15 Best Gaming Laptops Under $1000 In 2023

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Do you enjoy AAA games? Are you a competitive gamer on a budget? Looking for cheap gaming laptops to take your setup to the next level? Well, you have come to the right place! In this blog post, we will review the best gaming laptops under $1000 that deliver exceptional performance that won’t break the bank. Whether you are pc gaming or using a laptop, you will want to have some funds left over for accessories to build the perfect rig. Before we dive into it, here are the best budget gaming laptops that stand out the most to us:

• Best Performance: Acer Predator Helios 300 is a great gaming laptop due to its powerful Intel Core i5-11400H processor and GeForce RTX 3060 GPU. This combination allows the laptop to handle demanding games with relative ease. This is a great choice for the best gaming laptop.

• Best Display Quality: Asus TUF Dash 15 takes the crown in this category with its 15.6 inch FHD 144Hz display, which offers fluid and vibrant visuals, significantly enhancing the overall gaming experience.

• Best Build & Design: ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 shines in this category thanks to its compact design, distinctive LED matrix, build quality, and excellent portability, making it a great choice for gamers on the move.

• Best Battery Life: ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 comes out on top. It offers decent battery life for a gaming laptop, a feature highly appreciated by gamers who need to play on the go.

• Most Value for Money: Acer Nitro 5 is an excellent choice for the best budget gaming laptop. Its robust AMD Ryzen 5 5600H processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 GPU, and high-refresh-rate display offer a fantastic balance of price and performance.

What are the best gaming laptops under $1000?

As a note, most of the laptops listed below are equipped with 8GB DDR4 RAM and 256 GB SSD to save cost. This may cause some issues if you are looking to run multiple high-demand applications at the same time. However, all of these options are sufficient when focusing on gaming and offer packages with higher memory, if you are willing to spend a bit more.

The MSI Katana 15, is a laptop that keeps up with its name. Everyone knows a katana is sleek, sharp, and powerful, a great weapon for anyone’s arsenal. Inside the chassis, there lies an Intel Core i5-11400H and a GeForce RTX 3050, ready to run through your favorite games with remarkable agility.

The 144Hz FHD display ensures your gaming experience is as smooth as a Katana’s swipe. However, with 8GB RAM, the Katana 15 might not be the best at handling multiple heavy tasks running at the same time. If your primary focus is on solid gaming performance, it’s a trade-off you can live with. This gaming laptop is upgradeable to 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD if you are willing to pay a little more.

Be prepared for a cooler gaming session, courtesy of MSI’s Cooler Boost technology. The Cooler Boost Technology maximizes the VGA fan RPM for up to 30 seconds. This drastically cools down the GPU temperature and is an excellent feature for competitive gaming rigs.

The speakers equipped in this gaming laptop may not be the loudest, so get your gaming headset ready for the best audio.

If you value portability and a sleek design without compromising gaming performance, the MSI Katana 15 should be on your radar.

The Acer Nitro 5 is a staple among most gaming laptops even in the realm of budget gaming laptops. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 5600H and GeForce GTX 1650, it’s well equipped to run most competitive games using medium settings.

The Nitro 5’s 144Hz display delivers a smooth gaming experience, while the CoolBoost technology keeps your system temperature in check during intense gaming sessions. However, the trade-off here is the smaller 256GB SSD and 8GB RAM. This may limit your game library and multitasking capability.

There is a NitroSense key located on the keyboard that will launch the NitroSense software. This will grant you access to fan speed control, power settings, and system information.

If you are looking for a reliable, time-tested, cheap gaming machine, the Acer Nitro 5 should be high on your list of the best gaming laptops under $1000. It also offers some more customization for those that want to control hardware settings.

The HP Victus 15 is an affordable gaming laptop and a strong contender in our list of the best gaming laptops under $1,000. Its rugged design packs an AMD Ryzen 5 5600H and a GeForce GTX 1650, a combination that offers reliable performance in more demanding games.

With a 60Hz FHD display, the Victus 15 might not offer the smoothest frames, but it brings out vibrant colors and crisp visuals. Similar to other items in our list, the 8GB RAM and 512GB SSD are not top-of-the-line but should be sufficient for most casual gamers.

One standout feature of the Victus 15 is its thermal system – HP’s advanced cooling system ensures the laptop stays cool even under load. The drawback? Its weight. The Victus 15 is on the heavier side, so it’s less portable than some of its counterparts.

If you prioritize thermal efficiency and don’t mind carrying a bit of extra weight, the HP Victus 15 offers a solid deal.

The Dell G15 delivers power-packed performance within your budget constraints. It is coupled with an Intel Core i5-11400H processor and GeForce RTX 3050, which provides great graphics power and performance.

The G15’s 120Hz FHD display provides a smooth visual display, and the Game Shift technology allows you to maximize performance with just the press of a button. However, the 8GB RAM might limit your multitasking capabilities.

