Top Budget Gaming Laptops of 2023

It's easy to look at the best gaming laptops and think you'll never be able to afford them. After all, some top-end specs, like a 4K display, can easily cost upwards of $4,000 these days. However, you can get a solid portable PC gaming system without breaking the bank; you just need to know what to look for. While there are numerous sub-$1,000 laptops labeled as "gaming" laptops, these can be a minefield of shoddy manufacturing, outdated specs, and used gaming laptops.

TL; DR – These Are the Best Budget Gaming Laptops:

Our Top Pick### MSI Crosshair 16 HX

3See it at Best BuyGreat 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 picked out gaming laptops that can actually play games, starting at $2,000 and working my way down, focusing on devices that are more affordable than top-end laptops but still deliver a premium PC gaming experience. Just keep in mind there are a few things you're probably not going to be able to find in a budget gaming laptop.

Premium display technologies like OLED and Mini-LED are often the first to be sacrificed to keep costs down. When purchasing a gaming laptop from a manufacturer's website, opting for a 1080p display is the quickest way to reduce the price. Let's be honest: You really don't need a 4K display on a gaming laptop, even with the latest GPUs from Nvidia or AMD. Choosing 1440p will save you money without sacrificing much noticeable detail.

When it comes to GPUs, remember that just because a budget gaming laptop has the same GPU name as a desktop graphics card, it doesn't mean you'll get the same performance. Mobile GPUs are designed to consume less power due to their battery-dependent operation, which means they typically offer reduced performance. For example, while an RTX 4070 Super can handle 1440p gaming on a PC, you should stick to 1080p gaming with its laptop counterpart.

Additional contributions by Georgie Peru, Danielle Abraham, and Jacqueline Thomas

1. 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 fantastic value. It's designed to provide outstanding performance, great battery life, and impressive specs, making its price quite reasonable.

I was pleasantly surprised by MSI's affordable pricing for this powerhouse. It features a 14th Gen Intel processor with 16 cores and 24 threads, perfect for multitasking. Its top clock speed of 5.2GHz translates directly into higher frame rates.

The RTX 4070 GPU, paired with its FHD screen, ensures your frame rate remains in the triple digits across many games. This GPU is tailored for mid-range performance and, despite the 1200p resolution, delivers excellent visuals and performance.

Thanks to its RTX 40-series GPU, it can leverage DLSS and frame generation to enhance performance further. While multi-frame generation is reserved for the RTX 50-series, it's not needed here due to the well-matched hardware.

The system also boasts 16GB of fast DDR5 memory and a 1TB NVMe SSD, ensuring snappy performance and the ability to stream if you aspire to be a Twitch star. It includes a 90Wh battery for all-day use, though for optimal gaming, plugging in is recommended.

The trade-off is its weight. At 5.51lbs and 1.1 inches thick, it's more akin to a traditional gaming laptop than the latest slim designs. Nevertheless, it outperforms its competitors and justifies its $1,400 price.

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 top choice. It offers an exceptional combination of processor, RTX graphics, and fast memory, ensuring smooth gameplay even at high settings. Its value is impressive, especially when it occasionally drops to $1,000.

Despite its affordability, it doesn't compromise on performance. It features a 14th Gen Core i7 processor that can handle any modern game at high graphics settings. The GeForce RTX 4070 Mobile graphics card effortlessly drives its 1080p display, allowing for high frame rates and advanced features like DLSS and Frame Generation.

This system is highly upgradable with three SSD slots and memory expandable to 64GB, making it a wise long-term investment.

The main drawbacks are its weight and battery life. At 4.96lbs, it's not the heaviest but not the lightest either. Its 53.35Wh battery isn't sufficient for all-day use, especially at high brightness.

3. 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 is the top choice under $1,000. It features an excellent CPU and GPU combination for superior gaming performance on its high refresh rate 1200p display. While it makes some compromises, its gaming capabilities are remarkable.

This laptop is ideal if performance is your priority and you're on a tight budget. Its 8-core Ryzen 8845HS processor and RTX 4060 graphics card allow you to run most games at high settings on its FHD screen.

