Do you love gaming but are on a budget? Are you looking for a laptop that doesn’t cost a fortune but still plays your favorite games well? You’re in luck! This guide will show you the best budget gaming laptops. These laptops give great gaming experiences at lower prices.
Choosing a gaming laptop is hard with so many out there.1 We’ve reviewed over 110 laptops to find the best budget gaming laptops and cheap gaming laptops.1 A good gaming laptop should have a strong CPU, a dedicated GPU, and effective cooling. This way, it can handle games well and keep up high performance.2 But, don’t worry. You can get a laptop that plays today’s games for about $1,000. It will still have all the important features.2
Key Takeaways
- Expect to pay around $1,000 for a budget gaming laptop with modern components.
- Look for at least 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD for optimal gaming performance.
- Nvidia and AMD both offer entry-level GPUs like the RTX 4050 and Radeon RX 7700S for budget-friendly gaming.
- Prioritize a high refresh rate display (120Hz or higher) for a smooth, immersive gaming experience.
- Consider the ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition (2023) as a top budget gaming laptop pick.
Ready to find the best budget gaming laptop? Let’s look at what’s out there. We’ll find you a great gaming machine that fits your budget and needs. Let’s get started!
Introduction
We’ve checked over 110 laptops and picked out top choices for budget gaming laptops and cheap gaming laptops.1 You can see our picks for the best budget and cheap laptops, the top laptops for college, and the finest gaming laptops.
Overview of Budget Gaming Laptops
Start with a strong CPU, a dedicated GPU, and good cooling for high frame rates.1 You need a top-notch display for clear images in fast games. Plus, a comfy keyboard and fast SSD cut loading times. Gaming laptops cost more but good budget options are under $1,000.1
Importance of Dedicated GPU, CPU, and Cooling
In budget gaming laptops, the dedicated GPU, CPU, and cooling really matter. They help achieve smooth, high frame rates in big games. A strong CPU and GPU make games look good, while good cooling keeps your system fast during long plays.
Balancing Performance and Cost
Finding an affordable gaming laptop means balancing performance and price. You might not match pricier models in power, but budget-friendly gaming choices can still offer a great gaming experience. This is especially true for entry-level gaming laptop players.
Factors to Consider
Buying a gaming laptop is tough because gaming needs a lot from your device. First, most people look at the price. You can get a powerful gaming laptop for anywhere between $800 to $1,100, sometimes even cheaper.3 Watch out for sales from brands like Dell, HP, and Lenovo. They change their prices often, so grab a deal when you see it.3
Price Range and Budget Constraints
MacBooks are great for regular daily tasks because they run on MacOS. But when it comes to serious gaming, Windows laptops are the better choice. Especially for those on a budget. Although, playing some games on a high-end MacBook Pro is possible, they are much pricier than Windows alternatives.4
Operating System: Windows vs. Chromebooks
Gaming laptops usually come in 15 to 16-inch sizes, with some smaller options too. But you’ll also find larger 17 to 18-inch laptops.3 The newest 16-inch laptops are a bit taller with a 16:10 screen shape, and we think this is a nice improvement over the usual 16:9.
Display: Size, Resolution, and Refresh Rate
For gaming, a 1920 x 1080 screen resolution is a good start. But you’ll also see 4K or 1440p options. The screen refresh rate affecting game smoothness mostly starts at 60 Hz, but can go higher to 144 Hz, 240 Hz, or even more.3
Processor (CPU) Options
The processor, also known as the CPU, is the main part of a laptop. Intel and AMD are the top choices for CPUs in most Windows laptops2. They offer many types of processors for different laptop needs. For example, there are power-saving chips for thin laptops and faster ones for gaming laptops. A quick processor and more cores mean better performance2.
Intel vs. AMD CPUs
Intel and AMD lead the way in making CPUs for Windows laptops2. They each have a wide variety available, including processors with different speeds and cores. Picking between Intel and AMD can greatly affect a budget gaming laptop’s power.
Performance and Core Count
A fast processor and more cores can boost a laptop’s performance2. The number of cores a processor has impacts its ability to multitask. More cores mean your laptop can handle several tasks at once better. This is key for gaming or when you’re using multiple programs at the same time2.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
The graphics processor, or GPU, powers your screen and makes the game look awesome on a laptop.
