It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the prices of the best gaming laptops, especially when top-end features like a 4K display can push the cost over $4,000. However, you don't need to break the bank to enjoy a solid portable PC gaming experience. You just need to know what to look for. The market is filled with sub-$1,000 "gaming" laptops, but many of these can be a minefield of outdated specs and subpar manufacturing.
TL; DR – These Are the Best Budget Gaming Laptops:
Our Top Pick### MSI Crosshair 16 HX
3See it at Best Buy
Great performance on a limited budget### XPG Xenia 15G
0See it at Newegg
### Acer Nitro V ANV16
0See it at Newegg
### Valve Steam Deck OLED
1See it at AmazonSee it at Valve
### Gigabyte Gigabyte G6X
0See it at AmazonI've handpicked gaming laptops that are truly capable of playing games, starting from $2,000 and scaling down to more budget-friendly options that still deliver a premium PC gaming experience. Keep in mind, though, that there are certain features you won't find in a budget gaming laptop.
High-end display technologies like OLED and Mini-LED are often the first to be sacrificed to keep costs down. When purchasing from a manufacturer's website, opting for a 1080p display can significantly reduce the price. And honestly, even if you're investing in the latest GPUs from Nvidia or AMD, a 4K display on a gaming laptop is overkill. Choosing a 1440p screen can save you money without compromising much on detail.
Also, remember that a budget gaming laptop's GPU, even if it shares a name with a desktop graphics card, won't match the desktop's performance. Mobile GPUs are designed to be more power-efficient, which means they typically offer less performance. So, while an RTX 4070 Super can handle 1440p gaming on a desktop, you'll want to stick to 1080p gaming on the laptop version.
Additional contributions by Georgie Peru, Danielle Abraham, and Jacqueline Thomas
MSI Crosshair 16 (2025)
Best Budget Gaming Laptop
Our Top Pick### MSI Crosshair 16 HX
0The MSI Crosshair 16 HX strikes an excellent balance between price and performance. See it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsDisplay16" (1920 x 1200) 165Hz CPUIntel Core i7-14650HXGPUNvidia GeForce RTX 4070RAM16GB DDR5 5,600MHzStorage1TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSDWeight5.51 poundsDimensions14.13″ x 10.49″ x 1.1″PROSRTX 4070 GPU14th Gen Intel processorPlenty of memory and storageExcellent valueCONSA bit bulkyWhile $1,400 may push the boundaries of "budget," the MSI Crosshair 16 HX offers exceptional value. It's engineered for top-notch performance, decent battery life, and impressive specs, making its price tag quite reasonable.
I was pleasantly surprised by MSI's affordable pricing for this powerhouse. It's equipped with a 14th Gen Intel processor boasting 16 cores and 24 threads, perfect for multitasking. With a peak clock speed of 5.2GHz, you're looking at higher frames per second.
Paired with the RTX 4070 GPU, and optimized for its FHD screen, this combo is designed to maintain triple-digit frame rates in many games. The RTX 4070 shines at 1200p, offering solid mid-range performance. It also supports DLSS and frame generation, enhancing performance further.
Additionally, it comes with 16GB of fast DDR5 memory and a 1TB NVMe SSD, ensuring quick performance even while multitasking. It's even suitable for streaming if you aspire to be a Twitch star. A 90Wh battery keeps you powered all day, though for the best gaming experience, you'll want to stay plugged in.
The trade-off? It's heavier at 5.51lbs and thicker at 1.1 inches, closer to traditional gaming laptops than the sleek, lightweight models currently in vogue. Nonetheless, it outperforms competitors and justifies its $1,400 price point.
2. XPG Xenia 15G
Best Gaming Laptop Under $1,500
Great performance on a limited budget### XPG Xenia 15G
0The XPG Xenia 15G offers a powerful CPU and GPU combination for high-performance gaming. See it at NeweggProduct SpecificationsDisplay15.6” FHD (1920 x 1080) 144Hz CPUIntel Core i7-14700HXGPUNvidia GeForce RTX 4070RAM16GB DDR5 5,600MHzStorage1TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSDWeight4.96 poundsDimensions14.21″ x 9.77″ x 0.98″PROSHigh performance CPU and graphicsCan switch to integrated graphics for better battery lifeExpandable storage and memoryCONSLimited battery lifeUnder $1,500, the XPG Xenia 15G stands out with its robust processor, RTX graphics, and fast memory, ensuring smooth gameplay even at high settings. With prices sometimes dropping to $1,000, it's an incredible value.
