The Best Cheap Gaming Laptops – If one’s ever wondered what cheap but good laptops are available, they’re about to find. There are many options on the market, so it’s difficult to choose a particular one. Luckily for budget-minded customers, more and more of them become less expensive. It happens due to fresh releases making older versions drop-down in prices.
Besides, a prospective buyer can’t be completely sure what device is worth investing in. Any item should be compared in terms of specifications and overall value. By doing so, one will make a reasonable decision and get a solid alternative.
Keep in mind that any low-cost gaming laptop should still perform its initial task. It lies in providing a smooth experience with no lagging and FPS drops. Despite making a sacrifice in terms of graphics quality, one will enjoy any session running. This is actually possible even if one’s budget is less than $1000.
However, it’s highly advisable to set up a money limit in advance. It will help save a penny and not succumb to overpriced options.
Gaming laptops are included in this guide:
GAMING GEAR REVIEWS
Down below, one will find the top list of inexpensive laptops for gaming particularly. All of them show maximum performance for the sum asked. They’re far from being future-proof but do great for now. Additionally, these variants are what an old-school player will appreciate. Any title released more than 5 years ago would run fine on them.
10. Asus TUF Gaming FX705 – A moderate choice of a good basic laptop for a beginner 2023
Processor: | Intel Core i5-8300H |
Graphics Card: | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti 4GB |
RAM Size: | 8GB |
Storage Size: | 1TB |
Resolution: | 1920 x 1080 |
Weight: | 6.1 lbs |
The configuration one sees in the table is a middle-class option. Asus TUF Gaming FX705 starts at $999 justifying every cent spent on it. Unlike many other models from this category, it boasts 1TB of storage. This allows a prospective customer to install several demanding titles and keep them together.
For the stated sum, it’s among the best gaming laptop deals for now. Asus TUF Gaming FX705 has pretty much everything a player can wish for. This machine is powerful enough and has a 17.3-inch display. The size isn’t the only upside of its screen, as it’s also 144Hz. All that provides a smooth and vivid picture at 1080p.
Despite a moderate price, the rig boasts customizable lighting. Besides, it can stay alive for up to 4 hours without a charger attached. It’s not the most impressive result but not that disappointing at least for remote workers. Everything is topped with numerous ports available making a prospective docking station unnecessary.
Comparing the mentioned aspects to other models, it’s probably the best cheap laptop 2022 indeed. It’s worth saying that its webcam and speakers don’t impress at all. Though, these are not the most important features for a machine from this category.
Asus TUF Gaming FX705G review
Asus TUF Gaming FX705G - so today's review will focus on one of ASUS' new gaming laptops. The 17-inch model features the eighth generation of Intel Core processors. A relatively new range for the gaming brand. So far, the company has introduced three models: FX504, FX505, and FX705. Boxing and packaging The Asus TUF Gaming FX705G laptop is packaged in a cardboard box with a handle of the usual size....
Read moreAsus TUF Gaming FX705G Laptop
PROS
- A nice exterior design and narrow screen frames
- The TUF FX705G has a comfortable, wide, and clear keyboard
- The screen itself has good picture quality and a rich color spectrum
- A nice matte IPS screen at 144Hz
- It`s a great option for work and plays
CONS
- The noise level at high load
- The short battery life
9. Dell G3 15 – Affordable gaming laptop entry level: Overwhelmingly cheap
Processor: | Intel Core i5-10300H |
Graphics Card: | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti 4GB |
RAM Size: | 8GB |
Storage Size: | 256GB |
Resolution: | 1920 x 1080 |
Weight: | 5.18 lbs |
It’s probably one of those options that attract and thrust away at the same time. At first glance, it has everything to take the leading position in this category. Though, it’s not that plain and simple. Let’s look at this alternative in detail to see if it’s worth investing in.
This is the cheapest gaming laptop with bearable specs. It starts at $780, which is an insanely low price considering the inside details installed. This beast features a last-gen processor with an acceptable graphics unit. Sure, it’s only an i5 unit but what one would expect at this budget.
