hz.

Buy it if: you want the newest light 17-inch laptop that can also edit video and play lighter games.
Skip it if: weight matters most: the 2025 gram Pro 17 with the same GPU weighs about 0.6 lb less.

5. HP 17: a lighter-than-average budget 17-inch

If the gram models are over budget, mainstream 17-inch laptops are about 1.5 lb heavier. The HP 17 (17-cn series) is one of the lighter budget options at about 2.05 kg (4.5 lb), with a 17.3-inch Full HD screen, a full keyboard with a number pad, and Intel Core i5 options.

Buy it if: you want the most screen for the money and will mostly use it on a desk or around the house.
Skip it if: you’ll carry it daily; at 4.5 lb it’s noticeably heavier in a bag.

6. ASUS Vivobook 17: another budget big-screen pick

The ASUS Vivobook 17 (X1704 / F1704) weighs about 2.1 kg (4.6 lb) according to ASUS, and is about 0.78 in thin. It has a 17.3-inch Full HD screen, a number pad, a fingerprint reader on many configurations, and a webcam shield.

Buy it if: you want an affordable, simple 17-inch laptop for home, office or school.
Skip it if: weight is your main priority.

The lightest 17-inch gaming laptops

Full gaming laptops are much heavier, because a powerful GPU needs a bigger cooling system. If you want a 17-inch laptop for gaming, these are the trade-offs between weight and graphics power (GPU power figures are the makers’ maximums from our laptop GPU power database):

Laptop	Weight	GPU options	Max GPU power
LG gram Pro 17 (2025 / 2026)	3.26 lb / 3.83 lb	RTX 5050	Not published by LG
Acer Nitro V 17 AI (ANV17-61/41)	6.2 lb	RTX 5050, 5060, 5070	95 W
Lenovo LOQ 17 Gen 10 (17IRX10)	~6.4 lb / 2.9 kg	RTX 5050, 5060, 5070	115 W

The gram Pro 17 is half the weight of a real gaming laptop but has entry-level graphics. The Nitro V 17 and LOQ 17 are heavy desk laptops, but they run much faster GPUs, and the LOQ 17 gives its GPU the full 115 W. Our pick under $1,200, the Acer Nitro V 17 with an RTX 5060, gives its GPU 95 W.

Check the Nitro V 17 (RTX 5060) on Amazon →

Is a 16-inch laptop a better idea?

If you mostly want a big screen that’s easy to carry, the lightest 16-inch laptops are even lighter than the gram 17: the Acer Swift Air 16 is listed at about 0.99 kg (2.2 lb) and the LG gram 16 at about 1.2 kg (2.65 lb). You give up about an inch of diagonal screen, but most people won’t notice the difference in daily use. A 17-inch screen still wins for spreadsheets, side-by-side windows, and anyone who prefers larger text.

What to look for in a lightweight 17-inch laptop

Weight under 3.5 lb (1.6 kg): today, only LG’s gram models reach this at 17 inches. Anything around 4.5 lb is fine for home but tiring to carry every day.
The model year: newer isn’t always lighter. LG’s 2026 17-inch models weigh more than the 2025 ones, so check the weight of the exact model you’re buying.
Battery size: a bigger screen draws more power. Look for 70 Wh or more if you work unplugged.
16:10 screens: a 2560×1600 16:10 panel shows more of a document than a 1920×1080 16:9 panel of the same size.
Build rigidity: the lightest laptops use magnesium alloys, which can feel flexier. That’s a trade-off, not a defect.
Graphics needs: integrated graphics are enough for work and streaming; you only need an RTX GPU for gaming or heavy creative work.

Frequently asked questions

What is the lightest 17-inch laptop?

The 2025 LG gram 17. Depending on configuration, it weighs about 3.0–3.1 lb (1.35–1.42 kg), according to LG and independent spec databases. LG’s 2026 gram Max 17 is a little heavier at 3.39 lb.

What is the lightest 17-inch laptop with a dedicated GPU?

The 2025 LG gram Pro 17 with an NVIDIA RTX 5050, at 3.26 lb (1.47 kg) according to LG’s spec sheet. The 2026 version with the same GPU weighs 3.83 lb (1,739 g).

Are the 2026 LG gram 17 models lighter?

No. According to LG’s spec pages, the 2026 17-inch gram without a dedicated GPU weighs 1,539 g (3.39 lb) and the 2026 gram Pro 17 with an RTX 5050 weighs 1,739 g (3.83 lb), both heavier than the 2025 models.

How much does a typical 17-inch laptop weigh?

Most mainstream 17.3-inch laptops weigh about 4.5–5 lb (2–2.3 kg), and 17-inch gaming laptops such as the Acer Nitro V 17 and Lenovo LOQ 17 weigh about 6.2–6.4 lb (2.8–2.9 kg).

What is the thinnest 17-inch laptop?

Of the laptops here, LG’s 2026 gram Max 17, at 13.3 mm (0.52 in) at its thinnest point, according to LG. The 2025 gram Pro 17 is 14.5 mm (0.57 in) with an RTX 5050, the thinnest 17-inch laptop here with NVIDIA graphics. Budget 17-inch laptops such as the ASUS Vivobook 17 are about 0.78 in (20 mm) thick.

