10 Best Gaming Laptops Under $500 in 2023 [Tested Picks]

If you are a gamer, you most probably know that it demands a powerful processor, dedicated graphics chip, and a large storage capacity. For an entry-level gaming experience, it is ideal that you invest in a mid-range functional laptop that is perfectly equipped to serve you well. These alternatives are equipped to support games like GTA 5, Valorant, Fortnite, and even Roblox with incredible graphics and no lag.

Hence, it becomes important that you have thoroughly gone through basic factors that can influence the overall performance of the device. To save your day, here are some of the best gaming laptops under $500 accompanied by important buying instructions that can help you in making a buying decision. So, dive right in for more.

If you’re a gaming lover. But your budget is low. Don’t worry,  just Checkout our guide on best gaming laptops under $100 dollars.

10 Best Cheap Gaming Laptops Under $500

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1. Acer Aspire 5

“Best $500 Gaming Laptop”

Acer Aspire 5

I am starting my list of the best gaming laptops under $500 with this Acer Aspire 5, all thanks to its well-organized design. It is designed specifically for fairly heavy games like Roblox, with incredible response and speed range. I also really like its convertible design that offers great portability.

Acer Aspire 5 Review

The first thing to notice in this design is its AMD Ryzen 3 3200U processor that offers a great speed range and no lag. It is accompanied by a 4GB RAM and 128 storage capacity that enhances the response. Similarly, the eight hours of long battery life makes it an impressive and affordable gaming laptop.

In the end, for connectivity, standard options like USB 3.1, USB 2.0, and Ethernet options are present. It also supports HD graphics and a large screen that offers crisp and sharp visuals through the gaming process. All in all, audio quality is commendable as it rejects any background noise to a great extent.

Pros
  • Fast processing speed
  • Impressive storage capacity
  • Long battery life
  • Basic connectivity available
Cons
  • The buildup is not the best

Wrapping up, this one from Acer is a great choice for anyone in search of a basic yet functional gaming laptop. It is equipped with a 3rd Gen fast processor and HD graphics experience that is perfectly equipped to support intermediate gaming. The long battery life and connectivity add value to it.

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2. Lenovo IdeaPad 3

“Good Quality and Value for a $500 Gaming Laptop”

Lenovo IdeaPad 3

This one from Lenovo is the right alternative if you are looking for an affordable and responsive gaming laptop. It is designed with sufficient memory space and processor power that serve you well. Similarly, I really like the visual treat it has to offer, having a perfect blend of contrast and brightness.

To start with, the highlight of this model is its AMD Ryzen 3 3250U processor that operates on a 2.6 GHz refresh rate. Hence, you are provided with the needed power and speed. It further incorporates large storage of 8GB RAM which is quite noteworthy, considering the overall price range and construction.

Lastly, another thing that makes it quite remarkable is its 15.6 inches large screen and IPS technology that enhance the process. It further incorporates 1920x1080p HD resolution that offers quite a unique color reproduction and improved graphics throughout gaming. The screen refreshes at 60 GHz with no lag.

Pros
  • Impressive graphics experience
  • Fast/ powerful processor
  • Great storage capacity
Cons
  • Not the best connectivity

Final thoughts, this one from Lenovo is an impressive deal at this price, all credits to its powerful processor and graphics experience. It comes with a high storage value and fast refresh rate, making it responsive and powerful. Here, the HD resolution and AMD Radeon graphics make it quite valuable.

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3. HP 14

“Outstanding Display & High Performing Processor”

HP 14

Here comes yet another quality product from HP, famous for its 7th Gen processor and storage capacity. This is specifically designed for casual to intermediate gaming with absolute response and no lag. I also really like its entire buildup and modern looks that add to the aesthetics of your gaming setup.

Similarly, to manage the overall speed and response, the manufacturers have added an Intel Core i3 7100U processor. Hence, having a high refresh rate of 2.7 GHz, you are provided with sufficient power and speed. The dual-core processor further offers incredible four-way computing performance.

Finally, the 14 inches large screen and HD resolution (1366x768p) provides you with a decent graphics experience. Here, the large 8GB RAM and 128 GB SSD storage add to the response and speedy transfers. For connectivity, it only supports basic USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports.

