Best Gaming Laptops Under $1000 | Our Top Picks in 2023

Since more and more gamers choose the mobility and convenience of a laptop over a desktop, the market for gaming laptops has boomed in recent years.

Selecting the best gaming laptop seems impossible if you’re on a tight budget. Those searching for the best gaming laptop under $1,000 are spoiled for choice.

Even if they lack the cutting-edge hardware and software of more expensive models, gaming laptops under $1,000 may provide a satisfying and immersive gaming experience.

These laptops typically feature mid-range processors, dedicated graphics cards, and enough RAM and storage to run even the most demanding modern games.

There are a lot of alternatives out there, so picking the best gaming laptop for under $1000 might take a lot of work. Whether you’re just starting or a seasoned pro, it doesn’t matter; these laptops will provide you with the best gaming experience possible without breaking the bank.

To assist you in making an educated choice, we will also list the benefits and drawbacks of each laptop. If you’re looking for a new gaming laptop but want to spend at most $1,000, keep reading to learn how to select the best one.

Top 10 Best Gaming Laptops Under $1,000

1. Dell G15 – Best Dell Gaming Laptop Under 1,000

Dell is a well-known brand in the world of computers and laptops. With their latest release, the Dell G15, they have aimed to provide gamers with an affordable option for gaming laptops without compromising performance. This article will discuss why the Dell G15 is the best gaming laptop under $1,000.

Let’s begin by taking a look at the specs of the Dell G15. It has a 15.6-inch FHD display, an Intel Core i5-10200H processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card, 8GB DDR4 RAM, and a 256GB SSD. These specs are enough to handle most modern games in medium to high settings.

One of the standout features of the Dell G15 is its thermal management system. The laptop is designed to keep the temperature under control even during long gaming sessions. It has dual fans and a heat pipe that works together to dissipate heat away from the laptop, preventing any performance throttling.

Another great feature of the Dell G15 is its keyboard. The keys have good travel and feedback, making them comfortable to type on. The keyboard also has customizable RGB lighting, allowing you to personalize the look of your laptop.

The Dell G15 also has various ports, including HDMI, USB-C, USB-A, and an SD card reader. It makes connecting to external displays, transferring files, and connecting peripherals like gaming mice and controllers easy.

When it comes to gaming performance, the Dell G15 does not disappoint. It can handle most modern games at medium to high settings without hiccups. Games like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Overwatch run smoothly on the laptop, giving you a great gaming experience.

Final Views:

Overall, the Dell G15 is the best gaming laptop under $1,000. It has great specs, a reliable thermal management system, a comfortable keyboard, and good gaming performance. If you’re looking for an affordable gaming laptop that can handle most modern games, the Dell G15 is worth considering.

 

2. Lenovo Legion 5 – Best Gaming Laptop Under 1,000

The Legion 5 laptop from Lenovo tops our list of affordable gaming laptops under 1,000. Being backed by a powerful CPU + GPU combo and a sleek aesthetic shape, the Legion 5 ensures playing the latest games at a smooth fps rate.

Talking about the first impressions:

Lenovo Legion 5 comes with a crystal clear display. Not only that but there isn’t any compromise on maintaining the sleek and slim look of the machine. The presence of a backlit keyboard also adds to enhance the gaming experience. I’d say that Lenovo has done a splendid job making the best gaming laptop under $1000.

Essential Features You Should Know:

First, the backing of a powerful AMD Ryzen 7 processor could not be ignored. Its CPU performance ensures playing the most demanding games without flaws, lags, and hang. You can also run almost every heavy application on Ryzen 7-based gaming laptops.

Secondly, you’d be getting the Nvidia GeForce GTX graphics card services. Its ample VRAM allows you to play your favorite games like Fortnite, CS: GO, PUBG, and Red Dead Redemption 2 at a smooth fps rate.

I could not stop myself from praising the ultra-wide 15.6-inch FHD display. The 144Hz refresh rate with a 3MS response time offers extreme clarity and focus simultaneously.

Regarding the RAM and storage options, this Lenovo gaming laptop has 16GB of RAM to improve the multitasking interface. For storage space, a 512GB SSD is installed so that you won’t have to face any problems while storing large gaming files.

Extra peripherals such as USB-C Type ports, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, Heat Pipe cooling system guarantee a comfortable gaming experience. Legion 5 also has great battery life, which works like a charm for gaming enthusiasts.

