Best Gaming Laptop Under $500 [2024] – Buyer’s Guide

Best Gaming Laptop under $500

In this guide, I am going to include some terrific gaming laptop in budget, however, during testings I have found that even as these devices can deal with light to moderate gaming, they’ll not be good for AAA titles.

However, they provide a smoother enjoy at low-demanding games like Minecraft, League of Legends, or Roadblocks.

These laptops have Entry-level GPUs, respectable processors, and about 8GB – 16GB of RAM—ideal for simple gaming, multitasking, and daily use.

What I like about mSI GF63?

Starting with the display, the MSI GF63 sports a 15.6-inch screen with a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This clarity provides a solid visual experience for both gaming and everyday use, ensuring that your games look sharp and clear. Coupled with the GTX 1650 graphics card, it can handle most popular games with smooth frame rates, especially at medium settings. This graphics card is a standout feature at this price range, as it’s rare to find such a dedicated GPU on budget laptops, making it a solid choice for casual to moderate gaming.

Under the hood, the laptop runs on an Intel Core i5 processor clocked at 2.4 GHz, paired with 8GB of DDR4 RAM. This combination gives you smooth multitasking capabilities, letting you game while running background tasks or browsing without lag. The 256GB SSD not only adds to the laptop’s speed in booting up and loading games, but it also provides ample storage space for your favourite titles. Additionally, the laptop’s slim design, just under an inch thick, makes it highly portable without compromising on power.

What I don’t like in MSI GF63?

Despite its strengths, the MSI GF63 has a few downsides to keep in mind.

One of the main drawbacks is the average battery life, which, while decent for everyday tasks, might feel a bit short during long gaming sessions. The GF63’s battery can last up to a day under light usage, but expect much shorter times when gaming, especially with the GTX 1650 drawing additional power. For those planning marathon gaming sessions, this may require keeping the charger handy.

Another limitation to consider is the 256GB SSD. While it does provide fast load times, the storage capacity may feel limiting for gamers who want to keep a broad library of titles installed. If you’re big on AAA games, you might find yourself needing to invest in external storage or periodically uninstalling games to free up space.

Technical Analysis & Bottleneck Testing

On the technical side, the Intel i5 processor and 8GB of RAM form a solid foundation, especially for a gaming laptop in this price range.

However, the GTX 1650 might encounter minor bottlenecks when handling particularly demanding titles on high settings, as it only has 1GB of dedicated VRAM. Still, for popular titles like Fortnite, League of Legends, and Counter Strike, this configuration will deliver satisfactory frame rates at medium settings.

In terms of build, MSI’s design holds up well; the thin profile and sleek black finish make it look high-end, though the laptop does run warm under heavy loads. MSI’s thermal solution does a good job at keeping core components cool, but it’s not the quietest out there.

What’s Good about G15 5510?

The G15 5510 comes with an Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of DDR4 RAM, a solid combination that ensures smooth performance for gaming, multitasking, and general productivity tasks. The GTX 1650 graphics card is a game-changer here, especially considering the budget, as it lets you run games like Fortnite, CS, and even titles like GTA V at respectable frame rates. Plus, the 15.6-inch Full HD screen with 1920 x 1080 resolution provides crisp visuals, making gaming, streaming, and everyday tasks enjoyable.

Storage is also impressive for this price range. The 256GB SSD ensures quick load times and responsive boot-up, something you won’t easily find in lower-budget laptops that still rely on HDD storage. The SSD not only speeds things up but also makes sure your programs and games load faster, adding to the overall snappy feel.

What’s Not So Good?

While the Dell G15 5510 packs a punch, it does have a few limitations. The 8GB RAM is sufficient for most games, but for memory-intensive tasks or heavier multitasking, you might feel a bit constrained. Additionally, the storage space of 256GB SSD might run out quickly if you install multiple large games. While it’s faster than traditional HDDs, you may need to consider an external drive or cloud storage if you plan to store a lot of files.

Another drawback is the laptop’s weight and bulk. At 24 x 14 x 4 inches, the G15 5510 isn’t the most portable option and might feel heavy if you’re planning to carry it around often. Battery life is also on the shorter side, so gaming unplugged is limited—definitely something to keep in mind if you’re always on the go.

Technical Analysis & Bottlenecks

In terms of performance, the Intel Core i5 and GTX 1650 make a great pairing, but the single-channel 8GB RAM could bottleneck performance when handling more intensive tasks or multiple applications at once. This setup can easily handle popular games on medium settings, but AAA titles may require you to dial back the settings for smooth gameplay. Additionally, the GTX 1650, while decent, is an entry-level card, so don’t expect high frame rates on newer or more graphically demanding games.

What’s Good About It?