Coming down to the existing downsides, a low-capacity SSD is the most obvious one. Dell G3 15 won’t be enough to have a few demanding titles installed together. Besides, both CPU and GPU feel quite outdated. Therefore, a prospective buyer shouldn’t expect more than 60 FPS as a rule.
One can call it the best beginner gaming laptop, especially for money-limited customers. Eventually, it will require an update but can serve fine for playing on middle settings.
Dell G3 15 review
Dell G3 15: An excellent compromise for the benefit of the economy but with gaming inclinations. Dell G3 15 has a nice design and is ready to run time-tested bestsellers. Has decent battery life. An exceptional travel companion if the wanderer buys a handy bag for the device. Strengths: Great intermediate option Moderate performance Comfortable keyboard Aesthetically pleasing visual Weaknesses: Deprecated components No ray tracing Not the best build quality...
Read moreGaming Laptop Dell G3 15
PROS
- Great intermediate option
- Moderate performance
- Comfortable keyboard
- Aesthetically pleasing visual
CONS
- Deprecated components
- No ray tracing
- Not the best build quality
- Didn't get USB-C
8. Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3i Core i7 – Availability: best and cheapest
Processor: | Intel Core i7-10750H |
Graphics Card: | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 4GB |
RAM Size: | 8GB |
Storage Size: | 512GB |
Resolution: | 1920 x 1080 |
Weight: | 4.8 lbs |
If one’s dream is to try what the i7 series feels like, it’s the choice. At first sight, this gadget looks promising from all angles. Having a mid-range GPU combined with the 10th generation CPU should deliver a perfect experience. Everything is accompanied by a battery that’s made to last.
Among other pros is a 120Hz display providing a smooth and vibrant picture. The monitor supports 1080p in any modern title and settings. It also works fine when watching a movie or video. That’s a solid budget laptop for gaming considering the inside components installed.
At the same time, many users may not be satisfied with 8GB of RAM only. Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3i Core i7 will definitely require an enforced update in the nearest future. Though, the specified device doesn’t offer this opportunity. Another downside is that its processor and graphics card don’t complement each other. They’re kind of from different generations to unlock the hidden potential.
In general, it’s a typical mid-range gaming laptop suitable for daily usage. This model is a serviceable option for people who don’t expect much. Lenovo IdeaPad will serve for a few years before an inevitable update.
7. MSI Bravo 15 – Budget Laptop 2023 For AMD Fans
Processor: | AMD Ryzen 7 4800H |
Graphics Card: | AMD Radeon RX 5500M 4GB |
RAM Size: | 16GB |
Storage Size: | 512GB |
Resolution: | 1920 x 1080 |
Weight: | 4.1 lbs |
Unlike the previous contender, this model is built supporting the AMD details only. MSI Bravo 15 would be a mistake to purchase this device like 5 years ago. However, everything changed when the mentioned manufacturer improved its technologies. They’re no longer worse than what Intel offers and sometimes win over.
The reviewed machine is a good budget gaming laptop in all aspects including the price. Taking a closer look at its specs means it’s capable enough. Compared to the previous rival, MSI Bravo 15 boasts 16GB of RAM. That’s a sufficiently bigger number, especially for an inexpensive rig.
Another unique feature is its low weight. This makes it a portable beast with the ability to run modern games on the go. Its 15.6-inch panel is a middle ground being equally perfect for playing and watching movies.
Speaking of the weak points, its processor quickly gets overheated. That’s a common problem for the best-priced gaming laptop like this one. However, it performs its initial task quite well. Additionally, its keyboard lighting is limited to one color only. Though, all these sacrifices are nothing for the device at $1000 or so.
MSI Bravo 15 review
MSI Bravo 15 has recently revised its lineup of AMD-based gaming laptops. Like the Alpha series, the MSI Bravo 15 AMD Ryzen 7 4800H CPU takes advantage of the 7 nm process. The model is available in two major variations. The lower-specced configuration comes with an AMD Ryzen 5 4600H CPU. At 3 GHz out of the box, it’s capable of reaching up to 4 GHz. Priced at $850 at Amazon,...
