Black Friday 2026 Laptops in the UK: The Department Guide

Gaming computers are easiest to compare once you read the exact graphics card, not just the series name. Decide whether you need to carry the machine, since that settles laptop or desktop. Then check memory, storage and the Windows version, and read the returns terms before you pay, especially on a used machine.

This department covers two ways to play on a computer. The gaming laptops guide looks at graphics chips, power limits, screens, cooling and weight. The gaming PCs guide covers graphics cards, processors, memory and how easy a desktop is to upgrade.

Graphics names need a close read on both. Nvidia lists different memory sizes for some desktop cards with the same model number, such as the RTX 5060 Ti at 16 or 8 GB. On laptops, it lists a range of power figures for each chip, so two machines with one chip name need not perform the same.

Windows is worth checking on any older machine. Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025, which means no more routine security updates without its extended programme. An older PC or laptop should either be running Windows 11 or be able to upgrade.

Upgrades are the other big difference between the two. A desktop can usually take a new graphics card or more memory if the case and power supply allow it, while a laptop leaves far fewer options. Buy a laptop for the specification you need on day one.

The wider UK picture is on the UK home page.