The Samsung NP850XBD features a 15.6-inch Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, providing crisp and vibrant visuals that are perfect for gaming sessions and media consumption. Powered by an Intel Core i7 processor and 16 GB of DDR4 RAM, this laptop can handle multitasking with ease, whether you’re running demanding games or streaming content.

One of the standout features is the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card with 4 GB of dedicated VRAM. This card is a solid performer for most modern games at medium settings, allowing you to enjoy an immersive gaming experience without significant lag. The inclusion of Bluetooth and 802.11ac wireless connectivity ensures that you stay connected with minimal interruptions.

What’s Not So Good?

While the NP850XBD has a lot going for it, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The laptop weighs in at 5.51 pounds, making it less portable compared to lighter models. If you’re someone who needs a laptop to carry around frequently, you might find this a bit cumbersome. Additionally, the storage is somewhat limited since the hard drive interface is only USB-based, which can slow down load times compared to traditional SSDs.

The battery life isn’t the best in class either, which means you might need to keep it plugged in during intense gaming sessions. Also, while the laptop can handle most games, it may struggle with very demanding titles or max settings due to the hardware constraints.

Technical Overview

The HP 14 features a 14-inch display with a crisp 1920 x 1080 resolution. For gaming, this is a solid starting point, offering clear visuals without the strain on your wallet. The laptop is powered by an AMD Ryzen 3 3250U processor clocked at 3.5 GHz, which provides decent performance for light gaming and multitasking. With a whopping 20 GB of DDR4 RAM, it handles multiple applications seamlessly, making it ideal for gaming sessions while keeping other tasks running in the background.

The integrated AMD Radeon 530 graphics coprocessor might not win any awards, but it does a fair job for casual gaming. You won’t be running the latest AAA titles at high settings, but games like Stardew Valley, League of Legends, and even some light Fortnite can run smoothly on lower graphics settings.

What’s Good

One of the standout features of the HP 14 is its 512 GB SSD, which significantly boosts loading times compared to traditional hard drives. I found booting up Windows 11 S to be lightning fast, and loading games felt nearly instantaneous. The battery life is another impressive aspect, averaging around 8 hours, which means I can game on the go without worrying about finding a power outlet too often.

The build quality is quite sturdy for its price, and at only 3.3 pounds, it’s super portable—perfect for taking to class or a friend’s house. The addition of multiple USB ports, including two USB 3.0 ports, is convenient for connecting peripherals like gaming mice and external drives.

What’s Bad

However, the HP 14 isn’t without its drawbacks. While the performance is commendable for casual gaming, there are some bottlenecks to consider. The integrated graphics mean you won’t be able to push demanding games, and even some less intensive games might struggle if you’re aiming for higher frame rates.

Another downside is the lack of an optical drive, which might be a dealbreaker for some who still rely on physical media. Additionally, the screen brightness could be better; I found it somewhat dim in well-lit environments, which may affect gameplay in certain situations.

What’s Good About the Lenovo V15

The Lenovo V15 boasts a stunning 15.6-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This Full HD screen not only makes games look vibrant but also provides a great viewing experience for movies and browsing. The AMD Ryzen 5 processor clocked at 4 GHz delivers solid performance, allowing me to multitask without a hitch. Coupled with 16 GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512 GB SSD, I found loading times to be impressively quick, giving me the freedom to switch between applications seamlessly.

In terms of graphics, the integrated AMD Radeon Graphics is surprisingly capable for a laptop in this price range. While I wouldn’t expect it to run the latest AAA titles on high settings, it handled popular games like Fortnite and League of Legends quite well, especially on medium settings. I was also pleased with the laptop’s lightweight design at just 3.75 pounds, making it easy to take along for gaming sessions with friends or study groups.

What’s Bad About the Lenovo V15

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows with the Lenovo V15. One drawback is the integrated graphics, which can be a bottleneck for more demanding games. If you’re looking to play titles with intensive graphics, you might find the experience lacking. Additionally, while the battery life is decent, heavy gaming sessions can drain it faster than I’d like. I noticed the laptop tends to run a bit hot during extended gameplay, so having a cooling pad handy could be beneficial.

Another point worth mentioning is the limited number of USB ports, with just one USB 3.0 port available. This might pose a challenge if you want to connect multiple peripherals at once. Also, the build quality feels somewhat plastic, which is common in budget laptops, but it does make me question its long-term durability.

Performance and Features

The Acemagic AX16PRO boasts an impressive 4.3 GHz AMD Ryzen 7 processor, making it suitable for a range of gaming experiences. Paired with the AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 integrated graphics, this laptop can handle many popular games at reasonable settings. Whether I was jumping into a match of League of Legends or exploring the world of Minecraft, the performance was surprisingly smooth.

The laptop comes with a 512 GB M.2 SSD, which not only provides ample storage for games and applications but also ensures quick boot times and fast loading of my favorite titles. With 16GB of DDR4 RAM, multitasking was a breeze; I could easily switch between gaming and streaming without any noticeable lag.

