Cheapest Gaming Laptop: Budget-Friendly Picks for Gamers
Note: We have researched 13 gaming laptops for you.
Last updated on 11.05.24 um 02:36
Navigating the world of gaming laptops can be a challenge, especially for those who are looking to get the most bang for their buck. As avid gamers know, the price tag on the latest and greatest models can often be steep, leaving budget-conscious buyers in search of more affordable options that don't skimp on performance.
Fortunately, advancements in technology have made gaming more accessible than ever, with a variety of laptops that offer a satisfying gaming experience without draining your wallet. From powerful processors to high-quality graphics cards, we've rounded up a selection that proves you don't have to break the bank to immerse yourself in the games you love.
Fortunately, advancements in technology have made gaming more accessible than ever, with a variety of laptops that offer a satisfying gaming experience without draining your wallet. From powerful processors to high-quality graphics cards, we've rounded up a selection that proves you don't have to break the bank to immerse yourself in the games you love.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.
Pictured: HP Victus 15 Gaming Laptop
What to Look for in Cheapest Gaming Laptops
Important criteria
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Graphics card (GPU) performance
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Processor (CPU) performance
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Size and quality of display
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Amount and speed of RAM
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Storage capacity and type (SSD for faster loading)
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Keyboard responsiveness and comfort
1.) Graphics Performance
The most critical aspect of a gaming laptop is its graphics card (GPU). Look for laptops with at least a mid-tier dedicated GPU, such as NVIDIA's GTX or RTX series, to ensure you can run most modern games smoothly. Integrated graphics may not suffice for graphically intense games. Keep in mind that upgrading a laptop's GPU is difficult if not impossible, so it's important to choose wisely initially.
2.) Processor and Memory
The central processing unit (CPU) plays a significant role in gaming performance, especially in CPU-intensive games. Aim for a laptop with a recent-generation quad-core processor or better to keep up with demanding game requirements. Additionally, a minimum of 8GB RAM is advisable for gaming; however, 16GB is preferred for optimal performance and future-proofing.
Pictured: HP Victus 15 Gaming Laptop
3.) Display Quality
Screen quality directly affects your gaming experience. Opt for a laptop with at least a 1080p resolution display. Higher refresh rates, such as 120Hz or 144Hz, can provide a smoother gaming experience. Also, consider the screen size and panel type (IPS panels offer better color and viewing angles) based on your personal preference and portability requirements.
4.) Storage and Upgradability
Games can take up a lot of space, so ensure the laptop has a solid-state drive (SSD) for faster game load times and overall performance. A laptop with at least 512GB of storage is recommended, but also look for options that allow for storage expansion. Check if the laptop offers easy access to its internals for potential future upgrades, as this can extend the lifespan of your device.
The Cheapest Gaming Laptops of our Choice
Our Pick
HP Victus 15 Gaming Laptop
Type/Color: Silver
Size: 16GB RAM | 512GB SSD
Properties
- 16GB DDR5 RAM for smooth multitasking
- 512GB PCIe M.2 SSD for fast bootup and data transfer
- AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS processor with 6 cores
- 15.6" FHD 144Hz Anti-Glare display
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 4GB GDDR6 graphics
- Multiple USB ports, HDMI, and RJ-45
- Backlit keyboard with Numeric Keypad
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth connectivity
- Windows 11 Home with improved design and functionality
In other categories
- Rank 4 of 20 in Strongest Gaming Laptop
- Rank 4 of 20 in Most Powerful Gaming Laptop
2
MSI GF63 Thin 11SC-693 15.6"
Type/Color: Black
Size: 8GB RAM I 256GB SSD
Properties
- Graphic Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Laptop GPU
- Processor: Intel Core i5-11400H
- Screen: 15.6" 60Hz FHD Thin Bezel IPS
- Model #: GF63 Thin 11SC-693
3
NUC Intel X15 Gaming Laptop
Model: AC57
Type/Color: Black
Size: 16GB RAM | 1TB SSD
Properties
- 16GB DDR5 RAM for smooth multitasking
- 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD for fast bootup
- Intel Core i7-12700H processor with 14 cores
- 15.6" FHD 144Hz Anti-glare IPS Display
- 3 x USB Type-A, 1 x Thunderbolt 4
- 1 x HDMI, 1 x RJ-45, RGB Backlit Keyboard
- Windows 11 Pro for efficient routine applications
Price Pick
FUNYET 14 Inch Laptop Computer
Type/Color: N5095
Size: 8GB RAM+256GB SSD
Properties
- 11th gen Celeron N5095 processor for speed
- Effortless multitasking with 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
- Full HD 14.1-inch display for stunning visuals
- Ultra-portable design, lightweight and sleek
- Windows 11 Pro for enhanced OS experience
- 1-year warranty with round-the-clock customer service
5
Dell G15 5535 Gaming Laptop
Type/Color: Gray
Size: 32 GB | 2 TB SSD
Properties
- Smooth gaming experience with AMD Ryzen processor.
- Powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX Laptop GPU.
- Lag-free gaming with DDR5 memory storage.
- Enhanced PC with AMD Radeon graphics.
- Stunning clarity in Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora.
- Display: 15.6" FHD 165Hz, NVIDIA G-SYNC, sRGB-100%.
- ComfortViewPlus feature for eye comfort.
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 with 8GB GDDR6 memory.
- Optimized laptop for high-end graphics performance.
- Windows 11 OS: redesigned Start Menu, Edge browser.
In other categories
- Rank 15 of 20 in Most Powerful Gaming Laptop
6
GIGABYTE G6 (2024) Gaming Laptop
Type/Color: Black
Properties
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series: RTX 4050 8GB GDDR6
- Intel 13th Gen Ready: i7-13620H 4.9 GHz
- DDR5 Ready: DDR5 4800 16GB, 1TB SSD
- Cutting-Edge Display: 16.0" 1920x1200, 165Hz
- Next Gen Interface: Windows 11 Home+, Wi-Fi 6E
- Dynamic Audio: Dolby Atmos, Built-in Mic, 2W Speakers
- IO: 2x USB3.2 Type-C, 1x HDMI 2.1, RJ45
In other categories
- Rank 1 of 20 in Strongest Gaming Laptop
7
acer Nitro 5 AN515-58-57Y8 Gaming Laptop
Type/Color: Black
Size: 16GB RAM I 1TB SSD + 1TB HDD
Properties
- 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti with Ray Tracing Cores
- 15.6” Full HD IPS display with 144Hz refresh rate
- 16GB DDR4 3200MHz Memory (Maximum 32GB)
- 512GB PCIe Gen 4 SSD
- Killer Ethernet E2600 and Killer Wi-Fi 6 AX1650
- Dual-fan cooling with quad-exhaust port design
- USB Type-C, Thunderbolt, USB, HDMI, Ethernet ports
- 14.19" W x 10.67" D x 1.06" H, 5.51 lbs.
- One-Year International Travelers Limited Warranty (ITW)
8
ASUS TUF Gaming F15 (2022) Gaming Laptop
Type/Color: Mecha Gray
Size: 16GB RAM | 512GB SSD
Properties
- Windows 11 with Intel Core i5-12500H processor
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Laptop GPU at 95W TGP
- 16GB DDR4-3200MHz memory and 512GB PCIe 3.0
- FHD 144Hz display with Adaptive-Sync technology
- 84-blade Arc Flow Fans for high-power CPU cooling
- MUX Switch boosts gaming performance by 5-10%
- MIL-STD-810H tested for durability in tough conditions
- Free 90-day Xbox Game Pass Ultimate access
In other categories
- Rank 15 of 20 in Strongest Gaming Laptop
9
HP Victus 15.6"
Type/Color: Mica Silver
Properties
- Seamless Windows 11 integration: Comprehensive upgrade for enhanced creativity and connectivity.
- Superior visual experience: 144Hz FHD anti-glare display, smooth gameplay with AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 graphics.
- Enhanced performance: DDR5 memory and PCIe NVMe SSD storage for faster operations, HP Fast Charge and HP Wide Vision HD Camera for convenience.
