Best Gaming Laptops Under $300 (2023)–Epic Play, Modest Price!

Gaming is more than just a hobby or time-pass routine, it is a lifestyle that defines you. The adrenaline rush you feel while gaming can only be related to by a true gamer.

The misconception that truly immersive gaming is only for the rich often disappoints many passionate gamers who cannot afford an expensive gaming rig or laptop.

But who said you need a high-end device to get the best out of your games? As a fellow gamer, I understand your frustration if you hear such things.

However, today’s market offers a variety of choices that allow you to get the most out of your games without compromising on your budget.

Hence, the best gaming experience is no longer reserved solely for the ones with deep pockets.

Being a passionate gamer myself, I have tested and reviewed some of the best gaming laptops under $300 in 2023 and curated a list of top 10 just for you.

In this guide, I will be discussing these amazing laptops in detail in the comprehensive guide below.

Whether you are a newbie looking for the first gaming laptop, or a seasoned gamer looking for a backup for playing older games, there’s something for everyone here.

Top 10 Best Gaming Laptops Under $300 Reviewed in 2023

Here’s a quick look at our top budget picks in 2023.

Before we get to the details, let me just state one thing. If you are into newer top-performing games, then these laptops won’t suit your needs. You will have to manage a higher budget.

Take a look at the best gaming laptops under $700 for playing high-performance games.

However, if you just want to play some of the classics or older games, then keep on reading.

Ready? Let’s dive into the details of these amazing gaming rigs and help you find the perfect one for your needs.

1. Acer Aspire 5 A515 – The Best Gaming Laptop Under 300 Dollars

Acer Aspire 5 is considered one of the most versatile laptops that comes at a reasonable price and offers plenty of attractive and much-needed features for day-to-day use.

This amazing laptop comes with a 15.6-inch screen size with Full HD resolution. It is equipped with AMD Ryzen 3 3200U processor and Radeon Vega 3 graphics.

With 4 GB DDR4 RAM and 128 GB SSD, the laptop provides exceptional processing speed and impressive gaming performance.

While the brand-new version of this laptop does cost a bit above $300, you can opt for a used one on Amazon which is just like brand new and comes with an Amazon warranty of 90 days.

Since you have a limited budget, opting for a used one provides you with the benefit of getting the performance you desire with a lower price tag.

I personally love this laptop and consider it one of the best laptops under 300 for gaming. It is equipped with tons of advanced features that make it a top choice for budgeted gamers.

Equipped with an AMD Ryzen processor, this laptop ensures you get the performance you need for an average gaming experience. You can play all of the classics and most of the older games without needing any upgrades.

I absolutely love Skyrim V and also tested GTA IV, Max Payne 3, and various Call of Duty games and trust me this gaming laptop didn’t disappoint.

With IPS display, it provided vibrant and crisp visuals with Full HD resolution that truly brought the graphics to life.

Aside from gaming, you can also use it for various other day-to-day activities. In my opinion, it’s the best one you can find under this budget.

Final Remarks

A reliable and versatile device that provides an efficient gaming experience. Perfect for low-end and average games along with your day-to-day requirements.

 

2. HP Chromebook 11a – Best Gaming Chromebook Under $300

While our previous pick was definitely worth considering, it was still out of the budget range of some people.

If you don’t want to compromise and purchase a brand-new laptop within the budget, the HP Chromebook 11a is a good gaming laptop for under 300 dollars.

For people who stay continuously on the move, this laptop is an ideal choice. It offers a wide range of the latest features for your multiple needs.

The laptop comes with an 11-inch screen size and HD resolution. The latest mobile MediaTek processor ensures unmatchable performance for both central processing and graphic requirements.

Although the internal storage is a bit low with only 32 GB capacity, you get Google Drive storage with Chromebook. The 4 GB DDR4 RAM is more than enough for your gaming needs.

First of all, it comes with impressive graphics that ensure you get the most out of your visuals. These are supported by an advanced MediaTek chip that boosts the color reproduction on the display.

With High-Definition visuals and an Anti-Glare panel in the display, you can experience crisp graphics whether you are playing games or watching movies while traveling.

The custom-tuned dual speakers add to your gaming pleasure by providing an exceptional sound quality that removes the need for headphones.

Worried about the battery running out while you’re playing? Don’t be! With 15 hours of battery life, you won’t run out of it no matter how much you play.

Final Remarks

So, if you need a sleek, lightweight, and portable device for your professional and gaming needs, HP Chromebook 11a is the perfect option.

 

3. HP X360 – Best 2-in-1 Gaming Laptop Under 300 Bucks

The modern world has really expanded our gaming options. We are not just limited to older categories but can play hundreds of thousands of games online with new ones added every day.