Pros
  • Fast processing performance
  • Long battery life
  • Improved storage capacity
  • Durable and portable
Cons
  • Limited wired connectivity

In essence, this HP 2019 gaming laptop is specifically designed for users who are looking for something incredible at an affordable price. It is equipped with a powerful dual-core processor and large storage capacity that facilitates gaming well. Here, the long battery life of nine hours gives it an edge over others.

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4. HP Newest 15.6

“Excellent Battery Timing”

HP Newest 15.6

It is undoubtedly another best gaming laptop under $500, specifically designed for heavy gaming with absolute response and speed. Here, the powerful processor and large storage capacity add great value to it. I absolutely loved the compact touchscreen design that makes it convenient for the most part.

The first thing you will notice in this model is its powerful Intel Core i3 processor that offers sufficient speed and response. It is further backed by the high 8GB RAM and 128 GB SSD capacity. Hence, you are provided with fast start-ups, great response, and speedy file transfers, not to mention no lag.

In the end, another thing that makes it quite remarkable is its HD micro-edge bezel display quality that provides you with a crisp and sharp experience. The 10th Gen Intel graphics processor offers a visual treat with clear and vibrant images. Lastly, it also supports wireless Bluetooth and Wifi connectivity.

Pros
  • Includes a WLED touchscreen
  • Fast/ powerful processor
  • Offers impressive graphics
  • Great connectivity options
Cons
  • Not the best audio

Final thoughts, this HP 2019 laptop is specifically designed to facilitate intermediate gaming with absolute speed, response, and computational performance. Its 10th Gen Intel processor and 8GB RAM provide you with the needed power and response. Here, wireless communication enhances the overall performance.

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5. TECLAST 15.6

“Outstanding Display & Graphics”

TECLAST 15.6

Similarly, this one from Teclast is another great deal for casual gamers, in search of functional design. It is popular for its high form factor and processing performance that facilitates gaming with absolute response and speed. Here, the long battery life and graphics experience makes it stand among others.

Speaking of the design, it comes with a large 15.6 inches screen and HD resolution that offers crisp and sharp imagery. It further includes a 180 degrees hinge that adds to the convenience and ease. For connectivity, you will find basic options like HDMI, USB 3.0, SD slots, Wifi, and Ethernet ports.

TECLAST Review

Likewise, for performance, it is equipped with an 8th Gen Intel Celeron N4100 processor that offers great speed and response. Here, the 8 GB RAM adds to the speedy transfers and easy start-ups with no lag. To manage the gaming graphics, the manufacturers have included the UHD Graphics 600 card.

Pros
  • Great graphics experience
  • High storage capacity
  • Supports wireless connectivity
  • Fast/ powerful processor
Cons
  • Audio is not the best

In essence, this Teclast gaming laptop is one of the best gaming laptops under $500 for casual gamers, with computational performance ensured. It is popular for its powerful 8th Gen Intel processor and UHD graphics that serve you well. Similarly, the large storage capacity and wireless connectivity add to its value.

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6. HP 14 AMD Ryzen

“High-performance CPU”

HP 14 AMD Ryzen

If you are an HP fan yet looking for an affordable alternative for casual gaming, this one is a great alternative. It is equipped with a powerful processor and superior graphics experience that serve you well. In addition, the range of connectivity options and fairly long battery life add value to it.

The first thing you will notice in this design is the 14 inches large display that is accompanied by full HD graphics. Hence, you are provided with vibrant and clear imagery for the most part. It further incorporates AMD Radeon graphics that offers better color reproduction and pixel density.

In the end, for performance, the manufacturers have added the AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor that provides you with sufficient power and speed. Here, the processor operates at 4 GHz, providing you with speedy transfer and amazing response, not to mention no lag. Finally, the long battery life of seven hours adds to the enjoyable experience.

Pros
  • Durable and lightweight
  • Includes IPS technology
  • Offers vibrant graphics
Cons
  • Audio is not the best

Wrapping up, this HP 14 laptop is a great option for anyone who has started the gaming process and looking for something basic. This is equipped with a powerful Ryzen processor and a Radeon graphics card that serve you well. Likewise, the high storage capacity and connectivity options make it of great value.

