Unleash Gaming Power on a Budget: Top 5 Cheap Gaming Laptops for 2024

Finding the right balance of affordability and performance in gaming laptops can be a challenge, especially when on a budget. The quest for a cheap gaming laptop that doesn’t compromise on power or quality is more pertinent than ever as gamers seek cost-effective solutions for their gaming needs ³. The upcoming year promises a selection of cheap gaming laptops that blend high-performance specifications with budget-friendly prices, catering to gamers looking for good deals without sacrificing quality ³.

In the competitive market, identifying laptops that offer the best value involves considering factors such as dedicated GPU, screen size, processor speed, and battery life, which are crucial for an optimal gaming experience. This article will navigate through the top 5 cheap gaming laptops for 2024, highlighting key features and why they stand out in a sea of options ³⁴.

Laptop 1 – MSI Katana 15

The MSI Katana 15 emerges as a formidable choice for gamers seeking a blend of performance and affordability. Priced at $999, this model is equipped with an Intel Core i7-13620H processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, ensuring robust gaming capabilities ²⁹. The laptop boasts a 15.6-inch 1080p display with a refresh rate of 144Hz, ideal for smooth and immersive gaming experiences ⁸.

Key specifications include:

• Processor: Intel Core i7-13620H
• Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 with 6GB VRAM
• Display: 15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080, 144Hz
• Memory and Storage: 16GB RAM and a 1TB SSD ⁸

The MSI Katana 15 is recognized for its superior build quality compared to other models in the same price range, specifically designed with gaming in mind ⁷. It features a comfortable keyboard with a full layout and distinctive transparent keycaps for the WASD keys, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality ⁸. Additionally, the laptop includes a 4-zone RGB backlight keyboard and a compact touchpad with integrated keys, catering to the preferences of gamers ⁹.

Performance reviews highlight that the MSI Katana 15’s capabilities are comparable to those of laptops equipped with an RTX 3060, offering excellent value for its price point ⁹. However, it scores 4/5 for price, design, and performance, but a lower 3/5 for battery life, suggesting that while it excels in many areas, battery performance could be improved ⁸.

For security, the laptop includes a TPM module and comes with a 24-month warranty. MSI also allows users to open the device for maintenance without voiding the warranty, providing additional peace of mind for users who may need to upgrade or repair their laptops ⁹.

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Laptop 2 – Acer Nitro 5

The Acer Nitro 5 stands out as an excellent choice for gamers seeking a balance between cost and performance. The 2024 model starts under $1,000 and is powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS processor paired with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, showcasing its capability to handle most modern games with ease ². It features a 16-inch display with a 1920 x 1200 resolution and a 165 Hz refresh rate, enhanced by G-Sync technology, providing a smooth and immersive gaming experience ².

Key Specifications:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS
• Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050
• Display: 16-inch, 1920 x 1200, 165Hz with G-Sync
• Price: Starts under $1,000 ²

For those on a tighter budget, the Acer Nitro 5 AN515-44-R99Q model offers a more affordable alternative. Although it features a less powerful AMD Ryzen 5 6600H processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card, it still manages to deliver decent performance for less demanding games. This variant includes 8GB of memory, a 256GB storage drive, and a 15.6-inch 1080p display at 60 Hz, priced remarkably lower at $769.99 ¹⁰.

Budget Model Specifications:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 6600H
• Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 with 4GB VRAM
• Memory: 8GB
• Storage: 256GB
• Screen: 15.6-inch, 1920×1080, 60 Hz
• Price: $769.99 ¹⁰

The Acer Nitro 5 also excels in customization and future-proofing, supporting up to 32GB of DDR4 memory and offering options for dual GEN 4 M.2 PCIe slots for extensive storage possibilities ¹¹. Its cooling system is designed for optimal performance, featuring a dual-fan setup, dual intakes, and a quad-exhaust port design ¹¹. Additionally, the laptop includes a 4-zone RGB keyboard with dedicated NitroSense Key, dual 2W speakers with DTS:X® Ultra, and comprehensive connectivity options including HDMI 2.1 and Thunderbolt™ 4 ¹¹.