Read moreMSI Bravo 15 Gaming Laptop
PROS
- High performance processor
- Wi-Fi 6 support
- Low weight compared to competitors
- 144Hz display
CONS
- Not quite a familiar keyboard layout
- Limited range of ports
- Noise levels too high in games
- Short battery life
6. EVOO LP-7 – Inexpensive laptop 6GB
Processor: | AMD Ryzen 7 4800H |
Graphics Card: | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 6GB |
RAM Size: | 16GB |
Storage Size: | 512GB |
Resolution: | 1920 x 1080 |
Weight: | 4.2 lbs |
This is somewhat different from what other contenders offer. Despite not being that popular, the brand manages to present products at such a level. It catches the eye with a larger GPU VRAM capacity. This is a novelty indeed, especially considering the price that starts at $950. EVOO LP-7 is possible because the company doesn’t mark up the price just like that.
Together with 6GB of VRAM, it boasts 16GB of RAM. These are great markers even though it has only 512GB of storage under the belt. It will be enough for a few heavy titles installed at once. Along with the inside components, it features a 120Hz monitor. It’s a great combination for such a cheap RTX laptop that’s capable of even more.
It has no serious downsides except for a mediocre processing unit. It’ll serve fine for now but will require an inevitable update in the nearest future. Other than that, it boasts more than 8 hours of non-stop functioning. Being 4.2 lbs, it’s an amazing option to travel with or work remotely.
One can think of this gadget as the best budget gaming laptop 2022 indeed. In the coming years, its specs don’t seem too promising but seem decent for now. This will be a solid investment if one’s not ready to overpay for the good gaming brand.
EVOO LP-7 Laptop review
EVOO LP-7 Laptop - after inserting “EVOO” on Amazon you may find yourself in the olive oil section. The term “electronics” unveils many interesting things about the brand. It’s a well-known name among bargain hunters. You might’ve heard about the company if you’ve been searching for an inexpensive laptop online. Lp-7 is an Android-based gaming laptop, retailing for $950 at Amazon. You can purchase it through Walmart or Amazon. The...
Read moreEVOO LP-7
PROS
- Inexpensive option for gaming
- Great gaming performance
- With Ryzen 7 and RTX 2060 8-core chip
CONS
- You'll have to put up with noisy coolers
- All-plastic design
5. HP Pavilion Gaming 15 – Extremely Versatile for Gamers
Processor: | Intel Core i5-i7 | AMD Ryzen 5-7 |
Graphics Card: | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 – 3050 Ti |
RAM Size: | 8GB | 16GB |
Storage Size: | 256GB | 512GB |
Resolution: | 1920 x 1080 |
Weight: | 5.0 lbs |
Just taking a slight look at the table makes clear how versatile this model is. One can set it up in any way they like. The major upside is that any build comes at a moderate price. At the same time, no one can complain about the product quality HP offers. It’s been tested for years and proves to be top-notch.
This is one of the top cheap gaming laptops in all senses of this definition. A user can find its basic edition starting at $750-800. It will be powerful enough for modern titles at least in middle settings. If one’s ready to pay more, there are alternatives up to $1990.
HP Pavilion Gaming 15 is highly recommended to decide on an average model. This will cost about $1200 with quite decent inside components installed. It’ll suit work-related issues as well, as it stays alive for up to 10 hours. A prospective customer can take it anywhere keeping in mind its weight of 5 lbs. It’s not the biggest number yet could be smaller to travel with it anywhere.
For now, it’s a solid Windows 10 laptop for a cheap price and impressive specs. One will never complain about its performance or black-green design. With acid lighting, it looks like a gadget for players and ordinary people appreciating style. On top of it, a world-famous company creates it guaranteeing top-notch quality.
HP Pavilion Gaming 15 Laptop Review
HP Pavilion Gaming 15 Laptop: Being a gamer on a tight budget has always been challenging. Especially so when portability is a part of the equation. Historically, enthusiasts have always advised against reaching for the cheapest options on the shelf. However, an increasing number of reputable manufacturers have been offering surprisingly compelling and affordable options. When it comes to immersive virtual experiences, HP is mostly known for its Omen line-up....
