Gaming On The Go: My Ragtag PC Setup

Gaming On The Go: My Ragtag PC Setup

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, step right up to witness the most miraculous, the most astounding, the most “how did they even think of that?” gaming setup ever to grace this digital realm! I’m talking, of course, about my ragtag, borderline MacGyver-esque, portable PC setup, aptly named “Gaming On The Go!” Because who needs a beefy, stationary battlestation when you can game like a nomad, wandering the earth, one Wi-Fi hotspot at a time?

Now, don’t be fooled by its dark exterior, the occasional exposed wire, or the fact that it occasionally doubles as a space heater. This wondrous contraption is the epitome of portability and convenience. No destination is too remote, no train ride too long, no coffee shop too hipster for my trusty rig.

Join me, as we embark on a journey through the wild and wacky world of my makeshift mobile gaming setup. Prepare to marvel at the sheer ingenuity, the unparalleled innovation, and the sheer determination it took to create this one-of-a-kind masterpiece. So strap in, grab your favorite caffeinated beverage, and let’s dive headfirst into the mad scientist’s lab of Gaming On The Go!

But, before that, let’s give you a rundown of what you’re signing up for:

Heart of the Build: My Trusty Gaming LaptopHeart of the Build: My Trusty Gaming Laptop

I know, I know, why spend money on a gaming laptop when you can build a
MUCH better gaming PC with half the budget? Well, my dear readers, can you bring your gaming PC wherever you want? Don’t think so!

Besides, I’ve done my research, and have found the perfect balance between sleek and beefy. With that said, I’m currently running a ROG Strix G15. Let’s dive deeper into its capabilities:

Specs

Here is the spec sheet for my specific model for all of you tech enthusiasts out there:

Component Model
Processor AMD Ryzen 7 5800H with Radeon Graphics
Graphics Card AMD Radeon(™) Graphics
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Laptop GPU
Wireless Card MediaTek Wi-Fi 6 MT7921 Wireless LAN Card
Storage SSD/EMMC 1 953GV, INTEL SSDPEKNU010TZ
Memory 16 GB DDR4 @ 3200 MHz

Processor

Alright, so first things first, having a Zen 3 chip is quite enough for my working requirements. Running League of Legends feels like a breeze, and with 8 Cores and 16 Threads on a Boost Clock of 4.4GHz, you almost never have to worry about processing power, no matter the task.

Sure, it’s not comparable to the Threadrippers out there, but it’s plentiful for a gamer. If you’re wondering why I didn’t opt for Intel is because the prices in this specific range tend to favor AMD more, nothing more, nothing less.

Besides, the 7nm process with PCIe® 3.0 speeds means I can upgrade my RAM to 4266 MHz if I want. There’s no going DDR5, but considering the budget and the value I’m getting out of it, I’d call it a steal!

Graphics Card

Due to the built-in graphics in the processor, I have two GPUs in my laptop. The AMD one is nothing special, runs the usual stuff just fine, but when it comes to gaming, you can kiss your FPS goodbye.

That’s where the second GPU comes in. Yes, the Graphics Memory is low, but it’s still a beast. Plays almost every modern game without issue – just don’t turn details or RTX on.

Though, for League of Legends and Valorant, even a 3050 Ti is a big overkill, so if you’re looking for some tech advice – always spec according to your needs!

Wireless Card

As tech enthusiasts know, a Wi-Fi card is never a point of consideration when buying/building a rig. It supports Wi-Fi 6, and that’s plenty.

Though, if I do want to enjoy more speeds, getting an external card doesn’t seem that bad of a deal!

Storage

1 TB of SSD is plentiful for storing most of my immediate files, and games. However, I still keep an external 2 TB drive for storage and backup.

SSDs tend to have a lower working life than an HDD, but having an external HDD is also risky as one fall can be the end of it. Therefore, I usually keep it stationary.

Unlike my laptop, my external drive doesn’t go places with me, so it all works out in the end.

Memory

Before you make the point, yes, 16GB is very limiting, and I’m planning for a 32 GB upgrade. However, considering I mostly play esport-ready titles, the RAM has never really limited me during my gaming sessions.

Though, running Chrome on it can feel like an extreme sport. With the sorcery Google is cooking these days, it feels like even 32 GB might not be enough in the near future.

AestheticsAesthetics

You see, dear readers, appearances matter, and in the world of gaming, it’s all about making a statement. While some may argue that the insides are more important than the outsides, I beg to differ. Why not have both?