Is a 17-inch laptop too big to carry?

Not if it’s a gram. At around 3–3.4 lb it’s lighter than many 14-inch laptops, though you’ll need a bag with a 17-inch sleeve. Standard 4.5 lb 17-inch laptops are better suited to use at home or in an office.

Are the Sony WH-1000XM5 and XM6 Good for Gaming? (2026 Guide)

Can you use the Sony XM5 or XM6 for gaming?

Yes, but how well it works depends almost entirely on how you connect them:

Sony XM5 and XM6 latency by connection

Connection	WH-1000XM5	WH-1000XM6	Good for
3.5 mm cable	No lag	No lag	Any game, on PS5, Xbox, Switch, Steam Deck or PC
Standard Bluetooth (SBC, LDAC)	Noticeable delay	About 100–200 ms (SoundGuys)	Story games, turn-based games, video
AAC or LC3 Bluetooth	AAC only; delay not measured	About 30–50 ms, depending on the device (SoundGuys)	Casual games on supported phones and PCs
LE Audio gaming mode	Not supported	Lower latency and usable mic chat on supported Android phones (July 2026 update; SoundGuys)	Phone gaming
PS5 or Xbox over Bluetooth	Not possible	Not possible	Use the cable: the consoles don’t support Bluetooth audio

The mic doesn’t work over the cable. Sony’s own help guide says you talk through your phone’s mic when wired, so on a console you’ll need the controller mic or a separate mic for chat.
The XM6’s gaming mode is limited for now. The July 2026 firmware update added the Bluetooth Gaming Audio Profile (GMAP), which promises lower latency and mic chat without game audio dropping to call quality. SoundGuys found it works on a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, but PS5 and Xbox don’t support Bluetooth audio at all, and neither Nintendo (Switch 2) nor Valve (Steam Deck) has enabled it yet.

New to Bluetooth latency? Our Bluetooth headphones for gaming explainer covers delay by codec and what works on each console.

XM5 vs XM6 for gaming: side by side

	Sony WH-1000XM5	Sony WH-1000XM6	Sony INZONE H9 II (gaming headset)
Released	2022	May 2025	Aug 2025
Weight	~250 g	~254 g	~260 g
Bluetooth codecs	SBC, AAC, LDAC	SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3	Bluetooth + LE Audio
Low-latency wireless	No	LC3 / LE Audio (limited device support)	Yes: 2.4 GHz USB-C dongle (PC, PS5)
Wired 3.5 mm	Yes, no lag	Yes, no lag	Yes
Mic for game chat	Bluetooth only (call-quality audio)	Bluetooth only; better with LE Audio on supported phones	Detachable cardioid boom mic
Multipoint	Yes	Yes	Not listed
Rated battery (ANC on)	Up to 30 h	Up to 30 h (SoundGuys measured 37 h)	Up to 30 h
Folds for travel	No (lies flat)	Yes	Not listed
Best for	Wired gaming + travel ANC	Wired gaming, phone gaming, travel	Competitive PC/PS5 gaming

Which one should you buy for gaming?

Buy the XM5 if:

You mostly play single-player games and don’t mind plugging in the cable.
You want top-tier noise cancelling for travel and commuting first, gaming second.
You want to save money: the XM5 is the older model and is often discounted.

Buy the XM6 if:

You game on an Android phone that supports LE Audio, where the XM6’s gaming mode actually works today.
You want the newest noise cancelling, a folding design and the lowest Bluetooth latency Sony offers in this line.
You’re buying one headphone for everything and gaming is a regular but not competitive part of it.

Skip both and get a gaming headset if:

You play competitive shooters where every millisecond and clear team chat matter.
You play on PS5 or PC wirelessly and want a proper boom mic. The Sony INZONE H9 II uses the same drivers as the XM6 and adds a 2.4 GHz dongle and a cardioid boom mic.

What about the XM4?

The XM4 behaves much like the XM5 for gaming: great wired, laggy over standard Bluetooth, and no mic over the cable. We cover it in detail in our Sony WH-1000XM4 for gaming guide. If you already own the XM4, upgrading to the XM5 won’t change much for gaming; the XM6’s LC3 and LE Audio support is the only meaningful gaming upgrade in the series.

Setup tips for gaming with Sony XM headphones

PS5 / Xbox: plug the included cable into the controller’s 3.5 mm jack. Game audio comes through the headphones; use the controller’s built-in mic (PS5) or a separate mic for chat.
PC: wired gives zero lag. Over Bluetooth, Windows switches to a low-quality “headset” profile the moment the mic is in use. A USB or desk mic avoids that.
Android phones: on the XM6, enable LE Audio in the Sony Sound Connect app if your phone supports it; otherwise prefer AAC over LDAC for lower lag.
Turn LDAC off for gaming: LDAC sounds great for music but has the highest delay.
Nintendo Switch: the original Switch and Switch 2 both support Bluetooth audio, but expect standard Bluetooth lag. Wired is better for rhythm or action games.