It includes 16GB of fast DDR5 memory for multitasking and a 1TB NVMe SSD for speedy loading times and ample game storage.

Acer cuts costs by limiting the port selection to two USB-A ports and one USB Type-C, but the latter supports USB 4 for power delivery and video.

The 59Wh battery offers limited uptime, rated at about 7 hours by Acer, which is optimistic. For gaming, expect less than an hour on battery power, so carrying the charger is necessary. However, this ensures better frame rates and graphics on its 165Hz screen.

Steam Deck Images

29 Images4. 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 defaultAlthough not a traditional laptop, the Steam Deck OLED, rated 9/10 in our review, is an excellent option for portable PC gaming around $500. Its OLED screen enhances game visuals significantly.

The Steam Deck OLED prioritizes portability over sheer power. It's popular and supports a wide range of games, some with specific graphics modes tailored for it. Valve provides a compatibility rating on the Steam store to help you choose games that run smoothly.

Running on SteamOS, it offers a streamlined and intuitive user experience, though not all games are compatible. If you're looking for high settings on the latest games, consider alternatives like the ROG Ally X or Lenovo Legion Go, but they don't match the Steam Deck's OLED display.

Gigabyte G6X 9KG – Photos

15 Images5. 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 needing ample memory and storage on a budget. It's not the lightest or thinnest, but offers excellent performance at a reasonable cost.

With 32GB of system memory, it exceeds most laptops in its price range, allowing for seamless multitasking and streaming. Its 2TB SSD means you can store twice as many games as competitors. The 16-inch, 165Hz screen ensures smooth gameplay.

However, it's heavy at 5.64lbs and thick at 1.13 inches near the hinge. Its screen brightness is limited to 250 nits, making it unsuitable for outdoor use. For indoor gaming, its specs are hard to beat at this price.

Where to Get the Best Cheap Gaming Laptops in the UK

Gaming on a budget is possible, and these laptops will help you achieve that. Most of these laptops are available in the UK. Here are some 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 an affordable price. While you may not get the latest CPU and graphics card, you can find a machine capable of running modern games without spending a fortune.

Laptops are often chosen over PCs for their smaller size, portability, and affordability. Consider the laptop's weight and size when deciding.

Balancing cost and performance is key. Spending a bit more can significantly improve game settings, but for non-AAA titles, opting for older tech like DDR4 RAM 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 demanding games, you'll need to invest more. The difference often lies in CPU generations, RAM speed, and a dedicated GPU.

Should you buy a PC handheld instead?

It's a personal choice. While PC handhelds like the Steam Deck OLED and Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme are lighter and more portable, gaming laptops offer better overall performance, versatility, and upgradability. They support a wider game library and are more powerful.

When is the best time to buy a gaming laptop?

Prime Day, Black Friday, and back-to-school sales in the summer are the best times to find deals on gaming laptops. Check our guide for more details.

How much should you spend on a budget gaming laptop?

In 2025, budget gaming laptops with recent GPUs start around $1,000. Below that, consider non-traditional options like the Steam Deck OLED. For budget gaming, focus on 1080p or 1440p displays and ensure the laptop has enough storage to handle multiple games.

One more thing: Using a laptop at a desk can enhance your experience. Check out our guides to the best gaming desks, laptop cooling pads, and gaming chairs to optimize your setup.

If laptops aren't your speed, check out the best gaming PC deals to save on a tower.### MacBooks vs. Gaming laptops

MacBooks excel in many areas but are not ideal for gaming due to limited game support on MacOS. However, Apple's latest silicon is powerful. Gaming laptops prioritize gaming with robust GPUs, CPUs, and RAM, offering more hardware and feature options.

While you can play some games on a Mac, the platform's game library is smaller. Apple is improving gaming support, but gaming laptops remain the best choice for gamers.

Gaming laptops vs. Gaming PCs

Gaming laptops are more portable than gaming PCs, but desktops are easier to upgrade and repair, offering better performance and longevity. See our gaming PCs vs. gaming laptops guide for more information.