My ROG Strix G16, though a powerful beast, is also a beauty to behold. The sleek black casing, with subtle yet striking angles, radiates the essence of a gaming laptop. But it doesn’t stop there – oh no, my friends, we’re just getting started.

The keyboard is a dazzling spectacle in its own right. A full RGB rainbow extravaganza, customizable to my heart’s desire. Whether I’m feeling the cool blues of an underwater adventure or the fiery reds of a post-apocalyptic wasteland, the keyboard’s ambiance is always tailored to my mood.

And don’t miss out on the down-firing breathing light. You might think it’s overkill, but I assure you, it’s the cherry on top of this scrumptious gaming sundae. This mesmerizing light show ensures that I’ll be turning heads and garnering envious glances wherever I go.

Thermals

The ROG Strix G16’s cooling system is a marvel, given its compact form factor. It has proven its mettle, keeping the laptop cool even under the most demanding gaming scenarios.

However, let’s not kid ourselves – this laptop can get pretty warm during those marathon gaming sessions. But, and this is important, it has never reached the point where it’s too hot to handle. Thanks to its well-designed cooling system, which includes an array of heat pipes, dual fans, and strategically placed vents, thermal throttling is not something that interrupts my gaming sessions.

Admittedly, temperatures can sometimes be toasty, especially when pushing the system to its limits with graphically-intensive games. However, I have yet to experience any significant performance issues related to overheating. The ROG Strix G16 strikes a perfect balance between a slim profile and an effective cooling solution.

Display

A display is a window into the magical worlds we gamers love to explore, where pixels dance, colors burst, and refresh rates make all the difference between sweet victory and crushing defeat.

Allow me to introduce you to the ROG Strix G16’s delightful display: a solid 1920 x 1080p resolution with a smooth-as-butter 144Hz refresh rate. It’s like a visual feast for the eyes – and, let’s be honest, our thumbs too.

There aren’t any specific shortcomings. Sure, it’s not as bright as an external monitor, but that’s pretty much it. The only downside, if you can even call it that, is the occasional need to wipe away drool from the screen as I marvel at its breathtaking visuals.

Jokes aside, I know resolution might be a dealbreaker for some, but let me remind you that my version comes with a 3050Ti, so going any higher is not a smart move.

Portability Maxed – My Skyloong KeyboardPortability Maxed - My Skyloong Keyboard

My laptop has a good enough keyboard, and it does everything I need it to do. But when you want to flame your teammates to oblivion, a membrane keyboard just doesn’t cut it.

That’s where my SK61s come into play. It’s a 60% hot swappable keyboard meaning I can just tuck it with me wherever I want without worrying about storing it. The panda on the space key seems to love me, and the Gateron Optical Brown switches are the cherry on top.

They are silent enough for me to use in cafes but at the same time, are soft, and clicky enough to help me enjoy every single key press. Plus, the option to connect it via Bluetooth or USB-C is just a keyboard guy’s dream.

In addition, the hot swappable factor makes the repairability factor go through the roofs! Lost a key? Just order a new one! The switch broke down, and this feature allowed me to swap it with a new one! The overall hassle and the process is very simple.

It also has a battery that lasts around 9 hours on continuous use, so that’s always a plus!

My Trusty Mouse Companion: Logitech G402My Trusty Mouse Companion: Logitech G402

The Logitech G402 Hyperion Fury is more than just a gaming mouse – it’s the ultimate gaming companion. From its advanced Fusion Engine to its customizable buttons and on-the-fly DPI switching, this little gadget packs a serious punch. But don’t let its small size fool you – the G402 is a powerhouse of performance and precision.

One of the standout features of the G402 is its eight programmable buttons, which give you complete control over your gameplay. Whether you want to assign macros, shortcuts, or specific commands to your favorite games, the G402 makes it easy. And with a DPI range of 240 to 4000, you can adjust the sensitivity to suit your style of play.

But what really sets the G402 apart is its Fusion Engine, which combines an optical sensor with an accelerometer and a gyroscope. This unique technology delivers lightning-fast tracking speeds and pinpoint accuracy, making it easier than ever to dominate the competition. And with the on-the-fly DPI switching, you can adjust the sensitivity on the fly to suit your needs.

Of course, a gaming mouse is only as good as its design, and the G402 doesn’t disappoint. Its lightweight yet durable construction is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in your hand, even during extended gaming sessions. And with strategically placed buttons and a sleek, streamlined appearance, it’s a mouse that looks as good as it feels.

