Best Gaming Laptop Under 400: Top Picks for Budget Gamers in 2024‍

The best gaming laptop under $400 are listed below. 

1. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Laptop
2. Lenovo Chromebook Flex 3
3. Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook 15.6" FHD Touchscreen
4. ASUS VivoBook 14" FHD Laptop
5. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
6. Acer Nitro XV272U Vbmiiprx 27" Gaming Monitor
7. HP 15.6-inch HD Laptop with AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Processor
8. Dell Inspiron 15 3000

As a gamer, I know that having the right equipment can make all the difference when it comes to getting the upper hand in intense gameplay. Gaming laptops are a popular choice for those who want both power and portability. With a good gaming laptop though, you can enjoy high-quality graphics, fast processing speeds, and the ability to play your favorite games from anywhere.

Now, some might assume that gaming laptops are expensive pieces of technology, but that's not entirely true. There are actually quite a few options available for those on a budget, such as the "best gaming laptop under 400" category. While these laptops may not come with all the bells and whistles of their high-end counterparts, they still offer a satisfying gaming experience, particularly for casual gamers or those just starting out.

When considering a budget gaming laptop, there are some key factors to pay attention to. The most important ones include processing power, graphics capabilities, and the amount of memory (RAM) available to run games smoothly. In general, you want to find a cheap laptop with a strong processor, a dedicated graphics card, and at least 8GB of RAM for optimal performance.

With these factors in mind, I've put in the time and effort to find the top gaming laptops under $400 to make it easier for you to choose the perfect one. In the next section, we'll delve into the specific models that provide the best balance of performance, quality, and affordability best laptops made for gaming on a budget.

Best Gaming Laptops Under 400

I've gathered a list of the best gaming laptops under 400 dollars to help you enjoy your favorite games without breaking the bank. Check out my top picks below!

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Laptop

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a solid choice for casual gamers looking for an affordable gaming laptop under $400.

Pros

• Good performance with Intel i3 processor

• 12GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking

• Lightweight and portable

Cons

• Not suitable for heavy gaming

• Lacks backlit keyboard

• Average 6-hour battery life

Buy Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Laptop on Amazon

I recently tried out the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 and was quite impressed with its capability, considering the price point. It comes with a 15.6" HD touchscreen and is powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor. Although it doesn't have a dedicated graphics card, I found that it could handle casual gaming and daily tasks with ease.

The laptop features 12GB of DDR4 RAM, which ensures smooth multitasking. I found it super helpful when working on multiple applications simultaneously. However, keep in mind that this laptop isn't designed for heavy gaming, so don't expect it to run the latest AAA titles with high graphic settings.

One thing that caught my attention was the variety of ports available on this laptop. It's equipped with USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, USB 2.0 Type-A, HDMI, a combination audio jack, and a multi-format SD media card reader. It also supports Wireless-AC Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth for seamless connectivity.

The only drawback I found in this Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is the lack of a backlit keyboard, which would've made typing in low light conditions easier. Additionally, the battery life only lasts around 6 hours on a single charge, so you might want to keep the charger handy.

Overall, if you are on a budget and need a reliable gaming laptop under $400, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a good option for casual gaming and everyday use.

Lenovo Chromebook Flex 3

This Lenovo Chromebook Flex 3 is a brilliant budget-friendly option for those seeking a versatile gaming laptop experience.

Pros

• Responsive touchscreen and user-friendly interface

• Remarkable battery life for extended gaming sessions

• Lightweight and highly portable design

Cons

• Limited storage capacity

• Chrome OS restrictions on compatible PC games

• Not suitable for heavy gaming

Buy Lenovo Chromebook Flex 3 on Amazon

I recently had the chance to use the Lenovo Chromebook Flex 3, and I must say, I was quite impressed with its overall performance and versatility. The 11.6" HD touchscreen was incredibly responsive, making it easy to navigate through menus and play games with just a swipe.

The Flex 3's battery life is worth mentioning. I was able to use it for up to 10 hours before needing to recharge. This is fantastic for gaming on-the-go or binge-watching my favorite series.

One thing that stood out to me was the laptop's lightweight and portable design, ideal for carrying around to a friend's house for gaming sessions. The 3.6-inch screen size may be smaller than some might prefer, but it worked well for me.

On the downside, the Chromebook Flex 3 comes with only 32GB of eMMC flash memory. This means you might have limited storage for games and downloaded apps. However, cloud storage options help mitigate this concern to an extent.

Additionally, the Chrome OS may limit the variety of games you can play on the device since not all gaming titles are available for the platform. This laptop is most suitable for casual gaming and not designed to handle more graphics-intensive games.