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7. ASUS VivoBook 15

“Great Combination of Beauty and Performance”

ASUS VivoBook 15

Asus is a leading brand in the laptop industry, famous for its innovative and premium designs. This one from the manufacturers is an affordable option, specifically designed for gamers with great graphics and response value. Here, the long battery life of eight hours allows you to enjoy the long gaming process.

When it comes to the design, it incorporates a large 15 inches screen and HD (1080p) resolution that provides you with a crisp graphic experience. However, the brightness value is not the best. It further comes with USB 2.0, USB 3.0, Type-C, Bluetooth, and Wifi connectivity options that serve you well.

Last but not least, it comes with an Intel Core i3 1005G1 processor accompanied by a UHD graphics card that provides you with sufficient response and speed. It also includes an 8GB RAM and 128 SSD capacity that offers a speedy response. Here, the mechanical keyboard configuration makes it great for gaming.

Pros
  • Impressive connectivity options
  • Superior processing performance
  • A long battery life
  • Offers impressive graphics
Cons
  • Not the best buildup

Wrapping up, this Asus is undoubtedly one of the best gaming laptops under $500, all credits to its powerful processor and superior graphics. It incorporates a fast Intel processor and UHD graphics that facilitate gaming well. Here, the improved connectivity options and long battery life adds value to it.

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8. Acer Aspire 1

“Powerfull performance for a $500 Gaming Laptop”

Acer Aspire 1

Similarly, this Acer Aspire 1 is another FHD gaming laptop, with absolute power and response. It is specifically designed for intermediate to heavy gaming with an improved processing performance and speed range. Likewise, the well-organized design incorporates a long battery life and a wide range of connectivity options that serve you well.

The first thing you will notice here is its 14 inches display that incorporates FHD (1080p) resolution that provides you with crisp and sharp graphics. It further supports 239 nits of brightness and RGB mode that adds to the performance. The Intel UHD 600 graphics provide you with perfect color reproduction.

Lastly, for performance, the manufacturers have added an Intel Celeron N4000 CPU processor that operates on 2.6 GHz and offers high speed and response. It is further accompanied by a large 4GB RAM and 128 GB SSD capacity. Hence, you are provided with fast startups and speedy transfers.

Pros
  • Fast/ powerful processor
  • Large storage capacity
  • Crisp and sharp graphics
  • Durable and lightweight
Cons
  • It doesn’t support Bluetooth

Final thoughts, this Acer Aspire 1 is specifically designed for gaming, all thanks to its powerful processor and UHD graphics experience. It incorporates a large storage capacity and 8th Gen processor that facilitates you well with response and speed. Finally, the long battery life improved the overall performance.

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9. Dell Inspiron 15 3000

“Good Graphics & CPU”

Dell Inspiron 15 3000

This Dell Inspiron is another best gaming laptop under $500 for beginners who have just started their journey. Although it is specifically branded as an educational device, its premium construction allows you to utilize it for basic gaming. Its decently fast processor and graphics make the experience enjoyable.

Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Review

Speaking of the design, the first thing you will notice here is its large 15 inches screen. It further incorporates Intel UHD graphics and 1080p resolution that offers a crisp visual experience. The screen refreshes at 60 GHz and provides you with clarity of recognition and no lag.

In the end, for performance, the manufacturers have added Intel Core i3 1115G4 which provides you with sufficient power and response. It is accompanied by 4GB RAM that adds to the speedy transfers and startups. Here, it is worth mentioning that the device supports Bluetooth technology.

Pros
  • Includes FHD display
  • Fast processing speed
  • Sturdy and lightweight
Cons
  • Includes no USB Type-C

In conclusion, this Dell Inspiron is another quality option for anyone looking for a standard laptop with basic gaming efficiency. Its full HD display and fairly powerful processor provide you with the needed power and speed. Likewise, the sturdy buildup and connectivity options make it of great value.