Frequently asked questions

Are Sony headphones good for gaming?

Sony’s WH-1000X series sounds excellent for immersive single-player games, especially wired. For competitive online gaming, Sony’s INZONE headsets are the better choice because they add a low-latency wireless dongle and a boom mic.

Do the Sony XM5 or XM6 have lag when gaming?

Over standard Bluetooth, yes: roughly 100–200 ms with SBC or LDAC. With AAC or LC3 on the XM6 it drops to about 30–50 ms, and with the cable it’s effectively zero.

Can you use the Sony XM5 or XM6 on PS5?

Only wired. The PS5 doesn’t support Bluetooth headphones, so plug the included cable into the DualSense controller. The headset mic won’t work that way; use the controller’s mic instead.

Can you use the Sony XM5 or XM6 on Xbox?

Same as PS5: Xbox consoles don’t support Bluetooth audio, so use the 3.5 mm cable through the controller’s headset jack.

Does the microphone work for game chat?

Only over Bluetooth, and on most PCs that drops game audio to call quality while the mic is active. The XM6’s LE Audio gaming mode fixes this on supported Android phones. Over the cable, the headset mic doesn’t work on either model.

Is the XM6 worth it over the XM5 for gaming?

Only if you game on a phone that supports LE Audio or LC3. For wired console gaming the two perform the same, so the cheaper XM5 is the better value.

Does the Sony XM6 have a gaming mode?

Yes, since the July 2026 firmware update, which added the Bluetooth Gaming Audio Profile (GMAP) for lower latency and mic chat without call-quality audio. It works on supported Android phones like the Galaxy S24 Ultra; PS5 and Xbox don’t support Bluetooth audio, and Switch 2 and Steam Deck haven’t enabled it yet.

Best Earbuds Under $50 (2026): 5 Picks for iPhone and Android

Leave a Comment / Audio, Wireless Earbuds

A person listening to music with wireless earbuds while jogging in the city

The best earbuds under $50 right now are the Soundcore P31i: strong noise cancelling (Anker rates it at up to 52 dB), up to 10 hours per charge and 50 with the case, two-device multipoint and an IP55 rating, for about $35. If you want the best sound under $50, the CMF Buds Pro 2 add a two-driver design and a volume dial on the case for $49. On a tighter budget, the Soundcore P30i still bring noise cancelling for about $28. All five picks work with iPhone and Android; three also support LDAC hi-res audio on Android.

How we put this together: specs come from each maker’s own pages (Soundcore P31i, CMF Buds Pro 2, Soundcore P30i, SoundPEATS Air6 HS, JLab JBuds Mini; see also our earbuds and headphones spec database), and prices change often. It is not based on hands-on testing by iTech Level. See how we choose products.

Best earbuds under $50 compared

Product	Key specs
Best Overall Soundcore P31i	Adaptive ANC up to 52 dB; LDAC + AAC; multipoint (works with LDAC on); 10 h per charge, 50 h with case; IP55	Check on Amazon
Best Sound CMF Buds Pro 2	11 mm + 6 mm dual drivers; hybrid ANC up to 50 dB; LDAC + AAC; Smart Dial case; 43 h with case (AAC); IP55	Check on Amazon
Cheapest with ANC Soundcore P30i	Active noise cancelling; multipoint; 10 h per charge, 45 h with case; IP54	Check on Amazon
Best Semi-Open Fit SoundPEATS Air6 HS	LDAC, Hi-Res certified; semi-in-ear fit (no seal); 9 h per charge, 45 h with case; Bluetooth 6.0 multipoint	Check on Amazon
Smallest JLab JBuds Mini	About 3.3 g per earbud; multipoint; AAC; 5.5 h per charge, 20 h with case; IP55; no ANC	Check on Amazon

The picks

Best overall: Soundcore P31i

The P31i pack features that cost twice as much a couple of years ago. Anker rates the adaptive noise cancelling at up to 52 dB of noise reduction, it supports LDAC on Android and AAC on iPhone, and its dual connection keeps a phone and a laptop paired at once, even with LDAC switched on (many budget earbuds make you choose). Battery life is up to 10 hours per charge without noise cancelling, 8 hours with it, and 40 to 50 hours with the case; a 10-minute charge gives about 3.5 hours. The buds are IP55-rated against sweat and dust.

Pros

Strong adaptive noise cancelling for the price
LDAC and multipoint at the same time
Up to 50 hours with the case

Cons

Anker doesn’t publish the earbud weight
LDAC on both connected devices shortens battery life, per Anker

Check the Soundcore P31i on Amazon →

Check the P31i at Soundcore.com ($32.99) →

Soundcore.com code AFSC20: an extra 20% off full-price items (valid through Dec 31, 2026).

Best sound: CMF Buds Pro 2

The CMF Buds Pro 2 (by Nothing) pair an 11 mm driver with a 6 mm tweeter, and CMF rates the hybrid noise cancelling at up to 50 dB. The case has a Smart Dial for volume and noise modes without your phone. On Android you can turn on LDAC in the Nothing X app; iPhones use AAC. Nothing rates battery life at up to 11 hours per charge and 43 hours with the case using AAC, or 6.5 hours per charge with LDAC, and the buds are IP55-rated.

