Best Budget Gaming Laptops for 2024: Affordable Gaming on the Go
Gaming laptops have revolutionized the way we play games, offering the flexibility to enjoy immersive gaming experiences anywhere. However, finding the best budget gaming laptop can be overwhelming, especially with the vast array of options available. In this article, we will delve into the top picks for budget gaming laptops, highlighting their features, performance, and value for money.
What Defines a "True" Gaming Laptop?
A true gaming laptop is one that has a dedicated graphics processing unit (GPU), which is the laptop equivalent of a graphics card. This means that gaming laptops are not typically found for prices below $700, as they require high-performance components. However, not everyone needs an expensive machine designed for the hardcore crowd. Capable, affordable options that are a bit north or south of $1,000 are better than ever.
How We Test Gaming Laptops
At PCMag, we evaluate every gaming laptop for performance, usability, and value to separate the deals from the duds. This involves rigorous, repeatable tests that include playing the latest and hottest games, noting gaming and thermal performance, running synthetic benchmarks like PCMark 10, 3DMark, and Geekbench 5, and conducting battery tests. We also assess the laptop's peripherals, such as the display, keyboard, and ports, as well as the overall design and webcam quality, in case users want to utilize it for game streaming.
Top Picks for Budget Gaming Laptops
MSI Katana 15 (2023)
The MSI Katana 15 is our top pick for the best cheap gaming laptop on the market. It offers updated specs and a sub-$1,000 price point, making it a great value for its performance. This laptop is equipped with an Intel Core i5 processor, an RTX 3050 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage, providing a solid gaming experience.
MSI Cyborg 15 (2023)
The MSI Cyborg 15 is another excellent choice for budget gaming. It features an Intel Core i5 processor, an RTX 3050 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. This laptop offers a good balance of price, performance, and portability, making it a great option for those looking for a reliable gaming companion.
Acer Nitro V 15 (ANV15-51-59MT)
The Acer Nitro V 15 is known for its powerful performance and affordability. It comes equipped with an Intel Core i5 processor, an RTX 3050 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. This laptop provides a smooth gaming experience with its 120Hz refresh rate display.
Lenovo LOQ 15
The Lenovo LOQ 15 is a budget-friendly option that still offers decent gaming performance. It features an Intel Core i5 processor, an RTX 3050 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. This laptop is a great choice for those who want a reliable gaming laptop without breaking the bank.
Asus TUF Gaming F17 (2022)
The Asus TUF Gaming F17 is another excellent budget gaming laptop. It features an Intel Core i5 processor, an RTX 3050 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. This laptop offers a good balance of price, performance, and portability, making it a great option for those who want a reliable gaming companion.
HP Victus Ryzen 7 RTX 4070
The HP Victus Ryzen 7 RTX 4070 is a high-performance laptop that offers great value for its price. It features an AMD Ryzen 7 processor, an RTX 4070 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. This laptop provides exceptional gaming performance and is a great choice for those who want a powerful gaming laptop.
Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8
The Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 is a high-performance laptop that offers great value for its price. It features an Intel Core i5 processor, an RTX 3050 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. This laptop provides a smooth gaming experience and is a great choice for those who want a reliable gaming companion.
What Specs to Look for in a Budget Gaming Laptop?
CPU:
For gaming, an Intel Core i5 is perfectly suitable, as the GPU is far more important than the CPU and the i5 can handle any processing just fine.
GPU:
For most average gaming needs, an RTX 2060 GPU is more than enough. However, if you want to play on high to max out settings, an RTX 3050 and higher is what you're looking for.
RAM:
16GB of RAM will take care of all your memory needs for any game, though you can get away with 8GB for all but the latest titles if you need to shave off some money.
Storage:
At least 512GB of storage is preferable since that will allow you to install a good amount of games on your PC before having to upgrade or purchase an external hard drive.
Display:
An HD display is good enough for most games, and at least a 120Hz refresh rate should ensure a smooth gameplay experience.
How Much Should You Spend on a Gaming Laptop?
When looking for a budget gaming laptop, a solid price point to use as a metric is $1,000. The vast majority of gaming laptops currently retail under that price, with anything above it starting to hit the mid-range and more premium options.
Today's Best Budget Gaming Laptop Deals
HP Victus Ryzen 7 RTX 4070
$899.99 (List Price $1,399.99)
Lenovo LOQ Ryzen 5 RTX 4050
$849.99 (List Price $1,149.99)
MSI Thin Intel i5 RTX 4050
$749.99 (List Price $899.99)
MSI Bravo 15 Ryzen 5 RTX 4050 $799.99 (List Price $999.99)
Acer Nitro V Ryzen 5 RTX 4050
$799.99 (List Price $949.99)
Conclusion
Finding the best budget gaming laptop can be challenging, but by understanding what specs to look for and knowing what to expect from different models, you can make an informed decision. The laptops listed above offer a great balance of price, performance, and portability, making them excellent choices for budget-conscious gamers. Whether you're looking for a reliable gaming companion or a powerful machine to take your gaming to the next level, these budget gaming laptops are sure to meet your needs.