You can also check the best laptop under 800 for gaming and everyday use.

For cheap gaming laptops check the best gaming laptops under 300.

Final Views:

Lenovo Legion 5 with high-end gaming performance is the best gaming laptop deal you will get with a $1000 budget. Check it out before it’s too late.

 

3.  Acer Nitro 5 – Best $1000 Gaming Laptop with RTX Graphics:

Nvidia, with its latest RTX graphics offering Ray-Tracing, is the new trend going on in the gaming community. With that said, Acer Nitro 5 is one of our gaming laptops offering RTX graphics cards within a $1000 budget range.

Moreover:

I liked the overall shape and construction, which seems pretty much solid. A backlit RGB keyboard is also there to keep you indulged in gaming. With a powerful processor and RTX graphics from Nvidia, Nitro 5 is killing all other gaming laptops, including the Legion 5 we mentioned above.

Important Specs You Must Know:

First, I’d like to discuss the availability of the Nvidia RTX 3050 graphics card. The Ray-tracing feature, when enabled, offers an ultrarealistic gaming experience. I’ve played demanding games like Red Dead Redemption along with CyberPunk 2077 on it with a smooth 60 to 70 fps rate and newer AAA games like AC: Odyssey on high settings.

On the other hand, the Core i7, 11th Gen. CPU chipset makes the laptop’s processing speed as fast as possible. The machine can perform running multiple apps without lagging even once.

Compared to the Legion 5, Acer Nitro 5 gaming laptop has a large 15.6″ full HD 1080p display with a 144Hz high refresh rate and 3ms response time. So, the display interface is better and more appealing.

At last, the 8GB DDR4 RAM combined with 512GB SSD enhances the surfing speed. I’ve opened 20 Chrome tabs on Nitro 5, and it didn’t stutter once. SSD is low compared to Legion 5, but upgrade options are available.

Also, check the best gaming laptops under 1200.

Final Views:

In conclusion, the Acer Nitro 5 is undoubtedly one of the best gaming laptops available for under $1000, offering top-notch performance and exceptional graphics quality with its RTX graphics card.

With its powerful processor, high-speed RAM, and ample storage space, this laptop can handle even the most demanding games without lag or stuttering.

Additionally, its sleek design, comfortable keyboard, and unique cooling system make it an excellent choice for gamers who want a high-performance machine that is both stylish and comfortable to use.

Overall, if you’re looking for the best $1000 gaming laptop with RTX graphics, the Acer Nitro 5 is an outstanding choice that won’t disappoint.

 

 4. HP Pavilion 16.1 inch  – Best HP Gaming Laptop Under 1,000

I’m not a fan of HP when it comes to discussing the best gaming laptops under 1,000. However, the recent gaming machines it has produced have left me in awe. A close look at the HP Pavilion: It has attracted me in shape, performance, and battery timing.

Adding to that:

This HP Pavilion Laptop is light in weight and more aesthetic than Legion 5 and Nitro 5. Moreover, it ensures playing all new games like CyberPunk 2077 or Watch Dogs 2 without compromising the frame rate. The backing of a large display is also there to spice up the gaming environment.

Essential Features You Should Know:

First, the best HP Pavilion gaming laptop under 1000 features the latest Intel Core i5, 10th Gen. Hexa-Core processor. Boosting the speed of up to 4GHz, this chipset indeed provides a smooth gaming interface.

GTX 1660Ti graphics card from Nvidia is not as powerful as the graphics installed in Nitro 5. However, it’s enough to enhance your gaming experience as it runs all the latest titles on High to Ultra settings without compromising the frame rate on this HP Pavilion.

The full HD IPS display with 16.1″ size and anti-glare option offers complete focus and an indulged gaming experience. The backing of 8GB of RAM and 512GB SSD +32GB Optane storage pave the way for smooth gaming and multitasking experience, respectively.

If you have budget issues, check the best gaming laptops under 800.

Final Views:

The HP Pavilion laptop is getting all the attention it deserves from the gaming community amongst this group of best gaming laptops under 1000. Get your hands on it and enjoy an immersive gaming experience with a smooth graphics interface.

 

5. Dell Gaming G3 – Budget Gaming Laptop under 1,000

How could Dell remain silenced with so much gaming activity in its neighborhood? The OG brand has introduced Gaming G3, which is not as high-end a gaming laptop as the laptops we discussed above but is undoubtedly the most affordable.