Read more4. MSI GF63 Thin – Best Slim Affordability: mid range PC laptop
Processor: | Intel Core i5-i7 |
Graphics Card: | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 – RTX 3060 |
RAM Size: | 8GB | 16GB |
Storage Size: | 256GB | 512TB |
Resolution: | 1920 x 1080 |
Weight: | 4.1 lbs |
If one’s dream lies in purchasing a thin yet powerful machine, it’s the choice. This gadget also comes at a laptop gaming price anyone can afford. It strictly depends on the configuration chosen, the basic one starting at $900. One can’t buy it with a 1TB SSD, which limits the number of games installed. Other than that, it’s a perfect choice both for playing and working remotely.
Another unique feature is a partially metal case, which is a rarity in this category. This design makes it stylish and applicable for any setting. A prospective buyer can use it while traveling or in a cafe. Isn’t it the best bang for your buck gaming laptop considering all this? Choose any build depending on the sum available and immerse into a game.
Coming down to the negative points, it doesn’t live for long without a power brick. The average number is 3.5 hours but it may increase or decrease depending on activity. It’s not that impressive, especially in terms of playing a demanding title.
MSI GF63 Thin 10UC full review
MSI GF63 Thin 10UC - this is an updated version of an affordable basic notebook for gaming. As we found out, the only thing renewed is hardware. The appearance remains practically unchanged. GF63 uses an Intel Core i7/i5 CPU of the 10th generation. It also has the RTX 3050 card enabled with 4GB of memory. Just like its predecessor, GF63 Thin 10UC is an appropriate choice for certain gaming preferences....
Read moreGaming Laptop MSI GF63 Thin 10UC
PROS
- Proper construction quality
- HDD and SSD available
CONS
- Poor set of ports
- Short battery life
- 40W TGP video card
- Narrow color gamut along with low brightness
- Inflated price
3. Lenovo Legion 5 – Catch It on Sale: the best deals on gaming laptops
Processor: | AMD Ryzen 5-9 (5000 series) |
Graphics Card: | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 – 3080 |
RAM Size: | 8GB | 16GB |
Storage Size: | 256GB | 1TB |
Resolution: | 1920 x 1080 |
Weight: | 5.51 lbs |
At first glance, this model seems to be out of step in terms of affordability. Though, Lenovo Legion 5 is probably the best cheap laptop 2023 compared in many aspects. It boasts noticeable versatility and builds available. Besides, it’s not that expensive when on sale.
The device features high-end graphics units one can get for a reasonable sum. Combined with freshly released AMD processing units, the rig boasts superior performance. Having a large variety of builds gives a rich price choice. All of them look promising despite starting at $899.
Considering its weight, it’s not a mini laptop, but a cheap and efficient one. Being 5.51 lbs, Lenovo Legion 5 is a heavy item to carry everywhere or travel with it. Additionally, its battery life is poor and makes a user have a power brick nearby.
Make sure to purchase a Legion 5 1TB version if one’s money limit provides such an opportunity. Other specs will be fascinating anyway and feel fine to run demanding titles. However, the gadget tends to become overheated if a session lasts too long.
Lenovo Legion 5 Pro review
Lenovo Legion 5 Pro review - Final opinion: this is a decent gaming tool with a colorful 16-inch monitor. It also has a convenient keyboard and a proper overall performance. And the reason for that is a surprising combo of Nvidia and AMD forces. Advantages: Impressive full-scale keyboard Vivid 16-inch screen Capacity for both work tasks and games Long-standing battery Full range of ports Disadvantages: May overheat Weighty chassis Only...