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Laptop 3 – HP Victus 15

The HP Victus 15 is a standout model for gamers looking for high performance without breaking the bank. Priced at $999.99, it offers a comprehensive suite of features tailored for gaming efficiency ¹⁴.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050
• Display: 15.6″ FHD IPS, 144Hz
• Memory and Storage: 64GB DDR5 RAM, 2TB PCIe SSD
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home
• Price: $999.99 ¹⁴

This model is powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS processor, ensuring robust performance across various applications, from gaming to multitasking ¹⁴. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 graphics card supports smooth and visually stunning gaming experiences ¹⁴. The 15.6-inch FHD IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate provides crisp and fluid visuals, enhancing the gaming atmosphere ¹⁴.

For gamers needing extensive storage, the HP Victus 15 comes equipped with a 2TB PCIe SSD, providing ample space and quick data access ¹⁴. The 64GB DDR5 RAM further enhances the laptop’s ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously without lag ¹⁴.

HP also offers additional protection plans for the Victus 15, allowing users to choose between a 4-Year Protection for $159.99 or a 2-Year Protection for $99.99, ensuring long-term security and support ¹⁴

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Laptop 4 – Gigabyte G5

Key Specifications:

• Processor: Intel Core i5-12500H ²⁰
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU ²⁰
• Memory: 16 GB DDR4-3200, dual-channel mode ²⁰
• Storage: PCIe 4.0 SSD (512 GB) ²⁰
• Display: 15.60-inch FHD panel, 144Hz ²⁰
• Operating System: FreeDos ²⁰
• Price: $969 (US$1,026) ²⁰

Performance and Design

The Gigabyte G5 is noted for its solid performance in the gaming sector, especially with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 GPU that delivers excellent 1080p gaming experiences ²⁰²¹. The Intel Core i5-12500H processor ensures competent handling of most modern games, although it may face challenges with CPU-intensive tasks ²¹. The design features a sturdy build with a classic chassis and slightly blue-tinted LED backlighting for the keyboard, enhancing both aesthetics and usability ²¹.

Display and Connectivity

The 15.6-inch FHD display offers a refresh rate of 144Hz, providing smooth and clear visuals crucial for gaming. However, it does lack in brightness and contrast, which might affect color-sensitive tasks ²⁰. In terms of connectivity, the Gigabyte G5 includes an extensive range of ports such as USB 2.0, USB 3.0/3.1 Gen1, USB 3.1 Gen2, HDMI, DisplayPort, and Gigabit Ethernet, along with a Kensington Lock slot, an audio combo jack, and a microSD card reader ²⁰.

Additional Features and Considerations

The laptop comes with a chiclet keyboard that includes keyboard lighting, enhancing the gaming ambiance and usability in low-light conditions ²⁰. It also features a dual-channel mode for the 16 GB DDR4-3200 memory, which provides ample bandwidth for multitasking and gaming ²⁰. A notable issue is the charger, which can sometimes be overloaded by the laptop, potentially leading to power management concerns ²⁰.

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Laptop 5 – MSI GF63 Thin

Key Specifications:

• Processor: Up to 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i7-12700H ²⁸
• Graphics: Latest Intel® Arc™ A370M Graphics ²⁸
• Memory: Options up to 32GB (16GB*2) DDR4 3200MHz ²⁷
• Storage: Options ranging from 512GB NVMe SSD to 1TB NVMe SSD ²⁷
• Display: 15.6″ Full HD (1920×1080), 144 Hz Refresh Rate, IPS-Level panel (Optional) ²⁸
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home, with a free upgrade to Windows 11 ²⁶
• Price: Various pricing depending on configuration and specs ²⁶²⁷

Performance and Design

The MSI GF63 Thin is powered by the latest 11th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 processors, achieving up to 40% performance gains over its predecessors, with configurations featuring up to 8 cores and enhanced L3 cache sizes ²⁶. It’s equipped with the NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 30 Series Laptops GPUs, which support real-time ray tracing and AI-enhanced graphics for a superior gaming experience ²⁶. The device is finely tuned to operate quietly and coolly, making it suitable for both gaming and professional environments ²⁶.