However:

The Dell Gaming 3, one of the best budget gaming laptops under 1,000, can offer a smooth enough fps rate while running games like Watch Dogs 3, Mafia 3, CyberPunk 2077, Apex Legends, or Sims 4.

Adding to that, the shape and body are pretty well-constructed. I loved playing Valorant on G3 as the fps rate and the realistic graphical interface was relatively balanced.

Essential Features You Must Know:

Dell Gaming G3 is backed by Intel Core i5, 10th Gen. processor for making everything as smooth as possible. The processing speed will never disappoint you whether you start a game or a heavy program.

Nvidia 1650Ti graphics card with 4GB VRAM ensures an ultrarealistic gaming experience. Running games like GTA V, Need for Speed 2015, or Fortnite is as easy as eating a piece of cake for this gaming beast.

This budget gaming laptop also includes 8GB DDR4 RAM for an impeccable multitasking experience. Additionally, 512GB SSD (solid-state drive) works like icing on the cake as it allows storing large gaming files, videos, and songs in seconds!

Final Views:

Dell Gaming G3, one of the budget gaming laptops among this group of best gaming laptops under 1000, is an excellent option at an affordable price of around $700. Get it if you enjoy playing games in a proper immersive environment.

 

6. HP Victus 15 – Best 15 Inch Gaming Laptop Under 1,000

Are you searching for the best 15-inch gaming laptop under $1000? Then the HP Victus 15 might be the perfect choice for you. This laptop is designed to meet gamers’ demands while offering excellent performance at an affordable price.

Firstly, let’s talk about the design of the HP Victus 15. The laptop has a sleek, modern design that will turn heads. It features a black and silver color scheme that looks premium and elegant. The build quality is also excellent, with a sturdy chassis that withstands daily wear and tear.

Under the hood, the HP Victus 15 is powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 5600H processor that can handle even the most demanding games and applications. The laptop also comes with 8GB DDR4 RAM, which can be upgraded to 16GB if you need more memory for multitasking.

Regarding graphics, the HP Victus 15 has an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card that can handle most modern games at medium to high settings. The laptop also features a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display with excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles.

One of the standout features of the HP Victus 15 is its cooling system. The laptop features a dual-fan system that keeps the internal temperature low during intense gaming sessions. It ensures the laptop stays cool and performs optimally even under heavy loads.

Another great feature of the HP Victus 15 is its keyboard. The laptop has a full-size backlit keyboard that is comfortable to type on and offers excellent feedback. The laptop also features a touchpad that is accurate and responsive.

Regarding connectivity, the HP Victus 15 has all the ports you need for gaming and everyday use. The laptop comes with two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, a USB-C port, an HDMI port, an Ethernet port, and a headphone/microphone combo jack.

Final Views:

In conclusion, the HP Victus 15 is the best 15-inch gaming laptop under $1000 that offers excellent performance and features for the price.

With its powerful processor, dedicated graphics card, excellent cooling system, and comfortable keyboard, this laptop is perfect for gamers who want to get the most out of their gaming experience without breaking the bank.

So, if you are in the market for a new gaming laptop, consider the HP Victus 15.

 

7. Asus Vivo Book Pro 15 – Best Laptop for Video Editing and Gaming Under $1000

When it comes to finding a laptop that can handle both video editing and gaming without breaking the bank, the Asus VivoBook Pro 15 is a top contender.

Packed with powerful hardware and features, this laptop offers excellent performance and versatility for creative professionals and gamers alike.

At the heart of the Asus VivoBook Pro 15 is the Intel Core i7-7700HQ quad-core processor, which runs at a clock speed of 2.8 GHz and can turbo boost up to 3.8 GHz.

This processor provides plenty of power for video editing and gaming and is backed up by 16GB of DDR4 RAM, allowing smooth multitasking and faster rendering times.

Regarding storage, the VivoBook Pro 15 has a 256GB solid-state drive (SSD), providing fast boot times and quick access to files and programs. There is also a 1TB hard drive for additional storage space, so you can store all your videos, games, and other media without worrying about running out of reach.

The Asus VivoBook Pro 15 boasts a 15.6-inch full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display, which provides excellent color accuracy and viewing angles.

