If you’re into gaming but counting your pennies, no need to sweat the lack of fancy gaming laptops. You’ve got options – budget-friendly ones that won’t let you down in the CPU and GPU departments. Game on without going broke. In this read, we’ll dive into the top gaming laptops under $1000 that give you the most bang for your buck.
Best Laptop Deals Right Now
Before diving into our top picks for gaming laptops under $1000, let’s take a look at some of the best laptop deals currently available:
| Laptop Model | CPU | GPU | RAM | Storage | Display | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP Omen | Intel Core i9-12900H | Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 | 16GB | 1TB SSD | 16.1-inch 1440p | $999.99 ($700 off) |
| Lenovo LOQ | AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 | 8GB | 512GB SSD | 15.6-inch 1080p | $749.99 ($350 off) |
| Asus TUF | Intel Core i7-12700H | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 | 16GB | 512GB SSD | 15.6-inch 1080p | $999.99 ($100 off) |
One standout option for an entry-level gaming laptop at a phenomenal price is the Lenovo LOQ Gaming Laptop. With an AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS CPU and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, it offers enough power to run most games on Medium or High graphics settings. The 1080p display with a refresh rate of 144Hz ensures smooth gameplay.
Check out our other article on ‘Choosing the Right Gaming Laptop’ for more insights.
Best Gaming Laptops Under $1000
Alright, time to check out our top gaming laptops for less than a grand.
1. Asus Vivobook Pro 15 – Best Overall
The Asus Vivobook Pro 15 is a gaming laptop that offers an outstanding price-to-performance ratio. Powered by a Ryzen 7 CPU, an RTX 3050 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB M.2 NVMe hard drive, this laptop provides the power and performance of higher-end alternatives at a more affordable price. However, what sets it apart is its gorgeous 15.6-inch OLED display, which delivers crisp visuals and a near-perfect contrast ratio. While the design may not be the most eye-catching, the Asus Vivobook Pro 15 prioritizes power and features, making it an excellent choice for gamers on a budget.
2. HP Victus 15 – Best Budget Option
If you’re looking for an extremely affordable option that still offers discrete graphics, the HP Victus 15 is worth considering. While it may not be as powerful as some other options on this list, it provides excellent value for its price. Equipped with an older GTX 1650 model, it allows you to play most modern games at lower graphics settings. The HP Victus 15 features a good keyboard and touchpad, respectable processor performance, and can handle most games at 30 FPS. While it may have a generic design and disappointing build quality, it offers an affordable entry into the world of gaming laptops.
3. Asus TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition – Best Battery Life
Gaming laptops are notorious for their poor battery life, but the Asus TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition breaks that stereotype. With its massive 90 watt-hour battery, it can last an impressive eleven hours during normal use and around seven hours of continuous 1080p gaming. This laptop’s robust chassis and sturdy design make it suitable for gaming on the go, as it can withstand accidental bumps or knocks. Additionally, it offers excellent 1080p gaming performance with its Ryzen 7 processor and AMD Radeon RX 7600S graphics card. The Asus TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition is an excellent choice for gamers who want to enjoy untethered gaming without compromising performance.
4. Lenovo IdeaPad 5 Gaming Chromebook – Best Chromebook for Gaming
While Chromebooks are not typically associated with gaming, the Lenovo IdeaPad 5 Gaming Chromebook breaks the mold. With the advent of cloud gaming services, higher-end Chromebooks can now serve as gaming devices. The Lenovo IdeaPad 5 Gaming Chromebook, priced under $600, comes loaded with a Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, a 256GB SSD, and a bright 16-inch 2560×1600 display. When paired with a reliable internet connection and a cloud gaming service, this Chromebook allows you to stream AAA games at good resolutions and high refresh rates. While it may not offer the best design or keyboard and touchpad experience, it provides an affordable option for gaming on a Chromebook.
5. Dell G16 – Best for Work and Play
If you’re willing to stretch your budget a bit, the Dell G16 is an excellent laptop that can handle both work and play. With its strong performance, versatile 16-inch QHD display, and Thunderbolt 4 support, it offers a great balance between productivity and gaming capabilities. The Dell G16 features an Intel Core i7-12700H CPU, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 GPU, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of PCIe NVMe SSD storage. While it may not have the most appealing design or the best keyboard and touchpad, it gets the basics right and provides a reliable and powerful laptop for both work and gaming.
What to Look for in a Budget Gaming Laptop
When searching for the best gaming laptop under $1000, there are a few key factors to consider:
1. GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
The GPU is one of the most important components in a gaming laptop. It determines how well your laptop can run games and handle graphics-intensive tasks. While you don’t need the most powerful GPU for all games, it’s essential to choose one that offers good performance for your desired gaming experience. Options like the GTX 1650, RTX 3050, and RTX 3050 Ti are popular choices for gaming laptops under $1000.
2. CPU (Central Processing Unit)
The CPU does the heavy lifting, executing instructions and crunching numbers. When selecting a budget gaming laptop, look for a CPU that offers a good balance between performance and price. For Intel, an 11th-gen Core i5 or i7 is recommended, while AMD Ryzen 4000 or 5000 series processors are preferred.
3. RAM (Random Access Memory)
Having enough RAM is crucial for smooth gaming performance. Aim for at least 8GB of RAM, but if possible, opt for 16GB to ensure optimal multitasking and future-proofing your laptop.
4. Storage
Think about the storage choices for your gaming laptop. SSD storage is preferred due to its faster loading times, but a combination of SSD and HDD can provide ample space for games and files.
5. Display
The display quality is important for an immersive gaming experience. Look for a 1080p display with a refresh rate of at least 60Hz, although a higher refresh rate, such as 144Hz, is preferred for smoother gameplay.
6. Battery Life
While gaming laptops are known for their poor battery life, it’s still worth considering the battery performance. If you plan on gaming on the go, look for a laptop with a decent battery life to avoid constantly being tethered to a power outlet.
With these factors in mind, you can find a budget gaming laptop that meets your gaming needs without exceeding your budget.
Conclusion
Finding an affordable gaming laptop under $1000 is possible if you know what to look for. The Asus Vivobook Pro 15, HP Victus 15, Asus TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition, Lenovo IdeaPad 5 Gaming Chromebook, and Dell G16 are all excellent options that offer a balance between performance and price. Consider your gaming preferences and prioritize the components that matter most to you, such as the GPU, CPU, RAM, and storage. With the right choice, you can enjoy a satisfying gaming experience without breaking the bank. Happy gaming!