Pros

Two drivers per bud
Smart Dial controls on the case
LDAC on Android, AAC on iPhone

Cons

LDAC cuts battery life to 6.5 hours per charge
Right at the $50 limit

Check the CMF Buds Pro 2 on Amazon →

Cheapest with noise cancelling: Soundcore P30i

If you just want noise cancelling for as little as possible, the P30i do it for under $30. Anker lists up to 10 hours per charge and 45 hours with the case, multipoint for two devices and an IP54 rating. They’re the older sibling of the P31i, with weaker noise cancelling (Anker says the P31i’s is three times stronger) and no LDAC listed.

Check the Soundcore P30i on Amazon →

Check the P30i at Soundcore.com (from $24.99) →

Best semi-open fit: SoundPEATS Air6 HS

Semi-in-ear earbuds rest in the outer ear instead of sealing the canal, which suits people who find silicone tips uncomfortable. SoundPEATS lists a 13 mm driver, Hi-Res Audio certification with LDAC at up to 24-bit/96 kHz on Android, up to 9 hours per charge or 45 hours with the case, and Bluetooth 6.0 multipoint. Because they don’t seal, there’s no noise cancelling and the bass is lighter, and SoundPEATS says they aren’t recommended for gaming.

Check the SoundPEATS Air6 HS on Amazon →

Smallest: JLab JBuds Mini

At about 3.3 g per earbud in JLab’s launch announcement, the JBuds Mini are among the smallest earbuds you can buy, which helps if standard earbuds feel too big. They have multipoint, AAC and an IP55 rating, but no noise cancelling, and battery life is shorter: 5.5 hours per charge and 20 hours with the case.

Check the JLab JBuds Mini on Amazon →

iPhone or Android: does it matter under $50?

All five picks pair with both. The difference is the codec: iPhones use AAC, which all of these support. Android phones can also use LDAC, a higher-bitrate codec, on the Soundcore P31i, CMF Buds Pro 2 and SoundPEATS Air6 HS; turn it on in the earbuds’ app. LDAC uses more battery, so leave it off when you need the longest runtime.

Just over $50

The Soundcore Space A40 (LDAC, adaptive noise cancelling, about 4.9 g per bud, up to 50 hours with the case) were about $60 on October 23 and often drop to around $50 in sales. The CMF Buds 2 Plus (up to 61.5 hours with the case) were $59.

Specs from the makers, side by side

Model	Battery	Weight	Water rating	Connection	Maker doesn’t state
Soundcore P31i	ANC on: 8 h ANC off: 10 h with case: 40 (ANC on) / 50 (ANC off)	Not stated	IP55	Bluetooth 6.1	weight, latency
CMF by Nothing Buds Pro 2	ANC on: 4.3 (LDAC) ANC off: 11 (AAC) / 6.5 (LDAC) with case: 43 (AAC, ANC off) / 25 (LDAC, ANC off) / 16.6 (LDAC, ANC on)	Not stated	IP55 (earbuds; case not waterproof)	Bluetooth 5.3	weight, latency, multipoint
Soundcore P30i	ANC off: 10 h with case: 45 h	Not stated	IP54	Bluetooth	Bluetooth version, codecs, weight, latency
JLab JBuds Mini	5.5 h with case: 20 h	3.3 (launch post; spec table lists 6.6 g for both)	IP55	Bluetooth 5.3	latency

Frequently asked questions

Can you get noise cancelling earbuds for under $50?

Yes. The Soundcore P31i (about $35, rated up to 52 dB of noise reduction), CMF Buds Pro 2 ($49, up to 50 dB) and Soundcore P30i (about $28) all have active noise cancelling.

What are the best earbuds under $50 for Android?

The Soundcore P31i, because they combine LDAC with multipoint and strong noise cancelling. The CMF Buds Pro 2 and SoundPEATS Air6 HS also support LDAC.

What are the best earbuds under $50 for iPhone?

Any of these picks work with iPhone over AAC. The Soundcore P31i are the best all-rounder, and the JLab JBuds Mini are the smallest.

Best Gaming Laptops Under $1,200 (2026): What Actually Fits the Budget

Leave a Comment / Budget Tech, Gaming Laptops

A person playing a game on a laptop in a relaxed home setting

Updated October 2026 (Amazon US prices checked October 12–13, 2026; our three picks rechecked October 21)

Buying for Battlefield 6 or Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4? Both recommend a desktop RTX 3060 Ti and need Secure Boot and TPM 2.0; our laptop picks for both games cover what to buy.

Quick answer: the best gaming laptop under $1,200 right now is the Acer Nitro V 17 (ANV17-41) with an RTX 5060, which fits the budget at list price and often sells for less. Acer’s official GPU power list rates its RTX 5060 at 95 W, and it has a 17.3-inch 1080p screen. The RTX 5070 Nitro V 16 we recommended earlier in October no longer fits the budget. If you can stretch a little, the 2026 Lenovo LOQ 15 with a full-power 115 W RTX 5060 costs a little more, and the Acer Nitro V 16S AI with an RTX 5060 is a slimmer option above the budget. Skip the cheap 55 W RTX 5060 laptops listed below.

