HP Victus 15 (2025)

Configs to buy / avoid: The Victus only makes sense as a cheap entry-level option. The power limited RTX 5060 version we tested should generally be avoided, and lower tier RTX 5050 or 4050 options should only be considered if it's cheaper compared to other options in your region (see alternatives below). Testing notes: The Victus 16 delivered decent battery life, cool internal temperatures, quiet fan noise, two RAM slots, two M.2 slots, upgradeable Wi-Fi, good keyboard and touchpad feel, decent speakers for the price, and excellent Linux support. Its RTX 5060 only ran at 80W, so performance was closer to other lower-powered budget 5060 laptops rather than the full-powered options. Trade-offs: The main compromises were weak screen colors, slow 17ms response time, no MUX switch, no Advanced Optimus, lower GPU power than it should have with a 200W charger, slow Wi-Fi, poor battery drain while asleep and a flexible plastic build. Alternatives: If the Lenovo LOQ 15 is close in price, consider that instead because it is a much better overall budget gaming laptop. ASUS's TUF F16 is also worth a look at, depending on price difference with current sales.