Display and Build

This model boasts a 144Hz IPS-Level Thin-Bezel Gaming Display, ensuring outstanding speed and clarity for gaming and multimedia tasks ²⁶. The laptop’s build is robust, featuring a metallic top and keyboard cover with a unique X-shaped ventilation hidden underneath, promoting better cooling and performance ²⁶. It weighs only 1.86 kg and is impressively thin at 21.7 mm, making it highly portable ²⁶.

Additional Features

The MSI GF63 Thin includes MSI Center with exclusive Gaming Mode and MSI App Player, enhancing the gaming experience between mobile and PC interfaces ²⁶. It is also High-Resolution Audio ready and offers one month of Game Pass Ultimate / PC Game Pass, adding significant value for gamers ²⁶. The model comes with comprehensive connectivity options, including Intel Wi-Fi 6 and multiple USB ports for versatile use ²⁷.

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Conclusion

Throughout this exploration, we have delved into a spectrum of gaming laptops that strike a balance between affordability and performance for the year 2024. With offerings from MSI, Acer, HP, Gigabyte, and MSI’s GF63 Thin, each option provides a unique blend of specifications catered to the diverse needs and budgets of gamers. Highlighted features such as dedicated GPUs, ample storage, high refresh rate displays, and robust processors stand out as key factors that enhance gaming experiences without breaking the bank.

The significance of selecting the right gaming laptop cannot be understated, as it extends beyond mere gaming to implications on productivity, creativity, and entertainment. Our discussion underscores the importance of informed decision-making based on critical performance metrics and personal preferences. As technology continues to evolve, so will the options for gamers seeking high-quality experiences at reasonable prices. It is hopeful that further advancements will continue to make high-performance gaming ever more accessible to a broader audience, encouraging continued engagement and exploration within the gaming community.

FAQs

What are the key factors to consider when selecting a cheap gaming laptop?

1. Processor and GPU: The processor and the graphics card are the backbone of gaming performance. Look for at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor and, ideally, a dedicated GPU like NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 or higher for better gaming results.
2. RAM and Storage: A minimum of 8GB RAM is advisable, though 16GB is preferred for gaming. For storage, SSDs offer faster load times than traditional HDDs. A 512GB SSD is a good starting point.
3. Display Quality: A higher refresh rate (120Hz or more) and a full HD display can significantly enhance your gaming experience by providing smoother motion and clearer images.
4. Battery Life: Gaming laptops are notorious for their short battery life, but it’s worth looking for one that can offer a reasonable amount of unplugged gaming time.
5. Build Quality and Cooling System: A well-built laptop with efficient cooling systems will ensure durability and performance sustainability during extended gaming sessions.

Can I upgrade components of a cheap gaming laptop later?

Most gaming laptops allow for some level of upgradability. Commonly, you can upgrade the RAM and storage. However, the GPU and CPU are often soldered onto the motherboard, making them difficult or impossible to upgrade after purchase. Always check the specific model for upgradability options before buying.

Are cheap gaming laptops good for uses other than gaming?

Yes, gaming laptops are generally powerful, making them suitable for other demanding tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and 3D modeling. However, they might be overkill for general web browsing and office work, where a less expensive, less powerful laptop could suffice.

How do I ensure my gaming laptop has a long lifespan?

To prolong the life of your gaming laptop, keep the software updated, ensure proper ventilation to avoid overheating, regularly clean the hardware components, and use a cooling pad during heavy gaming sessions. Additionally, handling the laptop gently and protecting it with a suitable carrying case can prevent physical damage.