Windows laptops have two GPU types: integrated (iGPU) and discrete (dGPU). An iGPU is inside the CPU, but a dGPU is its own chip with its memory (VRAM). This makes a dGPU faster, especially for gaming. All gaming laptops have either an Nvidia or an AMD dGPU, with Nvidia commonly preferred.1
Nvidia vs. AMD GPUs
For laptops that fit a budget, you’ll find entry-level Nvidia GPUs like the RTX 4050 or 4060. Or, there are older GPUs such as the RTX 3050 or 3060.1 AMD is a strong competitor here, offering GPUs like the Radeon RX 7600S in the ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition (2023).1
Entry-Level GPUs: RTX 4050, RTX 3050, and More
The RTX 4050 and RTX 3050 from Nvidia are great for budget gamers. They offer good performance for 1080p gaming on many titles.2 Although not the most powerful, the RTX 4050 and RTX 3050 are ideal if you’re starting in PC gaming.2
Memory (RAM) and Storage Considerations
For budget gaming laptops, aiming for 16GB of RAM is a smart move. It ensures your games run smoothly.5 Even though 8GB is the minimum, 16GB is best for great gaming on a budget.5 This much RAM stores the data apps need to run now. Without enough, your laptop might slow down.
When it comes to saving your games, fast SSDs are the new norm.5 Look for a budget laptop with a 256GB SSD. This will make booting up and loading games quick.5 Most budget laptops have a small SSD for quick starts and a big HDD for more storage. They usually come with a 128GB SSD and a 1TB HDD.3
Yet, you might find budget laptops with space-saving HDDs instead of SSDs. This helps if you have lots of games.3 Often, laptops have both an SSD for speed and an HDD for space.3 For a top gaming feel, go for at least a 512GB SSD. Games these days take up a ton of room.
best budget gaming laptop
The best budget gaming laptop is the ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition (2023). It rocks a 16-inch AMD setup that runs AAA games smoothly.1 You can grab the starter model for about $1,000 USD. This includes a Ryzen 7 7735HS CPU, a Radeon RX 7600S GPU, a 165Hz FHD screen, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage.1 There are pricier models with different specs. The 165Hz FHD and 240Hz QHD screens both have variable refresh rates to cut down on screen issues.
Top Budget Gaming Laptop Models
We also recommend some other budget champs.6 For example, there’s the $799.99 MSI Cyborg, sporting an Intel Core i7 CPU and RTX 4060 GPU. The $940.49 Lenovo LOQ rocks similar specs. Then, there’s the $749.99 ASUS TUF Gaming A16, with a Ryzen 7 CPU and RX 7700S GPU.6 You might also like the $799.99 MSI Bravo 15 or the $799.99 Acer Nitro V, if you prefer an AMD setup.6
Performance Benchmarks and Reviews
Our tests found the ASUS A16 to be a gaming beast, scoring 8.6.1 The Lenovo LOQ wasn’t far behind with an 8.7 rating for gaming, plus a decent 7.2 for staying cool and quiet.1 Another option, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE, scored 5.1 for gaming but a strong 9.1 for staying cool and quiet.1
Value for Money Analysis
The Lenovo LOQ 15 is great for the budget-conscious. It’s more affordable than the ASUS A16.1 With PCMag testing 132 laptops last year, there’s a lot of info out there to help your choice.6 There are other good choices too, like the MSI Cyborg 15, Acer Nitro V 15, and Acer Predator Helios Neo 16. They pack good performance and value.6
Choosing the perfect budget gaming laptop depends on what you need. Think about screen size, CPU, GPU, and how you’ll use it.7 Don’t forget to consider what’s available, price, and what others say about it.1
Chromebooks for Cloud Gaming
Budget gaming Chromebooks are made for cloud gaming. They work with services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW. In cloud gaming, the game processes happen on the server and the image comes to your device, just like streaming video.8
Acer Chromebook 516 GE (2022)
The Acer Chromebook 516 GE offers a three-month GeForce NOW trial. You can play games from Google Play, but they’re designed for phones and tablets. This means they might not work perfectly, and some don’t support keyboards, mice, or controllers.8
Cloud Gaming Services: NVIDIA GeForce NOW
Cloud gaming Chromebooks can handle games like Fortnite and Halo Infinite. To play, you need at least 15 Mbps internet for basic quality, 30 Mbps for clearer graphics, and 35 Mbps for the best resolution. An Ethernet connection is best for playing at the highest quality.8
They use Intel Core processors and have 8GB RAM or more. This is good for both gaming and doing other tasks. The main platforms they support are NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Xbox cloud gaming, and Amazon Luna.8
Thermal Management and Battery Life
Budget gaming laptop cooling systems are key for great performance. You need the right mix for optimal use, balancing heat and noise. Five percent of a laptop’s value comes from how well it handles thermal and noise tests, proving their importance for gamers and work users alike.9 For simple tasks like browsing or watching videos, a cool keyboard at or below 33°C (91°F) is ideal. When the laptop works hard in gaming or video renderings, 40°C (104°F) for the keyboard is a good target.9
Budget gaming laptop battery life means finding a middle ground. These laptops draw power for top-notch performance, so they don’t last long. They’re great for fixing and upgrading but not for carrying around, lasting just over an hour during gaming sessions.
