It's easy to look at the best gaming laptops and feel like they're out of reach. With top-end specs like a 4K display, prices can soar over $4,000. However, you don't need to break the bank to enjoy portable PC gaming. You just need to know what to look for. While there are many sub-$1,000 laptops marketed as "gaming" laptops, navigating this segment can be tricky due to issues like outdated specs and poor manufacturing quality.
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 selected gaming laptops that genuinely enhance your gaming experience, starting at $2,000 and scaling down to more affordable options that still offer a premium PC gaming experience. However, there are a few features you might have to compromise on with budget gaming laptops.
High-end display technologies like OLED and Mini-LED are often the first to go when keeping costs down. Opting for a 1080p display when buying directly from a manufacturer's website is a great way to save money. And honestly, you don't need a 4K display for gaming laptops, even with the latest GPUs from Nvidia or AMD. Choosing a 1440p screen can save you money without sacrificing much detail.
When it comes to GPUs, remember that mobile versions don't match the performance of their desktop counterparts. Mobile GPUs are designed to be more energy-efficient, which means they offer less performance. For instance, while an RTX 4070 Super can handle 1440p gaming in a desktop setup, you should stick to 1080p with its 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
0Price meets performance with this fantastic gaming laptop from MSI. 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 might stretch the definition of "budget," the MSI Crosshair 16 HX offers exceptional value for its price. Designed for outstanding performance and great battery life, this laptop's specs justify its cost.
I was pleasantly surprised by MSI's affordable pricing for such powerful hardware. It features a 14th Gen Intel processor with 16 cores and 24 threads, ideal for multitasking. Its top clock speed of 5.2GHz directly translates to higher frame rates.
The RTX 4070 GPU, paired with its FHD screen, ensures triple-digit frame rates in many games. This GPU excels in mid-range performance and can leverage DLSS and frame generation for enhanced performance. Though multi-frame generation is exclusive to the RTX 50-series, the hardware here is well-optimized.
Additionally, the laptop includes 16GB of fast DDR5 memory and a 1TB NVMe SSD, providing snappy performance and streaming capabilities. A 90Wh battery keeps it running all day, though you'll want to plug in for optimal gaming performance.
The trade-off is its weight at 5.51lbs and thickness at 1.1 inches. While it's bulkier than some newer designs, it offers unparalleled value at $1,400.
2. XPG Xenia 15G
Best Gaming Laptop Under $1,500
Great performance on a limited budget### XPG Xenia 15G
0This laptop 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 swap to integrated graphics for improved battery lifeExpandable storage and memoryCONSLimited battery lifeFor less than $1,500, the XPG Xenia 15G is a standout. It combines a powerful processor, RTX graphics, and fast memory to deliver smooth gameplay, even at high settings. Its value often exceeds its price, which can drop to around $1,000.
Despite its affordability, it doesn't compromise on performance. The 14th Gen Core i7 processor can handle modern games at high graphics, while the GeForce RTX 4070 Mobile GPU easily drives 1080p displays. Features like DLSS and Frame Generation further boost frame rates.
This laptop is also highly upgradable, with three SSD slots and memory expandable to 64GB. However, it's heavy at 4.96lbs, and its 53.35Wh battery may not last a full day of gaming without dimming the screen.
Acer Nitro V ANV16 (2025)
Best Gaming Laptop Under $1,000
### Acer Nitro V ANV16
0This laptop packs a potent CPU and GPU combo that matches perfectly with its FHD, 165Hz screen.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 use as a daily driverFull-size RGB keyboardCONSLimited port selectionDisappointing battery lifeThe Acer Nitro V ANV16-41-R5K2, debuting this year, is the top choice under $1,000. With its 8-core Ryzen 8845HS processor and RTX 4060 graphics card, it delivers solid gaming performance on its 1200p, high refresh rate display. It prioritizes performance over some features, which is ideal for budget-conscious gamers.
This laptop includes 16GB of DDR5 memory for smooth multitasking and a 1TB NVMe SSD for quick loading times. However, it has limited ports and a 59Wh battery that lasts about 7 hours on light use but far less during gaming. You'll need to carry the charger, but the trade-off is better frame rates and graphics.