Check the Acer Nitro V 17 (RTX 5060) on Amazon →

Laptop prices have risen in 2026 because memory got much more expensive, and most RTX 5060 laptops from the big brands now cost more than $1,200. So this guide is built around what actually fits a $1,200 budget today, how much graphics power each laptop really gets, and when to wait for a sale. We compare manufacturer spec sheets, the GPU wattage from our laptop GPU power database, and Amazon US listings; we haven’t tested these laptops ourselves.

Comparison at a glance

Product	Graphics	Key specifications
Top pick Acer Nitro V 17 (ANV17-41)	RTX 5060, 95 W	Ryzen 5 240, 16GB DDR5, 512GB SSD, 17.3″ 1920×1080 165–180Hz, 6.2 lb	Check on Amazon
Worth the extra Lenovo LOQ 15 (15AHP11, 2026)	RTX 5060, 115 W	Ryzen 7 250, 16GB DDR5, 512GB SSD, 15.3″ 1920×1200 165Hz, 4.6 lb	Check on Amazon
Slim pick Acer Nitro V 16S AI (ANV16S-61)	RTX 5060, 85 W	Ryzen AI 7 350, 16GB, 1TB SSD, 16″	Check on Amazon

Prices and stock change often, so check the current listing before you buy.

What to buy for your budget

These are the price tiers we’d shop in, based on makers’ list prices and what these laptops typically sell for:

Under $1,000: nothing we’d recommend at full price right now. The RTX 5050 laptops near $1,000 run the GPU at only 75–85 W. Wait for a sale, and see our cheapest gaming laptops for what to look for.
Under $1,200: the Acer Nitro V 17 (ANV17-41), an RTX 5060 at 95 W ($1,199.99 list, often less), if a big, heavy 17-inch laptop suits you.
A little over $1,200: the 2026 Lenovo LOQ 15, an RTX 5060 at a full 115 W, if you’d rather have a lighter 15-inch laptop.
Under $2,000: a full-power 115 W RTX 5070, in the 14.5-inch Acer Predator Helios Neo 14 AI or the 16-inch ASUS ROG Strix G16. See our best RTX 5070 laptops.
Premium: the Lenovo Legion 5i Gen 10 with a 2.5K OLED screen and a 115 W RTX 5070, or an RTX 5070 Ti or RTX 5080 laptop.

Our picks

Best under $1,200: Acer Nitro V 17 (ANV17-41) with RTX 5060

A well-powered RTX 5060 under budget, if you don’t mind a big 17-inch laptop.

Under budget at list price and often discounted, the Nitro V 17 was the best gaming laptop we found under $1,200 in October 2026. The listing pairs an RTX 5060 with an AMD Ryzen 5 240 (6 cores), 16GB of DDR5, a 512GB Gen 4 SSD and a 17.3-inch 1920×1080 IPS screen (the listing says 180Hz in one place and 165Hz in another), and Amazon lists it at 6.2 lb.Power is what makes it a pick: Acer’s official GPU power list rates the RTX 5060 in the ANV17-41 at 95 W (80 W plus 15 W of Dynamic Boost). That’s below the LOQ 15’s full 115 W, but far above the 55 W budget models in the skip list below, and in Notebookcheck‘s first tests a 95 W RTX 5060 was “virtually on a par” with an 85 W RTX 5070.

Pros

RTX 5060 at 95 W, under $1,200
Big 17.3-inch screen at 165Hz or faster
Under the budget

Cons

Heavy at 6.2 lb
512GB SSD fills quickly with big games
6-core Ryzen 5 is the weakest processor here

Check on Amazon →

Worth stretching for

These two cost a little more than $1,200, but they’re the RTX 5060 laptops we’d buy today. Both are likely to drop under $1,200 for Black Friday.

Lenovo LOQ 15 (15AHP11, 2026) with RTX 5060

A full-power RTX 5060 in the lightest laptop here, for a little over the budget.

Lenovo’s spec sheet for the 2026 LOQ 15 lists an RTX 5060 at a full 115 W, 20 W more than the Nitro V 17 gives the same GPU, with an AMD Ryzen 7 250 and a 15.3-inch 1920×1200 165Hz screen with 100% sRGB, in a 2.1 kg (4.6 lb) chassis. The version we recommend (model 83TN0003US) has 16GB of memory and a 512GB SSD; the 1TB version costs more.Choose it over the Nitro V 17 if you want more GPU power in a much lighter laptop: 115 W against 95 W, and 4.6 lb against 6.2 lb. Lenovo ships it with a single 16GB memory stick, so add a matching second stick for dual-channel memory.

