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Quantum artificial intelligence is the fusion of quantum computing and artificial intelligence. It is poised to redefine what’s computationally possible and it’s closer to reality than many think.The quantum technology market is rapidly expanding. Today, it's valued at around $35 billion, but forecasts estimate it could reach $1 trillion by 2030. That kind of explosive growth reflects not only the financial interest in quantum tech, but also its much anticipated capability.In fact, a recent global survey by SAS of 500 business leaders across industries reinforces these projections as it found that interest in Quantum AI is very high, with more than 60% of respondents indicating they are actively investing or exploring opportunities in the technology.Yet these business leaders also cited crucial barriers to adoption of Quantum AI. Among their top concerns were high cost (38%), lack of understanding or knowledge (35%), and uncertainty around practical, real-world uses (31%).The survey results indicate that while interest in Quantum AI is on the rise, organizations need a clear roadmap and guide to better leverage this technology.What is Quantum AI?Quantum AI combines the power of quantum computing with artificial intelligence, leveraging the unique strengths of both fields to solve problems beyond the reach of classical systems.At the heart of quantum computing are quantum bits, or qubits, which can exist in multiple states at once, known as superposition. This allows quantum computers to process vast amounts of information simultaneously, offering parallelism far beyond the capabilities of traditional, sequential computing.When integrated with AI, which excels at data analysis, pattern recognition, and predictive modelling, the result is a powerful system capable of breakthroughs across industries. AI has already transformed fields like healthcare and finance, but its progress is limited by the constraints of classical computing.Quantum AI also uses quantum algorithms to improve machine learning models. Quantum machine learning models, including quantum-enhanced support vector machines and neural networks, use quantum circuits to perform computations. These circuits form the foundations of quantum computing, representing a universal method for executing further operations.In these neural networks, classical data is encoded into quantum states. Parameterized rotations, entanglements, and measurements allow the quantum circuit to explore complex relationships simultaneously. The resulting outputs are optimized classically and then cycled back into the quantum system, mimicking the iterative weight adjustment process seen in traditional neural networks.A hybrid approach Due to the current limitations of quantum hardware, Quantum AI is typically implemented as a hybrid process, combining quantum and classical computing. In some systems, quantum computation precedes classical post-processing, and in others, it's the reverse.Many emerging approaches involve a cyclical interaction between the two. This hybrid architecture enables researchers to take advantage of quantum parallelism while relying on classical systems for stability, scalability, and optimization.As quantum processors evolve, we are witnessing early stages of co-located quantum processing units (QPUs) and AI-specific units (AIUs) on shared platforms. This tighter integration signals a future where quantum and AI co-develop in increasingly intertwined ways, offering unprecedented performance and efficiency.Real-world applications and opportunitiesResearchers in healthcare are exploring the use of Quantum AI to streamline drug design and make the discovery of life-saving treatments faster and more cost-effective. In the financial services industry, quantum algorithms can process extremely complex financial data in unique ways and identify patterns that traditional computers might miss.Quantum-enhanced AI systems can also manage supply chains with unmatched efficiency, or revolutionize the logistics industry by optimizing routes and inventory in ways that aren't computationally feasible today. Cybersecurity may experience one of the most dramatic shifts, as Quantum AI brings both risk and reward. For example, it could crack current encryption standards, but also create far more secure systems in their place.This powerful convergence of quantum computing and artificial intelligence is not just convenient, but is a transformative leap that could fundamentally alter how we process data, solve problems, and envision the future.At its core, Quantum AI draws from the very fabric of quantum mechanics, merging it with the adaptive learning and decision-making capabilities of AI.Challenges aheadThe road to a Quantum AI future is far from smooth. In fact, one of the greatest challenges lies in the hardware itself, particularly as quantum computers are incredibly delicate.Qubits are prone to decoherence, a process where their quantum state collapses due to interference from their environment. To maintain their integrity, these systems must be kept at temperatures near absolute zero, shielded from even the slightest vibrations or electromagnetic interference. This makes them not only expensive but also highly complex to maintain and operate.On the software side, things are equally challenging as developing algorithms that can run on quantum systems while taking advantage of AI’s learning capabilities is an intricate task. It demands expertise across two highly specialized fields, quantum physics and machine learning, which are not often found together.New programming languages, compilers, and development frameworks are being built from scratch, but we are still in the early stages of that journey.Beyond the technical obstacles, there are also profound ethical questions to consider. As with AI, Quantum AI demands thoughtful deployment to prevent bias or misuse. Given its scale, responsible governance must be built in, not bolted on.The sheer power that Quantum AI promises means it could become a tool of extraordinary benefit, or risk, depending on how it's governed, and important concerns should start to be addressed now and not after the technology is widely deployed.A look aheadWhat is clear, though, is that we are standing on the precipice of a technological revolution.Quantum AI has the potential to reshape entire industries, challenge our current understanding of computation, and offer solutions to problems once thought insurmountable. But for all its promise, its success depends not just on innovation, but on collaboration between scientists, businesses, policymakers, and the public.As quantum processors become more robust and AI algorithms more adaptable to quantum platforms, we will start to see the first wave of truly transformative applications.We list the best laptop for programming.This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro

Gaming laptops have come a long way, and you no longer need to spend a fortune to enjoy smooth gameplay. While most gaming laptops can be pricey, there are now affordable options that deliver impressive performance without compromising too much on features. Whether you're diving into esports titles or exploring expansive open-world games, the best cheap gaming laptops offer a balance of power and value.These budget-friendly machines often come equipped with high-refresh-rate displays, ensuring fluid visuals during intense gaming sessions. Some even boast OLED screens, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks that enhance the gaming experience. While they might not match the premium build of high-end models, many of these laptops can still run modern games at high settings. And if you're transitioning from a cheaper laptop or a Chromebook, you'll appreciate the added versatility and performance these gaming laptops bring to the table.

Table of contents

Best budget gaming laptops for 2025

What is a budget gaming laptop?

Are cheap gaming laptops worth it?

Best budget gaming laptops for 2025

What is a budget gaming laptop?

To get a high-end gaming experience, you can easily spend $5,000 on a fully tricked-out notebook like the Razer Blade 18. But when it comes to the best budget gaming laptops, we're focusing on the other end of the pricing spectrum: laptops under $1,000. It used to be tough to find a gaming option with decent performance at that price point but, as PC prices have fallen, they no longer seem like unicorns.

Stepping up a bit to systems between $1,000 and $2,000 puts you firmly in mid-range territory, which is beyond the scope of this guide. Still, it's worth keeping an eye out for sales that can push those higher-end models below $1,000. Be sure to check out our guide to the best gaming laptops for a general overview of what to look out for in these more expensive systems.

Are cheap gaming laptops worth it?

Cheap gaming laptops are definitely worth it if you’re trying to save money and are being realistic about what you can get at this price range. You can expect to find Intel and AMD's latest (but not greatest) CPUs, as well as entry-level GPUs like NVIDIA's RTX 3050. Budget models are also typically paired with FHD screens running at a respectably high refresh rate of 120Hz or beyond — ensuring smooth frame rates in your favorite games. There are some exceptions though: Dell's G16 (currently discounted to $900) is notable for its 16-inch quad HD+ screen.

Many cheap gaming laptops also skimp on specs like RAM and hard drive space. We'd recommend getting at least 16GB of RAM and SSD storage of at least 512GB. Modern games need a decent chunk of memory to run, and they also tend to be large, so you wouldn't be able to fit much alongside Windows 11 on a 256B SSD. You might be tempted to jump on one of those dirt-cheap gaming laptop deals from Walmart or Best Buy, but it's just not worth it if you're stuck with 8GB of RAM or a tiny SSD.

As for build quality, expect to find more plastic than metal on budget gaming machines. Still, the best budget gaming laptops we're recommending should be sturdy enough to last a few years. Affordable systems will also be heavier and thicker than mid-range and higher-end models, and often don’t have the best Wi-Fi or connectivity options. Battery life is another trade-off, though even the most expensive gaming laptops can struggle with longevity.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/best-budget-gaming-laptop-130004199.html?src=rss