For those who just need to blow off some steam during break time, a game that requires a mouse is quite limiting. However, with a touchscreen interface, their options are limitless.

The HP x360 offers them just that. The adaptive touch-type interface with 360-degree rotation of the screen provides perfect 2-in-1 functionality to the tool.

The laptop is equipped with an Intel Silver N5000 processor which combined with an Intel UHD graphic chipset ensures optimal gaming performance.

Additionally, the HP x360 is equipped with 4GB DDR4 RAM and 64 GB eMMC superfast storage that contributes to its fast gaming performance.

I was surprised to find a touch-screen gaming laptop under 300 bucks, but the features it offered were even more surprising.

Truly impressive visual clarity that provides crisp and clear images on a micro-edge display.

Although the battery life of this laptop isn’t as much as the previous one, 12 hours is still more than enough for your gaming and other requirements.

With the latest and extensive connectivity options, the functionality of this laptop is also limitless. Moreover, the touchscreen interface perfectly combined with Chrome OS provides access to multitudes of Android games.

So, you can access Google Play and set new records on your favorite games with this amazing laptop.

Final Remarks

With fast processing speed, long-lasting battery life, touchscreen interface, and 360-degree convertibility, the HP x360 is one of the best laptops for an efficient gaming experience.

 

4. HP Elitebook 840 G3 – Best Budget Gaming Laptop Under 300 Dollars

While brand new laptops with ChromeOS are definitely quite handy, if you want to play PC classics like Call of Duty, Far Cry, and Grand Theft Auto, even older parts, those laptops would be no good.

You will need a laptop that comes with ample storage, memory, and specs. While it isn’t possible to get them all on such a low budget, I have found you the perfect alternative.

The HP Elitebook 840 G3 is your best bet. Perfectly equipped laptop for a versatile gaming experience.

This laptop comes with a 14-inch screen size, HD Resolution, Core i5 processor, and UHD Graphics. Also, it has a whopping 16 GB DDR4 RAM and 256 GB SSD super fast storage.

But wait! Didn’t this laptop cost $1000? Yes, it does, but you can get a refurbished version from Amazon for under $200.

The product is officially renewed according to Amazon guidelines and is in excellent condition. It also comes with a 90-day Amazon Renewed Warranty.

Equipped with comparatively higher specs, a Windows 10 operating system, and extensive connectivity options, this laptop really takes you back to the old gaming world and brings you an immersive gaming experience.

If you really want to experience the more advanced games, then perhaps you should consider taking a look at the best gaming laptops under the $600 list.

But for most of the older and average games, this laptop will work perfectly.

Final Remarks

HP Elitebook 840 G3 is a reliable option for gaming enthusiasts who want to take a dive into the past or play the low-end and average PC games of today. One of the best laptops for computer games at an affordable price.

 

5. Lenovo IdeaPad – Best Affordable Gaming Laptop Under $300

Another laptop that particularly caught my eye is the Lenovo IdeaPad 1. With HD graphics and an efficient processing system, this laptop promises to be your companion for a long time.

The laptop is equipped with an Intel Celeron N4020 processor and UHD graphic chipset that ensures reliable gaming. With 4GB DDR4 RAM and 64GB SSD storage, you have more than enough power to run your favorite classic games.

With an ice-blue design and a sleek body, it really sets a new standard for style. Whether you are a student or a business professional, the stunning design and ultra-thin body really set a new standard.

Not only this, but you also get all of it under an affordable price tag. For business professionals, the free one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365 makes it an attractive option.

But isn’t it one of the best gaming laptops under $300? Well, with a 3-month Xbox Game Pass, you get access to over 200 high-quality games including the iconic Bethesda games, and enjoy them on this PC.

The light and slim body easily slips into your bag and is very comfortable to travel with.

Adding to this, the built-in speakers of Dolby-Atmos provide you with crystal clear sound quality that removes the need for headphones while playing games.

Well, if you have headphones, you can connect them using the 3.5mm jack or the latest Bluetooth connectivity option.

Final Remarks

All in all, this laptop is an attractive choice for both business professionals and gaming enthusiasts. With 3 months Xbox Game Pass you get access to a mountain of gaming categories for free.

 

6. Lenovo Chromebook Duet – Best Lightweight Gaming Laptop Under 300

For mobile games lovers, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet is a good gaming laptop that comes with efficient performance and impressive features.

This laptop is equipped with a MediaTek processor that provides optimal performance for most of the average games. Combined with 4 GB DDR4 RAM and 64 GB SSD storage, you have everything you need to play your favorite games.