Despite its affordability, the XPG Xenia 15G doesn't skimp on performance. It features a 14th Gen Core i7 processor that can handle modern games at high graphics settings. The star, however, is the GeForce RTX 4070 Mobile GPU, capable of driving 1440p displays, making the 1080p screen a breeze. You'll enjoy high frame rates, further boosted by DLSS and Frame Generation.
This laptop is highly upgradable with three SSD slots and the ability to increase memory up to 64GB. It's a smart investment due to its upgradeability.
The downsides are its weight and battery life. At 4.96lbs, it's not the heaviest, but it's not the lightest either. Its 53.35Wh battery won't last a full day without dimming the screen.
Acer Nitro V ANV16 (2025)
Best Gaming Laptop Under $1,000
### Acer Nitro V ANV16
0The Acer Nitro V ANV16-41-R5K2 delivers strong gaming performance on a high refresh rate 1200p display. See it at NeweggProduct SpecificationsDisplay16" (1,920 x 1,200), 165HzCPUAMD Ryzen 7 8845HSGPUNvidia GeForce RTX 4060RAM16GB DDR5 3,200MHz Storage1TB NVMeSSDWeight5.51 poundsPROSWell-pricedVery capable for gaming and daily useFull-size RGB keyboardCONSLimited port selectionDisappointing battery lifeThe Acer Nitro V ANV16-41-R5K2 is the top choice under $1,000, offering an impressive CPU and GPU combo for gaming on its high refresh rate 1200p display. While it makes some compromises, its gaming performance is well worth it.
This laptop is ideal if performance is your priority on a budget. It features an 8-core Ryzen 8845HS processor that fully leverages the RTX 4060 GPU's potential. It's rare to find such a powerful combination at this price, allowing you to run most games at high settings on its FHD screen.
It also includes 16GB of fast DDR5 memory and a 1TB NVMe SSD, ensuring multitasking without slowdowns and fast game loading times.
To achieve this, Acer reduced the port selection to two USB-A and one USB Type-C. The USB Type-C supports USB 4 for power and video, allowing you to use a smaller charger.
The battery life is limited, with a 59Wh capacity. Acer claims it lasts 7 hours, but gaming on battery power will drain it in less than an hour. You'll need to carry the charger, but it ensures better frame rates and graphics on the 165Hz screen.
Steam Deck Images
29 Images
4. Steam Deck OLED
Best Gaming Laptop Around $500
### Valve Steam Deck OLED
0The Steam Deck OLED enhances your gaming experience with its vibrant OLED screen. See it at AmazonSee it at ValveProduct SpecificationsDisplay7.4" (1280 x 800), 90Hz, OLEDCPUAMD Zen 2 4c/8t, 2.4-3.5GHzGPUAMD 8 RDNA 2 CUs, 1.6GHzRAM16 GB LPDDR5Storage512GB NVMe SSD, 1TB NVMe SSDWeight1.41 poundsDimensions11.7″ x 4.6″ x 1.9″PROSExtremely portableEasy to set up and useBeautiful OLED screen enhances game visualsCONSNot all games are compatible by defaultThe Steam Deck OLED isn't technically a laptop, but at just over $500, it's an excellent entry into mobile PC gaming. Its OLED screen significantly improves the gaming experience, even without maxing out settings.
It's not about raw power; it's about value. With a vast library of compatible games, including those optimized for the Steam Deck like Cyberpunk 2077, it's a great choice. Valve's compatibility ratings on the Steam store help you understand how well games will perform.
Running on SteamOS, it offers a seamless and intuitive user experience, unlike many PC handhelds that run Windows. However, not all games are compatible, so consider this before buying. The Steam Deck OLED is ideal for gamers willing to compromise on settings for a portable gaming solution.
Gigabyte G6X 9KG – Photos
15 Images
5. Gigabyte G6X
Best Gaming Laptop with 32GB of RAM
### Gigabyte Gigabyte G6X
0The Gigabyte G6X offers ample memory and storage at a budget-friendly price. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsDisplay16” FHD (1,920 x 1,080) 165HzCPUIntel Core i7-13650HXGPUNvidia GeForce RTX 4060RAM32GB DDR5Storage2TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSDWeight5.64 poundsDimensions14.21″ x 10.19″ x 0.98 ~1.13″PROSLots of memory and storageLarge, fast screenCONSHeavy to carryLow brightnessThe Gigabyte G6X is your go-to if you need lots of memory and storage without breaking the bank. It's not the lightest, but it provides robust gaming performance at a reasonable price.