The display also features Asus’ Splendid visual optimization technology, which allows you to adjust the color temperature, saturation, and contrast to suit your preferences.

For gaming and video editing, the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 graphics card with 4GB of dedicated GDDR5 VRAM delivers solid performance, allowing you to play the latest games at decent frame rates and edit videos without any lag or stutter.

The Asus VivoBook Pro 15 is sleek and modern, with a brushed aluminum finish on the lid and palm rest. The laptop also features a backlit keyboard with a full numeric keypad, which is great for video editors who need to input lots of numbers and symbols.

Final Views:

The Asus VivoBook Pro 15 is an excellent laptop for video editing and gaming for under $1000.

With its powerful hardware, solid graphics performance, and versatile features, this laptop is perfect for creative professionals and gamers needing a reliable and affordable machine.

So, if you’re looking for a laptop that can handle video editing and gaming without breaking the bank, the Asus VivoBook Pro 15 is worth considering.

 

8. ASUS TUF VR Ready – Best $1000 Gaming Laptop for the money

Up next, we have the ASUS TUF VR Ready laptop with some high-end specs for decent gaming performance. Hardcore gamers love this TUF laptop because its specs are rare to find in the $1000 budget range.

Starting with some specifics:

The gaming laptop is light in weight and has an attractive design. It can also run almost all latest titles with the Ray Tracing feature, thanks to the RTX graphics card installed in it.

Important Technical Features:

Backed by the latest AMD Ryzen 7 processor and Nvidia RTX 2060 graphics, the laptop plays games like CyberPunk 2077, RDR2, GTA V, and Need for Speed Series like a charm.

On the other hand, the laptop is VR-ready. Just purchase a separate VR set and enjoy playing games in a virtual environment with the help of an ASUS TUF gaming laptop.

Lastly, 8GB DDR4 ram with 512GB SSD and extra features like Wireless connectivity and the installation of Windows allow an immersive gaming experience for sure.

Final Views:

ASUS TUF VR Ready, with portable and lightweight yet decent gaming performance, is another choice with a $1000 budget.

 

9. Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 – Best Lenovo Gaming Laptop Under 1,000

When finding a gaming laptop that won’t break the bank, the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 is a strong contender for “best Lenovo gaming laptop under $1,000.”

With its powerful hardware, sleek design, and reasonable price point, it’s no wonder that this laptop has been generating buzz among gamers on a budget.

One of the most impressive features of the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 is its hardware. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 4600H processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics, this laptop can easily handle demanding games.

The 8GB DDR4 RAM and 256GB SSD storage provide speedy performance and enough space to store games and other files.

In terms of design, the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 is sleek and stylish, with a black plastic chassis accented by blue LED lighting. The laptop is also relatively lightweight and portable, weighing just 4.8 pounds, making it easy to take with you on the go.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 also has several useful features for gamers, such as a backlit keyboard perfect for gaming in low-light conditions and a range of connectivity options, including USB 3.1, HDMI, and a 4-in-1 card reader.

The laptop also has a built-in webcam and microphone, making it a good choice for gamers who like to stream their gameplay or communicate with friends while playing.

Final Views:

The Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 is a strong choice for anyone looking for a powerful gaming laptop that won’t break the bank. Its impressive hardware, sleek design, and reasonable price point make it one of the best Lenovo gaming laptops under $1,000 currently available.

 

10. ASUS TUF FX505GT – Budget Gaming Laptop with IPS Display Under 1,000

The second last of the best gaming laptops under 1000 on our list comes from ASUS yet again. The new FX505GT has been making the highlights, ensuring running the latest games at a smooth fps rate. Plus, the ergonomics are well up to the mark, providing an ultimate and comfortable gaming experience.

Essential Features You Should Know

This affordable gaming laptop features Intel Core-i7 Processor. The presence of the Nvidia GTX 1650 adds more spice to meet the cravings of hardcore gamers.

Not only that but one of the best affordable gaming laptops, it also comes with a large 17.3″ full HD IPS display. The response time and refresh rate are up to the mark to make games as smooth to run as possible.

Finally, I’d also want to talk about the 8GB DDR4 ram, which enhances multitasking and makes Internet surfing convenient, backed by a 512GB SSD with ample storage space with immense reading and writing speed.

Final Views:

ASUS TUF FX505GT is another one of the budget gaming laptops in this group you can consider, especially if you want a full-fledged portable and lightweight gaming machine. This is one of the best gaming laptop deals. Don’t miss it!