With a detachable keyboard and touchscreen interface, the laptop offers perfect 2-in-1 functionality for both personal and professional use.

The MediaTek Helio P60T processor offers exceptional performance that not only provides smooth running operation but also gives you an efficient gaming experience.

The lightweight laptop comes with a long-lasting battery life, giving it the perfect portability for functionality on the go.

The design itself is beyond exceptional. You rarely find something so unique and breathtaking under such a low price tag.

With ChromeOS, the device is fast, secure, and easy to use. The IPS display offers stunning visuals, and the touchscreen interface can also be used with a touch pen.

However, the pen is not included with the laptop, and you will have to purchase it separately. Also, the users who want to play PC games find the small screen size limited.

Final Remarks

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet is perfect for Android games lovers. Nothing beats the laptop in its stunning design or portability, making it the best laptop for Android games under 300.

 

7. Acer Chromebook 314 – Best Cheap Gaming Laptop Under $300

Next, we have a more efficient gaming laptop suitable for PC games. The Acer Chromebook 314 is a unique choice for budgeted gamers that offers the perfect blend of performance and portability.

This laptop is equipped with an Intel Celeron N4000 processor along with 4 GB DDR4 RAM and 64 GB SSD storage. With Full HD resolution on a 14-inch screen, you get vibrant and crisp visuals.

The laptop is perfectly suited for a wide range of tasks and will be your companion for years to come.

While you cannot play advanced or high-end games on this laptop either, it still provides a better interface than the previous touchscreen pick.

With Full HD resolution on a 14-inch display, you get impressive visuals on a perfectly portable laptop that you can carry anywhere you go.

While the internal storage of this laptop is limited, you also get access to 100GBs of free Google Drive space which keeps all your data safe and secure.

With ChromeOS, you get access to 2 million Android apps and Google Play services. So, now you can compete in Android games with a better interface.

Final Remarks

A good choice for gaming enthusiasts who love to play both PC and Android games. The Chromebook is the perfect blend for a versatile gaming experience.

 

8. Asus L510 – Best Ultra-Thin Gaming Laptop Under 300 Bucks

When it comes to innovation and design, ASUS always comes in strong and competes shoulder-to-shoulder with Acer and HP laptops.

The ASUS L510 is a good gaming laptop under $300 that comes with reliable performance and efficient features.

The Intel Celeron process in this laptop provides exceptional speeds that can be boosted further up to 2.8 GHz when high performance is required.

With 4GB DDR4 RAM and 128 GB of superfast SSD storage, you get more than enough speed for running the classic and average games.

Furthermore, the laptop doesn’t compromise the quality of visuals and offers a Full HD resolution on a 15.6-inch display that ensures an immersive gaming experience.

Adding to this, the laptop is equipped with superfast memory and storage that enhance the gaming experience and professional functionality.

The slim and portable design of the laptop makes it a suitable option for students and professionals alike. The design is really unique, which sets this laptop apart from all the others.

When sharing or collaborating with friends, you can lay the laptop flat on the ground and stretch it fully. The flat hinge is also a unique feature that makes sharing a lot more convenient.

With the Windows 10 operating system and the promise of a free upgrade to Windows 11, you can access most of the PC games and enjoy the thrills to the fullest.

Final Remarks

A perfect blend of gaming and professional use. The laptop is equipped with tons of interesting features that take your gaming experience to a whole new level, making it one of the best budget-friendly gaming laptops.

 

9. Asus VivoBook Go 15 L510 – Best Immersive Gaming Laptop Under 300 Dollars

Personally, I love ASUS, so much so that I have decided to include another one of their amazing laptops in this list.

However, if you can manage a slightly higher budget, then you should definitely check out the best gaming laptops under $400.

As for the ASUS VivoBook Go 15 L510, it is a fast and efficient laptop that completes the job it is made for.

It is equipped with an Intel Celeron N4020 processor that provides optimal performance and processing speeds.

Additionally, the 4 GB of DDR4 RAM and 64 GB of SSD Storage, you get ample performance for all gaming and computing needs.

Whether you are using this device for professional tasks or for personal gaming needs, it will always satisfy your requests.

The laptop offers immersive visuals, a long-lasting battery life, and a super portable design. With just 0.71 inches in thickness, it will easily fit into any space or backpack.

Worried about disturbing your roommate or partner while playing games at night? Don’t be! With a fanless design, there won’t be any noise even when the laptop is exerting high performance.

To satisfy your professional needs, the laptop comes with a one-year free subscription to Office 365 which includes all the applications that you will require.

Although the laptop comes with Windows 11 in S mode, you can easily switch out of it for free. So, don’t think that you are only getting the S mode for free.