However, there are definitely better mice on the planet right now, but losing a pricey mouse hurts my feeble self, so my G402 strikes a really nice balance between affordability and performance.

The Audio –  Say Hello To Razer BlackShark V2The Audio -  Say Hello To Razer BlackShark V2

When it comes to gaming, we all know that visuals and performance are vital, but let’s not overlook the importance of audio. A good gaming headset can make all the difference, immersing you in the heart of the action and giving you a competitive edge. That’s where the Razer BlackShark V2 comes in – a perfect blend of affordability, portability, and top-notch audio quality.

As a budget-conscious gamer who’s always on the go, I needed a headset that wouldn’t break the bank but would still deliver the performance I craved. Enter the Razer BlackShark V2. This beauty not only fits the bill but exceeds all my expectations.

The BlackShark V2 boasts custom-tuned 50mm drivers that deliver rich, immersive sound with crisp highs, clear mids, and punchy lows. Whether I’m sneaking around in a stealth game or diving headfirst into a chaotic FPS battle, the audio quality never fails to impress.

But it’s not just the sound that makes this headset stand out – it’s also the comfort. The BlackShark V2 features ultra-soft ear cushions made from breathable memory foam, ensuring that even during those marathon gaming sessions, my ears remain comfortable and cool. The lightweight design and adjustable headband make it easy to find the perfect fit, ensuring that I can game for hours without any discomfort.

Now, let’s talk about the microphone – a crucial component for any gamer who relies on clear communication with their teammates. The BlackShark V2’s detachable Razer HyperClear Cardioid Mic ensures that my voice comes through loud and clear, filtering out background noise so that I can strategize, celebrate, or (let’s be honest) trash talk with ease.

The Laptop’s Low Battery Time, and The Fix!

As we all know, gaming laptops aren’t known for their amazing battery backup. At most, you’d only get around 2 to 3 hours, and then it’s blackout time. If lucky you’d get a port nearby to plug your laptop’s charger into.

But what about the scenarios where there’s no power to plug into? You use battery banks!

The Rog Strix is capable of running just fine on 100W power – despite its charger rated for 200W. Since its USB C port supports power delivery, you just need to plug a power bank in it that’s both small in size, and powerful enough to support 100W output.

You can always go to one of those sketchy AliExpress pages to get something customized, but in my case, Baseus had my back

I currently have 2 power banks (and almost 50,000mAh of battery backup), to ensure I don’t lose power when it matters!

Baseus 30,000 mAh 7-Port Battery BankBaseus 30,000 mAh 7-Port Battery Bank

The Baseus 30,000mAh Battery Bank has proven to be a true game-changer. With its massive capacity, it ensures that I never run out of juice, no matter where my adventures take me.

But what sets this battery bank apart from the rest is its impressive array of seven charging ports. You heard that right – seven! The Baseus Battery Bank features four USB-A ports, one USB-C port, one Lightning port, one micro-USB port.. This versatile setup allows me to charge multiple devices simultaneously, from smartphones and tablets to gaming consoles and laptops.

One might think that with such a massive capacity, this battery bank would be an unwieldy beast. However, the Baseus 30,000mAh Battery Bank’s sleek and compact design ensures that it’s easily portable and can slip into my bag without adding too much weight or taking up too much space.

Another feature that I love about this battery bank is its built-in safety measures. The Baseus 30,000mAh Battery Bank is equipped with overcharge, overvoltage, and short circuit protection, ensuring that my devices are always safe and secure while charging.

The handy LED provides real-time information about the remaining battery capacity, allowing me to monitor my power usage and ensure that I’m never caught off guard by a dying battery.

Baseus 20,000 mAh BladeBaseus 20,000 mAh Blade

I’ll be honest, my needs are demanding, and I’ve tried countless power banks that just couldn’t keep up. But the Baseus Blade has never let me down. With its whopping 20000mAh capacity, it can charge my gaming laptop, phone, and other devices multiple times without breaking a sweat.

One of the features I absolutely love about the Baseus Blade is its 100W Power Delivery (PD) capability. This means that I can fast-charge my gaming laptop or any USB-C device at lightning speeds. In fact, it’s so powerful that it can even charge my laptop while I’m gaming, ensuring that I never run out of power in the heat of the action.

The two USB-C and two USB-A ports make the Baseus Blade incredibly versatile, allowing me to charge multiple devices simultaneously. It’s perfect for those moments when I’m out with friends, and we all need a quick power boost for our gadgets. Plus, the smart charging technology ensures that each device gets the optimal charging speed it needs, without any risk of overcharging or overheating.