- User-friendly design: Backlit keyboard, enlarged touchpad, IPS panel with micro-edge display, and Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity options.
- Diverse offerings: Access to high-quality games via Xbox App and eco-conscious design using sustainable materials.
10
ASUS TUF Gaming F15 Gaming Laptop
Type/Color: Graphite Black
Size: 8G DDR5 | 512G SSD
Properties
- FX506HF-ES51
- Silky smooth gameplay graphics with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 4GB GDDR6
- Easy streaming and multitasking with Intel Core i5-11400H
- 8GB of fast 3200MHz DDR4 RAM on Windows 11
- Swift visuals with 144Hz Full HD IPS display
- Ample storage with 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
- Military grade toughness for durability
- Multiple connectivity options available
In other categories
- Rank 8 of 20 in Strongest Gaming Laptop
11
ASUS ROG Strix G15 (2022) Gaming Laptop
Type/Color: Eclipse Gray
Properties
- AMD Ryzen 7 6800HS processor
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Laptop GPU
- 16GB DDR5-4800MHz memory
- 512GB PCIe 4x4 storage
- Fast FHD 144Hz display
- Adaptive-Sync for gaming
- ROG intelligent cooling system
- Liquid metal on CPU for cooling
- MUX Switch for more FPS
In other categories
- Rank 9 of 20 in Most Powerful Gaming Laptop
- Rank 12 of 20 in Strongest Gaming Laptop
12
MSI GV15 15.6"
Type/Color: Black
Size: 8GB RAM | 256GB SSD | 1650
Properties
- Powered by Intel's 11th Gen 6-Core CPU
- Includes PCIe Gen4 performance and DDR4 memory
- Smooth and productive experience with Intel i5-11400H
- Latest generation Windows 11 Home for everyday needs
- Recommended Windows 11 Pro for business use
- Equipped with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Series Graphics
- Powered by Turing NVIDIA’s architecture
- Good for popular and modern games
- Notably quieter and cooler under load
- Blends easily into any environment
- Fast 15.6" 144Hz FHD IPS-Level display
- Quick response time for gaming
13
acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop
Type/Color: Black
Properties
- 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12650H processor for gaming
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU for fast performance
- 15.6” Full HD IPS display with 144Hz refresh rate
- 16GB DDR5 Memory and 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD
- Killer Ethernet E2600 and Killer Wi-Fi 6 1650
- Dual-fan cooling and quad-exhaust port design
- Multiple ports for accessories and connectivity options
- Compact size and one-year limited warranty
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.
Top Budget Gaming Laptops for Every Type of Gamer
Casual Gamers
For those who play games to unwind, a budget-friendly gaming laptop can provide the perfect balance. Discover machines that offer a smooth gaming experience without breaking the bank. Ideal for popular titles at moderate settings.
Student Gamers
Students need a laptop that can handle both their gaming and academic needs. Find affordable gaming laptops that deliver in terms of performance and portability, making it easy to go from classroom to game room.
Entry-Level Gamers
Starting your gaming journey? Look for cost-effective gaming laptops that allow you to explore a variety of games without needing high-end specs. A great way to enter the gaming world with a limited budget.
Business & Gaming
Professionals who enjoy gaming in their free time require a dual-purpose machine. Search for the cheapest gaming laptops that are sleek in design but powerful enough for after-hours gaming.
Questions You Might Ask
For gaming laptops, key specs include a powerful CPU (Intel i5/i7/i9 or AMD Ryzen 5/7), a dedicated GPU (such as NVIDIA GeForce RTX or AMD Radeon RX), at least 16GB of RAM, SSD storage for faster load times, and a high-refresh-rate display (120Hz or higher).
The display is very important for gaming. Look for a high resolution (1080p or higher), a fast refresh rate (120Hz minimum, 144Hz or higher preferred), good color reproduction, and low response time to ensure smooth and immersive gaming experiences.
Yes, gaming laptops are generally high-performance machines that can also handle other demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and software development, making them versatile choices for both work and play.