Final Remarks

A sleek and stunning laptop with versatile functionality. Perfect for both gaming and professional needs, with quiet performance and long-lasting battery.

 

10. Dell Inspiron 15 – Best Dell Gaming Laptop Under 300

If you are after durability, then you are right to wait till the end. We have something special saved just for you.

The Dell Inspiron 15 is one of the most durable and reliable laptops that offers impressive performance when used for gaming.

With a fast and efficient Intel Celeron Processor N4020 processor, the laptop provides exceptional processing power suitable for playing a wide range of older and classic games.

With a 15.6-inch narrow-border display, you get the most out of your visuals and are able to enjoy an immersive gaming experience in HD resolution (1366x768p).

Combined with Intel Ultra-HD graphics, the graphic performance of this laptop is also impressive.

The laptop also offers superfast SSD storage of 128 GB which is more than enough. The Solid-State Drive also enhances gaming performance.

With 4GB RAM at your disposal, you can play a wide range of games at optimum settings, perfect for occasional gamers who want to relive some of the classics.

Final Remarks

For an efficient gaming experience and reliable day-to-day performance, the Dell Inspiron 15 can be considered a good gaming laptop for under 300 bucks.

 

How to Select the Best Gaming Laptop Under $300 in 2023: Buyer’s Guide

Selecting the best gaming laptop under such a low budget is no easy task. Since there are no specifically dedicated gaming laptops under this category, you will have to pick and choose.

You will have to consider which features to opt for and which ones to overlook or compromise on.

To help you out, I have formulated this buyer’s guide that discusses some of the most important and decisive factors in the choice of a good gaming laptop under 300 dollars.

Here we go:

CPU & GPU

The very first thing you should consider is the processing power of your CPU and GPU. With this budget, you will hardly find a very high-end CPU, but you still have multiple options.

For gaming, both Intel and AMD compete strongly, but AMD Ryzen 3 in Acer Aspire 5 certainly beats everyone else on the list. However, you shouldn’t overlook processing speed.

If your laptop comes with an overclockable CPU, that truly enhances the gaming performance.

You won’t find dedicated graphics in this budget but both AMD Vega 3 and Intel UHD are good chipsets as alternatives.

You can check the best gaming laptops under $500 for dedicated graphic cards that will allow you to play more advanced games.

Memory & Storage

Most of the laptops in this budget range offer 4GB RAM and 500GB HDD or 128 GB SSD storage.

However, that is for the new laptops. Both memory and storage are expandable options. So, instead of focusing on their volume, simply focus on that you get the latest variant.

Don’t settle for anything less than DDR4 RAM or HDD storage. Always go for SSD storage as it is better, faster, and positively impacts gaming performance.

Screen Size & Resolution

Screen size and resolution are more of a personal preference. If you want to play touchscreen or Android games, simple strategy, and other such games then a smaller screen size is better as it also ensures portability.

However, if you are more into the arcade, action, and adventure categories that include the 3^rd person and 1^st-person interactive gameplay, then a 14-inch or larger screen size is good enough.

As for resolution, anything HD or higher than HD is acceptable in this budget range. However, if you are getting FHD resolution, it is the best.

New, Used, or Refurbished

You are not limited to just the new laptops. You can also choose to purchase used or refurbished laptops from Amazon.

Amazon provides 90 90-day warranty on refurbished products, and there are many available that are just like new. These products are a good way to save money and get the desired features under a low budget.

Hence, I highly recommend that you consider if any such options are available to you. These options are not available in all the areas.

Operating System

Last but not least, the OS is also an important factor. For Android games lovers, ChromeOS is a better option while for PC gamers, the Windows OS is more suitable.

You must be clear about your needs before you make a decision on the operating system. The choice can affect your gaming experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best gaming laptop under 300?

In my opinion, the Acer Aspire 5 is the perfect choice when it comes to the best $300 laptop for gaming. This particular laptop is equipped with some of the best features and offers impressive performance and functionality.

Is $300 Enough to invest in the gaming laptop?

If you want to play older games or the classics, then $300 is more than enough. However, for the medium and high-end games of today, this is not a good budget, and you will have to get much higher.

Wrapping Up!

To sum it all up, you do find some really good gaming laptops under $300. These laptops might not support the high-end games of today, but they will certainly let you play some of the best of the past.

Whether you are an occasional gamer or a passionate one, you can find the perfect option for your needs and budget in the guide above.

If I were to recommend one, I would certainly recommend Acer Aspire 5 as the best gaming laptop under $300. It is equipped with the best features and offers the best performance you could find under this budget.

Make sure you consider all the important factors to find the perfect laptop for your needs and budget.

Good Luck!