Design-wise, the Dell G15 embraces a bold aesthetic with four-zone RGB backlighting, making it stand out in the crowd. The Dell G15 has poor battery life, but like many other gaming laptops, it isn’t designed for all-day untethered use.

For those seeking a gaming laptop with a distinctive design and the ability to switch into high gear swiftly, the Dell G15 is worth considering.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 makes its mark on our list of the best gaming laptops under $1000, offering robust gaming performance wrapped in a refined design. An AMD Ryzen 5 5600H CPU and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 GPU form the heart of this machine, ensuring a responsive gaming experience.

The 120Hz FHD display is a treat for the eyes, offering smooth gameplay visuals. However, the 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD may limit your multitasking and storage capacity.

The IdeaPad Gaming 3’s physical design is a standout feature: it’s sleek, minimalistic, and the blue backlit keyboard adds a touch of gaming spirit. The battery life is decent for a budget gaming laptop too, and the thermals are generally under control.

If you’re in search of a sleek design that delivers reliable performance, the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 might be just what you need.

The Asus TUF Dash 15 is another great option for budget laptops. With an Intel Core Intel Core i7-11370H processor and a GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU, the TUF Dash 15 provides the right amount of power for a budget laptop.

The 144Hz FHD display enhances the gaming experience with its fluid visuals. The 8GB RAM should be adequate for most casual gaming scenarios, but heavy multitaskers might find it limiting. A 512GB SSD caters to your storage needs, allowing speedy game load times.

The TUF Dash 15 shines in its design, bearing a sleek profile and four different color options to choose from. Its military-grade durability further adds to its build quality. The downside? Its speakers could be better, so you might want to have a gaming headset handy.

For those seeking a blend of durability, performance, and style, the Asus TUF Dash 15 offers great value in the under $1000 segment.

The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 is a compact powerhouse, making it an excellent cheap gaming laptop for gamers on the move. The AMD Ryzen 7 4800HS processor paired with a GeForce GTX 1650 ensures you’ll have plenty of muscle for most games, even if it’s not quite the top-of-the-line.

The Zephyrus G14’s display comes in a 14″ form factor with a 120Hz refresh rate, a departure from the traditional 15.6 inch norm. Although it has a smaller screen, it still delivers a smooth gaming experience. However, be aware that the 16GB RAM might limit heavy multitasking.

Unlike most laptops, one of the G14’s key strengths is its exceptional battery life for a gaming laptop. It is also sleek, lightweight, and has a distinctive LED matrix on the lid. It’s both a good gaming laptop and a conversation starter!

If you’re a gamer constantly playing games on the move and need a machine that balances in-game performance, portability, and battery life, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 could be the right pick for you.

The Acer Predator Helios 300 has consistently been a top performer in the best budget gaming laptop segment, and the 2023 iteration continues that trend. With an Intel Core i5-11400H and GeForce RTX 3060, this laptop offers a smooth gaming experience.

The Predator Helios 300 utilizes a 144Hz FHD display for a fluid visual experience, while the 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD provide a balance between performance and storage capacity.

The laptop’s standout feature is the PredatorSense utility, which gives gamers control over cooling, overclocking, and a host of other settings. However, be prepared to live with a bit of heft, as the Helios 300 is not the lightest laptop on the block.

If you’re a gamer seeking a blend of control, performance, and value, you should consider the Acer Predator Helios 300.

The ASUS TUF Gaming F15 is the warrior of the gaming battlefield. Sporting an Intel Core i5-10300H and GeForce GTX 1650, this laptop delivers power and performance to conquer any game. The 144Hz FHD display ensures a silky-smooth visual treat during intense gaming sessions.

This laptop offers 32GB RAM and a 1TB SSD, creating a perfect equilibrium between speed and storage. This setup also comes with a 1TB Hard Disk Drive (HDD) for even more storage! What’s unique about the TUF Gaming F15 is its military-standard durability and HyperCool technology that helps manage heat effectively.

If durability, thermal efficiency, and robust performance are your top priorities, make sure to consider the ASUS TUF Gaming F15 in your search for the best gaming laptops under $1000.

The HP Pavilion Gaming 16 presents a package of efficient power and an immersive gameplay experience. With an Intel Core i5-10300H and GeForce GTX 1660 Ti at its heart, this laptop offers seamless gaming performance. The 16.1″ FHD display enhances your gaming immersion.

Equipped with 8GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, the Pavilion Gaming 16 balances nimble performance with ample storage. What sets this laptop apart from other laptops is the HP CoolSense technology and unique heat pipe design that maintains optimal thermal performance.

If immersive gameplay and cool, consistent performance are your goals, the HP Pavilion Gaming 16 should be on your list of the best gaming laptops under $1000.