Overall, the Lenovo Chromebook Flex 3 offers great value for a gaming laptop under $400 and is perfect for those who are into more casual gaming experiences. However, if you're a serious gamer or require ample storage, this device may not be the best option for you.

Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook 15.6" FHD Touchscreen

The Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook offers an affordable gaming laptop under $400 with its FHD touchscreen, powerful dual-core processor, and long-lasting battery life.

Pros

• Impressive 15.6" FHD 1080p IPS Touchscreen

• Intel Celeron N4020 Dual Core Processor

• 12.50 hours of battery life

Cons

• Limited to 4GB DDR4 RAM

• 64GB eMMC storage might not be enough for some users

• Chrome OS may restrict compatibility with certain gaming titles

Buy Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook 15.6" FHD Touchscreen on Amazon

I just tried out the Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook, and I must say, the 15.6" Full HD touchscreen is definitely one of the best features of this gaming laptop. The colors are vibrant, and the images are crystal clear. It made my gaming experience quite immersive, as if I was a part of the game itself.

The gaming performance is smooth and seamless, thanks to the Intel Celeron N4020 Dual Core Processor. I didn't experience any lags or delays, even when I was running multiple apps at the same time. It's perfect for those extended gaming sessions, as the 12.50 hours of battery life ensures that the laptop won't die on you in the middle of the action.

However, I noticed that the 4GB DDR4 RAM might be a limiting factor for some high-end gaming titles. Similarly, the 64GB eMMC storage might not be enough for heavy gamers with large game libraries. Nonetheless, with cloud storage and external storage options, this shouldn't be a significant issue for most users.

One thing to note is that the Chrome OS may restrict the compatibility with certain gaming titles. This laptop is perfect for users who focus on browser-based and Google-supported gaming, but if you're looking for something with a broader range of gaming capabilities, you might need to explore other options.

All in all, the Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook is an excellent option for gamers on a budget. With its sleek design, powerful processor, and long battery life, it's a great value for the price. If you're looking for an affordable gaming laptop under $400, this might just be the perfect fit for you.

ASUS VivoBook 14" FHD Laptop

You should consider this ASUS VivoBook 14" if you need an affordable and reliable gaming laptop.

Pros

• Sleek design and lightweight

• Fast performance with Intel Core i3-1115G4

• Backlit keyboard and fingerprint sensor

Cons

• Limited gaming capabilities with Intel UHD Graphics

• No Ethernet port

• Low battery life

Buy ASUS VivoBook 14" FHD Laptop on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the ASUS VivoBook 14" and was instantly impressed with its sleek design – it's so lightweight that I could easily carry it around with me. The 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor provides fast performance, which is essential for a smooth gaming experience.

One of the features I particularly liked was the backlit keyboard, making it easy to play games in dim lighting conditions. The addition of a fingerprint sensor adds an extra layer of security and convenience when logging in to the system.

However, I have to mention that the gaming capabilities of this laptop are limited due to its integrated Intel UHD Graphics. It's not the best choice for heavy gaming, but it can handle casual games and everyday tasks with ease.

Another downside to this laptop is the lack of an Ethernet port – meaning that you'll have to rely on Wi-Fi for your internet connection. While it does have Intel Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, an Ethernet connection would've been a nice addition for gamers who prefer a stable wired connection.

Lastly, I noticed that the battery life was relatively low, which can be a problem if you plan on using it for extended gaming sessions without access to a power source.

In conclusion, the ASUS VivoBook 14" FHD Laptop is perfect for casual gamers and those on a budget who require decent performance and portability. However, keep in mind its limitations in terms of graphics capabilities and battery life.

Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop

If you're on a budget and need a laptop for gaming, the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop is a decent choice worth considering.

Pros

• Impressive 15.6 inches full HD IPS display

• AMD Ryzen 3 3200U dual-core processor with Vega 3 graphics

• Solid battery life of up to 7.5 hours

Cons

• Comes with only 4GB DDR4 RAM

• Limited storage at 128GB SSD

• Runs on Windows 10 in S mode

Buy Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop on Amazon

I've recently experienced using the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, and I must say it's a fine choice for gamers on a budget. The 15.6-inch full HD IPS display really stands out, providing crisp visuals and vibrant colors, which is essential for an immersive gaming experience.

The laptop's AMD Ryzen 3 3200U dual-core processor and Vega 3 graphics ensure smooth gameplay on popular titles, although don't expect it to run high-end games at maximum settings. It manages to keep up with everyday tasks, but it's essential to note that it comes with only 4GB of DDR4 RAM. If you're a heavy multitasker, you might find this insufficient and may need to upgrade the memory eventually.