Pros

RTX 5060 at a full 115 W
165Hz 16:10 screen with 100% sRGB
Lightest laptop here at 4.6 lb

Cons

A little over budget
512GB SSD and single-channel 16GB memory out of the box

Check on Amazon →

Acer Nitro V 16S AI (ANV16S-61) with RTX 5060

A slimmer 16-inch with a 1TB SSD.

This Nitro V 16S AI has an AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 (8 cores), 16GB of memory and a 1TB SSD in one of Acer’s slimmer S-line chassis. Acer’s GPU power list rates its RTX 5060 at 85 W, a sensible level for a thin laptop but below the LOQ 15’s 115 W.Choose it if you want a slimmer 16-inch laptop and double the storage; for frame rates, the LOQ 15 or the cheaper Nitro V 17 is the better buy.

Pros

Slim 16-inch chassis
1TB SSD and an 8-core Ryzen AI 7 350

Cons

RTX 5060 at 85 W, not full power
Over budget

Check on Amazon →

Sold out or pricier since our last update

Acer Nitro V 16 (ANV16-72) with RTX 5070: our top pick earlier in October, with the RTX 5070 at 95 W, but it no longer fits the budget. If it comes back near $1,200, it’s the one to grab; see our best RTX 5070 laptops.
Lenovo LOQ 15 (15IRX10) with RTX 5050: a 100 W RTX 5050 with a 14-core Core i7-13650HX and a 1TB SSD. Worth buying new if you find it at about $1,100 or less.

Cheap RTX 5060 laptops to skip

Several of the cheapest RTX 5060 laptops are MSI Cyborg models, often just under $1,200. They sound like a bargain until you check the power. On MSI’s spec pages for the Cyborg 15 and Cyborg 17 (B2RW), the RTX 5060 is limited to 55 W maximum graphics power, less than half the 115 W in the 2026 LOQ 15 above. The RTX 5060’s lead over the RTX 5050 assumes equal power, so at 55 W you’d be paying RTX 5060 money for a GPU with about half the power budget of a full-power RTX 5050.Also skip the RTX 5050 Acer Nitro V 16 (ANV16-I31) sells for under $1,200, but it comes with 8GB of memory, a 512GB SSD and a 75 W RTX 5050 (Acer’s GPU power list). We also saw an Alienware Aurora 16X with an RTX 5060 near the budget; Dell doesn’t publish GPU power for its laptops, so we can’t tell how it compares.The general rule: look up the exact model in our GPU power database before you buy. An RTX 5060 below about 85 W is not worth paying RTX 5060 money for.

RTX 5060 vs RTX 5050 vs RTX 4050: which GPU tier to buy

At this budget the graphics chip decides most of what you get, so pick the tier first and the laptop second, then check its wattage.

Laptop GPU	Video memory	DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation	Best for
RTX 5060	8GB GDDR7	Yes	High settings at 1080p in new games; a few 95 W models sell for under $1,200
RTX 5050	8GB GDDR7	Yes	Medium-to-high 1080p settings and esports; about $1,000–$1,100 at full price
RTX 4050	6GB GDDR6	No (DLSS 3 frame generation)	The cheapest route into dedicated graphics, mostly esports and older titles

The 6GB of video memory on the RTX 4050 is its biggest limitation: some recent games need texture settings lowered to fit. If the price gap between an RTX 4050 and an RTX 5050 laptop is small, the 5050 is the safer long-term buy.

Can you get an RTX 5070 laptop under $1,200?

Occasionally. NVIDIA’s launch pricing put RTX 5070 laptops at $1,299 and up, and higher memory prices in 2026 have pushed many models further above that. Earlier in October the Acer Nitro V 16 (ANV16-72) briefly fit the budget with its RTX 5070 at 95 W, but no longer does, and we found no RTX 5070 laptop at $1,200 or less. Full-power 115 W RTX 5070 laptops still cost well over $1,200 outside of sales. If you can stretch further, see our best RTX 5070 laptops.The performance gap is also smaller than the name suggests. The original laptop RTX 5070 has 8GB of video memory, like the RTX 5060, so the extra spending mainly buys higher frame rates. Nvidia added a 12GB RTX 5070 in 2026, which gives more room for high texture settings.

Watch: is an RTX 5070 laptop worth paying more for than an RTX 5060?

This is the main decision at this budget. Jarrod’sTech tested both laptop GPUs in 25 games at 1080p and 1440p, and also compares thermals, battery life, power draw and price. Remember that his test laptops won’t match every model: check the GPU wattage of the exact laptop you buy in our laptop GPU power database.

Video by Jarrod’sTech, embedded from YouTube. Watch on YouTube.

New spec check every week: subscribe on YouTube.

Gaming laptops under $1,000

At full price, there’s little worth buying under $1,000 right now. In October 2026 the cheapest new RTX 5050 laptops cost about $1,000, and some, like the Acer Nitro V 15, run the GPU at only 75 W. RTX 5050 models can drop toward $800 in sales, so under $1,000 it pays to wait. An RTX 5060 scores about 21–22% higher than an RTX 5050 in Notebookcheck’s 3DMark comparison, with the same 8GB of video memory. For the best sub-$1,000 options and the traps to avoid, see our cheapest gaming laptops guide.