With 32GB of RAM, it exceeds most laptops in its price range, allowing you to game, browse, or stream without slowdowns. Its 2TB SSD means you can store twice as many games as most competitors. The 16-inch screen runs at 165Hz for smooth gameplay.
However, it's heavier at 5.64lbs and thicker at 1.13 inches, and its screen brightness tops out at 250 nits, making it unsuitable for outdoor use. Indoors, its specs make it a compelling choice.
Where to Get the Best Cheap Gaming Laptops in the UK
Gaming on a budget is achievable, and these laptops will get you there. Most of these are available in the UK:
### HP Omen 16
8Best Budget Gaming Laptop£1,029.00 at Currys PC World
### HP Victus
13Best Cheap Gaming Laptop£899.99 at Amazon
### Dell G15
9Best Cheap AMD-Powered Gaming Laptop£749.00 at Amazon
### Lenovo Legion 5i
23Best Budget 17-inch Gaming Laptop£799.00 at Lenovo
### Asus TUF Dash 15
2Best Cheap Everyday Gaming Laptop£799.00 at Currys PC World
### Acer Predator Triton 300
10Best Budget 144Hz Gaming Laptop£949.99 at Currys PC WorldBudget Gaming Laptop FAQ
What makes a great budget gaming laptop?
A great budget gaming laptop balances the right components with an affordable price. While you might not get the latest CPU and graphics card, you can still enjoy modern games at a reasonable cost.
Gaming laptops are often chosen for their portability and affordability over gaming PCs. Consider the laptop's size and weight as well.
Finding the right balance is key. Spending a bit more can elevate your gaming experience from medium to max settings. If you're not into the latest AAA titles, you might opt for older components like DDR4 RAM to save money.
Are budget gaming laptops worth it?
It depends on your gaming needs. For casual gaming and productivity, an entry-level gaming laptop suffices. For more demanding games, you'll need to spend more. The difference can be a generation jump in CPU, better RAM, and a dedicated GPU.
Should you buy a PC handheld instead?
It's a personal choice, but gaming laptops generally offer better performance than best PC handhelds like the Steam Deck OLED or Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme. PC handhelds are more portable and often cheaper, but gaming laptops provide greater versatility, supporting a wider game library and offering more power and upgradability.
When is the best time to buy a gaming laptop?
To snag the best deals, consider shopping during Prime Day, Black Friday, or during summer back-to-school sales. These times offer significant discounts on gaming laptops.
How much should you spend on a budget gaming laptop?
In 2025, budget gaming laptops start around $1,000, with some non-traditional options like the Steam Deck OLED offering gaming on a budget. When spending under $2,000, expect to make compromises. Decide on your desired resolution and the necessary CPU and GPU power.
For screen resolution, 1080p and some 1440p displays are the sweet spot for budget gaming. Even if you find a laptop with a 4K panel, the GPU won't be able to handle it at that resolution, so stick to 1080p or 1440p.
For storage, avoid laptops with only a 256GB SSD, as it's barely enough for multiple games. Consider models with larger SSDs or a combination of SSD and HDD.
Lastly, remember that the best gaming experience with a laptop is often at a desk. Consider our guide to the best gaming desks and perhaps a laptop cooling pad to enhance performance. Don't forget to check out our favorite gaming chairs for comfort.
If laptops aren't your thing, check out the best gaming PC deals for savings on a tower.### MacBooks vs. Gaming laptops
MacBooks are excellent for many uses, but not gaming. While the latest Apple silicon is powerful, gaming laptops are designed specifically for gaming with robust GPUs, CPUs, and RAM. Gaming laptops also offer more hardware and feature options.
MacOS lacks support for many popular gaming titles, though Apple is working on bringing more PC games to Mac with new tools and features like "Game Mode" in MacOS Sonoma. Gaming laptops still dominate in terms of game library and performance.
Gaming laptops vs. Gaming PCs
Gaming laptops are more portable than gaming PCs, but desktops are easier to upgrade and repair, offering better value and longevity. Though laptops and PCs might share similar components, desktops generally outperform laptops. Check out our gaming PCs vs. gaming laptops guide for more details.