But what really sets the Baseus Blade apart for me is its sleek, ultra-slim design. It’s remarkably compact and lightweight for such a high-capacity power bank, making it easy to slip into my bag and take with me wherever I go. The cool black exterior and blade-like design give it a unique, futuristic look that perfectly matches my gaming gear.

Bye Portability, Hello Home Setup!

Well folks, that has been everything I fit in my trusty SwissGear backpack on a daily basis. But when it comes to home gaming, nothing can beat the comfort of sitting in your own desk and chair with dedicated monitors, and more.

So, in order to ensure I’m getting the best of both worlds, I’ve made this pseudo setup around my laptop that takes full advantage of its back I/O ports, and delivers everything I want it to deliver!

My Command Center: The Gaming TableMy Command Center: The Gaming Table

Every dedicated gamer knows that a proper gaming setup isn’t complete without a spacious, ergonomic, and stylish gaming desk. After much research and consideration, I finally settled on the Large Gaming Desk Set. This ergonomic gamer computer desk has become the heart of my gaming lair, providing the perfect command center for my epic gaming sessions.

The 48-inch wide desktop offers ample space for my gaming laptop, trusty SK61s keyboard, Logitech G402 mouse, and even a large monitor. I can easily spread out all my gaming gear without feeling cramped or cluttered, which is essential when I’m in the heat of battle. The desk’s cable management system ensures that my setup remains neat and tidy, keeping those pesky wires out of sight and out of mind.

One of the key selling points of this gaming table for me is its ergonomic design. The slightly curved front edge allows for a comfortable resting position for my wrists and arms during those long gaming marathons. It’s amazing how much difference a well-designed desk can make in terms of comfort and reducing strain on my body.

But this desk isn’t just functional – it’s also a stylish addition to my gaming space. The sleek black finish and minimalist design complement my gaming gear and other decor perfectly. The desk’s sturdy metal frame not only provides excellent support for all my equipment but also gives it a modern, industrial aesthetic that I absolutely love.

My Throne: The Executive Mesh ChairMy Throne: The Executive Mesh Chair

A gaming setup is only as comfortable as the chair you sit on, and I’ve found the perfect throne to rule my gaming kingdom: The Executive Mesh Chair. This sleek, all-black chair has become my go-to seat of power for all gaming sessions, work meetings, and everything in between.

The chair’s striking all-black design is not only visually appealing but also complements my gaming desk and other gaming gear flawlessly. Its modern look adds a touch of sophistication and professionalism to my gaming space, making it an elegant choice for both work and play.

Comfort is crucial when it comes to sitting for long hours, and the Executive Mesh Chair does not disappoint. The breathable mesh material ensures that I stay cool and well-ventilated even during the most intense gaming marathons. The chair’s ergonomic design provides excellent lumbar support, reducing the strain on my back and promoting proper posture.

The adjustable features of this chair allow me to customize it to my preferences, ensuring the perfect fit for my body. With the ability to adjust the seat height, tilt tension, and armrests, I can fine-tune the chair’s settings to suit my needs, maximizing comfort and support. The smooth-rolling casters make it easy for me to glide across the floor, whether I’m reaching for a snack or quickly moving between tasks.

Durability is also a key factor in choosing the perfect chair, and the Executive Mesh Chair has proven to be a sturdy and reliable option. Its high-quality construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily use, making it a long-lasting investment in my gaming setup and office space.

Monitors – The View of Satisfaction

As a gaming enthusiast and multitasker extraordinaire, I’ve equipped my setup with not one, but two external monitors, each serving a specific purpose. In addition to my laptop’s built-in display, these two screens allow me to switch seamlessly between gaming, content consumption, and long hours of productivity.

The first of my trusty monitors is dedicated to gaming. It boasts a high refresh rate, low input lag, and crisp visuals that ensure I never miss a beat in the heat of battle. This monitor is my weapon of choice when it comes to enjoying those high-octane gaming sessions, where every millisecond counts. With its smooth performance and vibrant colors, it elevates my gaming experience to new heights.

My second monitor, on the other hand, is tailored for content consumption and long hours of use. It features an eye-friendly panel that reduces strain during extended periods of screen time. This monitor is perfect for watching movies, browsing the web, and tackling work tasks without any discomfort. Its versatile design allows me to seamlessly transition from one activity to another, ensuring that I’m always prepared for whatever comes my way.