Gaming laptops are equipped with high-performance components, like dedicated graphics cards, high-refresh-rate screens, and gaming-oriented features such as RGB keyboards. They are designed to handle demanding games, whereas regular laptops are geared towards general use and may not support intensive gaming.
The price of a good gaming laptop can vary widely, ranging from around $800 for entry-level models to $3000 or more for high-end systems. Generally, you should expect to spend at least $1000 to $1500 for a laptop that will offer a solid gaming experience without needing immediate upgrades.
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How to Choose the Cheapest Gaming Laptop
Our Pick: HP Victus 15 Gaming Laptop
Staying on budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your gaming needs. In the realm of gaming laptops, finding the sweet spot between cost and performance is key. This guide is tailored to help you navigate the maze of specs and features to secure a gaming companion that won’t break the bank.
Understanding Your Gaming Requirements
Before you dive into the specifications and features, take a moment to assess what games you want to play. Not all games have the same hardware demands, and your choice should reflect your gaming library. Lightweight indie titles will be far less demanding than the latest AAA games.
Consider the game's minimum and recommended system requirements when making your decision. These requirements can provide a benchmark for what sort of specs you'll need. Also, think about whether you're aiming for high frame rates or are satisfied with a standard gaming experience.
Keep in mind that future-proofing is worth considering, but don't go overboard. You want a laptop that will keep up with upcoming titles for a reasonable time without overinvesting in power that you might not need.
Crucial Components to Consider
The processor (CPU) and graphics card (GPU) are the heart and soul of any gaming laptop. For a budget purchase, focus on mid-range CPUs such as the Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5, which offer good performance without the premium cost of higher-end processors.
When it comes to GPUs, even on a budget, you shouldn't compromise below a certain point. Look for laptops with at least an NVIDIA GTX 1650 or an equivalent from AMD. These will ensure you can enjoy most modern games at acceptable frame rates.
Don't overlook the importance of RAM and storage. Aim for at least 8GB of RAM, though 16GB would be ideal for a future-proof gaming setup. A solid state drive (SSD) will drastically improve your system's responsiveness and game load times over a traditional hard drive.
Balancing Performance with Portability and Battery Life
Gaming laptops tend to be heavier and have shorter battery life when compared to regular laptops. Evaluate how often you'll be moving around with your laptop and if it's intended to be a desktop replacement or for on-the-go gaming.
If portability is crucial, look for a gaming laptop that still offers decent battery life and manageable weight. Be aware that with increased portability, you might have to make some compromises on the graphical prowess and overall power.
Remember that the advantage of gaming laptops is their versatility. Deciding on the balance between performance and portability ahead of time can save you from splurging on unnecessary features.
Don't Forget the Display and Build Quality
The display is where you will be constantly looking, so it should not be an afterthought. For a budget gaming laptop, a 1080p resolution should be your baseline, and pay attention to refresh rate – a 60Hz refresh rate is the minimum, but higher is better for smoother gameplay.
In terms of build quality, ascertain that the laptop feels sturdy and is well-constructed. Budget options may not be as robust or attractive as their expensive counterparts, but they should still withstand normal wear and tear.
Examine the keyboard layout and quality. Remember, you'll be using it intensely during gaming sessions, so comfort and responsiveness are essential. A backlit keyboard might seem like a luxury, but it's highly practical for late-night gaming.
The Importance of Reviews and Warranties
User and professional reviews are invaluable resources. They can provide insight into a laptop's real-world performance, thermal management, and potential issues that might not be evident from specifications alone.
Ensure to check the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can immensely aid if you encounter hardware issues down the line. Also, look out for the availability of extended warranties or insurance plans for added security.
Lastly, be on the lookout for deals and discounts, especially during holiday seasons and back-to-school periods. Some patience and research could land you an even better gaming laptop than expected within your budget.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
In the search for the most affordable gaming laptops, it is crucial to have access to trustworthy information. This section focuses on the top resources we've compiled, which includes expert reviews, active forum discussions, insightful Reddit threads, and informative videos. These resources are organized into four distinct categories to make it easier for readers to find the information that suits their preferences and needs.
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Why is EVERYONE Buying this Budget Gaming Laptop?