Best budget gaming laptop for esports

For Valorant, Counter-Strike 2, League of Legends, Fortnite, and similar games, the display matters more than the GPU. Look for a 144Hz or faster panel. All of the picks above can push high frame rates in these games at 1080p, and the Nitro V 17’s fast 17.3-inch screen and the LOQ 15’s 165Hz panel both suit fast shooters. For esports alone, an RTX 5050 laptop with a 144Hz screen is plenty, so it’s worth watching for one on sale (see the under-$1,000 section above); the money you save can go toward a good headset or mouse.

Is an older (2022-era) budget gaming laptop still worth buying?

Only at a steep discount. Many older budget laptops at this price used RTX 3050 or RTX 3060 graphics with 4GB to 6GB of video memory, DDR4 memory, and no access to DLSS 3 or DLSS 4 frame generation. They still play esports titles well, but a current RTX 5050 or RTX 5060 laptop will stay usable for new releases for noticeably longer. If a used or clearance model costs about the same as one of the picks above, buy the newer laptop.

What to look for under $1,200

At this price, the GPU model is only the starting point. The exact wattage, memory setup, display and storage decide how the laptop performs in practice.

GPU wattage: the same RTX name ranges from 55 W to 115 W across laptops at this price. Check the exact model in our GPU power database.
Memory: 16GB is the practical minimum. Check whether it’s one stick or two; a single stick runs in single-channel mode, which is easy to fix if there’s a free slot.
Display: a 144Hz to 165Hz 1080p or 1200p panel is a sensible match for budget gaming hardware. Higher resolution can reduce frame rates in demanding games.
Storage: 512GB is still common at this price; 1TB is worth having, since modern games can take 100GB or more each, and most of these laptops have a free slot to add a second drive.
Battery and portability: gaming performance drops sharply on battery. Weights range from about 4.6 lb (LOQ 15) to 6.2 lb (Nitro V 17) across the picks above.

Are gaming laptops under $1,200 worth it?

They can be worth it if you need portability or want one computer for gaming, school, and everyday work. A desktop usually offers more performance per dollar and easier upgrades, but a gaming laptop avoids the need for a separate monitor, keyboard, and portable computer.In late 2026, $1,200 buys a 95 W RTX 5060 laptop with money to spare; RTX 5070 laptops now cost well over $1,200. If you can wait until late November, Black Friday is the best chance to get a full-power 115 W RTX 5060 for the same money. For a broader look, see are budget gaming laptops worth it?

Black Friday 2026: what a gaming laptop under $1,200 should cost

Next sale: Black Friday

Prime Big Deal Days has ended. Black Friday is November 27, 2026, and Cyber Monday is November 30. Amazon's Black Friday deals often start a few days early. Some Amazon Black Friday deals are for Prime members only. New members can start a free Prime trial (eligible customers; it becomes paid unless you cancel). Our picks are chosen on year-round value, not just sale pricing; tap any link to see today's price.

Black Friday 2026 is November 27, and it’s the best time of year to stretch a $1,200 budget. For reference, these were some of the Black Friday 2025 prices reported by HotHardware on November 28, 2025:

Laptop	Black Friday 2025 price	Regular price	Retailer
Lenovo LOQ 15 (RTX 5060, Core i7-13650HX, 16GB / 512GB)	$849.99	$1,299.99	Best Buy
ASUS TUF Gaming A16 (RTX 5080, Ryzen 9 270, 32GB / 1TB)	$1,199.99	$1,699.99	Best Buy

Prices are higher this year. Memory shortages have pushed laptop prices up in 2026: in June, Tom’s Hardware noted that RAM had risen about 400% in price since the previous Black Friday. So treat last year’s prices as a best case, not a guarantee.

An RTX 5060 near $850 is a strong deal; an RTX 5070 or better under $1,200 is exceptional. Last year even an RTX 5080 laptop briefly hit $1,199.99.
The one to watch: the 2026 Lenovo LOQ 15 with a 115 W RTX 5060 costs a little over $1,200. Under $1,200, it would be our pick for a lighter 15-inch laptop.
Check which GPU you’re getting. Many cheap listings use the RTX 5050 rather than the RTX 5060, and GPU power varies: look the model up in our laptop GPU power database.
Check memory and storage: 16GB and 512GB are the minimum worth buying; some “deals” are 8GB versions.
Compare against the price history, not the “was” price.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best gaming laptop under $1,200?

The Acer Nitro V 17 (ANV17-41), with an RTX 5060 at 95 W, a 17.3-inch screen and 16GB of memory, at a $1,199.99 list price that’s often discounted. For a little more, the 2026 Lenovo LOQ 15 has a full-power 115 W RTX 5060.

Can you get an RTX 5060 laptop under $1,200?

Yes, but stock is thin. Yes: the Acer Nitro V 17 with a 95 W RTX 5060 lists at $1,199.99. The other well-powered RTX 5060 laptops we found, the Lenovo LOQ 15 (115 W) and Acer Nitro V 16S AI (85 W), cost a bit more. Several MSI Cyborg 15 and 17 laptops sell for just under $1,200, but MSI’s spec pages limit their RTX 5060 to 55 W, so we’d skip them. Black Friday is the best chance to get a full-power RTX 5060 under $1,200.