To enjoy browsing and videos, aim for a laptop noise under 35 dBA when idle. Yet, during intense work like gaming, you should keep it under 45 dBA9. Having a Power & Fan Control App lets you tailor power and fan use for different tasks, which is a win for advanced users. To keep your laptop cool and quiet, steer clear of hot spots and keep settings and cleanliness in check.9
Portability and Design
The ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition (2023) disappoints in portability with a 6.1 rating for1. Its bulky design limits easy transport, though it does make repairs and upgrades simple. On the other hand, the Lenovo LOQ 15 (2023) is a better choice for travel, earning a 5.7 rating for1.
Weight and Dimensions
The size and weight of a budget gaming laptop matter a lot for its usability. The ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition (2023) is large, which can make frequent movement difficult.1
Build Quality and Aesthetics
Though it’s made of plastic, the ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition (2023) feels solid. The keys are responsive but can feel a bit flat, leading to occasional typing inaccuracies.1
Connectivity and Ports
Looking at budget gaming laptops, ports and wireless links are key. These laptops usually have a good range of ports. This lets you attach your gaming gear and extra screens easily.6
USB, HDMI, and Other Ports
Budget gaming laptops come with many USB ports, like USB-A and USB-C. You’ll see about four USB ports on most laptops. This lets you connect a mouse, keyboard, and more.6
Plus, these laptops have HDMI 2.1 ports for bigger screens. They also have a headphone jack and an Ethernet port for internet.6
Wireless Networking Options
Having good wireless is vital for these laptops. Many have Wi-Fi 6E, for fast and stable gaming.2
An Ethernet port is also useful. It gives you a strong connection for cloud gaming like NVIDIA GeForce NOW.6
Conclusion
Shopping for a budget gaming laptop might seem hard. Gaming needs a lot from your computer. But, the good news is that you can get affordable gaming laptops that do a great job.10
We tested more than 110 laptops to find the best ones for you. We recommend the Acer Nitro 5 and ASUS TUF Gaming Laptop. The Acer Nitro 5 has the latest processors from Intel and AMD, making games fast and smooth. The ASUS TUF Gaming Laptop is famous for its tough build and dependability.10
The HP Pavilion Gaming Laptop is also a great choice, with its cool look and strong processors and GPUs. Dell’s G3 Gaming Laptop is perfect for those who love gaming on the move. The MSI GF63 Thin offers long battery life, which means you can play for hours without stopping.10
FAQ
What should I look for in a budget gaming laptop?
When buying a budget gaming laptop, focus on a strong CPU and GPU. Make sure it has good cooling to keep up high frame rates. Choose a model with a top-notch display, a comfy keyboard, and a speedy SSD for quick loading times.
What is the typical price range for a budget gaming laptop?
You can find good options at around
FAQ
What should I look for in a budget gaming laptop?
When buying a budget gaming laptop, focus on a strong CPU and GPU. Make sure it has good cooling to keep up high frame rates. Choose a model with a top-notch display, a comfy keyboard, and a speedy SSD for quick loading times.
What is the typical price range for a budget gaming laptop?
You can find good options at around $1,000 or less. Gaming laptops usually cost more than ultra-thin models. Yet, there are affordable laptops that perform well.
What are the key components to consider in a budget gaming laptop?
The processor, graphics card, RAM, and SSD are crucial. Aim for a fast CPU, a dedicated GPU by Nvidia or AMD, 16GB of RAM, and a big SSD. This setup ensures your laptop runs games smoothly.
How do the operating systems compare for budget gaming laptops?
Windows is best for gaming laptops, even the budget ones. While some games run on MacBooks, Windows laptops offer better performance. They also support more games without costing as much.
What display features are important for a budget gaming laptop?
A high refresh rate, like 120Hz or 144Hz, makes the gaming smoother. For the clearest view, aim for at least a 1080p resolution. These features are key for an immersive gaming experience.
How does battery life compare on budget gaming laptops?
Due to their powerful specs, gaming laptops’ batteries drain fast. Gaming on a budget laptop might last you 1-2 hours. For longer play times, consider a charging break.
What are some of the best budget gaming laptop models to consider?
For great value under $1,000, consider the ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition. It stands out for both its price and performance. Other options in the $800-$1,200 range come from Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
,000 or less. Gaming laptops usually cost more than ultra-thin models. Yet, there are affordable laptops that perform well.
What are the key components to consider in a budget gaming laptop?