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10. CHUWI GemiBook

“Ultra-light $500 Gaming Laptop”

CHUWI GemiBook

Last but not least in this list of the best gaming laptops under $500 is this Chuwi, specifically designed for basic gaming. It is famous for its HD display and range of connectivity options that serve you well. Similarly, its fairly decent processing speed and graphics make it an impressive deal for newcomers.

Here, it is equipped with a large 14 inches screen and FHD resolution that offers vibrant and clear images. All in all, the Intel graphics provide you with a perfect blend of contrast and brightness. For connectivity, the manufacturers have added USB 2.0 and Type-C ports that serve you well.

In the end, it comes with a decently powerful Intel Celeron J4125 processor that operates on a 2.6 GHz refresh rate. Thereby, you are provided with the needed response and speed. It is accompanied by a large 1w GB RAM capacity, providing you with the ultimate response and speedy transfers.

Pros
  • FHD display resolution
  • Powerful processor
  • Range of connectivity options
Cons
  • Not the best buildup

In conclusion, this Chuwi Gemibook is a great option for casual gamers, famous for its processor and storage capacity. It incorporates an Intel UHD graphics card and Celeron processor that facilitates speed, power, and response. All in all, the connectivity options make it a great alternative.

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Cheap Gaming Laptops under $500 in 2023 – Buying Guide

Choosing the right gaming laptop at your desired budget can be challenging, considering the limited options out there. Hence, it becomes important that you have thoroughly gone through the important aspects of the device. Here are some basic things that can help you in choosing the right one;

Processor

The foremost important thing while buying a budgeted laptop is its processor. Here, within this range, I would recommend you to invest in either an Intel (7th or 10th Gen) processor or AMD Ryzen (3rd or 5th Gen) processor. Thereby, you can achieve the needed response and speed range throughout the process.

Graphics Experience

The second important thing you should look into while an affordable laptop is the overall graphics experience. For this, you can find Intel UHD or AMD Radeon graphics commonly within this price range. Hence, both of these offer vibrant and clear imagery all along. As long as you are getting improved pixel density and sharp graphics, you are good to go with any Intel graphics processor.

Graphics Experience

Connectivity Options

It is equally important to consider both the standard and wireless networking options as these can maximize the utility of your device. Here, within this price range, you can easily find a product with high-end and versatile connectivity options. I would recommend you to always consider Wifi 6 and Bluetooth facility so that you are perfectly accommodated with a superior real-time gaming efficiency. Likewise, make sure that it has USB 2.0, 3.0, and Type-C ports.

Finally, I hope that you will soon find the best gaming laptop under $500.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are affordable gaming laptops worth it?

Yes, affordable gaming laptops are absolutely worth it. If you are someone who has intermediate to heavy gaming skills, it is ideal that you invest in a mid-price range (around $500-700). In contrast, beginners can go for any quality budget gaming laptop with the needed requirements. However, I wouldn’t recommend professionals invest in affordable laptops for gaming.

What makes a good affordable gaming laptop?

There are a number of factors that make a quality affordable gaming laptop. The foremost elements you should consider here are its processing speed, graphics experience, and connectivity (standard and wireless options). Likewise, make sure that your desired model has a sturdy buildup and large storage.

What is the best laptop under $500?

Acer Aspire 5 is one of the best laptops under $500, all thanks to its long battery life and large storage capacity. It is equipped with a 3rd Gen fast processor and HD graphics experience that is perfectly equipped to support intermediate gaming. Here, the 8GB RAM and 128 GB SSD capacity add to the overall experience.

Conclusion

In the end, for an entry-level gaming experience, it is ideal that you invest in a mid-range functional laptop that is perfectly equipped to serve you well. These alternatives are equipped with powerful processors, crisp graphics, and a large capacity that are capable of supporting games like GTA 5 and Fortnite. If you are still confused about buying, here are some of my recommendations;

  • ASUS VivoBook 15 Thin and Light Laptop is known for its range of connectivity options, long battery life, and powerful graphics experience.
  • Acer Aspire 5 Slim Gaming Laptop is one of the best for its responsive processor, large storage capacity, and long battery life.
  • Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Laptop Abyss Blue is known for its powerful processor, large storage capacity, and superior graphics.

In the end, I hope that you soon will find the right product as per your individual requirements.

Thanks for the read!

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