One of the standout features for me was the battery life—averaging around 8 hours on a single charge. This was a pleasant surprise, as I could game or work on the go without constantly worrying about finding an outlet.

What I Liked

However, no product is without its downsides. While the Acemagic AX16PRO has a lot going for it, there are a few areas that could use improvement. The integrated graphics mean that heavy AAA titles might not run as well as I’d like, and I found that games demanding higher graphics settings struggled a bit. Additionally, the design, while functional, doesn’t scream premium; it feels a bit utilitarian.

Another consideration is the weight. At 3.74 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight for a gaming laptop, but if you plan on carrying it around frequently, it might still be on the heavier side compared to ultraportable models.

What’s Good About It

First off, the Nmybwo HL-K701 boasts a 16-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. This means you’ll enjoy vibrant visuals that can make your gaming experience more immersive, especially in titles with rich graphics. The 12GB DDR5 RAM is another standout feature, providing ample memory for multitasking and allowing you to run games alongside other applications without a hitch.

The 1TB SSD is a significant plus, offering enough storage for your games and files while ensuring fast load times. The integrated UHD graphics coprocessor, although not designed for high-end gaming, can handle many popular titles at lower settings, making it suitable for casual gaming. Plus, with Windows 11 Pro out of the box, you get the latest features and updates from Microsoft, which is always a bonus.

At 3.6 pounds and with a sleek design, this laptop is relatively lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go. The build quality feels decent for its price, and the purple color adds a unique flair that stands out from the crowd.

What’s Bad About It

However, it’s important to acknowledge the limitations of the Nmybwo HL-K701. While the integrated graphics are decent for casual gaming, they can struggle with more demanding titles. If you’re planning to play graphically intensive games, you might experience noticeable lag or a drop in frame rates. This could be a deal-breaker if you’re looking to play the latest AAA games at higher settings.

The processor, clocking in at 1.7 GHz, might not deliver the performance you need for heavy multitasking or demanding applications. You may encounter some bottlenecking when pushing the laptop’s limits, particularly during gaming sessions that require higher processing power.

Lastly, the battery life, while decent, may not last through extended gaming sessions, especially if you’re using resource-heavy applications. You’ll want to keep the charger handy during those longer gaming marathons.

Understand Your Gaming Needs

Before diving into the specifications of gaming laptops, it’s crucial to assess your gaming needs.

Are you into graphically intensive games, or do you prefer lighter titles?

If your gaming library consists mostly of casual games or older titles, a less powerful laptop may suffice. However, if you’re looking to play the latest AAA games, you’ll need to prioritize specific features like a dedicated graphics card, a higher refresh rate display, and a more robust CPU.

Additionally, consider what else you’ll be using the laptop for. If it’s solely for gaming, you can focus on performance specs.

However, if you plan to use it for multitasking, streaming, or productivity, look for a balance between gaming performance and other capabilities. Understanding these needs will guide you in selecting a laptop that not only meets your gaming demands but also serves as a reliable everyday machine.

Key Specifications to Consider

When searching for the best gaming laptop under $500, there are several key specifications that you should prioritize to ensure a satisfactory gaming experience.

Here’s what to look out for:

Build Quality & Design

When selecting a gaming laptop under $500, the build quality and design are crucial factors that can influence your overall experience.

Look for laptops constructed with durable materials, as they tend to withstand wear and tear better, especially if you plan on transporting your laptop frequently.

Metal chassis often feel more premium and robust compared to plastic alternatives. Additionally, consider the laptop’s weight and thickness; a more portable design is advantageous for gaming on the go.

A well-designed laptop should also have a comfortable keyboard with good travel and responsiveness, as you’ll be spending long hours gaming and typing.

Battery Life Considerations

Battery life is an important aspect to keep in mind, especially if you intend to use your gaming laptop away from a power source.

While most gaming laptops under $500 may not offer extremely long battery life, aim for a model that provides at least 5-8 hours of use for basic tasks.

Gaming will naturally drain the battery more quickly, so check for reviews that discuss real-world battery performance under gaming conditions.

Additionally, some laptops come with power-saving modes or features that can extend battery life when not gaming, which is a nice bonus for general use.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is essential for a good gaming experience, particularly for online gaming and peripheral compatibility.

Ensure the laptop has a variety of ports, including multiple USB 3.0 ports for your gaming mouse, keyboard, and other accessories.

HDMI ports are also beneficial if you want to connect to an external monitor or TV for a larger display. Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or newer Wi-Fi 6 support will provide faster and more reliable internet connections, which are critical for online gaming.

Additionally, look for Bluetooth capability to connect wireless devices like headsets or game controllers seamlessly. Having a good range of connectivity options will enhance your overall gaming and usage experience.