The beauty of this dual-monitor setup is the flexibility it offers. I can easily switch between tasks, keeping one eye on my favorite Twitch stream while grinding through spreadsheets on the other screen. This multitasking marvel not only enhances my productivity but also adds a touch of style to my gaming space, making it a functional and eye-catching addition to my setup.

ASUS PA24ACASUS PA24AC

The PA24AC boasts 100% sRGB color gamut coverage and is pre-calibrated for exceptional color accuracy (ΔE < 2). This means that the colors on the screen are vibrant and true-to-life, allowing me to enjoy my favorite movies, shows, and YouTube videos with stunning clarity and detail.

Support for HDR-10 ensures that the monitor can deliver High Dynamic Range (HDR) performance, bringing out the best in both highlights and shadows. This further enhances the overall visual quality, making every scene feel more lifelike and engaging.

ASUS ProArt Calibration technology is another key feature of this monitor, offering advanced adjustments such as a 14-bit lookup table for color accuracy and a 5 x 5 grid uniformity test. This ensures that the display remains consistent and precise, even after long hours of use.

The PA24AC comes equipped with an array of I/O ports, including DP over USB-C™ with 60W Power Delivery, DisplayPort, HDMI, and a USB 3.0 hub. This makes it incredibly versatile and easy to connect to various devices, ensuring that my content consumption experience is always seamless and hassle-free.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But the 60Hz refresh rate is a bit of a bummer, right?” Well, yes and no. While a higher refresh rate might not be preferable for gaming, the truth is that the 60Hz refresh rate on this monitor doesn’t detract from its outstanding visual performance. The vibrant colors, excellent contrast, and impressive HDR capabilities more than make up for the 60Hz limitation when it comes to content consumption.

ASUS VG278QRASUS VG278QR

For gaming, I’ve chosen the ASUS VG278QR Gaming Monitor, a 27-inch Full HD beast that delivers an ultra-fast 165Hz refresh rate and Adaptive-Sync technology. These features ensure that my gaming sessions are free of screen tearing and choppy frame rates, providing a buttery-smooth experience every time.

The VG278QR is certified as G-SYNC Compatible and supports FreeSync Premium technology. This means it offers a seamless, tear-free gaming experience by enabling VRR (variable refresh rate) by default, regardless of whether I’m using an NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon graphics card.

With an impressive 0.5ms* response time, the monitor ensures smooth gameplay and minimizes motion blur. ASUS Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) Technology takes it a step further by reducing ghosting, keeping the visuals crisp even during fast-paced action.

ASUS GameFast Input Technology minimizes input lag, delivering much faster motion from end devices to the monitor. This is crucial when every millisecond counts, like in competitive gaming where reaction times can make or break your performance.

The ASUS-exclusive GamePlus hotkey provides in-game enhancements, while GameVisual offers optimized visuals tailored to various gaming scenarios. These features allow me to customize my gaming experience according to my preferences and the games I play.

Now, I must admit that the TN panel on the VG278QR isn’t as visually pleasing as the IPS panel on my ProArt Display, but it serves its purpose for gaming. I like to think of my setup as having an extreme right (this gaming display), an in-between (my laptop display), and an extreme left (the ProArt display). This arrangement gives me the flexibility to choose the perfect display for any task or gaming session.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my gaming setup is a carefully curated selection of high-quality components that cater to my gaming and productivity needs. From the reliable and powerful ROG Strix G16 laptop to the stunning ASUS ProArt Display PA24AC and the speedy ASUS VG278QR Gaming Monitor, every piece of my setup is optimized for performance and comfort.

My choice of peripherals, like the Skyloong SK61s keyboard, the Logitech G402 Hyperion Fury mouse, and the Razer BlackShark V2 headset, ensures that I have full control over my gaming experience and can enjoy crystal-clear audio. And let’s not forget the crucial support provided by the Baseus Blade 20000mAh power bank, the spacious 48-inch gaming desk, and the ultra-comfortable Executive Mesh Chair.

Affordability and portability have been key factors in my decision-making process, allowing me to balance my gaming desires with my on-the-go lifestyle. I believe that my setup is a testament to the fact that you don’t have to break the bank to build a gaming haven that caters to your every need.

So, whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out, I hope my personal gaming setup has given you some inspiration and ideas for creating your very own gaming paradise. Remember, the key is to strike a balance between performance, affordability, and portability, ensuring that your setup is tailored to your unique preferences and requirements. Game on!

 

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