Read moreGaming Laptop Lenovo Legion 5 Pro
PROS
- Impressive full-scale keyboard
- Vivid 16-inch screen
- Capacity for both work tasks and games
- Long-standing battery
- Full range of ports
CONS
- May overheat
- Weighty chassis
- Only partial LED backlighting
2. Dell G5 15 SE – Best bang for your buck: optimally low price
Processor: | AMD Ryzen R7 4800H |
Graphics Card: | AMD Radeon RX 5600M |
RAM Size: | 16GB |
Storage Size: | 512GB |
Resolution: | 1920 x 1080 |
Weight: | 5.5 lbs |
The Dell G5 15 SE described in the table is the middle version of what one can purchase. It combines maximum performance and an inexpensive price tag. At the same time, it’s produced by a reliable brand that’s known for its quality. The specified edition starts at $1200 and is often seen on sale.
This company also offers a lower spec alternative that’s going to cost only $880. However, its inside components don’t look competitive enough in comparison with other similar products. Still, it’s one of the good affordable gaming laptops for the money asked.
The rig will be a delight for AMD fans. It’s fully packed with details from this manufacturer. The CPU shows perfect results while the GPU leaves much to be desired. All that comes with an impressive RAM size and quite capable storage space.
Mentioning the weak points, the device is heavy for carrying around. Its design is kind of outdated and the chassis looks thick. The presented touchpad is also far from what one expects. Well, it shouldn’t be a problem for a cheap windows laptop with such impressive specs.
All that doesn’t mean the gadget isn’t powerful. Dell G5 15 SE is one of the great options one can find on the market for now. It will be an amazing choice for stay-at-home-style players.
Dell G5 15 full review
Dell G5 15 SE 5505 - equipped with Ryzen processors, the device shows great performance. However, the Radeon GPU shows middling results. Besides, the fully plastic design clearly confirms that the gadget is budget-oriented. Pros: CPU shows excellent work The appropriate price for a gaming unit Bright and responsive screen Cons: Overheats under load Design decisions and chosen materials aren’t good Plastic seems flimsy Average graphics performance It’s the latest...
Read moreGaming Laptop Dell G5 15 SE
PROS
- CPU shows excellent work
- The appropriate price for a gaming unit
- Bright and responsive screen
CONS
- Overheats under load
- Design decisions and chosen materials aren’t good
- Plastic seems flimsy
- Average graphics performance
1. HP Omen 15 – Best Cheap Gaming Laptop: The Indisputable Winner 2023
Processor: | Intel Core i7-10750H 2.6GHz (with 6 cores and 12MB cache, up to 5GHz) |
Graphics Card: | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 with Max-Q (8 GB) |
RAM Size: | DDR4 with 16GB (2933MHz) |
Storage Size: | 1TB 7200 RPM SATA Hard Drive and 512 GB SSD Storage |
Resolution: | 357.9 x 239.7 x 22.5 mm (W x D x H) |
Weight: | 5.43 pounds |
The described model is the best budget gaming laptop 2023 compared in all aspects. It has everything to attract users hunting for an inexpensive gadget. With amazing specs and sleek chassis, it’s the dream for many people.
The case is made of all-black matte plastic with some metal inserts on every edge.
It doesn’t seem premium or anything. In fact, it’s so easy to stain that every fingerprint is seen on the surface. Anyway, its moderate and simple design catches the eye. This allows the device to fit in any setting whether playing or having a business call.
HP Omen 15 full review
HP Omen 15: it’s a powerful and fast gaming laptop with cool performance and first-rate visuals. However, its sizable dimensions and considerable weight make it uncomfortable to transport the laptop regularly. HP Omen is back with a gaming beast Pros: Good at multitasking Comfortable streaming Excellent performance in games Amazing display Cons: Cumbersome design due to the components Steep price point Mediocre battery performance HP Omen 15 - this is...
Read moreGaming Laptop HP Omen 15
PROS
- Good at multitasking
- Comfortable streaming
- Excellent performance in games
- Amazing display
CONS
- Cumbersome design due to the components
- Steep price point
- Mediocre battery performance
Its keyboard and touchpad feel comfortable but nothing too impressive. The stroke is deep and soft with no extra noise. All the buttons are of the acceptable size and easy to press. It’s a delight to use them for typing or playing.
Coming down to the screen, it’s a bright 144Hz IPS panel. Being 15 inches is wide enough for comfortable movie watching or immersing in a title. It provides a vivid picture and smooth FPS thanks to its hertz rate. With announced 300 nits, the Omen 15 manages to show 323 points. Its color transmission is accurate and looks living indeed.