Steam Deck Images
29 Images
4. Steam Deck OLED
Best Gaming Laptop Around $500
### Valve Steam Deck OLED
0Thanks to its sweet, sweet OLED screen, this is the Steam Deck to buy.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 makes games look better than everCONSNot all games are compatible by defaultWhile not a traditional laptop, the Steam Deck OLED is an excellent choice for portable PC gaming around $500. Its OLED screen enhances game visuals, and its popularity ensures a wide library of compatible games.
The Steam Deck OLED isn't about raw power but offers incredible value. Valve's compatibility ratings help you choose games that run smoothly. SteamOS provides a user-friendly experience, though not all games are compatible. For those looking to play the latest games at high settings, consider alternatives like the ROG Ally X or Lenovo Legion Go, though they lack the Steam Deck's OLED screen.
Gigabyte G6X 9KG – Photos
15 Images
5. Gigabyte G6X
Best Gaming Laptop with 32GB of RAM
### Gigabyte Gigabyte G6X
0It's a touch heavy, but its memory and storage can't be beat.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 ideal for those seeking ample memory and storage on a budget. Despite its weight and thickness, it offers great gaming performance and value. With 32GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD, multitasking and game storage are no issue.
Its 16-inch, 165Hz screen provides smooth gameplay, but the brightness tops out at 250 nits, unsuitable for outdoor use. For indoor gaming, its specs are unmatched at this price point.
Where to Get the Best Cheap Gaming Laptops in the UK
Budget gaming is achievable, and most laptops listed here are available in the UK. Here are your options:
### 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 offers the right components at the right price. You may not get the latest CPU and graphics card, but you can still enjoy modern games without spending a fortune. Consider factors like portability, size, and weight, as these are often reasons people choose laptops over PCs. Balancing cost with performance means you can upgrade from medium to max settings with a small budget increase. If AAA titles aren't your focus, opting for older RAM types like DDR4 can save money.
Are budget gaming laptops worth it?
It depends on your needs. For casual gaming and productivity, an entry-level gaming laptop suffices. For more demanding games, you'll need to invest more. The difference between entry-level and top-tier gaming laptops often lies in CPU generation, RAM speed, and GPU performance.
Should you buy a PC handheld instead?
It's a matter of preference. While PC handhelds like the Steam Deck OLED or Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme are lighter and more portable, gaming laptops offer greater versatility and power. Laptops support a broader game library and are more upgradeable, making them a better long-term investment.
When is the best time to buy a gaming laptop?
Gaming laptops can be pricey, but you can find great deals during Prime Day, Black Friday, and back-to-school sales in the summer. Check our guide for the best times to buy a laptop.
How much should you spend on a budget gaming laptop?
In 2025, decent gaming laptops with recent GPUs start at around $1,000. Below this, you might consider non-traditional options like the Steam Deck OLED. When spending under $2,000, compromises are necessary. Focus on your desired screen resolution and the required CPU and GPU power. 1080p and some 1440p displays are the sweet spot for value, and avoid laptops with only a 256GB SSD for adequate game storage.
One more thing: Even with a laptop, using it at a desk enhances your experience. Consider our guide to the best gaming desks and perhaps a laptop cooling pad for better performance. Don't forget to check out our favorite gaming chairs for comfort.
If laptops aren't your speed, check out the best gaming PC deals to save on a tower.### MacBooks vs. Gaming laptops
MacBooks are excellent for professional and creative work, but they lag in gaming compared to dedicated gaming laptops. While Apple's silicon is powerful, gaming laptops offer superior hardware optimized for gaming. macOS also has limited support for many popular gaming titles, though Apple is making efforts to improve this.
Gaming laptops vs. Gaming PCs
Gaming laptops are more portable than gaming PCs, but desktops are easier to upgrade and repair. Desktops provide better performance for the price and have a longer lifespan. While laptops and PCs may share similar specs, desktops typically outperform their mobile counterparts.