One drawback about this Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop is its limited storage, as it only has a 128GB SSD. With the ever-growing size of games and applications, you might find yourself frequently running out of space, so an additional external storage device might be necessary. Also, this laptop runs on Windows 10 in S mode, which might not be preferred by all users.

But despite these limitations, the Aspire 5 Slim Laptop has a decent battery life of up to 7.5 hours, which should suffice for a gaming session or a day of regular use. Moreover, it features a backlit keyboard, making it convenient to use in dimly lit environments or at night.

Overall, the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop is a reasonable choice for budget-conscious gamers looking for an affordable yet capable gaming device. While it does have some limitations, it still delivers a satisfactory experience, and with a few upgrades, it can be a more powerful machine.

Acer Nitro XV272U Vbmiiprx 27" Gaming Monitor

This Acer Nitro XV272U gaming monitor is an affordable option with great performance for gamers on a budget.

Pros

• Stunning WQHD resolution

• Smooth gameplay with AMD FreeSync Premium and 170Hz refresh rate

• Adjustable stand for ergonomic positioning

Cons

• Limited color-calibration options

• Requires tweaking of settings to get optimal image quality

• Stand design may not suit everyone's taste

Buy Acer Nitro XV272U Vbmiiprx 27" Gaming Monitor on Amazon

I recently picked up the Acer Nitro XV272U gaming monitor and I'm quite impressed by its performance. At first glance, the 27-inch WQHD display caught my eye with its 2560 x 1440 resolution, which delivers stunning image quality for both gaming and video consumption. The AMD FreeSync Premium technology ensures smooth gameplay by eliminating screen tearing, and the 170Hz refresh rate is quite satisfying for fast-paced action.

The adjustable stand is a nice touch, allowing me to easily find the perfect height and angle for gaming. I did have to spend some time tweaking the settings to find the best color balance, but once set, I was impressed by the color accuracy and vibrancy. However, the circle stand won't be everyone's cup of tea, but that's a matter of personal preference.

One thing that could use improvement is the included presets for color calibration. The options are limited, and it took quite a bit of trial and error to achieve the optimal image quality. Overall, though, I believe this monitor is a great deal for gamers looking for a solid screen under 400. The blend of high-quality display and gaming features makes it well worth considering for budget-conscious gamers.

HP 15.6-inch HD Laptop with AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Processor

This HP laptop offers smooth performance and portability, ideal for casual gamers on a budget.

Pros

• Thin and lightweight design

• Impressive AMD Radeon Graphics card

• Efficient AMD Ryzen 3 5300U processor

Cons

• Moderate battery life

• Not as bright screen

• Bloatware pre-installed

Buy HP 15.6-inch HD Laptop with AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Processor on Amazon

I just got my hands on this sleek HP 15.6-inch HD laptop, and I must say I'm quite impressed with how it performs. The thin and lightweight design makes it a perfect companion for those who are constantly on the go. Although the battery life could be better, it lasts a decent amount of time for casual use and gaming sessions.

One thing that stood out to me was the AMD Radeon Graphics card that this laptop comes with. I've played a few games on it, and it has handled them very well. Movies also look great, so it's a solid choice for entertainment purposes. The AMD Ryzen 3 5300U processor provides plenty of power and efficiency, making multitasking a breeze.

The screen, however, is not as bright as I hoped, but it still delivers decent visuals. It's important to note that this laptop comes with some bloatware pre-installed, which might slow it down. I recommend removing them to make the most out of this device's performance.

Overall, the HP 15.6-inch HD laptop with the AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Processor is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers or those who need such a small budget lightweight device for everyday tasks. With its solid performance and portability, it's definitely worth considering.

Dell Inspiron 15 3000

I found that the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is a solid option for anyone looking for an affordable gaming laptop that can handle basic gaming and everyday tasks.

Pros

• Fast start-up and performance with 1 TB SSD and 16 GB RAM

• 15.6-inch HD anti-glare display

• Windows 10 Home 64-bit operating system

Cons

• Plastic build that might not be very durable

• Intel Celeron N4020 processor may limit gaming performance

• No optical drive or backlit keyboard

Buy Dell Inspiron 15 3000 on Amazon

When I first started using the Dell Inspiron 15 3000, I was pleasantly surprised by its quick start-up and snappy performance, thanks to its 1 TB SSD and 16 GB of RAM. The display is a decent 15.6-inch HD anti-glare screen, offering a comfortable viewing experience during extended gaming sessions.