FAQs

Q: Which affordable gaming laptop is recommended for good performance? A: The Acer Nitro 5 stands out as a recommended budget-friendly gaming laptop. Although it doesn’t match the performance of higher-end models in playing the latest, most demanding games, it offers a reasonable compromise with less storage and a less impressive screen.

Q: Can I get a quality gaming laptop for under $1000? A: Yes, the Dell G15 is currently the best gaming laptop available for under $1000, featuring a robust AMD CPU, Nvidia RTX graphics, and a vibrant display. Additionally, the Gigabyte G5 KF is noteworthy for being one of the few options in this price range that includes an RTX 4060 graphics card.

Q: What are the specifications of a good gaming laptop that costs around $700? A: The HP Victus 15 (2022) is an excellent choice for a gaming laptop at the $700 price point. It offers an Intel Core i5-12500H processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics, 8GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, and a 60Hz FHD display.

Q: How can I obtain a gaming laptop for free? A: To potentially get a gaming laptop at no cost, actively participate in gaming contests and giveaways hosted by gaming communities, forums, and social media platforms. These events frequently offer gaming laptops as prizes, and by engaging with these channels, you can increase your chances of winning.

References

[1] – https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-cheap-gaming-laptops
[2] – https://www.tomshardware.com/laptops/gaming-laptops/best-gaming-laptops
[3] – https://www.rtings.com/laptop/reviews/best/budget-gaming
[4] – https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-cheap-gaming-laptop/
[5] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqWeQu7Bw_4
[6] – https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/hp-victus-15
[7] – https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-gaming-laptops/
[8] – https://www.techradar.com/computing/gaming-laptops/msi-katana-15-2023-review
[9] – https://www.notebookcheck.net/MSI-Katana-15-laptop-review-Budget-gamer-with-RTX-4050-and-Alder-Lake-CPU.704037.0.html
[10] – https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/the-best-budget-gaming-laptop-so-far/
[11] – https://www.acer.com/us-en/laptops/nitro/nitro-5
[12] – https://www.acer.com/us-en/laptops/nitro/nitro-5/pdp/NH.QEKAA.001
[13] – https://www.amazon.com/acer-Display-i7-12650H-Backlit-Keyboard/dp/B0CXPVPP5D
[14] – https://www.amazon.com/HP-Victus-Gaming-Laptop-i7-11800H/dp/B0CLXYP7L3
[15] – https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/pdp/victus-by-hp-gaming-laptop-15z-fb100-156-7z648av-1
[16] – https://www.bestbuy.com/site/hp-victus-15-6-full-hd-144hz-gaming-laptop-intel-core-i7-16gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-4050-512gb-ssd-performance-blue/6570601.p?skuId=6570601
[17] – https://www.creativebloq.com/reviews/hp-victus-15
[18] – https://www.walmart.com/ip/HP-Victus-15-6-Full-HD-144Hz-Gaming-Laptop-Intel-Core-i5-13420H-8GB-Memory-NVIDIA-GeForce-RTX-3050-512GB-SSD-Performance-Blue/2609344623
[19] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fnpz4l63v4
[20] – https://www.notebookcheck.net/Gigabyte-G5-KF-review-Gaming-laptop-with-RTX-4060-for-969-euros.761048.0.html
[21] – https://www.techradar.com/reviews/gigabyte-g5-review-a-great-gaming-laptop-for-gamers-on-the-go
[22] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1O06yAwe4r4
[23] – https://www.pcgamer.com/hardware/gaming-laptops/gigabyte-g6x-2024-review/
[24] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-8pHBmPHQQ
[25] – https://www.notebookcheck.net/Gigabyte-G5-KE-Review-Midrange-gaming-laptop-that-checks-most-boxes.706641.0.html
[26] – https://www.msi.com/Laptop/GF63-Thin-11UX/Overview
[27] – https://us.msi.com/Laptop/Thin-GF63-12VX/Specification
[28] – https://us.msi.com/Laptop/Thin-GF63-12HX/Overview
[29] – https://www.gamesradar.com/best-gaming-laptops-compared/