Can you get an RTX 5070 laptop under $1,200?

Not right now. The Acer Nitro V 16 (ANV16-72) with a 95 W RTX 5070 briefly fit the budget earlier in October 2026, but no longer does. Full-power 115 W models usually cost well over $1,200, so watch for Black Friday sales.

What is the best gaming laptop under $1,000?

At full price there’s very little: the cheapest current RTX 5050 laptops cost about $1,000–$1,100 in early October 2026. In sales, RTX 5050 models such as the Lenovo LOQ 15 and Acer Nitro V 15 can drop toward $800, so under $1,000 it’s worth waiting for a sale. See our cheapest gaming laptops guide for the options.

Is $1,200 enough for a good gaming laptop in 2026?

Yes, but only just at full price. $1,200 buys a 95 W RTX 5060 laptop, and the full-power RTX 5060 laptops cost a little more. Sales such as Black Friday can bring full-power 115 W RTX 5060 laptops well under $1,200.

Is 16GB of RAM enough for a budget gaming laptop?

Yes, 16GB is the practical minimum for current games. Check whether it’s one stick or two: the Lenovo LOQ 15 ships with a single 16GB stick, which runs in single-channel mode, so adding a matching second stick is a cheap upgrade.

What is the best cheap gaming laptop for esports?

A laptop with a fast screen matters more than the GPU for esports. The Acer Nitro V 17 (165Hz or faster) and the Lenovo LOQ 15 (165Hz) both push high frame rates in games like Valorant and Counter-Strike 2 at 1080p, and an RTX 5050 laptop on sale is plenty for esports alone.

Adam Levell

Can You Use Bluetooth Headphones for Gaming? Latency Explained (2026)

How much delay is too much?

Latency by connection type

Can you use Bluetooth headphones on each platform?

PS5

Xbox Series X|S

Nintendo Switch and Switch 2

PC

Phones

What about Sony’s WH-1000X headphones?

Wireless headsets that are actually built for gaming

How to reduce Bluetooth lag

Specs from the makers, side by side

Frequently asked questions

Is Bluetooth good for gaming?

Do Bluetooth headphones have lag in games?

Why doesn’t the PS5 support Bluetooth headphones?

Can I use AirPods or other earbuds for gaming?

What is the lowest-latency wireless option for gaming?

What does game mode on earbuds do?

Related reading

Lightest 17-Inch Laptops (2026): Lightweight and Thin Picks, Ranked by Weight

The lightest 17-inch laptops, ranked by weight

Newer isn’t lighter: LG’s 2026 17-inch models weigh more

1. LG gram 17 (2025): the lightest 17-inch laptop

2. LG gram Pro 17 (2025): the lightest 17-inch laptop with an RTX GPU

3. LG gram Max 17 (2026): the newest light 17-inch

4. LG gram Pro 17 (2026): light, with an RTX 5050

5. HP 17: a lighter-than-average budget 17-inch

6. ASUS Vivobook 17: another budget big-screen pick

The lightest 17-inch gaming laptops

Is a 16-inch laptop a better idea?

What to look for in a lightweight 17-inch laptop

Frequently asked questions

What is the lightest 17-inch laptop?

What is the lightest 17-inch laptop with a dedicated GPU?

Are the 2026 LG gram 17 models lighter?

How much does a typical 17-inch laptop weigh?

What is the thinnest 17-inch laptop?

Is a 17-inch laptop too big to carry?

Related reading

Are the Sony WH-1000XM5 and XM6 Good for Gaming? (2026 Guide)

Can you use the Sony XM5 or XM6 for gaming?

Sony XM5 and XM6 latency by connection

XM5 vs XM6 for gaming: side by side

Which one should you buy for gaming?

Buy the XM5 if:

Buy the XM6 if:

Skip both and get a gaming headset if:

What about the XM4?

Setup tips for gaming with Sony XM headphones

Frequently asked questions

Are Sony headphones good for gaming?

Do the Sony XM5 or XM6 have lag when gaming?

Can you use the Sony XM5 or XM6 on PS5?

Can you use the Sony XM5 or XM6 on Xbox?

Does the microphone work for game chat?

Is the XM6 worth it over the XM5 for gaming?

Does the Sony XM6 have a gaming mode?

Related reading

Best Earbuds Under $50 (2026): 5 Picks for iPhone and Android

Best earbuds under $50 compared

The picks

Best overall: Soundcore P31i

Pros

Cons

Best sound: CMF Buds Pro 2

Pros

Cons

Cheapest with noise cancelling: Soundcore P30i

Best semi-open fit: SoundPEATS Air6 HS

Smallest: JLab JBuds Mini

iPhone or Android: does it matter under $50?

Just over $50

Specs from the makers, side by side

Frequently asked questions

Can you get noise cancelling earbuds for under $50?

What are the best earbuds under $50 for Android?

What are the best earbuds under $50 for iPhone?