The processor, graphics card, RAM, and SSD are crucial. Aim for a fast CPU, a dedicated GPU by Nvidia or AMD, 16GB of RAM, and a big SSD. This setup ensures your laptop runs games smoothly.
How do the operating systems compare for budget gaming laptops?
Windows is best for gaming laptops, even the budget ones. While some games run on MacBooks, Windows laptops offer better performance. They also support more games without costing as much.
What display features are important for a budget gaming laptop?
A high refresh rate, like 120Hz or 144Hz, makes the gaming smoother. For the clearest view, aim for at least a 1080p resolution. These features are key for an immersive gaming experience.
How does battery life compare on budget gaming laptops?
Due to their powerful specs, gaming laptops’ batteries drain fast. Gaming on a budget laptop might last you 1-2 hours. For longer play times, consider a charging break.
What are some of the best budget gaming laptop models to consider?
For great value under
FAQ
What should I look for in a budget gaming laptop?
When buying a budget gaming laptop, focus on a strong CPU and GPU. Make sure it has good cooling to keep up high frame rates. Choose a model with a top-notch display, a comfy keyboard, and a speedy SSD for quick loading times.
What is the typical price range for a budget gaming laptop?
You can find good options at around $1,000 or less. Gaming laptops usually cost more than ultra-thin models. Yet, there are affordable laptops that perform well.
What are the key components to consider in a budget gaming laptop?
The processor, graphics card, RAM, and SSD are crucial. Aim for a fast CPU, a dedicated GPU by Nvidia or AMD, 16GB of RAM, and a big SSD. This setup ensures your laptop runs games smoothly.
How do the operating systems compare for budget gaming laptops?
Windows is best for gaming laptops, even the budget ones. While some games run on MacBooks, Windows laptops offer better performance. They also support more games without costing as much.
What display features are important for a budget gaming laptop?
A high refresh rate, like 120Hz or 144Hz, makes the gaming smoother. For the clearest view, aim for at least a 1080p resolution. These features are key for an immersive gaming experience.
How does battery life compare on budget gaming laptops?
Due to their powerful specs, gaming laptops’ batteries drain fast. Gaming on a budget laptop might last you 1-2 hours. For longer play times, consider a charging break.
What are some of the best budget gaming laptop models to consider?
For great value under $1,000, consider the ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition. It stands out for both its price and performance. Other options in the $800-$1,200 range come from Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
,000, consider the ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition. It stands out for both its price and performance. Other options in the 0-
FAQ
What should I look for in a budget gaming laptop?
When buying a budget gaming laptop, focus on a strong CPU and GPU. Make sure it has good cooling to keep up high frame rates. Choose a model with a top-notch display, a comfy keyboard, and a speedy SSD for quick loading times.
What is the typical price range for a budget gaming laptop?
You can find good options at around $1,000 or less. Gaming laptops usually cost more than ultra-thin models. Yet, there are affordable laptops that perform well.
What are the key components to consider in a budget gaming laptop?
The processor, graphics card, RAM, and SSD are crucial. Aim for a fast CPU, a dedicated GPU by Nvidia or AMD, 16GB of RAM, and a big SSD. This setup ensures your laptop runs games smoothly.
How do the operating systems compare for budget gaming laptops?
Windows is best for gaming laptops, even the budget ones. While some games run on MacBooks, Windows laptops offer better performance. They also support more games without costing as much.
What display features are important for a budget gaming laptop?
A high refresh rate, like 120Hz or 144Hz, makes the gaming smoother. For the clearest view, aim for at least a 1080p resolution. These features are key for an immersive gaming experience.
How does battery life compare on budget gaming laptops?
Due to their powerful specs, gaming laptops’ batteries drain fast. Gaming on a budget laptop might last you 1-2 hours. For longer play times, consider a charging break.
What are some of the best budget gaming laptop models to consider?
For great value under $1,000, consider the ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition. It stands out for both its price and performance. Other options in the $800-$1,200 range come from Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
,200 range come from Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
Source Links
- https://www.rtings.com/laptop/reviews/best/budget-gaming
- https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-cheap-gaming-laptop/
- https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/gaming-laptop-buying-guide,5689.html
- https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/tech/best-budget-gaming-laptops
- https://www.lenovo.com/us/outletus/en/gaming/gaming-laptops/budget-friendly-gaming-laptops/
- https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-cheap-gaming-laptops
- https://www.reddit.com/r/SuggestALaptop/comments/16yzhoi/budget_gaming_laptop_recs_pls/
- https://www.google.com/chromebook/discover/gaming/
- https://www.rtings.com/laptop/tests/performance/thermals-and-noise
- https://www.everki.com/us_en/everki-stories/best-budget-gaming-laptops-for-pro-gamers.html