The Dell Inspiron 15 is a blend of aesthetics, power, and functionality. Powered by an Intel Core i5-1035GI processor and GeForce GTX 1650 Ti, this laptop ensures smooth performance across a variety of games. The 15.6″ FHD display provides a sharp and vivid visual experience.

The laptop comes with 8GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, a combination that guarantees swift multitasking and adequate storage. What makes this laptop unique is its sleek design and dual-fan cooling system, offering both style and efficiency.

If aesthetics and a cooling design are as important to you as performance, consider the Dell Inspiron 15 7501 in your quest for the best gaming laptops under $1000.

The MSI GF63 Thin is an embodiment of power and portability. It’s armed with an Intel Core i5-10500H and a GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q, allowing for comfortable handling of most games. The 15.6″ FHD display further elevates the gaming experience.

With 8GB RAM and a 256GB SSD, the GF63 strikes a balance between rapid performance and ample storage. This laptop’s standout feature is its thin bezel design, which provides an immersive gaming experience.

If you value portability and immersive gameplay in your gaming laptop, don’t overlook the MSI GF63 when shopping for the best gaming laptops under $1000.

The Lenovo Legion 5 is an impressive performer in the budget gaming segment. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 4600H and GeForce GTX 1650, this laptop can tackle a range of gaming titles with ease. The 15.6″ FHD display provides sharp and vibrant visuals.

The Legion 5 is equipped with 8GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, ensuring both responsive performance and enough storage space. Its unique feature is the Coldfront 2.0 cooling system, ensuring optimal thermal management during intense gaming sessions.

If you value thermal efficiency and strong performance in your gaming rig, consider the Lenovo Legion 5 when seeking the best gaming laptops under $1000.

Another standout player in the budget gaming sector, the Acer Aspire 5 Gaming laptop, is equipped with the AMD Ryzen 5-5500U processor and AMD Radeon Graphics to ensure smooth and efficient gameplay.

The Aspire 5 sports a 15.6″ FHD display for a crisp visual experience, while the 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD maintain an equilibrium between performance and storage.

A distinguishing feature of this laptop is its sleek and modern design, surprisingly light for a gaming laptop. But don’t let its lightness fool you – it can still pack a punch in performance.

If you desire a balance of portability, sleek design, and efficient gaming performance, the Acer Aspire 5 Gaming should be on your radar when looking for the best gaming laptops under $1000.

Finally, we have the HP Omen 15, a standout gaming laptop within the budget. Under the hood, it packs an AMD Ryzen 7 4800H and a GeForce GTX 1660 Ti, which combine to offer smooth gaming performance in the latest games.

The Omen 15’s 15.6″ FHD display ensures a visually captivating gaming experience. The laptop’s 8GB RAM and 512GB SSD provide a decent balance of speed and storage, though the storage capacity might be a bit limiting for some gamers.

Its key feature is the Omen Tempest Cooling Technology, ensuring efficient heat dissipation during intense gaming sessions. Keep in mind that the laptop’s design leans toward the bulkier side.

If you’re after impressive cooling technology and solid gaming performance, the HP Omen 15 is a strong contender in your quest for the best gaming laptops under $1000.

Budget Gaming Laptop Selection Guide

Choosing a budget gaming laptop can feel like a daunting task, given the vast array of choices available. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Here’s a short guide to help you select the perfect budget laptop for your gaming needs:

1. Identify Your Needs: Not all games require the same computing power, so consider the type of games you usually play. If you’re into less demanding games or indie titles, you might not need the highest specs on the market. On the other hand, if you’re planning to play the latest AAA games, you’ll need more power under the hood.

2. Prioritize Performance: Affordable gaming laptops should have a solid combination of CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. The Acer Predator Helios 300, with its Intel Core i5-11400H and GeForce RTX 3050, is a great example of a laptop that doesn’t compromise on performance despite its budget-friendly price.

3. Don’t Skimp on Display: Always aim for at least a 1080p display. Consider the refresh rate too, as a higher refresh rate can offer smoother gameplay. The Asus TUF Dash 15 is a good example, boasting a 15.6″ FHD display with a 144Hz refresh rate.

4. Consider Portability: One of the downsides to having a gaming desktop is its mobility. If you travel a lot or play games in different places, a gaming laptop is a perfect choice for you. You should consider the size and weight of the laptop if you’re going to be moving around a lot. The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 stands out here, offering a sleek, lightweight design alongside solid performance.

5. Check Battery Life: While gaming laptops aren’t known for extended battery life, it’s still worth considering if you game on the go. Once again, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 shines in this department.

6. Evaluate Value for Money: Ensure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. A laptop like the Acer Nitro 5 offers great performance at a reasonable price, making it an excellent value-for-money option.

Remember, the ‘best’ gaming laptop will differ for everyone, based on your individual needs and budget. So, consider your priorities and choose a new gaming laptop now that best aligns with them.