 

11. Asus ROG Strix G15 – Cheap Gaming Laptop Under 1,000

Finally, we’ll conclude our review section by adding Asus ROG Strix G15. This Strix G15 is specifically meant for professional gamers who want to practice playing FPS or multiplayer games like CS: GO, PUBG, Fortnite, Apex Legends, Valorant, etc.

Essential Features You Need to Know:

The latest AMD Ryzen7, 4th gen. processor, powers ROG Strix G15. That said, the backing of Nvidia RTX 3050 is also there to improve graphics power and gaming performance accordingly.

Moreover, this one of the best $1000 gaming laptops also features 8GB RAM, 512GB superfast SSD, and Windows 10 Home.

Considering all these specs, I can guarantee that this laptop will offer a smooth 60 to 70 frames rate without compromising on the graphics of a new game.

Final Views:

The best $1000 gaming laptop from ASUS should be a priority for those who want to play games regardless of where they travel.

 

Choosing the Best Budget Gaming Laptop in 2022 – What You Need to Consider?

The buying guide I will talk about consists of some of the features you should never ignore while purchasing from among the best gaming laptops under 1,000.

Give it a thorough read as follows:

CPU Chipset:

As I’ve been mentioning quite frequently, an efficient CPU chipset will increase the overall speed of your gaming laptop.

Hence, you can play the latest games without any lags and enjoy running heavy programs like Adobe Premiere Pro or After Effects.

Now, the question is, “What kind of CPU chipset should you expect in the best $1000 gaming laptops?”

As per my experience, you could land yourself a gaming rig with AMD Ryzen 7 or Corei5 or i7 (9th or 10th Gen.) processor.

Never settle for less than I’ve mentioned, as you’d be wasting your money on such a laptop.

Graphics Card:

If the CPU is the brain of a gaming laptop, then Graphics Card or GPU acts as its heart.

Gaming laptops with an advanced GPU will ensure running games on ultra-settings.

Additionally, you’d enjoy a smooth fps rate (60 to 70) while playing games like GTA V, CyberPunk 2077, Red Dead Redemption 2, Rocket League, CS: GO, etc.

In a $1000 budget, you should aim for a laptop with at least an Nvidia GTX 1650 graphics card. However, dedicated Nvidia GeForce RTX graphics is also good enough.

The list above also offers laptops with RTX graphics, slightly inferior to the GTX graphics card series. You can also check them out and make your decision accordingly.

RAM:

Lastly, a $1000 budget will quickly land you one of the best gaming laptops with 8GB DDR4 memory at 2666MHz.

Never ignore the random-access memory, as it improves the overall random speed of gaming laptops. Besides, it also plays a vital role in enhancing the multitasking experience. So, make sure the given RAM is upgradeable to a higher capacity.

You can also read how to keep your gaming laptop healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What’s the best gaming laptop for under 1000?

My top pick is the latest Acer Nitro 5, which has a robust CPU chipset and Nvidia RTX 2060 graphics card. The ergonomics are kept in mind, and the laptop is not bulky. Besides, it also provides a long-lasting battery. So, it’s the best value gaming laptop with a price tag of $1000 for an avid gamer!

2. What is the best gaming laptop under 900?

If you’ve got 900 dollars to spend on a gaming laptop, then Dell Gaming G3 laptop is a good choice at this lower price. It features a fast processor, the latest Nvidia graphics card, and an intuitive display at the same time. Consider getting it if you are facing budget problems.

3. What laptops are suitable for gaming and cheap?

A laptop with the latest AMD Ryzen 7 or Intel Core i7 processor, Nvidia RTX or GTX graphics, at least 8GB memory, and SSD storage is suitable for gaming and available for a $1000 point.

4. What gaming laptop can run GTA 5 for under $1000?

One option for a gaming laptop that can run GTA 5 under $1000 is the Acer Nitro 5.

5. How much should I spend on a gaming laptop?

A good gaming laptop may cost anywhere from $800 to $1500; the price will vary depending on the user’s requirements and budget. You may need to spend more than that on top-tier hardware and software.

Summing Things Up:

So, you could make a rational decision with this much info about the $1000 gaming laptops.

Don’t forget to check out the list I’ve mentioned above, as it comprises my 10 hours of research and skimming of thousands of reviews.