Microsoft reportedly set to lay off thousands in its new fiscal yearOver 6,000 workers have already lost their jobs this calendar yearRevenue is up, and Microsoft's worth more than $3.5 trillionMicrosoft is preparing to cut thousands of jobs as part of its ongoing cost-cutting shakeup as the company continues to spend big on AI.A new Bloomberg report says if confirmed, the layoffs could be announced in early July after the company's fourth quarter and fiscal year end on June 30, 2025.Sales teams could be the worst affected, but the redundancies could span other departments as Microsoft looks to reduce employment-related expenses.Microsoft set for more layoffsThe company has already cut thousands of workers off in these post-pandemic years.In May 2025, it cut 6,000 of its workers, equating to around 3% of its roughly 228,000 headcount, in an effort to reduce inefficiencies by removing middle management tiers. A further 305 workers lost their jobs this month, with 14,000 roles affected in 2023 and 2024.In April 2025, Microsoft said it would outsource sales to small and mid-sized customers to third-party firms – an indication of the changes believed to be coming as soon as next month.Despite widespread job losses, Microsoft continues to perform well financially. Last quarter, it reported a 13% increase in revenue to $70.1 billion. It currently holds the title of the world's most valuable company, with a market cap of $3.569 trillion.At the time, CFO Amy Hood stated that overall company headcount was 2% up year-over-year, but slightly down quarter-over-quarter, suggesting constant fluctuations.TechRadar Pro has asked Microsoft to confirm plans to lay off workers after the current quarter draws to a close, but we did not receive an immediate response.While highly disappointing for the company's workers, Microsoft employees aren't alone in facing job uncertainty. Key rivals like Amazon and Google have also been making regular adjustments to their headcounts to optimize costs and output.You might also likeCheck out the best job sites and best recruitment platformsIntel set for huge factory job cuts as it makes a major policy shiftMake yourself more valuable by using the best online learning platforms to learn new skills

Yes, Samsung is considering a premium subscription tier for Samsung HealthThis is no rumor – it was confirmed in an interview with Samsung's Head of Digital HealthAdvanced coaching features would be included free in new watches, while being locked behind a paywall for older modelsIn these cash-strapped times, none of us enjoy paying more than we have to. When our best streaming service prices go up, we grumble, even though more films and TV are added all the time.Likewise, if we buy a device such as one of the best smartwatches, and previously we've been able to use all its features for free, we don't like being charged a monthly subscription for future ones.Just ask Garmin users. There was an enormous outcry of vitriol and outrage from the brand's highly engaged userbase when Garmin introduced its premium tier, Garmin Connect+. Despite promising AI training insights, new LiveTrack abilities for endurance athletes and advanced ways to view your training metrics, the new tier was deemed not good enough for the cost – and especially given the best Garmin watches are sold at premium prices in the first place. The community was in uproar, but Garmin has not wavered, continuing with its plans.Now, Samsung is in on the act. In an interview with CNet, Samsung's Head of Digital Health, Dr Hon Pak, confirmed it's "exploring a premium subscription model similar to Fitbit Premium or Garmin's new Connect Plus that requires a monthly subscription to unlock advanced coaching features."This is bad news for Samsung Galaxy Watch owners, and even owners of the best Samsung phones or the Samsung Galaxy Ring. Any changes Samsung makes here will likely affect the Samsung Health app, so if you want any extra features Samsung decides to bring forward behind a paywall, you'll need to fork out for a premium tier.Samsung hasn't yet revealed whether it's definitely going ahead, or how much it will cost: these kind of mid-interview slips are likely testing the waters, to see if an outcry as loud as Garmin's userbase will follow.The writer of the original article goes on to suggest that Samsung might offer the features for free with its new watch, and make them available owners of older models for a fee, but there are no direct quotes from Pak or anyone at Samsung addressing that particular idea.Just like Garmin Connect+, it's likely if this premium tier launches, many of the new features that would have come to your watches for free will land behind a paywall instead. This means there's a risk of 'feature creep' so that in a few years' time, all the features Samsung fans really want will be behind a paywall, forcing users to subscribe to avoid missing out.To paraphrase Dune, it's the slow blade that penetrates the shield. Premium tiers are a way for companies to extract long-term revenue from users and subscribers, unlike launching a soon-to-be-obsolete tech product, which creates a temporary revenue spike.Of course, no-one's saying you shouldn't pay a fair price for the features you use, and having your data sat around in a server, ready to be recalled at a moment's notice, costs companies money in the long term. Many of our best fitness apps require subscription costs, and we rate them highly.However, when a wearables company offers a subscription tier, that money is recouped as long as you subscribe, as it's recurring revenue in addition to the one-time purchase of a watch. I can't shake the feeling that I'm paying twice: once for the privilege of having the watch collect my data, and once to have the data sold back to me in graph form. And however you choose to pay, be it one-off or recurring, I think you should only pay the once.You might also like... I loved the Whoop MG, but didn't love the price: that's why I'm excited about this mysterious new fitness band from a major Garmin rivalGarmin just launched the Index Sleep Monitor – here are 9 things you need to know about it5 of the best muscle-building tips I've learned in my 10 years in fitness