High-tech gaming laptops with dedicated graphic cards and high-res displays are the dream of every gamer. But they are not always affordable, especially if they are the latest in the market.
We understand that not everyone can spend thousands of dollars on a gaming laptop. Thus, we bring for you the best gaming laptops under $500.
These devices are perfect for light and casual gaming. You might have to compromise on the resolution settings, but the budget cut has to come from somewhere.
Whether you’re a casual gamer, a student on a budget, or someone who just loves a good deal, these laptops are sure to impress. From responsive keyboards to ample storage and stunning displays, these budget-friendly options pack a punch without costing an arm!
Top Picks For Budget Gaming Laptops Under $500
Here are the best cheap gaming laptops to buy if you are on a budget crunch.
Acer Aspire 5 Slim – Overall Best Gaming Laptop Under $500
| Price | $500 |
| Specifications | Intel Core i5-1335U processor, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, 14-inch IPS display |
The first on our list of best gaming laptops under $500 is the Acer Aspire 5 Slim. Equipped with i5 quad-core processor and integrated graphics, it offers a well-rounded package of performance with.
With a responsive keyboard and ample storage, this laptop is perfect for everyday use and casual gaming.You can easily play games like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, Kakarot, or Sleeping Dogs, as long as they are low resolution.
The 15.6-inch full HD display ensures crisp imagery, while 20GB of RAM enables smooth multitasking. With a spacious 512GB storage capacity, you’ll have plenty of room for your games and files. For budget-conscious gamers, the Aspire 5 Slim delivers impressive value and versatility.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Responsive keyboard and touchpad
- Value for money
Cons
- Low-quality webcam
- Poor battery life
Dell Inspiron 15 – Reliable & Affordable Gaming Laptop
| Price | $418 |
| Specifications | Core i5 processor, 12GB RAM, 256GB storage, 15.6-inch screen, 1080p display |
Dell Inspiron 15 3511 is a budget-friendly gaming laptop under $500 that doesn’t compromise on quality. Boasting a stunning display and superior build, it’s perfect for entry-level gaming.
Intel i5 quad-core processor delivers impressive speed for light gaming. It is not suitable to run modern AAA titles smoothly, however, it handles esports, and indie games comfortably.
The full HD anti-glare screen ensures crystal-clear visuals, while the intuitive touch screen enhances usability. The downside lies in its poor battery life; many users have reviewed that they had to plug it in while working. For its price, the Dell Inspiron 15 offers exceptional value and performance.
Pros
- Great speed and power
- Touch screen
- Affordable for powerful specs
Cons
- Poor battery life
- Weak speakers
Acer Chromebook CBG516 – Best Budget Gaming Chromebook
| Price | $369 |
| Specifications | 12-Core Intel i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, 16” QHD display, Iris Xe Graphics |
Looking for a gaming Chromebook under $500? The Acer Chromebook CBG516 is the best choice!
Since it runs on CromeOS, you can’t play native PC titles, but you can play several titles from cloud-gaming platforms, such as GeForce Now or Stadia. With a Core i5 processor and integrated Iris Xe plates, it offers a fun gaming experience for games like Miecraft, The Sims, or Stardew Valley easily.
The Chromebook has a 16-inch QHD screen, so the visuals are clear and bright. It supports Wi-Fi 6E technology and includes an Ethernet port to ensure a stable internet connection essential for cloud gaming.
Pros
- Backlit keyboard
- Cloud gaming
- Ample storage
- Long battery life (9 hours)
Cons
- Limited to ChromeOS
- No dedicated GPU
HP Pavilion 15-dw1053dx – Value For The Money
| Price | $469 |
| Specifications | Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, 15.6-inch screen, Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
Equipped with Intel Core i5 processor and integrated GPU, Intel UHD 600, the HP Pavilion 15 offers a decent performance for entry-level gaming. According to various benchmark testings, it can handle games like Counter-Strike: Source, League of Legends, and GTA.
Memory and storage max out at 16GB RAM and 1TB, offering incredible speed and storage for gaming. It does not have a full HD display, providing sub-par resolution. However, you can solve it by connecting it to an external monitor. It works fine that way.
Pros
- Slim and sleek design
- Long battery life
- Quad-core processor
Cons
- Reflective screen
- Display is not up to the mark
- Lacks a dedicated GPU
Hand-picked Content: looking for budget laptops? check out our review on Clevo NH70 for your everyday use sorted.
Lenovo V15 – Powerful Specs For Light Gaming
| Price | $499 |
| Specifications | Ryzen 5 5500U, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, 15.6” FHD Display, AMD Radeon Graphics |
Packed with impressive specs, Lenovo V15 is one of the best gaming laptops under $500. It has a speedy 16GB RAM and an AMD Ryzen 5 hexa-core processor that ensures smooth gaming performance.
It lacks a dedicated GPU, so you can’t play games with high graphic demands. However, it is a great option for less demanding titles, like Fortnite, Apex Legends, GTA, or Minecraft, albeit with reduced settings.
The 15.6-inch full HD display delivers clear visuals suitable for gaming and everyday use. And 1TB SSD provides ample storage for games and files. While the battery life is average around 5 hours, it offers solid value and performance for budget-strapped gamers.
Pros
- Quality design
- Impressive 1080p display
- 16GB memory and 1TB storage
Cons
- No dedicated GPU
- Average battery life
Conclusion
Finding the perfect gaming laptop under $500 can be a daunting task, but with our carefully curated list of top picks, you can game with confidence knowing you’ve got a powerful companion by your side.
From Acer to Lenovo, each of these laptops offers a winning combination of performance, affordability, and reliability.
Don’t let a tight budget hold you back from gaming greatness – grab your favorite model today and start gaming like a pro!