The laptop runs on Windows 10 Home 64-bit, which adds to its reliability for everyday tasks like browsing the internet, streaming videos, and basic photo editing. However, its Intel Celeron N4020 processor may limit the gaming capabilities of the laptop, especially with more demanding titles.

As for the build quality, I noticed that the materials used for the exterior are mostly plastic. While this keeps the weight down to 4.07 lbs, it may not be as durable as some users would like, especially when taking the laptop on the go.

One thing I found slightly inconvenient is the lack of an optical drive or backlit keyboard. Nevertheless, the full-size non-backlit keyboard is still comfortable to use for typing and gaming.

Overall, I'd say the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is a good option for casual gamers and users who need a budget-friendly laptop for everyday tasks. Just keep in mind that it may not be the best choice for those looking to play the most demanding games or looking for cheap gaming laptop with exceptional build quality.

Buying Guide

When I'm looking for the best gaming laptop under $400, there are a few key features to consider. Let me break it down for you.

Performance

The most important aspect when choosing a gaming laptop is its ability to run games smoothly. This means looking at the processor (CPU) and the graphics card (GPU). In this price range, you'll likely find most laptops now with Intel Core i3 or i5 CPUs, as well as AMD Ryzen 3 or 5 options. For the GPU, integrated graphics like Intel UHD or AMD Radeon Vega should suffice for casual gaming but don't expect to run the latest AAA titles on high settings.

Display

A good gaming experience is nothing without a quality display to go along with it. In this budget, you'll mostly find 15.6-inch screens with 1920x1080 (Full HD) resolution. Higher resolution screens may come with a higher price tag, but it's essential if you want clear and crisp visuals. Look for displays with an IPS panel for better viewing angles and color reproduction.

Memory and Storage

At this price point, you shouldn't expect more than 4-8 GB of RAM, which should be adequate for basic gaming needs. However, if you plan on multitasking or running multiple applications, you might want to consider upgrading the RAM. For storage, you'll likely find a combination of HDD (hard disk drive) and SSD (solid-state drive). I would recommend an SSD because it can significantly improve the overall performance and loading times of games. If you think you would need to add data, make sure there's a memory card reader on the device, too.

Battery Life

A decent battery life can make all the difference when gaming on the go. Look for laptops with at least 5 to 6 hours of battery life, although keep in mind that gaming can drain the battery much faster.

Portability

As portability and gaming don't always go hand in hand, it's essential to find a balance between the two. Thinner and lighter laptops are ideal for carrying around but might compromise on performance, so it's crucial to find the right combination that suits your specific needs.

Ultimately, choosing the best gaming laptop under $400 comes down to evaluating the aforementioned features and finding the optimal balance between performance, display, memory, battery life, and portability. Keep these factors in mind when shopping around to maximize your gaming experience within your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some good gaming laptops under 400?

I've found that some great gaming laptops under $400 include the Acer Aspire 5, HP Pavilion Gaming Laptop, and the Lenovo Ideapad Gaming 3. These laptops typically come with decent processors, dedicated (or integrated) graphics, and enough RAM to allow for a smooth gaming experience.

Can I find a laptop with 8GB RAM for less than 400?

Yes, you can find laptops with 8GB RAM for under $400. Some options include the Acer Aspire 5 and the HP Pavilion Gaming Laptop. Although these laptops might not have the most powerful graphics cards, they can still handle casual gaming and other everyday tasks without much trouble.

What are the top gaming laptops under 500 in 2022?

In 2022, the top gaming laptops under $500 were the Acer Nitro 5, Dell G3 15, and the ASUS TUF FX505. These laptops offered a solid mix of performance and affordability, allowing users to enjoy their favorite games without breaking the bank.

What do Reddit users recommend for budget gaming laptops?

Reddit users often recommend budget gaming laptops like the Acer Aspire 5, Lenovo Ideapad Gaming 3, and the HP Pavilion Gaming Laptop. They appreciate the balance of performance and affordability in these laptops and how they cater to casual gamers.

Which laptops are rated best for gaming under 400 in 2023?

As of now, the best gaming laptops under $400 in 2023 include the Acer Aspire 5 and the Lenovo Ideapad Gaming 3. Both of these laptops have good processors, enough RAM, and dedicated (or integrated) graphics capable of handling popular games.

What are some affordable yet reliable gaming laptops?

Some affordable yet reliable gaming laptops include the Acer Aspire 5, Lenovo Ideapad Gaming 3, and HP Pavilion Gaming Laptop. These laptops strike a decent balance between performance, build quality, and price, allowing gamers to enjoy their favorite titles without breaking the bank.