It’s one of the cheap good gaming laptops due to its $1200 price tag. This isn’t completely budgeted yet it’s a rare thing to find at such a cost. It will serve for years leaving any thoughts about an enforced update behind.
Speaking of battery life, the device has demonstrated solid results. It has lasted for about 11 hours in an idle mode. The number has decreased to 6 hours only with video playback. When playing on medium settings, it was only about 80 minutes. Anyway, it’s a decent marker compared to other contenders from this category.
The Winner’s Downsides
Despite being the best and cheapest gaming laptop considering the specs, it has its cons. To start with the keyboard backlight, it’s quite weak and dull. Besides, one doesn’t have any multicolor options to choose from.
Just like many other similar laptops, it runs hot quickly.
The main reason for this is the RTX 3060 installed inside. This GPU is too powerful to unlock its potential in a small rig like this. Even its mobile version doesn’t fix the situation with overheating. It’s only usable if playing short sessions on medium settings.
When hunting for a gaming laptop on a budget, remember to purchase it on sale. There are thousands of people willing to buy this gadget at the lowest cost. That’s why the manufacturer often increases the price. Don’t be scared when seeing this device for $1400-1650.
Still, it’s a great cheap gaming pc from a laptop field for this money. It boasts sufficient portability despite its weight. Besides, one can use it for any purpose whether it’s work or playing favorite titles.
In Conclusion
The main advice to stick to – be patient. It’s always about looking for the most affordable alternative. When it comes to the cheapest laptop, it’s better to compare the cost more meticulously. Different stores and trading platforms offer noticeably different options with the same specs.
10 Best Gaming Laptops 2023
10 Best Gaming Laptops Under $500 for Gamers
10 Best Laptops For Multiple Monitors 2023
Are gaming laptops worth it?
Make sure to check if there’s a rising or decreasing price tendency. It usually depends on a GPU installed. Luckily, the low-budget rigs almost never have the RTX 3080 inside. All other options are more than affordable and one can buy them at their actual cost.
Next time one asks how much does a gaming laptop cost – check the tendency situation. Because of the miners, it’s almost always rising for no reason. Besides, remember about other users looking for a bargain. A less expensive variant is now growing more popular just to save a penny. Some people are even ready to sacrifice performance playing in low or middle settings.
Where to buy the Best Cheap Gaming Laptop
US:
UK:
Comparison of Cheap Gaming Laptops by Specs and Price
CHEAP GAMING LAPTOPS | SPECIFICATIONS | BEST PRICE | RATING |
---|---|---|---|
Asus TUF Gaming FX705 | $999 | 8.1 | |
Dell G3 15 | $780 | 8.4 | |
Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3i | $1199 | 8.6 | |
MSI Bravo 15 | $1019 | 8.8 | |
EVOO LP-7 | $950 | 8.9 | |
HP Pavilion Gaming 15 | $800 | 9.0 | |
MSI GF63 Thin | $900 | 9.1 | |
Lenovo Legion 5 | $899 | 9.2 | |
Dell G5 15 SE | $1200 | 9.4 | |
HP Omen 15 | $1550 | 9.6 |
FAQ About The Best Cheap Gaming Laptops
It strictly depends on the customer’s preferences and the configuration chosen. This is highly advisable to purchase an option not lower than $800-900. Other rigs have the right to exist but don’t expect them to show decent performance.
Unfortunately, it won’t be able to provide the same capability. The reason for that is the preinstalled inside components. They are usually worse and cheaper in comparison to what gaming-oriented versions offer.
This is, of course, a personal question. However, one should start from $850 or about so. It’s recommended to set a price tag up to $1200 to purchase a solid rig. Though, if one can’t afford it, it’s real to get a budget option under $1000.
If one wants to stick to a usual laptop but use it for gaming, it’s their decision. Consider purchasing Dell XPS 15 or GIGABYTE Aero 15X. They have enough RAM and storage space combined with decent GPUs.